vineyards Archives | Palate Press

1 min read

The nose shows incredible depth and richness, with black currant, plums, dark chocolate and hints of tobacco leaf. Black currant, plums, and unsweetened chocolate lead, and brighter red fruit follows on the mid-palate, with touches of menthol and tobacco. Tannins are muscular, in this young wine that will integrate and Read More

What We’re Drinking – Viluko Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2015

David Honig

Wine Reviews

1 min read

Only 155 cases were made of the fruit-forward Sauvignon Blanc. It shows as rich on the nose, with ruby red grapefruit, fresh-cut hay, and teasing hints of caramel. On the palate, grapefruit leaps to the front and dances audaciously on the tongue. It is shot through with bright acidity. The Read More

2010 Cornerstone Pinot Noir

David Honig

Wine Reviews

1 min read

The nose is earthy and rich, showing black cherry and loam. Rich and Burgundian, this has so much going for it. Flavors fly from fruit to umami, earth to high-flying freshness, all with a cola background, underlying hints of smoke, and a smooth, silky mouth-feel. It's a terrific food wine, Read More

2010 William Hill “Bench Blend” Cabernet Franc

David Honig

Wine Reviews

1 min read

Aromas of red currants, Bing cherries, and tobacco leaf flow upward from the glass. Rich and full-bodied, the fruits turn into Black cherry and raspberry pie filling, kept grounded by tobacco leaf, vanilla, and spice box flavors. Tannins are dusty. This is a big wine married with big wood. Drink Read More

2012 Rodney Strong Pinot Noir

David Honig

Wine Reviews

1 min read

Dry, tart fruits and layers of flavors, in search of good food for pairing. The nose shows sherry stones, birch beer, and cranberry. Loads of red fruits, cherries, cranberries, and pomegranate, dry and tart. Tannins aren't overpowering, but clearly present, with a gentle but solid grip. Subtle undertones of licorice Read More

2012 Giant Steps Pinot Noir

David Honig

Wine Reviews

1 min read

Cherries, cola, and dried strawberries show on the nose. Cherries and pomegranate are joined by pencil lead and sage. A root beer flavor comes out on the mid-palate. Tannins are gentle, acids are bright. This is light and fresh, a wine that will complement, rather than compete with, food. Drink Read More

2012 Innocent Bystander Pinot Gris

David Honig

Wine Reviews

1 min read

The nose shows lime, apple, and white flowers. The palate shows the full, round mouth-feel you hope to find in a Pinot Gris. Peaches and white flowers lead, with very light flavors of sweet lime on the finish. Drink with fresh-caught trout. Recommended. 87 points. WHO: Innocent Bystander WHAT: Pinot Read More

2010 Chateau de Sours “La Source Blanc” White Blend

David Honig

Wine Reviews

1 min read

Like the front lawn on a summer day. Cut grass and tropical fruits show on the nose. The palate has grass, pineapple, then mango. The finish adds lingering lemon. Remarkably bright and fresh, this will contrast well with foods prepared with mayo. Pair with lobster rolls. Recommended. 88 points. WHO: Read More

What We’re Drinking – Silverado “Geo” Cabernet Sauvignon

What We’re Drinking – Viluko Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc 2015

2010 Cornerstone Pinot Noir

2010 William Hill “Bench Blend” Cabernet Franc

2012 Rodney Strong Pinot Noir

2012 Giant Steps Pinot Noir

2012 Innocent Bystander Pinot Gris

2010 Chateau de Sours “La Source Blanc” White Blend

2018 Ghost of a Chance Wines “Gangster of Love” Red, Sierra Foothills

2020 One Flock Sauvignon Blanc

2020 One Flock Red Wine, California

Bellenda San Fermo, Conegliano Valdobbiadene DOCG Prosecco Superiore, Brut

2021 David Frost Sauvignon Blanc, Western Cape, South Africa