Don Davis decided to bring a previous "Wine of the Year" selection to Scot McLernon's "Down Under" tasting, and damn if it didn't win (it got my vote)! If there was ever a poster child for Carmanere, Casa Lapostolle would have to be it (yes, about 20% of the blend is Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, but it is overwhelmingly Carmanere). Layers and layers of fruit, amazing oak integration and lively but harmonious acidity -- wow!
It was fun to drink this Oregon Pinot Gris from Acrobat against Josmeyer's from Alsace (thanks to Richard Johnson for opening them). The main difference here was the lower acidity and minerality of the Oregon Pinot Gris -- so choosing the one for you is really a matter of personal preference. I've wondered for years why Americans don't drink more Pinot Gris, it seems to suit the American palate... $13; 87 points
This second (or third) labeling is becoming more typical in this wine-glut economy... This is a blend from Eric Ross.
Lagrein is one of the rarest varietals grown in California; I found this Praxis bottling at Locals in Geyserville, CA. Lagrein is a feminine red varietal typically found in Northern Italy (in the Alps), an area that does a nice job with pinot noir too (Switzerland, Austria, Northern Italy).
Dense and thick-bodied on the palate, this Petite Sirah delivers layers of ripe dark red & black fruit.
12% alcohol is what makes this wine special. Very Pinot noir-like. Forest floor nose, light mouthfeel, young cherry and red rose petals, nice acids, low oak profile overall but there is some spice on the finish. Very much like a good Burgundian village wine.
I tried this Provence blend, Mas de Gourgonnier, at a reception at the CUNY School of Journalism. Hearty wine, Rhone-like fruit presentation, very young, heavy oak helps even out the hot alcohol. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache and Syrah, with a touch of Carignane, Cinsault and Mourvèdre... Meaty & gamey, this is an interesting blend from Provence... $12; 87 points
Fetzer has been a leader in advocating sustainable production and doing business with as many sustainable growers as possible. They were doing this long before it became en vogue...
Produced by Zlatan Otok on the Island Hvar in Croatia. These Zlatan reds are sought out as much as any Croatian wine I've seen. Hvar is widely considered to be on the most beautiful places on the Dalmatian Coast, I am very much looking forward to visiting in person! The wine is medium bodied, with firm tannins, not overripe, nice light black fruit. I would expect it to continue to improve with age. $38; 89+ points
Recent Comments