Relatively dark in color, not quite opaque. Flavors are overwhelmingly tart red fruit, barely ripe cherries, wild strawberries, and lots of rhubarb. Sweet wood is there, but barely perceptible behind the tartness. Finish is mid-length, tannins slightly drying. A rich-read more-
In recent years, several U.S. wine companies have embraced a charitable mission, setting aside a portion of their profits to support causes the owners believe in. Consumers get the benefit of a good product, plus the satisfaction of knowing that-read more-
Tasted with 1997 Cheval Blanc, Château Margaux, and Mouton-Rothschild, the Haut-Brion clearly stood out as the most balanced and complex of this fine lot. Minerality was remarkable. Wet gravel and scorched earth formed the base for red currant, sweet wood,-read more-
The King Andrews Muscat Blanc is, well, muscat. Nothing problematic about it, but nothing particularly attention-grabbing about it, either. If you like the sweet version, however, be forewarned that this is made in a somewhat drier style. The winery describes-read more-
This was rich with dark blue and black fruit and a floral hint. Smooth, suede-like tannins were paired with a slight sweetness, a hint of astringency and appropriate acidity. WHO: Sparks Sunset Cellars WHAT: Petite Sirah WHERE: Suisun Valley, California-read more-
This was packed with caramel and pepper but its vague fruit and soft structure made it seem a bit syrupy and possibly heat damaged. The green notes made it very awkward. WHO: Shale Peak WHAT: Barbera WHERE: Suisun Valley, Solano-read more-
Nose of blackberry, cocoa, cinnamon, and even a bit of oil (but that is perhaps because I have BP on the brain). Immediately approachable with soft, not chewy, tannins – beef tenderloin as opposed to beef jerky – and plummy-read more-
For my 40th birthday I took a much-needed get away to Napa. We visited my friend Jeff Miller and his wife Beryl. Jeff lives in Napa and grows and makes wines in the Suisun Valley AVA under several labels: Seven-read more-