The Sylvia Plath of California Cabernet, lots of brooding dark fruit on the nose. Slightly gamey and brash. Lots of self-loathing. WHO: Swanson Vineyards WHAT: Cabernet Sauvignon WHERE: Oakville AVA, Napa, California WHEN: 2005 HOW MUCH: $75
When a bottle of Stone Hill 2001 Blanc de Blancs Sparkling Wine was broken across the bow of the U.S.S. Missouri recently, it was not only a tribute to the winemaker, the winery and the state of Missouri, but also-read more-
This wine is actually a blend: 88% Zinfandel, 9% Petite Syrah and 3% Barbera. And what a marvelous blend it is – a refined wine that might even be a bit sophisticated for a Super Bowl party, but an indulgence-read more-
This small-production bottling of 60- to 85-year-old vines from the Mohr-Fry ranches is simply spectacular. One sniff of this wine and I was seduced! Deep aromas of dark berry, currant and mocha make you want to sink your nose deeper-read more-
This small artisanal winery with an Old World approach to winemaking has always been a favorite of mine. It doesn’t hurt that winemakers Richard Bruno and Chris Condos have loads a humor to go with their talent! “Quality, Value, Fun”-read more-
I will admit that I didn’t grow up watching American football, but soccer. There’s not much in common between the two sports except that they both involve a ball. But I’ve always been eager to adopt any holiday or occasion-read more-
First Aromas of cedar and cherry, followed by the promise of earthiness. Later, candied florals emerge. Deep plum red color with an undertone of brown bears out the promise: this is European-style in flavor and acidity, but New World in-read more-
Some age to the Cab here; evident in a beautifully developed, complex aroma. A strong, muscular lad is this, a firm tannic structure only slightly mellowed by age, holding, like Atlas, a world of herb and liquorice edged black fruit-read more-