2012 Paul Mas Estate Pinot Noir

David Honig
Wine Reviews
1 min read
A good French Pinot Noir for under $15 is a rare pleasure. Cherry, anise, and a touch of milk chocolate come through on the nose. Strawberry and redcurrant soar over star anise and milk chocolate, with a small strip of dried orange peel adding to the finish. Dusty tannins and

Brenne Single Malt Whiskey

David Honig
Wine Reviews
1 min read
Tropical fruits explode upward from the glass, bananas, mangos, and pineapple. More fruit, a veritable Carmen Miranda topper full of fruit, dances across the palate. The finish is sweet bubble gum. This is not like any whiskey you've ever tried, an amazing collection of sweet tropical fruit. It is smooth,

Privateer Silver Reserve Rum

David Honig
Wine Reviews
1 min read
Aromas of tropical fruit and orange blossoms flow upward from the glass. It opens with maple, then opens broadly into flavors of fresh apples. Honey crisp apples and baked apples roll across the palate before the alcohol heat makes its appearance. It ends with a touch of smoke. This is

Privateer “True American” Rum

David Honig
Wine Reviews
1 min read
Molasses, apple and spices are on the nose. Maple syrup leads on the nose, followed by baked pears. The mid-palate has vegetal flavors, cucumber and sautéed fennel root, with a strong crème brûlée finish. Very smooth, the alcohol does not even make an appearance until the instant before the finish,

2011 Gascon Reserve Malbec

David Honig
Wine Reviews
1 min read
Jammy nose, blueberry pie and plums. The palate starts with sweet blueberry compote and plum, adds a tart zing of raspberry on the mid-palate, and ends with a flourish of vanilla and brown sugar. Sweet tannins and tart acids give it balance. Drink with portobello mozzarella burgers. Recommended. 87 points.

2011 Frei Brothers “Reserve” Pinot Noir

David Honig
Wine Reviews
1 min read
Cherry stones, vanilla, and cola show on the nose. The palate leads with black cherry and strawberry, with a tart raspberry twist. Some vanilla comes through on the mid-palate. The finish favors the tart over the sweet. Mouth-feel is soft, tannins mild. Drink with bacon-wrapped pork medallions. Recommended. 87 points.

Frapin “Extra” Grand Champagne Cognac

David Honig
Wine Reviews
1 min read
This floral delight is made entirely from Frapin's Grande Champagne vineyard, from a blend of 40-50 year old reserves. White flowers and loads of caramel waft up from the glass. Opening with caramel, vanilla, coffee, and a touch of heat, it explodes on the palate with a remarkable blend of