WHITE WINES

Interesting whites

’11  Paolo E Noemia D’Amico Bianco “Seiano,” Lazio, It  35

This Lovely Blend Of Grechetto And Sauvignon Blanc Comes From The Area Of Central Italy Between Florence And Rome.  The Calm Climate Makes For A Fruity, Easy-To-Drink Wine, While The Partially Volcanic Soil Provides Interesting Minerality.

’10  R. Stuart & Co. Pinot Gris “Big Fire,” Willamette Valley, Or  44

Yellow-Gold Color With Expressive Flavors Of Melon & Lime & A Light Minerality. Rich, Yet Very Dry & Crisp, With Good Acidity & Balance.

’11  Sokol Blosser White Blend “Evolution,” USA  35

This Lush, Tropical Blend Of Nine Varietals Has Flavors Of Nectarine And Citrus, Finishes Crisp And Fruity, And Is Loved By An Overwhelming Majority Of Those Who Try It.

’10  Pazos De Lusco Albarino “Zios,” Rias Baixas, Sp  38

Crisp Yet Round With Notes Of Grass, Dried Straw, Tropical Fruit, And Honeysuckle.  A Lovely Fruity Expression Of Albarino.

’10  Colome Estate Torrontes, Mendoza, Ar  42

Roses, Jasmine & White Peach On The Nose, Flavors Of Apricot And Mandarin With Fabulous Minerality.

’10  Cline Cellars Viognier, Sonoma, Ca  34

Rich And Distinctive Aromas Of Peaches, Apricots, Orange Blossoms And Honeysuckle. Full-Bodied, Rich Mouthfeel. Elegant And Unique!

’10  Domaine de Pellehaut Blanc, “Harmonie de Gascogne,” Cotes de Gascogne, Fr  35

From SW France, A Typical Blend Of Ugni Blanc, Colombard, Gros Manseng,Chardonnay, SauvignonBlanc, And Folle Blanche.Offers A Pleasing Mouthful Of Tropical Fruit In An Old-World Style.

’10  Chapoutier Luberon Blanc “La Ciboise,” Rhone Valley, Fr  40

A Blend Of Grenache Blanc With Vermentino And Roussane, It’s A Nicely Rounded Wine While At The Same Time Bright And Fruity. Sure To Be One Of Your New Favorites.

’10  Chapoutier Rhone Blanc “Belleruche,”  Rhone Valley, Fr  36

100% Grenache Blanc, It’s Creamy And Crisp. Medium Bodied With Hints Of Peaches And White Flowers. The Finish Is Elegant And Stony.

’11  Saviah Cellars Riesling “The Jack,” Walla Walla, Wa  39

Shows Ripe Pear And Peach Along With Chamomile And A Lime Twist. On The Slightly Sweeter Side Of Off-Dry But With Well Balanced Acidity.

’10  Gundlach Bundschu Gewurztraminer, Sonoma, Ca  37

Very Aromatic, This Wine Features A Dry Palate With Exotic Spice Like Cinnamon, Oranges, Pears &  Lychee Fruits And Brisk Acidity.

 

Sauvignon Blanc

 

’10  Cartlidge & Brown Sauvignon Blanc “Dancing Crow,” Lake Co.  38

Delicate Floral Notes  With Ripe Melon, Citrus, Mango, & Guava. Zippy And Vigorous On The Palate.

’10  Napa Cellars Sauvignon Blanc, Napa, Ca  44

Aromas Of Grapefruit, Kiwi, Guava & Blooming Orange Blossom. Soft Citrus And Tropical Fruits Bloom On The Palate, Finishing With A Touch Of Lime. 

’11  Honig Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley, Ca  37

Juicy, Refreshing, Medium Bodied. Aromas Of Honeysuckle, Grapefruit, & Lemongrass Mingled With Mango, Kiwi, Peach, And Grapefruit Rind.

’11  Groth Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley, Ca  45

A Small Percentage Of Semillion And “Sur Lie” Ageing Produce Lush, Round MelonFlavors And The Cooler 2011 Napa Vintage Results In Solid, Crisp Backbone And Exciting Liveliness

’10  Chateau St. Jean Fume Blanc, Sonoma County, Ca  43

Soft Aromas Of Apple Blossom Are Enlivened With Notes Of Fig And Crisp Citrus. Honey And White Peach Flavors Complement The Luscious Mouthfeel, Drawn Out To A Vibrant Lemon-Lime Finish. This Is An Appealing, Well-Structured Wine That’s Enjoyable From First Sip To Last

’11  Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, Nz  44

This Zesty Wine Is Bursting With Citrus And Pineapple, As Well As The Classic Herbaceous Flavors For Which Marlborough Is Known. 

’10  Benziger Sauvignon Blanc, Sonoma, Ca  37

Aromas & Flavors Of Sweet Citrus, Apple & Toasted Oak. Palate Is Bright & Crisp With Flavors Of Grapefruit, Melon, Vanilla, Fresh Herbs & Grass.

’11  Edna Valley Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc, Central Coast, Ca  36

A Solid All Around Performer, It Does Everything Well. A Pretty Color, An Attractive Nose, A Lush Mouth Feel, A Pleasing Stew Of Fruit And Citrus (Tangerines, Lemons, Grapefruit, Pineapple And Apricot) And A Solid Structure To Keep All The Parts Of This Wine Together.

’11  Chateau Ste. Michelle Sauvignon Blanc, Horse Heaven Hills, Wa  40

This Sauvignon Blanc From CSM’s Horse Heaven Vineyard Delivers Aromas Of Ripe Pear And Notes Of Citrus Fruit. The Wine Was Fermented In A Combination Of Oak And Stainless Steel Tanks. The Stainless Steel Fermentation Preserves The Sauvignon Blanc’s Vibrant Character And Refreshing, Crisp Quality.

 

Pinot Grigio

 

’10 Concha Y Toro Pinot Grigio “Casillero del Diablo Reserve,” Chile  35

This Medium-Bodied Pinot Grigio Is Full Of Vibrant Pear Flavors With A Hint Of Citrus Fruit And Tangerine

’11  Cesari Pinot Grigio “Due Torri,” Veneto, It  34

A Nicely Balanced Wine With Persistent Fruitiness And A Hint Of Zest

’11  Ruffino Pinot Grigio “Lumina,” Friuli-Venezia Giulia, It 40

A Mouthwatering Example Of Pinot Grigio With Fresh Williams Pear, Green Apple And Lemon Curd Notes. Soft And Long With Great Balance.

’10  Lagaria Pinot Grigio “Della Venezia,”  Veneto, It  35

Pleasant Floral And Fruity Aromas (Apple, Apricot And Pear). Medium-Bodied With Refreshing Fruit, Distinct Character And Balance.

’11  Borgo Magredo Pinot Grigio, Friuli, It  36

Lemon & Baked Apple Aromas Lead To A Full Body With Mineral Undertone.

’11  Brancott Pinot Grigio, Marlborough, Nz  36

The Nose Is Complex, Warm And Rich With Tropical Fruit, Melon And Pear Aromas.The Palate Displays Nectarine And Apricot, Subtle Tropical And Floral Notes With A Tight, Crisp Acidity On The Finish.

 

Chardonnay

’11  Kim Crawford Chardonnay “Unoaked,” Marlborough, Nz  39

This Is A Crisp Expression Of The Chardonnay Grape Without Hiding Behind Oak.  Aromas And Flavors Of Melon, Grapefruit, And Lemon Zest With A Hint Of Pineapple And A Crisp, Clean Finish.

’11  Antinori Castello della Sala Chardonnay “Bramito del Cervo,” Umbria, It  46

This Well-Structured Wine Shows A Fresh And Complex Bouquet With Buttery Notes Laced With Vanilla.  It’s Elegant And Minerally With A Delicate Infusion Of Oak.

’09  Domaine du Prieure Savigny-les-Beaune, Burgundy, Fr  62

A Licorice Tinged White, Round And Open With The Sensation Of Ripe Yellow Fruit And Dried Fruit. Grapefruit And Spice Flavors Are At Its Core And The Finish Echoes Grapefruit.Good Weight And Long, Persistent Finish With Well-Integrated French Oak.

’10  Benziger Chardonnay, Carneros, Ca  53

Crisp Acidity & Fresh Citrus Flavors On The Palate, Supple And Long, With A Touch Of Oak And Butterscotch Cookie In The Finish.

’11  Cakebread Cellars Chardonnay, Napa, Ca  65

Shows Sweet Lemon, Ripe & Juicy Pear, A Hint Of Pineapple, And Toasted Pine Nuts.Delicate, Leading Into A Richer Note Of Custard, Finishing Crisply With A Hint Of Red Apple Flavor.

’08  Chateau St Jean Chardonnay “Robert Young Vineyard,” Alexander Valley, Ca 65

Non-Malolactic, Steely, Crisp, And Textured With Aromas Of Yellow Stone Fruit, LemonZest & Hints Of Honeysuckle.

’11  La Crema Chardonnay, Monterey, Ca  50

Tropical Aromas Of Pineapple, Lemon Zest & Apricot And Bright Acidity

’10  Charles Krug Chardonnay, Carneros, Ca  40

Shines With Tropical Fruit, Citrus Blossom And Pineapple Aromas. A Hint Of Vanilla Precedes Flavors Of Peach And Brown Sugar.

’10  Buon Christiani Chardonnay, Napa, Ca  69

Fruit, Minerality & Balanced Acidity Are Showcased In This Special Boutique Wine. Flavors Of Peaches And Apricots Melt Into Creamy Decadence With An Accent Of New French Oak.The Full And Complete Midpalate Draws The Flavors Out Into A Long, Sumptuous Finish.

’10  Wente Vineyards Chardonnay “Riva Ranch,” Arroyo Seco, Monterey, Ca  45

This Medium-Bodied Chardonnay Has Aromas And Flavors Of Tropical Fruit, Honey, Cinnamon, And Light Floral Notes Plus Butter And Vanilla From Oak Barrel Aging.

’10  The Calling Chardonnay “Dutton Ranch,” Russian River Valley, Ca  63

A Rich, Smooth wine with subtle hints of oak and crisp flavors of meyer lemon, melon, and nectarine. Food Friendly, it’s bright and refreshing with an elegantly full-bodied finish.

’11  Rombauer Chardonnay, Carneros, Ca  59

Inviting Fruit Aromas Of Honeydew, Yellow Peach And Fig Are Supported By Vanilla And Caramel. Creamy Vanilla Integrates With Honeysuckle, Pineapple And Apricot For A Fabulous Richness On The Palate. A Luscious Mouthfeel Leads To A Generous And Creamy Finish With Lots Of Butter.

 

RED WINES

  

France 

’10  Château St. Didier-Parnac, Cahors, Fr  49

This Malbec From Southwestern France (The Original Home Of Malbec) Contains 25% Merlot, Which Adds A Supple Mouthfeel And Rounds Out The Power Of The Fruit.

’06  Château Fourcas Dumont, Medoc, Bordeaux, Fr  73

Aromas Of Spicy, Red Berry Fruits. Flavors Of  Plum, Mocha & Toast.  A Full, Rich Finish With Evidence Of Maturity.

’10  Arnoux et Fils. Cotes-du-Rhone Rouge “The Rhon,” Rhone Valley, Fr  42

This Versatile Rhone Blend Boasts A Delicate Nose Of Red Fruit With Hints Of Wild Blackberry. Spice And Forest Berries Carry Through On The Palate With A Pleasant, Round Finish.

’10  Arnoux et Fils. Vacqueyras Rouge “The Vaq,” Rhone Valley, Fr  60

This Greanche-Syrah Blend Screams Terroir!  Earthy, Red Fruit And Stony Minerality With Barnyard Accents All Help To Make This A Typical Vacqueyras.

’10  Château de Segries Lirac, Rhone Valley, Fr  45

Deep Blueberry And Forest Aromas Precede The Very Long Flavors Of Black Cherry, Bramble And Black Pepper. Muscular And Packed, It Finishes With Drying Tannins. Delicious.

Spain

’08  Dinastia Vivanco Rioja Crianza, Rioja, Sp  42

A Well-Structured 100% Tempranillo. Exhibits Hints Of Smoke Intermingled With The Fruit Of Mature Red Berries. The Flavors Continue With Toast & Spice, And The Finish Is Long And Elegant.

’07  Marqués de Murrieta Rioja Reserva, Rioja, Sp  48

Is Named After Luciano De Murrieta, One Of The Founding Fathers Of Modern Rioja Winemaking, Who Established The Estate In 1852 In The World Renowned Rioja Region Of Spain

’09  Sicoris, Costers Del Segre, Sp  38

Medium Bodied, Beautiful Garnet Color & Aromas Of Violets & Cedar.Flavors Of Black Cherry, Black Currant, Smooth-Texture, Floral, Spice Box. A Blend Of Garnacha, Cabernet Sauvignon, Tempranillo, Merlot And Syrah.

’11  Vinicola de Castilla Tempranillo “El Cortijillo,” La Mancha, Sp  29

This Cooperative-Made, Simple Red Wine Is Aged Completely In Tank, With The Emphasis On Its Black Cherry And Blackberry Fruit.  Dark Plum And Ruby Colored, It Displays Loads Of Fruit, Freshness And Purity. It Is Not A Complex Wine, But It Is Satisfying And Well-Made. 

’11  Bodega Solar de Urbezo Garnacha, Carinena, Sp  42

Intense Fruity Aromas Of Strawberry And Red Mature Fruit Blended With Light Vanilla, Balsamic Notes And Toasted Tones. Full Bodied And Tasty, This Wine Is A Lot Of Fun To Drink As It Has Many Layers That Continue To Evolve As The Wine Sits In The Glass.

 

Italy

’07  Agricola Punica “Barrua,” Isola dei Nuraghi, Sardegna, It  118

The Flagship Wine Of A Partnership Between Tenuta San Guido & Sardinian Producer Santadi, With Giacomo Tachis (Sassicaia, Tignanello, Solaia) As Consultant.  Boasts Mature Black Cherry & Blackberry Fruit With Notes Of Licorice; A Suave, Silky Palate; Sweet, Refined Tannins; A Fine Note Of Acitdity; And Supple, Elegant Body.  An Excellent Way To Experience The Quality Of Sassicaia At A Very Reasonable Price.  85% Carignano With Cabernet And Merlot.

’10  Agricola Punica “Montessu,” Isola dei Nuraghi, Sardegna, It  65

Joint Venture Between Wine Maker Sebastiano Rosa, Cantina Di Santadi And Tenuta San Guido. Deep ruby in color, the wine offers intense aromas and flavors of black fruit. It is full-bodied with a velvety texture and balanced tannins. Indicative Blend: 60% Carignano, 10% Syrah, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, 10% Merlot

’06  Terredora Taurasi, Campania, It  85

Taurasi Is A Famous Wine From The South Of Italy Made From The Ancient Aglianico Grape. It’s Sometimes Called ‘The Barolo Of The South’ Because Of Its Refined Complexity, Power, And Ageability.  This Example  Boasts A Bouquet With Hints Of Cherry, Fruits Of The Forest, Spicy Scents Of Violet And Tobacco And A Suggestion Of Minerals. Elegant, Smooth, Velvety And Intense It Displays Characteristic Hints Of Plums,  Black Cherries, Black Pepper And Tar. It Is Full Bodied And Austere On The Palate With Balanced Tannins And Acidity. It Will Continue To Age And Develop For More Than A Decade.

’10  Tormaresca “Neprica,” Puglia, It  34

From One Of The Famed Antinori’s Estates, This Is A Blend Of Negroamaro, Primitivo, And Cabernet Sauvignon.  It’s A Great Food Wine That Shows Off The Character Of Southern Italy With Its Ripe, Dark Fruit And Toasty Earth.

 

’10  Paolo E Noemia d’Amico Rosso “Seiano,” Lazio, It  35

An Intensely-Flavored Blend Of Merlot And Sangiovese With A Bouquet Of Violets And Not Fully Ripened Cherries. Warm And Dry, With A Nice Rear Acidity And Smooth Tannins.

’10  Ca’ La Bionda Valpolicella Classico, Veneto, It  40

Earthy & A Little Floral On The Nose, Mid-Weight Blend Of Corvina & Rondinella Makes Your Mouth Water With Flavors Of Raspberries & Cranberries Over Stony Minerality.

’07  Degani Amarone Della Valpolicella, Veneto, It  115

Progressively-Styled Amarone, This Wine Is Rich, Full-Bodied And Firm. It Offers Up Complex Aromas And Flavors Of Prunes, Dried Apricots, Almonds, And Figs. Velvety On The Palate, Well Structured And Beautifully Balanced On The Finish.

 

’09  Tenuta Garetto Barbera d’Asti Superiore “In Pectore,” Piedmont, It  36

This Wine Is A Favorite Of Our Staff, As Well As Those In The Excellent Wine Region Of Piedmont.  Light To Medium-Bodied, It’s Easy To Drink And Goes Well With Most Foods, And Is Priced For Daily Enjoyment.

’ 07  Michele Chiarlo Barolo “Cerequio,” Piedmont, It  165

One Of The Important Wines That Defines Barolo, Past & Present. This Historic Bottle Offers Consistency And Longevity Thanks To Its Aromas Of Spice, Cola, Red Fruit, Cigar Box And Licorice. In Keeping With Nebbiolo Tradition, It Offers A Tight, Streamlined Feel

’05  Fontana Fredda Barolo, Serralunga D’alba, Piedmont, It  91

Aromas Of Red & Black Cherry, Spice, Chocolate & Rose Petals. Red & Dark Fruit Dominate The Palate With Smooth Texture And Ample Acidity.

’06  Tenute Silvio Nardi Brunello di Montalcino“Vigneto Manachiara,” Tuscany, It  150

Very Typical &  Delicious Brunello From An Excellent Vintage, Drinking Very Nicely Now But Will Mature Over The Next 5 Years In Bottle.  Complex And Rich With Tobacco Over Red Berries, Cherries, Plums, And Baking Spice.

’10  Camigliano Rosso di Montalcino, Tuscany, It  65

A Delicious Sangiovese From One Of The Top Vintages Of TheDecade!  Smooth, Ripe And Fruity, But Dry. Perfect WithRoasted Or Grilled Meats.

’08  Fonterutoli Chianti Classico, Tuscany, It  68

Sangiovese.  Intense Ruby Red Color. Scents Of Blackberry &Vanilla  Aromas. Well-Structured, With Fine Smooth, Tannins.

’06  Castello Di Querceto Chianti Classico Reserva, Tuscany, It  55

From An Excellent Vintage, This Chianti Offers Black Cherry And Blackberry Notes, With Lilac. Medium- To Full-Bodied, With Silky Tannins And A Lovely Finish Of Dark Chocolate, Smoky Wood And Berry.

’08  Marchesi di Frescobaldi Chianti Rufina “Nippozano,” Tuscany, It  65

Fresh plums and blueberries, with dark chocolate. Subtle aromas. Full body, with round and soft tannins and a long, rich finish.

’09  Villa Antinori Rossa Toscana, Tuscany, It  55

Intense Ruby Red In Color. The Wine Opens With Intense Aromas Of Ripe Cherries, Spice, Chocolate And Hints Of Mint. The Wine Is Full-Bodied With A Palate Of Black Currant, Bilberry, Violet And Spice. Tannins Are Round And Velvety And Lead To A Lingering Finish Of Sweet Fruit. Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot And Syrah.

’10  Brancaia “Tre,” Tuscany, It  60

80% Sangiovese With Merlot And Cabernet From Three Tuscan Estates, This Luscious Red Is Elegant And Well Structured, With Ripe Red Fruits And Toasty Oak. It’s Smooth And Mouthwateringly Delicious.

’10  Santa Cristina Rosso, Tuscany, It  34

Sangiovese And Merlot. The Aromas Are Ample And Intense With Notes Of Red Fruit, Particularly Cherries And Raspberries. The Flavors Are Soft And Balanced, The Finish Characterized By Suppleness Of Tannins And Persistence Of Fruit, Both Of Which Contribute To Its Pleasurable, Easy-Drinking Personality

’10  Poggiotondo Rossa Toscana, Tuscany, It  37

Simple, Direct, And Tasty With Spicy Red Fruits And Leather; Great With Sausage And Red Sauce.  Mostly SangioveseWith Merlot And Syrah.

’04  Marchesi Torrigiani “Guidaccio,” Tuscany, It  80

Acquires A Lovely Complexity In The Bottle. Scents Of Tobacco, Licorice & Grilled Herbs Lead To Juicy Cherries. Barrel Aged For 1 Year

’07  Azienda Vitivinicola “DueMani,” Tuscany, It  115

100% Cabernet Franc Supertuscan. Rich Blackberry and Blueberry Aromas Lead To A Full, Supple Palate Of Spice, Tobacco, And Fern.  The Tannins Are Full But Smooth.  Concentrated And Many-Layered, From The Nose To The Finish It Is Absolutely Delicious!

’07  Tenuta San Guido “Sassicaia,” Tuscany, It  240

Explodes On The Palate With Masses Of Rich, Opulent Fruit, Caresses The Palate With Length &  Seamless Beauty That Is Hard To Fully Capture. Dark Wild Cherries, Plums, Spices, Minerals & Herbs Unfold During The Experience.

2008 And 2009 Vintages Also Available ($265, $275)

 

 Pinot noir

 

’09  Emeritus Pinot Noir “Hallberg Ranch,” Russian River, Ca  68

Great Depth, Dark Crimson Color, Notable Variety Of Flavors Good Balance, Elegant Style. Rich Without Being Heavy.

’08  Moshin Pinot Noir “Molinari Vineyard,” Sonoma, Ca  53

Bright Aromas Of Cherry, Tea Leaf & Spices, Followed By Flavors Of Red Fruits, Pomegranate & Cranberry. Firm Tannins And Good Acidity Make This Wine A Fine Choice For The Cellar As Well As The Table.

’08  Moshin Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, Ca  66

Aromas Of Strawberry, Earth, Black Cherry, Baking Spice And A Hint Of Vanilla Give Way To A Pleasingly Bright Red Fruit Flavor Profile Of Pomegranate And Rhubarb.  A Soft, Round Mouth Feel Yet A Lively Clean Finish. A Classic Russian River Valley Wine.  Limited Production.

’11  Mirassou Pinot Noir, Ca  38

Fruit Forward And Approachable In Style, This Wine Has Flavors Of Cherry, Strawberry And Red Currant, Which Are Supported By Light Vanilla And Oak Notes. This Wine Is Well Balanced With A Round, Full Mouthfeel.

’09  Black Diamond Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, Ca  40

Aromas Of Cherries, Orange Blossoms, Vanilla And Earth; The Palate Shows Red Cherry Flavors With French Oak-Infused Caramel And Spice.

’09  Buena Vista Pinot Noir, Carneros, Ca  59

Subtle Notes Of Black Cherry & Cranberry Evolve Into Scents Of Rose Petals  & Herbs. On The Palate, The Tannins Are Lightened By Nice Acidity

’09  Napa Cellars Pinot Noir, Napa, Ca  58

Aromas Of Ripe Bing Cherries, Graham Crackers & Baking Spices. Velvety Flavors Glide Over The Palate With Long, Lasting Fruit And Spice. Ends With Firm, Ripe Tannins And A Malt And Toffee Finish.

’10  Carmel Road Pinot Noir, Monterey, Ca  48

Certified Sustainable Vineyards In The Arroyo Seco AVA.  Deep Purple. Complex Nose Of Dark Cherries, Berries, Grapes, Spice, Wood Smoke, Coffee Bean & Dried Rose Petals.  Flavors Of Blackberries & Cherries.

’11  Montinore Estate Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Or 48

Medium-Bodied And Fresh With Bright Red Fruits And Accents Of Spice & Mocha.

’09  Montinore Estate Pinot Noir “Estate Reserve,” Willamette Valley, Or  65

 Smoky-Sweet On The Nose With Hints Of Cola, Root Beer, Stewed Fruit, Freshly Turned Chalky Soil And Blackberry Jelly.  On The Palate: Cigar, Plums, And Forest Floor. 100% French Oak And Fine, Smooth Tannins Round Out The Finish.

’09  Lange Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Or  63

Approachable And Fruit-Forward, With Tantalizing Aromas Of Candied Cherry, Raspberry, Cola, And Black Licorice.

’10  Cesari Pinot Noir “Due Torri,” Venezie, It  37

Delicious Italian Pinot With Old-World Earthy Flavor & Light, Ripe Red Fruit.  Soft But Gripping Acid And Tannin (Ideal For Food!)

’09  Salentein Pinot Noir “Reserve,” Uco, Ar  51

Fruit Forward, Red Plum, Bing-Cherries, Licorice & Spice On The Palate  Well Balanced With The Oak Integrated In Every Layer. Beautiful Mouth Feel & A Delicious Long Finish With Hints Of Toasty Oak And Spice.

’11  Brancott Pinot Noir, Marlborough, Nz  35

Aromas Of Ripe Cherry And Plum, Accentuated With Spice And Savory Highlights.  A Rich, Generous Approach Displays Ripe, Dark Stone Fruits, Subtle Oak Spice, Velvety Tannins And A Long, Concentrated Finish.

’11  Stoneleigh Pinot Noir, Marlborough, Nz  39

Deep Ruby Red, Fragrant Nose: Black Cherry, Raspberry & Red Plums, Integrated Oak Spice. Palate Shows Ripe, Red Berry Fruit Flavors & Lingering Fruit Sweetness. Nice Tannins, Very Approachable Wine.

 

Merlot 

’09  Charles Krug Merlot, Napa Valley, Ca  44

Fruit-Forward Merlot With Aromas Of Ripe Cherries, Blackberries, And Dried Blueberries, With The Addition Of Mocha And Minerality On The Palate The Winemaker Recommends Pairing With A Cheese Plate Or Roasted Meat.

’08  Trinchero Merlot “Chicken Ranch,” Rutherford, Ca  98

Old-World Style, Bright Red Fruit With Cedar, Cigar Box, Spicy & Savory Notes. Good Acidity, Soft & Silky Tannins & Well-Integrated Oak.

’06  Beringer Merlot “Bancroft Ranch,” Howell Mountain, Ca  101

A Rich Garnet Color, It Brims With Flavors Of Ripe Black Fruits, Brown Spices And A Hint Of Orange Zest. Its Refined Tannins And Depth Of Flavor Make It One Of Beringer’s Most Memorable Wines From Howell Mountain.

’11  Seven Falls Merlot, Wahluke Slope, Wa  40

A Nice, Fresh Merlot With Some Classic Washington Merlot Attributes; Plums And Purple Berries On The Palate, Forest Floor In The Background, And Bright Acidity.

’11  14 Hands Merlot, Columbia Valley, Wa  39

78% Merlot With Cabernet And Syrah, This Wine Exhibits Classic Washington Aromas Of Blackberries And Dark Stone Fruits.  The Soft, Luxurious Palate Showcases Blackberries, Cherries, And Spice.

Malbec 

’09  Colome Estate  Malbec, Mendoza, Ar  58

Deep, Dark Red With A Magenta Hue. Layered On The Nose With Bitter Chocolate, Blackberry, Licorice, And Spices. The Flavors Are Rich With Figs, Plums, Cassis, And Blackberry And Subtle, Balanced French Oak.

’10  Graffigna Malbec “Centenario Reserve,” San Juan, Ar  49

Lush Berry Fruit & A Great Round Feeling in the Mouth. Delicious!

’10  Bodega Noemia Malbec “A Lisa,” Patagonia, Ar  50

This Is A Small Production Unfiltered Malbec With Quite A Following.  It’s Floral With Spicy Aromas Of Anise, Black Currant, And Leather.  Dense, Concentrated, And Classy, It’s A Perfect Match With Anything Grilled. 

’10  Callia Alta Malbec, San Juan, Ar  35

With Cherries And Plums On The Nose, This Wine Showcases Red Fruit Flavors, Good Structure And Balance, And An Elegant Lingering Finish 

’10  Bodega Goulart Malbec “Clasico,” Mendoza, Ar  39

Delicious Deep Red Malbec With A Lot Of Intensity, A Touch Of Tobacco, Mocha And Caramel.

’11  Diseno Malbec “Old Vine,” Mendoza, Ar  38

Delivers Ripe Mountain Fruit, Subtle Tannins, And Complex Malbec Character. Explosive Flavors Of Earthy Blueberry And Rich Chocolate Are Robust With Well-Balanced Acidity.

’11  Trivento Malbec, Mendoza, Ar  42

10% Bonarda and 10% Syrah add some exciting elements to this wine. Aromas Of Dark Fruit Combine With Notes Of Black Pepper, Anise, Cinnamon And Chocolate. Lush Flavors Of Plums And Berries Give Way To Velvety Tannins And A Persistent And Pleasant Finish.

’10  Château St. Didier-Parnac, Cahors, Fr  49

This Malbec From Southwestern France Contains 25% Merlot, Which Adds A Supple Mouthfeel And Rounds Out The Power Of The Fruit.

 

Cabernet Sauvignon 

’05  Sam Sebastiani Cabernet Sauvignon “Winemaker-Remembrance,” Napa Valley, Ca  102

Plump, Ripe Black Cherry, Hint Of Eucalyptus On The Nose. A Silky Mouthfeel With Elegant Flavors Of Mountain Raspberries & A Hint Of White Pepper. An Elegant, Complex Wine With A Lush, Lingering Finish

’07  Silverado Cabernet Sauvignon “Solo,” Stags Leap District, Ca   120

Pure Ripe Red Fruit Aromas, Layers Of Earth & Spice. Broad Palate, Plum Fruit & Hints Of Dried Herb That Lead To Perfectly Balanced Tannins.

’07  Rodney Strong Cabernet “Rockaway,” Alexander Valley, Ca   113

Small Berries, Intense Flavors: The Best Of Alexander Valley.  Single Vineyard, Full-Bodied, Ultra-Ripe. Cocoa, Currants, Blackberries, Cherries, Herbs & Smoked Oak. 

’07  Rodney Strong Cabernet “Brothers Ridge,” Alexander Valley  110

Concentrated Richness Of Almost 100% Cabernet Grapes Grown On Low-Yielding Hillsides. Intense Flavors Of Blackberries, Black Cherries, Cassis, Cola And Herbs.

’06  Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, Ca  115

Bright, Full Red-Ruby. Musky Blackberry, Tobacco, Chocolate & Tar On The Nose. Plum, Raspberry & Tobacco Flavors Are Intensified By Good Acidity. 

’07  ZD Cabernet Sauvignon “Reserve,” Napa Valley, Ca  210

Aged For Two Years In American Oak,  Bursting With Complexity. Core Of Ripe Fruit Integrates Beautifully With Subtle Hints Of Vanilla, Clove And Mocha, & The Lush, Silky Tannins Round Out The Long, Rich Finish. 

’09  Cakebread Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, Ca  125

Big, Boldly Structured, With Deeply Concentrated Black Fruit  Flavors & Intriguing Mineral Tones That Add Wonderful Dimension And Complexity. 

’08  Cakebread Cabernet Sauvignon “Benchland Select,” Napa, C  165

Vibrant Dark Fruit Aromas (Blackberry, Boysenberry & Dark Plum) Complemented By Seductive Spicebox, Cocoa, Loamy Earth & Leather Scents. Rich, Juicy& Mouthfilling With Deeply Concentrated Blackberry & Plum Flavors Abetted By Toasted Oak & Dark Chocolate.

’07  Cakebread Cabernet ”Dancing Bear Ranch,” Howell Mountain, Ca   275

Aromas Of Boysenberries, Dark Cherry & Forest Spice, Introduce A Big, Dense, Tightly Wound Palate Packed With Rich, Concentrated Black Cherry, Boysenberry &  Blackberry Flavors, Which  Are Enhanced By  Savory Clove, Cocoa & Vanilla Tones. Beautifully Structured, Round, Beautiful Tannins.

’08  Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, Ca  96

Smooth, Silky Structure That Showcases The Delicacy Of The Vintage. Elegant Aromas Of Cherries And Plums Open To A Soft, Silky Mouthfeel Boasting A Spectrum Of Red And Black Fruit Flavors With A Hint Of Spicy Oak

’09  Ferrari Carano Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley, Ca  69

This Smooth, Polished Cab Boasts A Tasty Mix Of Forward Ripe Plum, Black Cherry And Berry Fruit That’s Easy To Drink, Ending With Cedar, Tar And Tobacco Notes.

’09  Conn Creek Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, Ca  58

Classic Cabernet Notes Of Cassis And Ripe Bing Cherry Are Followed By Touches Of Vanilla, Spice, And A Hint Of Rain. Vibrant, Yet Supple Tannins Frame The Mixed Berry Flavors While Accents Of Glazed Walnuts And Fresh Tilled Soil Complement The Long Finish.

’09  Antinori Cabernet Sauvignon “Antica,” Napa Valley, Ca  99

Delicious Purity Of Fruit With Enticing Violet And Fresh Berry Scents Of Blueberry, Blackberry And Red Currant. Dark Red Fruit, Licorice, Smoke And Tar Are Some Of The Nuances That Flow From This Layered, Gorgeous Cabernet Sauvignon From An Internationally Renowned Producer.

’09  Sequoia Grove Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, Ca  68

The Nose Gives Aromas Of Fresh Raspberries And Ripe, Red Cherries With Notes Of Vanilla And Cocoa Powder. Background Notes Come Through Over Time Of Roasted Coffee Bean And A Touch Of Pencil Lead. The Palate Is Smooth And Rich With Ripe, Developed Tannins And Flavors Of Blackberry And A Hint Of Smoky, Sweet Oak.

’10  N x NW Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, Wa  50

This Is A Lighter Style, Making It An Easy-Drinking Cabernet.  You Might Catch Flavors Of Cherry Liquor, Dark Chocolate, Blackberry, Toast, Black Currant, Raspberry Juice, Eucalyptus, Or Leather

’09  Carpe Diem Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, Ca  55

Impeccable Balance; A Silky Texture; Soft, Rounded Tannins And, Underneath It All, Beautiful Napa Valley Fruit. This Is A Cabernet Built Not To Dominate But To Go With Food.

’07  Cuvaison Cabernet Sauvignon, Mount Veeder, Ca  68

’10  Gundlach Bundschu Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma, Ca  69 

’09  Von Strasser Estate Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon, Diamond Mountain District, Ca  85

Big, Black, Bold, And Full Bodied. All Dark Mountain Fruit. Huge Nose Of Spicy Black Currant, Creamy Vanilla, Black Berries, And Black Cherry Liqueur. Powerful, Concentrated, And Focused. This Is Exceptional Cabernet. Tannins Are Dusty And Well Integrated. Very Long, Long Finish That Seems To Last For Minutes.  Recommend Aeration 

’10  Smith & Hook Cabernet Sauvignon, Central Coast, Ca  48

This Wine Displays An Elegant Balance Of Fruit And Oak And Is Ready To Drink Now! Cedar And Cassis On The Nose, Black Cherries And Dark Chocolate On The Palate. Dark And Dense With Strong Tannins Balanced By Hints Of Vanilla And Cloves.

’09  Chateau Ste. Michelle Cabernet Sauvignon “Cold Creek Vineyard,” Columbia Valley, Wa  49

Cabernet From This Iconic 40-Year-Old Vineyard Consistently Delivers Power, Structure And Rich Concentrated Black Fruit. This Is A Dense, Decadent Wine With Great Aging Potential. The 2009 Vintage Is 100% Pure Cabernet With Intense Dark Blackberry And Plum Fruit Flavors And Long Finish.

’09  Stag’s Leap Vineyards Estate Cabernet Sauvignon “Fay,” Napa Valley, Ca  145

This Wine Opens With Generous Aromas Of Bright Raspberry, Sandalwood, Vanilla And Anise Along With The Signature Bright Cherry Note Of The Vineyard. The Aromas Are Followed By An Alluring Mix Of Red Cherry, Blueberry And Tangerine That Envelop The Palate With Nuances Of Vanilla And Spice From Careful Aging In French Oak Barrels. The Palate Is Lush With Ripe Tannins, Balanced Acidity And A Persistent Berry/Cherry Finish 

 ’08  Stag’s Leap Vineyards Estate Cabernet Sauvignon “SLV,” Napa Valley, Ca  150

The 2008 S.L.V. Is The 35th Vintage Since The 1973 S.L.V. Won The Paris Tasting In 1976. This Rich And Generous Cabernet Sauvignon Opens With Crushed Blackberry And Ripe Plum Aromas, Accented By Notes Of Anise, Fennel And Cedar. Full-Bodied And Supple, The Wine Flows Smoothly Across The Palate. The Wine’s Texture Is Reminiscent Of Enjoying A Dark Chocolate Covered Caramel With Sea Salt. Dark Fruit And Spice Linger On The Finish. 

’09  Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon “Artemis,” Napa Valley, Ca  86

Inviting Aromas Of Black Cherry Cola, Red Cherry, Vanilla Bean And Cocoa Powder Along With A Touch Of Clove And Sage. These Notes Carry Over Onto The Palate And Combine With Flavors Of Cassis & Black Cherry, Milk Chocolate, Toasty Oak And Hint Of Wintergreen. The Wine Has A Smooth Texture With Great Depth And Fine-Grained Tannins.

  

Red Blends

’09  Coho “Headwaters,” Napa Valley, Ca  75

Shows Off A Dense Purple Color Plus A Sweet Perfume Of Espresso, White Chocolate, Black Cherries, And Figs. Tremendous Opulence, And A Long, Lush Finish. 

’08  Chateau St Jean “Cinq Cepages,” Sonoma, Ca   89

Bordeaux Style Blend, Amazing Power & Finesse. Loads Of Black Fruit & Hints Of Dried Herbs, Olive & Sage Aromas. Flavors Of Currant, Ripe Black Plums, Blackberry & Roasted Oak Supple, Ripe Tannins.

’10  Murrieta’s Well “The Spur,” Livermore Valley, Ca  60

48% Merlot And 24% Petite Verdot With Malbec And Petite Syrah From Vineyards Near San Francisco. This Interesting And Sumptuous Blend Displays Black Cherry And Blueberry With Hints Of Chocolate, Anise, Spice And Toasted Oak With Mature, Supple Tannins.

’06  Conn Creek “Anthology,” Napa Valley, Ca  101

Rich, Smooth & Spicy, Mature Cherry Flavors &  Concentrated Cassis Fruits Are Brought To Focus With Cedar, Vanilla & Spiced Accents. Graceful, Powerful, Lingering Flavors Are Seemingly Endless 

’06  Cain Vineyard & Winery “Cain Five,” Spring Mountain District, Napa Valley, Ca  125

A Classic Bordeaux Blend, Cain Five Is Well Known As One Of California’s Best Meritages Year After Year.  The 2006 Vintage Is A Little More Subtle Than Some, With Ripe, Warm Fruit And Soft, Dusty Tannins.  It Also Shows Some Maturity, With A Little Herb And Anise Coming Through.

’07  Gundlach Bundschu Estate “Vintage Reserve,” Sonoma, Ca  135

Intense Color & Aroma Of Black Currant & Violets. Palate Has Lush, Velvety Texture, Featuring Deep, Dark Flavors Of Cassis, Juicy Black Plum & Blueberry With A Dusting Of Dark Cocoa & Vanilla Cream. Long, Concentrated Finish, Firm Tannins And Vibrant Fruit.

 

Syrah

’10  Girard Petit Syrah, Napa Valley, Ca  60

An Inky, Dark, Fruit-Forward Wine With Aromas Of Baked Black Cherry Tart, Dark Plum, Tahitian Vanilla Bean, Anise And Allspice; On The Palate, There’s A Balance Of Integrated, Firm Tannins And Bright Acidity With A Soft, Spicy And Lingering Finish.

’10  Guadagni La Famiglia Petite Sirah, Ca  36

 A Juicy Wine With Aromas Of Sweet Spice And Mocha.
Delicious Blackberry And Jam Flavors Linger On The Palate With A Slightly Spicy Finish.

’08  Lapostolle Syrah “Cuvee Alexandre,” Las Curas Vineyard, Cachapoal Valley, Ch  55

Intense And Dark Inky Red Color With Purple Shades. This Vintage Has An Intense And Complex Nose With A Punch Of Solid Black Fruit, White Pepper, Honey And Rosemary Aromas. Concentrated Body With Rich Tannins, Very Round Mid Palate And More Fruit At The Finish. Very Long Persistence In The Palate.

’10  Saviah Cellars Syrah “The Jack,” Columbia Valley, Wa  38

A Rhone-Style Blend Of 80% Syrah With Grenache And Mourvedre.  Aromas Of Spicy Red Raspberries And Plums, And The Pleasure Of Smooth Yet Complex Washington State Syrah.

’10  Morgan Winery “Cotes Du Crow’s,” Monterey, Ca  45

This Rhone-Style Blend Of 55% Syrah With Grenache Has A Rich Ruby Red Color Which Is Highlighted By Purple Fruit; Blackberry Pie, Boysenberry And Violet Aromas Jump Out Of The Glass.  The Texture is smooth and soft, making this delightful with food or without.

 

Zinfandel 

’08  Moshin Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley, Ca  66

100% Zinfandel.  Smokey, Juicy Red & Black Fruits, Excellent Balance, Surprising Lightness Without Heavy-Handed Alcohol; Everything A Zin Should Be!  Fantastic With Wild Mushroom Risotto.

’10  Ridge Zinfandel “Three Valleys,” Sonoma County, Ca  59

70% Zinfandel With Equal Parts Carignane And Petite Syrah, This Well-Known Wine Boasts A Nose Of Briary Blackberry Fruit, Licorice And A Touch Of Vanilla.  A Medium To Full-Bodied Palate With Plum And Black Cherry Fruit, Well Rounded Tannins And Balanced Acidity On The Finish Makes This A Great Food Wine And An All-Around Crowd Pleaser.

’10  Paul Dolan Vineyards Zinfandel, Mendocino Valley, Ca  45

Organic grapes bring red and purple flavors together with a touch of marmalade and a peppery kick.  Lovely Gold medal winner from amador county.

’10  Seghesio Family Zinfandel, Sonoma, Ca  52

The Vines Selected For This Vintage Average 25-30 Yrs In Age. Classic Sonoma Valley: Full Bodied, Red And Black Fruits, Dry And Spicy; Well Balanced. A Lovely Wine From A Great Family!