The Iowa Wino

2008 La Sirena Pirate Treasure Red Napa Valley on Cellars Of Sonoma Tuesday Live

2012-01-27T21:27:00.000-06:00

If you missed this weeks show, Old Scott put on the pirate hat to read the label on tonights wine from Heidi Barrett and a fine pirate he did make. "Avast, Ye Salty Bilge Rats, Thar Be Treasure Stashed In This Here Flagon." The treasure is a blend of cabernet sauvignon, syrah, petite verdot, grenache, cab franc and petite sirah. Cool bottle, label and darn great wine. My buddy Dezel, virtual tasting from VA had a few laughs as well.

The nose was full of huge ripe berry starting with wild cherry, blackberry, raspberry and blueberry. Hints of toasty oak followed by spice prepares you for the taste. Screams Cabernet! Really enjoyed swirling and sniffing.

Full bodied and fit for a pirate. Blackberry, cherry, raspberry followed by spice which warms you nicely. I uncorked the wine 2 hours before the show allowing breathing time. The aromas and flavors open up showcasing the beautiful fruit the longer in the glass. Bold yet elegant.

Scott another fine selection in wine. The show is full of fun wine facts plus another cool guest, winemaker Heidi Barrett. Stop by Cellars of Sonoma for the new 2009 vintage and you just might hear Heidi proclaim, "Drink Up, Me Hearties, Drink Up The Fabled TreasureRed.... Unless You be Lily-Livered."

Cheers
Dan

2007 TR Elliott Queste Pinot Noir Russian River Valley on Cellars of Sonoma

2012-01-19T19:27:00.000-06:00

I have a few favorite winemakers on my list and one just happens to be this evenings guest Ted Elliott of TR Elliott in beautiful Santa Rosa California. The pinot noir he produces is silky and elegant with aromatics that fill your nose with sheer pleasure. Heaven in a bottle and honestly I could swirl/smell all evening.

Scott as usual was pumped about the 49Niners winning and ready to invite all football fans into the tasting room to watch the game this weekend. Wine and food specials will greet the patrons. Ted Elliott was as always ready to answer complex questions thrown at him by the viewers. Kevin the esteemed reporter, Andrew the production manager/camera guru and naturally my buddy Dezel Quillen Va's excellent wine blogger rounded out the tasters.

On the nose wild cherry followed by cinnamon spice. Beautiful earthy mushroom notes scream Russian River Valley followed by hints of strawberry and raspberry. Day 2 brought fresh cut rose pedal notes. Pinot at it's finest.

Dark cherry with hints of juicy raspberry and fresh strawberry followed by a soft spice. Day 2 saw the flavors evolve with mocca and dark chocolate on the finish. The juice in the fruit carries from the beginning to the end. Soft and silky. I have tasted 5 bottles of Queste with each at different ages and the wine blows me away every time. Ted I dubbed thee "King of Pinot."

If you are in Santa Rosa stop by for the Niners football party at Cellars Of Sonoma this weekend. Great wine, food, atmosphere and loads of fun!

Cheers
Dan

2009 Ceja Vineyards Napa Carneros Chardonnay

2012-01-14T23:53:00.000-06:00

You're probably thinking because I live in the Midwest with snow on the ground and sub freezing temps, the wine of choice should be red. Surprise! I'm an equal opportunity wino. Tonight's selection paired well with my fantail shrimp with fresh squeezed lemon juice. Plus I can always count on each bottle of Ceja wine I open.

In the glass the creme brulee hits your nose first. Ripe pear with waves of citrus zest, baking spice, green apple and fresh melon. Nice tropical fruit notes. Year after year so consistent and beautiful.

Pear and green apple right from the start. Nice lemon character in the middle with a hint of melon. The lemon zest lingers long into the crisp refreshing finish. Outstanding fruit forward chardonnay. Armando what a delicious bottle of wine.

Amelia, Pedro and the entire Ceja Family what a joy it is to drink your wines. I highly recommend all varietals from Ceja Vineyards so make sure you stop for a visit and purchase a bottle or 12.

Cheers
Dan

2007 Bonneau Los Carneros Hyde Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon On Cellars of Sonoma

2012-01-13T23:44:00.000-06:00

Scott's choice of wine for the evening's virtual taste from Bonneau was both silky and elegant. Special guest John Bambury, Vintner always treats the viewers to 60 fun packed minutes of wine knowledge. Toss in my buddy Dezel Quillen fellow wine blogger from Va and its a party!

I opened the wine 2 1/2 hours prior to tasting on the advice of Mr. Jordan plus ran it through an aerator. Really nice ripe fruit starting with blackberry and raspberry. As the wine opened, plum with hints of vanilla, baking spice and violet notes. The aromas were elegant and complemented each other perfectly.

Awesome flavor. Blackberry with hints of plum and spice dominate the begining of the taste. In the middle juicy raspberry carries long into the silky soft finish. I paired the wine with a big cheeseburger and enjoyed by itself. No doubt this may be the perfect cabernet.

Scott and John you blew me away with the selection. Special treat to drink this wine and I enjoyed every drop. My compliments and many thank you's. Andrew, Kevin and Dezel always a great time on TV Tuesday. Folks click the link TV Tuesday Broadcast and watch each week at 6pm pacific. I know you will enjoy the show.

Cheers
Dan

2008 Firesteed Pinot Noir Oregon

2012-01-11T05:28:00.000-06:00

Oregon produces some excellent juice and its becoming a regular in my house. My only issue is with the selection in my area but getting better. Tonight's wine was a gift from my daughter who understands my love of Pinot.

A nice nose on this wine. Excellent ripe cherry with a beautiful clove spice. Hints of smokey cedar and fresh raspberry. The clove and cedar really mellowed the longer in the glass.

Tart cherry at first but as the wine was allowed to breathe, fresh cherry pie followed by a wonderful spice. Strawberry and red raspberry with just a slight smoke finish. I paired with grilled pork chops and as a stand alone. Nice affordable Pinot and reinforces my love of Oregon wine.

Cheers
Dan

Introducing Passaggio Wines Passionistas Wine Club

2012-01-07T21:47:00.000-06:00

When chatting with winemaker Cynthia Cosco about her new varietal Pinot Noir ( and the 4th in her portfolio) she asked if I thought her idea of a wine club was smart. More in the neighborhood of brilliant I believe my response. Wine clubs direct from wineries in my opinion are great values because you know the winemaker and trust their wines. Exceptional vintages allow you to reorder at club rates (in this case 20% off) with each shipment delivered to your doorstep. Plus the wines are stored in a controlled environment and we wine lovers know how important correct temps mean to our bottles.

Passionistas Wine Club promises to deliver award winning wines of high character twice per year. Early summer receive 2 bottles of Unoaked Chardonnay (one of the best chardonnay's I have ever tasted) and Rose (last years first vintage was awesome). In the fall as a member you will receive 2 bottles of Pinot Noir (inaugural vintage this year with samples pictured above) and Pinot Grigio (perfect with light pasta dishes) as Cindy says "just in time to celebrate the holidays." Not a red fan no fear you will receive chardonnay and rose in the summer and chardonnay and pinot grigio in the fall. Invitations to winemaker dinners, special wine events, 20% discount on reorders and "the rite of passage on all special discounted merchandise and wines" are all excellent benefits so don't miss out.

Cindy's motto "Follow Your Passion" are words to live by and very evident in each bottle she produces. She has inspired me and I know she will you as well. Join me as others have by clicking the link Passionistas Wine Club and become a member today. Award winning exceptional value wines delivered to your door from one of Napa/Sonoma's outstanding top female winemakers. Like she says "Drink all you want...... I can make more."

Cheers
Dan

2010 Amorosa Bella Brut Russian River Valley On Cellars of Sonoma Tuesday Live

2012-01-06T20:45:00.000-06:00

What a great night virtual tasting Amorosa Bella Sparkling Brut with Scott from Cellars of Sonoma, winery owner Charlyn and my good friend wine blogger Dezel from VA. Really getting into the crispness of sparkling wines, their versatility with salads or fresh fruit, and I even paired it with fresh holiday fudge.

The wine tonight was a true treat. Beautiful salmon color in the glass combined with the fruit characteristics of my 2 favorite Russian River Valley grapes..... Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Pear, red berries, citrus and the perfect amount of acidity makes this Sparkling Brut one of the best produced.

Charlyn challenged the viewers to incorporate sparkling wine into their everyday routine along with a variety of foods. Always up for a challenge and using some of her suggestions, I was amazed at the potato chip pairing. Salty and acidic worked perfect. Fresh berries (raspberry, cherry, strawberry) with the crispness of the wine was so refreshing. Huge fan of this wine.

Scott and Charlyn thanks for the great evening and the introduction to Amorosa Bella Sparkling Brut. A very special treat.

Cheers
Dan

2008 Ceja Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

2011-12-28T06:52:00.000-06:00

The holidays are perfect for pairing great food with delicious wine. Nothing better than serving Ceja Vineyards Cabernet with a sharp cheddar cheese and succulent roast beef. Knowing the wines Armando Ceja produces, no doubt in my mind this would be another beauty.

The nose is full of excellent ripe fruit. Plum, blackberry, red raspberry followed by herbal notes and a rich spice. Aged 28-32 months in french oak, you can listen to the winemaker Armando by clicking the link Ceja Cellar. A wine you could swirl and smell all evening.

Outstanding bottle of wine. The dark fruit is showcased with blackberry and plum followed by a hint of red raspberry. Towards the middle of the taste black raspberry and red raspberry set you up for the finish of a soft warm spice which lingers long. The fruit is still dominant on the finish as well. The longer in the glass the wine becomes so silky. Cabernet + Napa Valley+ Ceja Vineyards = handcrafted greatness. Well done Armando!

Taste Ceja Vineyards fine portfolio of wines at their downtown Napa tasting room located at 1248 First Street Napa Ca 94559 from 11am -6pm Sun thru Wed and 11am-8pm Thur thru Sat.

Happy New Year Everyone.
Cheers
Dan

The Wines of Vinho Verde Casa De Vila 2009 Alvarhino Portugal

2011-12-26T17:59:00.000-06:00

A new varietal for me this evening from Portugal a 2009 Alvarhino and my first from Vinho Verde. Located in northwest Portugal, they produce wines of light alcohol and balanced acidity. The region produces blends from varietals Loureiro, Trajadura and Alvarinho which are crisp and refreshing.

On the nose a definate tropical influence. Melon, pineapple, lime and lemon citrus with hints of peach

The flavor was crisp with melon and lemon dominant. Hints of fresh pineapple and peach with a nice mineral finish. Nicely priced at $7.99 and a good starter wine for your guests. I look forward to tasting and learning more about the Wines of Vinho Verde.

Cheers
Dan

Sparkle with Freixenet & Gloria Ferrer Tastelive Event

2011-12-14T20:45:00.000-06:00

Great event with the holidays upon us and what better way to celebrate than tasting some bubbles from Sonoma and Spain. A distinguished well respected panel of bloggers and honored I had the opportunity to join in the fun. 3 great wines treated our palates this evening.

First up Freixenet Cordon Negro Cava produced in Penedes Spain. Nice pear, citrus zest, melon and warm ginger aromas. The flavor was nice with fresh crisp apple and pear. Toss in lemon, lime citrus zest and a nice hint of ginger spice on the finish. A nice starter to the evening.

Second offering of the evening is an old favorite of mine Gloria Ferrer Sonoma Brut. Pear, a hint of fresh cut rose followed by warm roasted almonds. Paired with green apple slices the lovely citrus in the wine complimented the tart apples and the creamy vanilla/almond softened the finish. By itself the apple flavor and citrus compliment each other perfectly. Gloria Ferrer never disappoints the palate.

The final wine of the evening Segura Viduas Brut Rose Cava. I'm a big rose fan so this sparkler was a treat. Strawberry, spice and candied cherry on the nose. The flavor was crisp and refreshing. Cherry with hints of strawberry and spice. I commented how wonderful this wine would taste sipping on the back porch preferrably on a warm day. I sense a few agreed.

Another great holiday tasting this time we celebrate with bubbles. Cailyn, Joel and Cindy it was a super evening. Thank you all for including me and the introduction to some awesome bubbles.

Cheers
Dan

2008 Robbins Vineyards Big Alibi Red Merlot Napa Valley

2011-12-11T20:51:00.000-06:00

Tonight's wine is a gem from a well stocked wine store Napa Valley Wine and Cigar in one of my favorite places Napa Valley. Carrie said I would love this wine and naturally she was correct. Just adore these small production wines carried at her store and Phil Robbins created a beauty with this Big Alibi Red.

On the nose I get a nice herbal note followed by deep dark cherry. Hints of plum and fresh spice with just the slightest aroma of red raspberry. Lovely nose on this wine.

Easy drinking flavor packed red wine. Plum and dark cherry are very dominant in the beginning of the taste. Spice in the middle with a juicy raspberry finish. Silky throughout the taste. Bottles like these are why I love drinking wine. Phil absolutely outstanding juice.

Stop by and grab a bottle from Carrie and see for yourself what a great wine Phil has created. I recommend sipping by the fireplace too.

Cheers
Dan

2009 Eric Ross Marsanne-Roussanne Russian River Valley Saralee's Vineyard

2011-11-26T08:38:00.000-06:00

My last bottle purchased from the summer wine collection was this beauty from my good friend Eric Luse winemaker/comedian at Eric Ross Winery. Opened before thanksgiving dinner, my daughter who typically drinks little if any wine really enjoyed this refreshing white (see Dad still knows best). What I truly enjoy about Eric's wine is that each bottle showcases the fruit of the vineyard. One of our long talks one evening the winemakers wisdom was bestowed on me "Danny, take what the vineyard gives you because great fruit will make great wine!"

In the glass the aroma of pear and melon come to the front. Toasted almond and rich vanilla with orange citrus notes throughout each sniff. The wine smells crisp and fresh. Many times with Eric's wines, I find find myself swirling more than drinking picturing myself standing surrounded by the vineyard's fruit.

Eric another excellent flavor packed wine. Ripe pear and fresh melon wrapped around nectarine citrus notes. Apricot on the finish with a touch of honey and a nice minerality. Crisp and refreshing just as the aroma's showcased. Perfectly balanced with ripe fruit and acidity. Bravo Eric.

Wine drinkers new and old, Eric Ross Winery has one of the finest portfolios of wine and a must for your cellar/glass. Don't miss the opportunity to visit while in Glenn Ellen on your next wine country visit. Eric I can't wait to pop in again for some of that good juice and the Luse stories!

Cheers
Dan

2009 One Hope Wine Chardonnay California

2011-11-25T09:38:00.000-06:00

A wine I opened while preparing the thanksgiving day feast was a chardonnay from One Hope Wine. 50% of profits from each bottle of chardonnay sold are donated to fight breast cancer. A cause close to my heart.

Wonderful nose of fresh apple with hints of honey. Fresh crisp melon greets my nose along with a blast of citrus zest followed by vanilla notes. The aroma is fresh and lively and screams "drink me."

A very nice chardonnay. Ripe pear and apple treat the palate from the start of the taste. Fresh picked melon with lemon zest towards the middle followed by a creamy vanilla/butter finish. I also get a slight hint of oak but only as an accent. Refreshing with a great balance of fruit and acidity.

I encourage you to visit their website One Hope Wine to order wine and check out all the worthy causes each bottle sold supports. Excellent juice for great causes.

Cheers
Dan

2010 Cline Cellars Cashmere California

2011-11-22T21:16:00.000-06:00

Really excited to taste tonights wine the 2010 Cline Cellars Cashmere a blend of Mourvedre, Syrah and Grenache. The label on the bottle is very fitting proudly showing their support for Living Beyond Breast Cancer. Admire folks who give to worthy causes.

In the glass a wonderful ripe cherry aroma followed by rich plumb. Clove and pepper notes with the slightest hint of oak. Love the balance of the ripe fruit combined with the perfect amount of spice. Pleasant on the nose.

Flavor is excellent. My taste starts with the ripe plum and then hints of cranberry. Next juicy cherry, raspberry and a wonderful peppery spice finish. Silky and soft absolutely delicious. Quality wine in every bottle from the folks at Cline Cellars. My sincere thanks for introducing me to your wines. Don't miss your chance to stop and see them while in the Sonoma Carneros California wine country. You can thank me later :)

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you!

Cheers
Dan

Tastelive Rodney Strongs "Down Home Downtown" Holiday Food and Wine Pairing

2011-11-19T09:22:00.000-06:00

Rodney Strong wine tastings rank right up with my favorites for their food friendly quality juice and excellent price points. Robert Larsen picked a wonderful selection of wine for the evening with a couple tasty recipes. Throw in 8 of my blogger friends and bingo its an event.

Wine one was the 2009 Chalk Hill Chardonnay paired with a Roasted Butternut Squash and Apple Soup from Josh Silvers, Syrah Bistro & Wine Bar. Aromas in the glass of fresh apple, vanilla, butterscotch and tropical citrus notes. The taste was fruit forward with ripe apple and pear, a nice lemon zest in the middle and a creamy vanilla finish. The creamy texture of the soup paired perfect with flavors in the wine.

Wine two this evening was the 2009 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir. There was no doubt where the grapes were grown on this beauty when the mushroom and earthy notes grabbed my nose from the beginning. Cherry, hints of spice and cola with fresh cut rose filling out the aroma's. Lovely red fruit with cherry, strawberry and raspberry very dominant. Towards the finish nice juicy strawberry followed by a touch of spice. Very nice Pinot for $20.

Wine three was the 2009 Knotty Vines Zinfandel a nicely balanced Zin. Aromas of raspberry, spicy pepper notes, ripe blackberry with a slight hint of oak. The flavor started with a awesome raspberry jam followed by pepper notes, fresh blueberry and a nice warming spice. I struggle with this varietal but really enjoyed this one.

The final wine of the evening the 2008 Symmetry Red Meritage Alexander Valley. A blend of 65% cabernet sauvignon, 25% malbec, 7% merlot, 2% petite verdot and 1% cabernet franc. The wine was paired with Jeff Mall's Zin Restaurant and Wine Bar recipe Applewood-Smoked Porkchop With Fresh Applesauce, Braised Rainbow Chard, Corn Bread Stuffing. The aroma of rich plumb, ripe blackberry, baking spice and cloves was so pleasing to the nose. The flavor was outstanding with the dark fruit coming to the front followed by hints of chocolate, molassis and spice. Big flavor yet elegant and silky. I did not have all the ingredients for the recipe but I did have a boneless pork country rib with applesause and stuffing (and no time to really cook that evening) what a nice pairing.

Cailyn and Joel it was another excellent tasting. I highly recommend Down Home Downtown Seasonal recipes from Two Sonoma Wine Country Restaurants. Click the link and you can purchase your own copy. I have mine sitting on the end table so visitors can see the beautiful wine country pictures and cool recipes from Jeff Mall and Josh Silvers. To my wine blogger participants I enjoy each time we get together to taste and chat about wine. Let's not forget the fine folks at Rodney Strong Vineyards who deserve a big thank you for tonights selections. Grateful for the opportunity to taste and enjoy!

Cheers
Dan

2009 Campesino Papi y Chula Vineyard Pinot Noir Los Carneros Napa Valley

2011-11-13T15:17:00.000-06:00

When my friend Carrie from Napa Valley Wine and Cigar asked if I would like to taste their most popular turkey day pinot my answer quickly heck yes (remember I am referred to as Pinot God or Miles depending on who you speak with).

Campesino is a very small production pinot (50 cases) owned by Macario and Griselda Montoya. Mrs Montoya coincidentally grew up around the grapes of Carneros and her brothers and their wives are the founders of Ceja Vineyards (another of my Carneros favorites). Macario educated at Notre Dame in South Bend Indiana (Go Irish), is the winemaker with a very simple philosophy: "Wines are an expression of the earth and are made in the vineyard. It's the job of the winemaker to finish the process." Well said Macario! The hands on the beautiful label are those of Pablo Ceja (Griselda's father) a man who worked the vineyards tirelessly so that his family could have a better life.

Carrie and I commented how wonderful the aroma's were straight from the bottle. Carneros wines tend to have a eucalyptus aroma which is a dead giveaway to the region. I don't find that in this wine but what I do is pure perfection. Beautiful cherry followed by cola and finishing with a lovely spice. Simple and elegant.

Heaven in a bottle! A delicious ripe cherry with slight hints of fresh strawberry and finishing with the perfect amount of spice. Silky smooth and soft as velvet. Macario you have created one of the finest bottles of Pinot Noir I have ever tasted.

Please stop by their website by clicking the link Campesino Cellars to learn more about their story and ordering wine. Carrie I can see why this wine is a favorite with your customers and thanks for letting me taste this with you. Folks in and around the Napa area support your local wine store by stopping in to see Carrie for a bottle or 2.

Cheers
Dan

Tastelive Bacchus Selections Stock Your Cellar Holiday Tasting 11/8/11

2011-11-12T20:18:00.000-06:00

Excited to taste this evening selections with the first 3 wines being french and this mammoth magnum of cabernet. French wines are rare in my cellar mostly due to my lack of knowledge of the wines. I found the first wines very different and concluded my palate was the issue (majority of wines consumed are california). Grateful for the opportunity to be taste them and I personally enjoyed them better on day 2. Bacchus Selections is a members only site for excellent wine offerings. Highy recommend signing up so you can enjoy great wine.

The first wine of the evening was the Maison Champy 2006 Premier Cru Hospices de Beaune and my favorite tonight. Huge wood, mushroom and spice aroma with hints of mocha and cherry. The flavor was plum dominant along with hints of expresso and dark cherry. I opened the wine 2 hours early and amazed at the difference from first uncorking till tasting time. Aromas and flavors are very appealing.

Next up the Chateau Pontet-Caillou 2008 Pessac-Leognan. The consensus by some of the tasters was "funk" smell. The aroma of fresh tobacco, leather, dusty earth, roasted herbs, hints of violet and clove with blackberries. Completely different on day 2 with the roasted herbs very mild. Plum, blackberry and earthy leather in the mouth. Many said the wine needs to age and will be even better. I am going to let a second bottle age at least 5 years and see if there is a difference.

Wine 3 was the Chateau Moulinet-Lasserre 2003 Pomerol. Big dark chocolate aroma screams from the glass followed by dark jamy fruit, spice and a faint touch of oak. Juicy cherry along with fresh blackberry and a nice earthy spice. Little hint of cocoa in the middle. Decanted and aerated which greatly improved the wine.

The final wine of the evening Ridgeline Mountain Vineyards 2005 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon (magnum). Aromas of milk chocolate, raspberry, creamy vanilla and blackberry. The wine was both juicy and chewey. Big blackberry in the mouth along with a huge spice. Hints of red raspberry and vanilla along with a powerful oak flavor.

I liked these wines much better on day 2 when they were allowed to open even more than the 2 hours before tasting. Many thanks to Cailyn at Tastelive, Kathleen at Baccus Selections and Joel from Creative Furnace for an opportunity to taste these french wines. For those readers who have tasted these wines I would love to hear your thoughts.

Cheers
Dan

North American Wine Bloggers Conference 2012 Portland Oregon Aug 17-18-19

2011-11-06T18:50:00.000-06:00

August 2012, wine bloggers from across all walks of life will converge on Portland Oregon and the beauty of the states wine country. Ask any wine blogger the importance of this event and you will quickly see its high on their wish list. The opportunity to meet many industry leaders in the local wine community and social media, expanding their blogging knowledge and meet individuals just like themselves with a passion for wine are huge benefits.

Why donate? Well ask any of the wine blogging attendees and you will quickly find out many of us make little if any money. We all have regular jobs and wine tasting/blogging is our passion. Sponsors enable the conference organizers to provide scholarship money helping worthy bloggers attend. In fact in 2011, donors provided enough funds to help 14 bloggers participate. How cool! To the sponsors many thank you's.

Here is your chance to bring a smile to a bloggers face (Thea too) and support a great conference. Click the link North American Wine Bloggers Conference Scholarship today to make your donation.

Cheers
Dan

Kunde Family Estates KundeLive Wine Tasting

2011-11-04T11:59:00.000-05:00

Impressive production last evening with Kunde Family Estates presents KundeLive wine tasting. Winemaker Zach Long with 4th generation winegrowers (brother and sister) Jeff Kunde and Marcia Kunde Mickelson, the hour long program included a ton of wine knowlege from grape growing to wine production and even food pairings. The interacting between the bloggers/tasters and the esteemed panel was by far one of the best live tastes I have participated in. 3 Excellent wines were on this evenings menu starting with the 2009 Sonoma Valley Chardonnay next the 2008 Sonoma Valley Red Dirt Red and concluding with the 2008 Reserve Century Vines Zinfandel. If you would like to view the program click the link KundeLive and watch all the fun.

First wine the 09 Sonoma Valley Chardonnay which set the tone for a great evening. A beautiful toasty oak when first poured in the glass followed by ripe pear, fresh apples and hints of vanilla. When the wine warmed slightly tropical fruit notes of melon and pineapple. Love the fruit aroma! The taste is amazing. Crisp apple, juicy pear, hints of pineapple/melon with a buttery/creamy finish. The flavors explode in your mouth and the wine is so well balanced. Bravo!

Wine 2 this evening was the 08 Sonoma Valley Red Dirt Red a wonderful blend of 37% Barbera, 29% Syrah, 25% Zinfandel and 9% Sangiovese. In the glass a big jammy red fruit sensation. Cherry, raspberry, hints of spice and pepper with a touch of blueberry. Excellent aroma. The taste is so juicy with the raspberry and cherry filling your mouth. Little peppery spice but not overpowering with a quick appearance of blueberry towards the finish. The fruit is so ripe throughout the taste and the combination of flavors perfect. I can see why this is a favorite in the tasting room!

The final wine of the evening the 2008 Reserve Century Vines Zinfandel created from vines over 130 years old. Unlike any other Zin you will smell or drink because its so soft and silky. Jeff commented if your looking for that huge alcohol, big bold heat zin then this wine isn't for you. Absolutely correct Jeff and I love the lower alcohol wines due to them being more versatile with food. In the glass nice dark fruit aroma of blackberry with a hint of earthiness. Some raspberry, pepper notes, slight hint of cocoa. The mouth feel is so lovely. Dark ripe juicy fruit of blackberry followed by hints of raspberry and cherry. Nice subtle spice which slightly warms the mouth. The finish is smooth with the flavors married perfectly together. Hands down one of the best Zinfandels I have ever tasted.

Truly spoiled drinking theses selections from Kunde Family Estates and I encourage you to stop by the winery and taste these exquisite wines. Jeff, Marcia, Zach and Ed I can't thank you enough for the opportunity to participate. I will see you in 2012 on my next visit.

Cheers
Dan

2007 Block 7 Sonoma Coast Clone 667 Pinot Noir

2011-11-01T21:26:00.000-05:00

What a cool opportunity to taste some wonderful Pinot Noir small production (only 100 cases produced) along with my friend Carrie from Napa Valley Wine and Cigar in beautiful Napa California. By the way you can purchase this wine from her store at 161 Silverado Trail or online at the link above. Great wine knowledge, excellent selection of boutique wine and darn friendly just what I like when shopping for my favorite juice.

It was Halloween night after the candy was handed out to all the little ghosts and goblins, Carrie and her husband Randy in California myself here in Iowa tasting the 07 Block 7 Sonoma Coast Clone 667 Pinot Noir. Allow this wine to open up in the glass swirling often before sniffing. Huge roasted herbs and earthiness until the wine opens. Now the red fruit really shines with the bright cherry, raspberry and spice. Day 2 its all ripe fruit on the nose and very beautiful.

Once the wine mellows it's classic pinot noir. Ripe cherry, fresh red raspberry with a nice warming spice. Hints of earthiness, herbal notes and a slight touch of oak. Nice finish of juicy cherry. Loved how our comments to each other were dead on with each smell and taste. Enjoyable Pinot! A nice pairing for your turkey this holiday season.

Carrie I had a blast tasting with you and your husband. Lets do this again soon.

Cheers
Dan

2010 Cline Cellars Ancient Vines Mourvedre Contra Costa County

2011-10-30T21:37:00.000-05:00

Tonights post was an awesome pairing with a chicago style deep dish pizza. My first time tasting wine made from the mourvedre grape, the flavor was rich and elegant. The grape originally found in France, Spain and Australia, once was very popular in California but now little is planted. Based on the taste of the wine I vote for planting more.

The aroma was very nice starting with black raspberry and plum. Continuing to swirl up pops some herbal notes, hints of cocoa and finishing with a nice smokey oak. Pleasing to the nose.

Great fruit so ripe and juicy. Cherry, raspberry and plum are just awesome when you first taste the wine. As it warms the cherry really comes to the front with plum evident on the finish. Hint of spice and chocolate in the middle followed by a slight smokey oak. Speaking of the finish its long and juicy. Amazing wine!

Folks if you have not tasted this wine hurry before it's all gone. My thanks to my friends at Cline Cellars for another excellent offering. Your wines spoil us every time.

Cheers
Dan

2009 Stepping Stone By Cornerstone Rocks Red Wine Napa Valley

2011-10-24T21:58:00.000-05:00

Tonights post another tasty selection from the portfolio of Stepping Stone by Cornerstone wines. Always flavor packed, food friendly easy drinking wines, Rocks Red Wine will treat your palate.

Nice complex aromas on this wine starting with the dark fruit of blackberry and blueberry. Next hints of cherry followed by white pepper and spice. The wine finishes with a nice touch of oak. Allow the wine to warm in the glass and enjoy the aromas switching places.

Paired with a comfort dish of meatloaf and yukon gold potatoes (yes I tasted the wine while cooking like every good chef would), the juice and dish worked well together. Blackberry with ripe cherry starts the taste off. Peppery notes greet you in the middle followed by spice and a long juicy finish. Excellent red wine I could drink everyday.

Craig a big thank you for allowing me the opportunity to taste another great selection. Folks you must stop by Cornerstone Cellars and taste the entire portfolio. Great wine, great price, great people.

Cheers
Dan

2010 Cline Cellars Marsanne Roussanne Sonoma Coast

2011-10-23T10:25:00.000-05:00

Cline Cellars located at 24737 Arnold Drive/Highway 121 in Sonoma CA (the tasting room is an 1850's farmhouse), produce award winning wines Rhone style. Zinfandel consistently scores 90+ with Wine Spectator and Robert Parker Jr. commented in 2011 "this is the finest portfolio of value-priced wines from Cline Cellars that I have tasted to date." Compliments like those reinforce and drive each of us whether a winery, winemaker or blogger.

I chose the 2010 Marsanne Roussanne first to sample from Cline Cellars because of my limited exposure to these two grapes. Less than 250 acres of the 2 grape varietals are grown in California, yet they are the most important white wine grapes for Rhone style wine. Wine lovers will experience a crisp refreshing white wine loaded with citrus and tropical ripe fruit.

In the glass the fruit really explodes with peach starting your smelling pleasure. Ripe nectarine with hints of fresh peeled melon greet your senses as well. When the wine warms in the glass notes of honey appear. Wonderful crisp citrus on each swirl.

Love this wine. The minerality finish is awesome. Pear/peach combination at the start of the taste is so good. Hints of lemon and orange zest flow in the middle of the taste. Ripe fruit, crisp, and citrus all make this wine delicious. I can tell you the bottle didn't last long!

On your next visit to Sonoma make sure you stop and taste the excellent wine being produced at Cline Cellars open daily from 10am -6pm. Kudos to winemaker Charlie Tsegeletos and thank you to the folks at Cline Cellars for allowing me the opportunity to taste.

Cheers
Dan

2009 Hook and Ladder Third Alarm Reserve Pinot Noir Russian River Valley

2011-10-16T21:21:00.000-05:00

Well it was birthday week and I just knew one of the wines to be opened naturally a Pinot Noir. The post comes courtesy of Mr. Jason Deloach Winemaker at Hook and Ladder Winery in Santa Rosa California. I've been a big fan of Jason and the winery long before my visit, his passion for making great wine is evident in each bottle. Ripe fruit, perfectly balanced and in my opinion food friendly enjoyable wines.

Wonderful bright aroma starting with my favorite ripe cherry. Red raspberry follows with hints of strawberry and rose pedal. Cola, spice and that RRV trademark mushroom earthiness. After each swirl and right before the smell close your eyes picturing yourself among the vines. Amazing isn't it!

Fantastic flavor. Juicy cherry starts off your taste followed by ripe strawberry. Hints of red raspberry greet you in the middle along with spice, leather and a mild earthiness. The finish is so long and juicy. Jason this may be your best Reserve Pinot that I have tasted (folks his others were absolutely delicious too).

When you're visiting wine country you must stop for a taste at Hook and Ladder Winery located at 2134 Olivet Road Santa Rosa Ca 95401. Jason thank you for allowing me to taste this awesome pinot. Each of your wines never disappoints the wine lover.

Cheers
Dan

Luscious Hedonism Small-Lot California Cabernet Tastelive Event

2011-10-12T20:33:00.000-05:00

Tonights post comes to you courtesy of Tastelive and another awesome tasting Small Lot Cabernet Sauvignon from California. The wine was very impressive and matched the esteem tasting panel of yours truly, Bean Fairbanks @WineBeerWa, Katie Pizzuto @gonzogastronomy, Dezel Quillen @myvinespot, Beau Carufel @UCBeau, Megan Kenney @Sonadora, Grace Hoffman @Cellarmistress, Lain Bradford @winereview, Pamela Heiligenthal @Enobytes, Amy Corron Power @Winewonkette, Joe Power @HoustonWino and lets not forget Cailyn McCauley and Joel Quigley our hosts. We enjoyed 4 quality cabernets this evening all with their own distinct characteristics.

We start the evening with the 07 Chateau Felice La Craie American Celebration Chalk Hill $50. What a wine to start the evening taste off with this blend of 73% Cabernet, 23% Merlot and 4% Cabernet Franc (75 cases produced). The aroma is full of dark berry, cherry, herbal notes and a wonderful spice. The flavor is so silky smooth with huge fruit nuances of ripe blackberry, cherry, hints of raspberry and a nice spice finish. The juicy fruit lingers very long into the taste. Amazing starting wine.

Next the 07 Krutz Family Cellars Stagecoach Vineyards Napa Valley $75. My 3rd tasting of this exceptional cabernet and the wine impresses me each time. Aromas of black cherry, spice, smokey oak, sweet vanilla, currents and herbal notes. The flavor showcases the ripe fruit perfectly. Cherry, blackberry, raspberry all wrapped around a touch of oak. Wonderful hint of spice.

The third wine is the 08 Rodney Strong Alexanders Crown Alexander Valley $75. Big bad boy here clocking at 15.5%. Aromas of green pepper, clove, blackberry, hints of leather and oak. The flavor is bold and elegant. The raspberry intertwined with the dark berry flavor finishing with a touch of spice and oak. Would love to taste another bottle in 5 years and compare.

Our final wine of the evening the 07 Wente Vineyards The Nth Degree Livermore Valley San Francisco Bay $60. Aromas of herbal tea, blackberry, hints of cocoa, slight raspberry and earthiness. The longer in the glass this wine really opened up. Once again another awesome tasting cabernet with raspberry, blackberry, plum, spice, oak and finishing with some earthiness. This wine is another I would love to taste in 5 years.

Descriptions of tonights tasting range from exceptional to epic (ucbeau)among the comments from the blogger panel. I won't disagree and we were all very spoiled by these wines. My kudos to all the winemakers for your hard work and talent. Special wines indeed! Cailyn and Joel another great event and my thanks for including me.

Cheers everyone!
Dan

2009 Sequana Pinot Noir Russian River Valley

2011-10-09T22:19:00.000-05:00

Located in Sebastopol California, Sequana Vineyards Pinot Noir by winemaker James MacPhail is tonights post. Classic Russian River Valley pinot both in aroma and taste.

Once in the glass cherry filled my nose. Next spice, cola, and fresh cut rose pedal were very pleasing. One of those Pinots I could smell all night long!

Awesome flavor rivaling a bottle tasted 2 months ago. Ripe cherry combined with hints of fresh raspberry treat your mouth. Spice and that familiar RRV earthiness round out your taste. Handcrafted perfect Pinot.

Thanks to the folks at the winery for introducing me to your wine. Love it! Folks to order your own Pinot and to taste award winning wine click the link Sequana Vineyards and Wine

Cheers
Dan

2009 The Slammer Syrah Big House Wines

2011-10-08T22:25:00.000-05:00

My first offering from Big House Wines is the sample I received The Slammer Syrah. A unique winery located next to the Soledad State Correctional Facility in Monterey County, each label has a prison theme (The Slammer Syrah, The Birdman Pinot Grigio, The Usual Suspect Cabernet just to name a few). The head of all this wine well it's none other than The Warden Georgetta Dane.

On the nose this wine has a big dark fruit aroma. Blackberry is very evident from the start followed by ripe blueberry, some dark cherry, big currant and some smokey oak.

Definately a full bodied wine and very fruit forward. Blackberry and juicy cherry really come to the front with rich blueberry towards the middle of the taste. Hints of raspberry towards the juicy finish with spice and oak. I paired this wine twice once with burgers and then with bbq and I thought it worked well with each. Thanks Big House! To learn more about their wines click the link Big House Wine Company

Cheers
Dan

2009 Flora Springs Barrel Fermented Chardonnay Napa Valley

2011-10-06T20:10:00.000-05:00

Today's post comes courtesy of the fine folks at Flora Springs who introduced me to their delicious barrel fermented chardonnay. I know what you're thinking "Hey Dan didn't you say you liked stainless steel fermented chardonnay?" Congratulations you are very attentive but I also said I like all chardonnays and this wine from Flora Springs ranks right up with my favorites.

In the glass my sniffing pleasure starts with ripe pineapple followed by hints of butterscotch. Next pear, some green apple and lucious tropical notes round out the aromas I identify (soft and not overpowering).

Awesome flavor of ripe pineapple to start. The peach/pear combo greets the middle of your taste and finishes with a nice hint of crisp minerality. The finish is long, juicy with pineapple and a nice buttery sensation. Well done!

Thank you Margaret for introducing me to these wonderful wines from Flora Springs. Readers the next time you visit the Highway 29 wineries make sure in St. Helena you don't miss these great folks!

Cheers
Dan

2009 Flowers Winery Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast

2011-09-26T21:24:00.000-05:00

Located just 2 miles from the Pacific Ocean rugged cliffs at elevations ranging from 1150 to 1875 feet, there sits a gem Flowers Vineyard & Winery. Cool breezes and coastal fog, it's a perfect setting for their Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes which produce award winning wines.

Flowers Vineyards were first born in 1990 with the purchase of 321 acres by founders Walt and Joan Flowers. In 1991 they planted 23 acres on what is known as Camp Meeting Ridge which grew to 33 acres. June of 1997 brought the construction of a gravity flow winery specifically to produce chardonnay and pinot noir their two favorite varietals. Soon a neighbor offered an additional 327 acres and Flowers Ranch was born. 47 acres of Pinot Noir were planted from 98 to 01 which is known as Frances Thompson Vineyard and Sea View Ridge Vineyard. The pictures of the vineyards, winery, coast are just breath taking and can be seen by clicking the link Flowers Vineyard & Winery Pictures

My first bottle two months ago was so aromatically pleasing and this bottle as well. Fresh ripe red fruit, cherry, hints of rose, touch of blackberry, a perfect hint of spice and finishing with orange peel. A wonderful wine which becomes even better the longer it releases in the glass.

Pinot Noir made right and perfect. Cherry with hints of raspberry and strawberry really showcase the red fruit. The spice compliments the fruit with the finish long and juicy. So silky and soft. Tastes like heaven in a bottle. My compliments to the staff at Flowers. If you have never tasted one of their fine wines, you're instructed to purchase and taste for yourself. Trust me!

Cheers
Dan

Charity + Wine = Cellar Angels

2011-09-25T11:11:00.000-05:00

Many great companies give back to their communities and charities as a way to help those in need. One such company located in Chicago Illinois called Cellar Angels , introduces wine lovers like myself to boutique wineries and wonderful charities. A group of wine loving friends determined to change the world, I admire and applaud their mission.

So how does it work you ask? Cellar Angels for starters partners with small family wineries offering exceptional wine at attractive prices. The wines purchased are shipped directly from the winery to your home or business. In return, a portion of your purchase directly supports one of the fine charities you get to choose such as "The V Foundation For Cancer Research, The Ounce promoting helping children, Soldiers' Angels helping our armed forces and their families, Seathos Foundation which promotes education about our impact on the seas of the world, Auction Napa Valley providing support for healthcare, youth services, housing in the Napa Valley communities. You're asking yourself "What am I waiting for can I join?" The answer is yes by clicking here Join Cellar Angels

Who are the participating wineries? Some past offerings include Cornerstone Cellars 05 Cabernet Sauvignon, Passaggio 09 New Generation Unoaked Chardonnay, Stein Family Wines 09 Gewurztraminer, Michel-Schlumberger 08 Dry Creek Valley Syrah just to name a few. Wouldn't it be great to have tasty wines delivered to your home to enjoy and you in return support worthy causes. Sounds like a win win to me.

Martin and all the folks at Cellar Angels are true angels introducing us to fine wine and allowing us to help worthy charities. Support those who support others!

Cheers
Dan

2010 Stepping Stone By Cornerstone Riesling Napa Valley

2011-09-21T21:17:00.000-05:00

Last hot day in the Midwest for awhile I'm afraid so a great time to open my sample from Stepping Stone Wines the 2010 Napa Valley Riesling. Fermented in stainless steel, I absolutely love how the fruit shines both in aroma and flavor. For the past two years I have tasted the the Stepping Stone portfolio of wines and each vintage is solid, consistent great wine and very affordable.

In the glass the tropical melon, hints of flower and honey, lemon zest, lively citrus were so appealing to my nose. The wine smells exceptionally crisp and I'm excited to taste.

Outstanding flavor with grapefruit at the forefront. Tangerine and lemon zest greet you in the middle and a wonderful minerality on the finish. So clean, crisp, refreshing and dry. I tend to shy away from Riesling because others I have tasted were sweet, but this one is remarkable.

Craig many thanks for the wonderful wines you allowed me to taste. Kudos to the staff and keep producing these awesome wines. Fans make sure you check out Cornerstone Cellars to order some of your own Stepping Stone Wines and taste for yourself.

Cheers
Dan

2009 Ceja Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc Sonoma Coast

2011-09-18T10:48:00.000-05:00

Butterfly jumbo shrimp sounded so good for dinner and I knew the cellar had a perfect wine to pair, an 09 Ceja Sauvignon Blanc. Beautiful acidity, fresh fruit flavors, complimented the seafood dish drizzled with fresh lemon juice.

In the glass the fruit is really showcased. Grapefruit, melon, lemon and lime zest, hints of peach fill your nose. Crisp and refreshing, the aromas make your senses race wild.

Outstanding flavor on this wine and Ceja Vineyards never dissapoints the wine lover. The ripe grapefruit combined with hints of melon followed by the lime/lemon zest is perfect. The finish is long and juicy with a slight minerality note. One of my favorite sauvignon blanc's and Ceja Vineyards produces some of my favorite wines as always. Make sure you grab a case or 2 now because this tasty treat won't last long.

Cheers
Dan

2006 Bonneau Napa Valley Meritage Epos

2011-09-16T22:31:00.000-05:00

My last bottle from the wine club shipment courtesy of Scott Jordan for the TV Tuesday tastings at Cellars of Sonoma. John Bambury from Bonneau Wines was the evenings guest. I have read many great compliments about John's wines so I was very excited to have a taste. Today's offering is a blend of 70% Cabernet Sauvignon from the Stagecoach Vineyards, 20% Malbec and 10% Petit Verdot.

Just an unbelievable nose on this wine. While Scott was asking me "Do you smell this wine" I was trying to type the same. The fruit is amazing with the dark cherry, blackberry and blueberry so fresh. The allspice compliments the fruit perfectly and the swirl/smell finishes with a hint of sweet oak.

The flavor on this wine is so delicious and perfect. Ripe dark cherry combined with the rich blackberry and softened by the silky blueberry treats your taste buds. Towards the middle the allspice arrives and then the finish is a juicy raspberry. Kevin Jordan and I commented how outstanding this wine is and grab as many bottles as you can there are only 10 cases left.

Well Scott it's been a great 4 weeks of wine tasting with each bottle as tasty as the next. My thanks to you for introducing me to amazing wines and winemakers.

Cheers
Dan

2007 Joseph Drouhin Vero Pinot Noir

2011-09-12T21:05:00.000-05:00

My first Joseph Drouhin Pinot and slightly different than my normal selections most likely a plus to expand my knowledge. Wine from Burgundy France is somewhat scarce in my parts so the online purchase was a bonus (Lot 18 normally $35 per bottle but the deal was 2 bottle for $35).

Once in the glass I really picked up on the cherry followed by a pepper spice. Only after the wine opened up in the glass could I find the red raspberry. Some licorice in the middle as well.

Ripe juicy red raspberry greets your palate on each taste. Traces of the blackberry are evident throughout, hints of pepper and licorice round out the finish. Not used to pepper nuances in my pinot but I'm glad I tasted a style which I'm not accustomed to drinking. If you have tasted this wine would love to know your thoughts.

Cheers
Dan

2007 Krutz Family Cellars Stagecoach Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon

2011-09-11T22:37:00.000-05:00

I was introduced to Krutz Family Cellars wines a few months ago and having a couple wine friends who are fans of cabernet, it was only fitting to share this great bottle of wine with them. Served along with the wine, slices of beef and smoked gouda. Excellent finger food for this outstanding wine.

The comment from both my friends was how amazing the fruit aroma came across. Dark cherry, ripe blackberry, hints of leather and tobacco, sweet vanilla finishing with a smokey oak. The longer in the glass the oak subsides with the fruit coming to the forefront.

When I think of drinking cabernet the first thing that comes to mind is a nice piece of red meat perfectly seasoned and grilled to perfection for pairing with a bold red. What I find with this 07 Krutz Cellars cabernet is how the finish of this wine is so silky smooth. Your taste starts out with fresh blackberry followed by ripe cherry. Flavors of vanilla, molasses and a slight spice greet you in the middle. The finish a mild oak and soft. Ranks right up there with some of the best cabernets I have enjoyed. Buy now before it's all gone by heading to their website Krutz Family Cellars

Cheers
Dan

2010 Amorosa Bella Russian River Valley Chardonnay & Cellars Of Sonoma

2011-09-08T23:19:00.000-05:00

Wine number 3 for the TV Tuesday series with Cellars of Sonoma was another beautiful wine. Scott's guests for the evening were Chef Christopher Greenwald and from New York Uncle Dean Jordan brother of Scott. Loved the intro music "The Boys Are Back In Town" along with the featured wine from Amorosa Bella. A special treat for viewers was a segment on NY wine courtesy of Dean and included some excellent facts on regions and wines produced. Awesome show and the upcoming wine dinner with Chef's creations along with tonights featured wines will be delicious.

The aroma on the wine was magnificient. Ripe crisp apple, fresh melon, pear, creamy vanilla and the slightest hint of oak. Refreshing and love the absence of the heavy oak nose.

The fruit flavor explodes as you taste the wine. Pear, lemon citrus, green apple and a small accent of oak is perfect. I find myself migrating to these types of Chardonnay's as they showcase the wonderful fruit and are very food friendly. I enjoyed the wine along with Chef, Scott and Dean including a fresh green salad with a drizzle of ceasar dressing. Nice acidity on the wine as well.

Charlyn the wine was amazing. Scott it's fun being able to compare the characteristics of the wine as we both taste miles apart from each other. Truly spoiled drinking this juice.

Cheers
Dan

2007 Flora Springs Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

2011-09-05T10:39:00.000-05:00

September 1st 2001 was the 2nd annual Cabernet Day where wine lovers across the globe tasted and tweeted about the wine they were drinking. I was fortunate to receive a sample from my friends at Flora Springs the 07 Napa Valley Cabernet.

Flora Springs Winery was founded in 1978 and is located in the heart of Napa Valley at the base of the Mayacamas Mountains. Over 3 decades of family wine making with over 90% of the red wine made from the grapes organically farmed estate vineyards on their 650 acres. The winery is named after mother and grandmother Flora along with the natural springs that run throughout the property. I highly recommend stopping by on your next visit to see the beauty and taste the wine.

On the nose a wonderful aroma of ripe dark fruit, dark cherry, vanilla, smokey oak and rounding out with a beautiful spice. As the wine opened up the oak faded slightly showcasing the beautiful fruit.

Excellent flavor on this wine. Blackberry, ripe dark cherry, hints of raspberry and vanilla, nice currant spice finishing with oak. I drank this wine with Beef Taquitos and loved the pairing. Beef and Cabernet are always a hit at my house. Yes I tasted while I cooked and the wine can easily be enjoyed on its own.

Margaret thank you so much for allowing me to taste this wonderful Cabernet. Kudos to Paul, Pat and their entire staff at Flora Springs! To learn more about their story click the link Flora Springs . Order wine, schedule a visit I think you will agree the wine is exquisite.

Cheers
Dan

2008 TR Elliott Three Plumes Pinot Noir Russian River Valley

2011-08-28T09:22:00.001-05:00

TV Tuesday was the setting for today's blog post as Scott Jordan of Cellars of Sonoma hosted winemaker Ted Elliott and his Pinot Noir portfolio. Regular viewers know that Scott sent me the wine club shipment so I could taste along with them and comment during the show. Mr. Elliott is always a very informative guest and you really get the sense for his passion of making the best wine possible. Three Plumes will not disappoint the Pinot Lover and I even dubbed him on the show "Pinot King".

The aroma on this wine I feel is the best of all 3 Pinots Ted creates. On the nose you first get a rush of cherries, raspberry, followed by fresh rose pedals, spice and that RRV earthiness. Talking with Scott's son Kevin, he asked how the wine tasted and I had to admit tasting was the farthest thing from my mind. I wanted to swirl and smell all evening.

The flavor is stunning! Fresh raspberry, cherry, with the spice evident in the middle of the taste. Towards the end a quick hint of the orange peel and finishing with a beautiful earthiness that screams guess where I came from. The fruit/spice is intense yet the wine silky and smooth. I asked Ted what advice he would give someone wanting to make Pinot and to no surprise the answer revolved around the fruit and vineyard. You have a true gift Ted!

Scotty it's 2 for 2 on delicious wines you sent. Thanks I am having a blast. Check out Scott and the gang at Cellars of Sonoma the next time you visit "Beautiful Railroad Square Downtown Santa Rosa California." Pinot lovers I highly recommend you start drinking TR Elliott wines.

Cheers
Dan

07 Chimney Rock Elevage Blanc & Mango Gaspacho #ColdSoupWeek

2011-08-24T21:43:00.001-05:00

Always a perfect experience when you're introduced to great wine paired with fresh food. Today's post I get the chance to drink a fabulous wine from Chimney Rock Winery and winemaker Elizabeth Vianna (my first) while creating a cold soup from the famous amazing Chef Robin White..... Mango Gaspacho. Highly recommend the pairing.

The soup was delicious with citrus of the orange juice, lime juice and mango with the right touch of heat from the jalapeno/onion dice. Toss in some fresh cilantro and the flavors explode. Yum was all I could say.

The wine Elizabeth was amazing. Aromas of peach, melon, lemon peel, vanilla with a hint of butterscotch. In the mouth fresh fruit with melon, nectarine, grapefruit, and citrus zest pleasing your palate. Vanilla on the finish really completed the wine for me. I loved how the citrus of the wine complimented the citrus in the soup. The pairing was magical.

Chef I'm honored to have sponsored night #3 of ColdSoupWeek. Elizabeth thank you for allowing me the opportunity to taste your wine. I hope you all had as much fun as this wino! Looking for the recipe click here Mango Gaspacho and to learn more about Chimney Rock Winery check out the link to their website.

Cheers
Dan

Wine, Cold Soup & the Amazing Chef Robin White

2011-08-20T09:25:00.000-05:00

When my good friend Chef Robin White asked if I would sponsor a night for her upcoming virtual dinner week appropriatley named "Cold Soup Week" it didn't take long to say yes. Fresh ingredients to pair with great wine and you have a wonderful evening talking to others around the world. I asked if my audience could learn more about Chef, she graciously agreed to an interview only if we both drank Pinot (her favorite) while I compiled the info. Again didn't take long to say yes :). Hope you enjoy!

The Iowa Wino "Growing up did you always want to be a chef"?

Chef: "Growing up Chef was the furthest thing from my mind, but maybe not really. I remember running home from school as fast as I could so I would not miss one minute of Julia Child and right after that Streets of San Francisco. Not because I like the show so much, I had to see the city scenes and the Golden Gate Bridge. I love that bridge and to this day I refer to it as "My Bridge" I remember very early on saying to myself and close friends that I would one day live in San Francisco."

The Iowa Wino: "Give us a little background on the life of Chef Robin"

Chef: "I was really great at and and fascinated with science. I also loved fashion, still do, but science won. Over my first summer out of high school I worked in the lab at South Shore Hospital in Weymouth, MA. I was a Phlebotomist, (a person who draws blood from you ) I learned the craft very well from a woman who gave me great confidence that I could do it and be great at it. Gloria Cartwright was her name and she to this day was and is a inspiration in my life. When I went to school that Fall I landed a job at Mary Hitchcock Memorial Hospital, now Dartmouth- Hitchcock Medical Center. I worked in the lab and in the Pathology lab, doing some small testing and assisting in autopsy's. I was completely fascinated every time . That was going to be my path. I was going to be a Forensic Pathologist. As time went on I was on my path, with many bumps in the road. I had no money to keep going all the way to Med School, but I was really good at Phlebotomy and I continued working in labs and teaching phlebotomy. I even worked on the study that found the gene that causes Colon Cancer. Was a big day for sure.

I eventually made my way out to San Francisco FINALLY my dream come true. I still get goose bumps when I think about my first drive over "My Bridge." I was surely where I wanted to be. I went to Stanford for more classes off and on. I got more and more into wine and food and cooking and experimenting. All that science paid off for sure. this was about 1980 I was working in SF at a lab and becoming more and more bored as the days went on, but its what I knew and thats what we do. zoom ahead to back on east coast 1985. My Dad got sick, I came home to help Mom. I couldn't take the lab stuff anymore, my friend had started a cleaning business. We grew the cleaning business into a huge business after only 2 years. One day I was at a clients home checking on the team and the homeowner was crying at the kitchen table. I thought one of the girls had broken something of value. So I asked her what was wrong, she looked at me and she said , " My daughter's engagement party is Saturday night, My caterers father just dies and he cannot do the party. I've called the other 3 caterers in the area they are all booked. She was crying again, I said " people tell me I'm a really good cook, I'll do it for you." the party was for 50 people, Hors d'oeurvres and cocktails. I opened Martha Stewart's entertaining books and got cracking on making every single thing that resembles a Hor d'oeurve in the books. With a few twists of course. The food was great, I was a hit. People asked me for my card over and over and of course I had none. The party cost me $2000 dollars to do after I was paid, it was my cooking school in one night fee. The people at that party were high up in politics, all the way to the Governor of MA at the time. Needless to say I was busy and in a new career from that night out to this present day. I figured out how to make money doing it and my level of food and wine knowledge went to a whole new level and fast. There have been 2 bakeries, a Gourmet Cheese and Fish Market, 3 catering businesses, 2 coffee shops, a Saloon and 6 restaurants since that faithful night. My expertise now is on Fresh and Local, Slow Foods and anything New England and California Cuisines, and Jamaican. I am self taught and proud of it. I have worked with some of the best in the business and not for them, with them. I guess it was in the plan all along. Some chef go to Cordon Blue, I did it the hard way, Ivy League to Chef."

Iowa Wino: "You currently are known as Sonoma's "Virtual Dinner Queen" pairing great dishes with great wines. Where does your inspiration come from?"

Chef: "I hope it's not just Sonoma. I hope I am the worlds virtual dinner Queen, I've always wanted to be Queen of something, My friends will agree with me there.
My inspiration usually comes with the seasons as far as the food goes. The wineries started getting involved from day one with my events. I love introducing people to new wines they cannot get in their area. But they can order them to be shipped over a month before the event and try something new. I have also been trying to find a way to get families back to the table. In this economy we need something to look forward to, a party, a event. This is a great affordable way for people to get involved with HUGE events and learn more recipes and more about different wines they can get their hands on and still have it not be a event that will cost $250-300 a person plus the outfit. LOL! It's a stay home event that you attend with hundreds of thousands and the family can be involved. This event does not run out of food and wine half way through the night."

Iowa Wino: "August 21-27 is Cold Soup Week which is 7 nights of fresh soup and wine. How did you pick those and the wines to pair with them?"

Chef: "#coldsoupweek actually came from a demand of what happened after #soupweek last November . My twitter audience didn't want to wait a year before it happened again. The recipes take the longest time to invent and test and narrow down. Once that is done I begin the process of choosing the right varietal of wine to pair, not so much a specific winery. This #coldsoupweek my original posting was soup and a suggested varietal. It still is the wineries and sponsors hoped in and there we have a event.
I really want people to understand and not be afraid of wine. I hope I am making it easier to pair and drink for any occaision. Wine doesn't have to be $100 a bottle to be considered good anymore. There are some lovely wines out there now for $15-$40 that are delicious and taste a lot more expensive than they are. I am hoping to expand the number of people who drink wine but understanding the food tastes so much better with a nice glass of wine, a table full of friends and it doesn't have to cost more than $10 a person, wine included."

Iowa Wino: "We both love Pinot Noir but what fascinates you about the grape/wine? Do you have a few favorite recipes to pair with Pinot?"

Chef: "Pinot, Ah my favorite word these days. Pinot to me is a challenge, a grape who needs tender, loving care but it cannot know your giving it to them. It is the grape most affected by anything that can go wrong with Mother Nature. and thats just while it's hanging on the vine. After it's picked the real work begins. You cannot mess with it to much, but it needs to be messed with. It's a varietal of your damned if you do and your damned if you don't. I have a bunch of really great friends who make pinot. Their personalities range from Crazy Ass Winemaker to quiet more subtle type, but passionate to the bone about Pinot. I have tasted Pinot made by these different winemakers side by side. Same vintage, same vineyard, picked same day, released about the same time. The differences blow my mind every time. One is big and bold and HUGE flavor, the other is soft and supple and balanced and you want to "jump off a bridge cause there is nothing left to live for" flavor you don't want the bottle to ever end pinot. Thats what gets me. Yes Cab, big bold fruity sometimes, but a cab you know is going to taste like a cab every time. Whatever, I like cabs, don't get me wrong. But if 2 people make a cab the way I described before they will come very close to tasting very close to each other. Pinot is a wild child, a good child, a crazy fun loving child and a bad child all in one. You can lead and teach the child right? there are still plenty of ways that child can go wrong. Thats how I feel about Pinot. Maybe I like a challenge, I think I do. When I open a bottle of Pinot I anticipate every single time, my mouth waters I get all excited wondering what it will taste like. It's the ever changing bottle of wine to me. I like the ever changing things very much. Pinot is not at all like food, usually 99% of the time if something cooking smells good it ends up tasting great on the plate. With Pinot it can be a crap shoot right up to the end. You can open a bottle of pinot, Put it in the right glass, swirl it, sniff it, taste it, all the right things to do with wine. But pinot can have a nose that will know you into next week. Dirty socks, my favorite, little fruit, raspberry, strawberry, vanilla, has it all going on. Then you can taste it and on the front end it's nice , its got structure or so you think, the back end it just falls off. My world explodes, the disappointment and the oh crap that usually comes out of my mouth. You shake it off and you hope for the best as the nose changes to nothing and the wines fades into nothing. You open another bottle and it starts all over again. And the weird thing is with Pinot, you can open a bottle from the same case and that one will be AMAZING!!! I think it's the challenge, the thrill of the end product, the nerves, the excitement. I love all wines but none other since I have discovered Pinot I get that feeling every time. It's my drug, my high. Knowing what it takes to get it to be great is the story to me. I Love Pinot!!!!!!
This year I am branching out in my life and making my first Pinot Noir ever. Along with my dear friend and winemaker Cynthia Costco, @passaggio and my other friend who is a GREAT Pinot maker, Peggy Ryan, @Noir1, who will be consulting on our little project. Your hopes and prayers that the 1st try at this little project is a great success would be greatly appreciated.

Iowa Wino: "What upcoming projects involving wine and/or food will we see from Chef Robin?"

Chef: "OOh great question. I see more virtual dinners in the future with more video. I have several projects in the pipeline that will take up a major amount of my time next year, but i'm not a liberty to talk about them yet. When I can you will all know. It's going to be SUPER when it all comes together. My book is completed and sitting on my desk. I have editing and few more recipes to test. Who knows this is going to be a big year ahead I think."

Iowa Wino: "What words of advice can you give us all as we try to pair fresh ingredient dishes with wine?"

Chef: "When pairing food with wine the age old advice still works. White wines with white and light and reds with heavier dishes. Of course I have a lot of science in my background and I like to think out of the box a lot. Wine is great, it good for your health heart and soul. I say drink what you like, the pairing doesn't always have to be perfection. What I love about wine is you open a bottle you pour a couple of glasses with friends and spontaneously a party happens. you end up in the kitchen putting a cheese plate together, some crackers, bread, nuts. You talk, you laugh and you live all because you popped a cork. Cheers!!!!!!!!"

Well I hoped you enjoyed reading about "My Favorite Chef" and learned something along the way. Please follow along this week on twitter as we celebrate #ColdSoupWeek. Check out all the recipes by clicking the link to her website Chef Robin White and have a great time creating these dishes. Robin my dear friend thank you for taking time out of your busy social schedule to give us this interview. By the way the Pinot bottle is empty LOL!

Cheers
Dan

2006 La Sirena Syrah Santa Ynez Valley Skype Taste With Scott Jordan & Heidi Barrett

2011-08-17T21:54:00.003-05:00

Love technology and excited about tonights post. Scott Jordan of Cellars Of Sonoma and I have been working on a Skype tasting where I sip the current wine club shipment to coinside with each Tuesday Live show featuring the respective winemaker. Yours truly was projected on the TV in the tasting room (no they didn't run for the exits after seeing this wino from the Midwest) and enjoyed the wine along with the evenings guest Heidi Barrett. Having the opportunity to taste her wine and ask questions was a blast. The wine amazing!

What a great nose on this wine. The ripe plum combined with the spice is perfect. Hints of cranberry and strawberry are evident as well. Excellent red fruit aroma.

Scott and Kevin told me I would be in for a treat and they were correct. Cranberry and cherry followed by clove/spice with a slight hint of smokey oak on the finish. So smooth and silky. Heidi I see why your wine making is in such demand! Truly an awesome wine.

Scott I'm glad we were able to skype taste and can't thank you enough. Looking forward to the next 3 weeks and those wines. Folks tune in each Tuesday at 6pm pacific by clicking the link TV Tuesday Live which can also be found on their website. It's a ton of fun and full of knowledge. You get to meet winemakers, pick their brains from philosphy to production to farming techniques. Oh and buy some wine if you stop by the tasting room especially tonights portfolio from La Sirena

Cheers
Dan

2006 D'Argenzio Zinfandel Russian River Valley

2011-08-14T08:52:00.000-05:00

Couple weeks ago I did a Tastelive event and the 06 Zinfandel was to be part of the tasting. Due to some delays in shipping the wine arrived a few days late for the event.

The winery located in beautiful Santa Rosa California (plus a tasting room in Burbank California) has won many awards with their portfolio of wines. Grapes are grown in Sonoma County and the family stays true to it's roots producing hancrafted wines Old World style. Three varietals are their main focus Pinot Noir, Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon. They still hand press grapes with a 100 year old press, age wines in french and american oak ranging from 12-22 months. Quality wine from a wonderful Italian family.

On the nose the rich dark fruit was front and center. Ripe blackberry followed by hints of red raspberry, pepper and spice. Pleasant aroma with a nice balance of fruit and spice treating your senses.

Jamy blackberry starts your taste off. Pepper and spice compliment the blackberry in the middle. The finish is long and juicy with red raspberry lingering. I paired this wine with pasta & italian sausage and found the combination pleasing. I also enjoyed a few sips on its own (some things are just a given) relaxing on the porch.

Ray thank you for the opportunity to taste your Zinfandel. I look forward to enjoying your wines in the future. Check out their website by clicking the link D'Argenzio Winery to learn more about their wines and history.

Cheers
Dan

2010 Stepping Stone by Cornerstone Corallina Syrah Rose Napa Valley

2011-08-07T08:35:00.000-05:00

About a year and 1/2 ago Craig Camp Managing Partner of Cornerstone Cellars introuduced me to the portfolio of wines by Stepping Stone and I have been a fan ever since. Consistent, food friendly, fruit forward wines which are easy on the pocket book and great tasting. Todays post was a sample received the 2010 Corallina Rose` which is produced from the Syrah grape. Crisp, refreshing and I found myself unable to put the glass down it was that good.

Beautiful aroma on the wine with ripe strawberry very dominant in the beginning. Hints of ripe melon, allspice combining with fresh cut rose pedals is very pleasing to the nose. A wine you could swirl and smell all day!

As I said above so crisp and refreshing. Juicy fresh strawberry starts your taste followed by a hint of tart cranberry. A ripe melon citrus greets your palate in the middle and the slight hint of spice at the end compliments the juicy finish. The layers of fruit were in perfect balance and the wine very easy drinking.

Craig a big thank you for allowing me to taste this wonderful wine. My compliments to the winemaker Jeff Keene for creating a gem. Stop by their tasting room in Yountville on your next visit or click the link Cornerstone Cellars to order online.

Cheers
Dan

2008 Ceja Vineyards Carneros Pinot Noir

2011-08-06T07:48:00.001-05:00

Selecting a bottle of wine to enjoy on any particular day is exciting to me and especially when I choose one from Ceja Vineyards. Each varietal pours nicely, the aromas are consistently pleasing to the nose and the taste is outstanding. The Ceja family takes great pride in producing some of the finest wines in Carneros and considers each fan an extension of their family. Armando the 2008 Carneros Pinot Noir is awesome.

In the glass that wonderful familiar herbal spice greets my nose that tells me right away it's Carneros. Different regions have that special characteristic that sets it apart from others. Next the aroma of cherry, a hint of rose pedal and red berries. I found myself swirling the wine more than usual admiring how the layers of aromas were absolutely perfect.

The taste spoiled me with so much flavor yet the finish was soft and elegant. Deep dark cherry with hints of red raspberry and strawberry. The spice had a slight earthy/herb flavor and finished the wine nicely. Just like the aromas before them the balance of flavors were heaven. Amelia this might be my new favorite Ceja wine but then again all your varietals make that list :)

Visit their website by clicking here Ceja Vineyards and order your own bottles to enjoy. I highly recommend stopping by their tasting salon in downtown Napa on you next visit to wine country.

Cheers
Dan

Flowers Winery TasteLive From the Sonoma Coast

2011-07-22T23:20:00.000-05:00

What a great tasting this evening with Jason Jardine Winemaker and Christopher Barefoot Estate Director overlooking the Flowers Winery Vineyards on TasteLive via Ustream. We were truly spoiled this evening with 5 outstanding wines starting with the 2009 Flowers Sonoma Coast Chardonnay, the 2008 Flowers Camp Meeting Ridge Chardonnay, the 2009 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, the 2008 Flowers Sea View Ridge Pinot Noir and finishing with the 2009 Flowers Perennial. While the terrain may be rugged the wines are pure elegance. View their website by clicking Flowers Winery to learn more about their wines, history and georgeous views.

We started with the 09 Sonoma Coast Chardonnay. Lovely nose of pear and fresh lime. Others said it smelled like fresh key lime pie. I have to agree. The feel in the mouth was fresh pear, again the key lime, vanilla cream and mineral. Wonderful citrus and acidity. Really excellent wine both in aroma and taste.

Next up the 08 Camp Meeting Ridge Chardonnay. Slightly different than the Sonoma Coast with vanilla, carmel, pear and oak aromas. The citrus lime/lemon were softer, pear and a hint of melon and the finish a full vanilla/oak. Loved the style of this chardonnay as well.

On to the Pinot Noir starting with the 2009 Sonoma Coast. A very pleasing nose of bright cherry, red ripe fruit, floral notes, the slightest hint of spice and orange peel. I like others could smell these wines all evening they are that aromatic. Outstanding flavor of strawberry, raspberry, cherry with a touch of spice on the soft juicy finish. The red fruit lingers long at the end. Heaven!

The second Pinot Noir of the evening was the 2008 Sea View Ridge. Earthy aroma followed by cherry, cola and a heavier spice. The flavor is amazing with a jammy dark cherry, warm spice, hint of red raspberry, chocolate finishing with earth and oak. From the comments this may have been the fan favorite of the evening. I can tell you in my house this bottle never made it to midnight. Amazing pinot.

The final wine was the 2009 Perennial a blend of Pinot Noir, Syrah and Pinot Meunier. Normally there is a splash of Chardonnay but I believe the winemaker Jason said he omitted from this vintage. Floral aromas along with cherry, dark berry, a hint of pepper but very light, toasty oak. The flavor was more full bodied than the other 4 wines and the red berry was chewy, blackberry, cherry traces of plum all were very nice.

Well another successful TasteLive event showcasing the amazing wines of Flowers Winery. Cailyn and Joel a big thank you for organizing the event. Jason and Christopher I can't thank you enough for allowing me to taste these awesome wines and learning about your winery. You have a new fan.

Cheers
Dan

Rootstock Festival Tastelive July 16th

2011-07-17T08:11:00.000-05:00

Ok I have to admit this was one of the more interesting Tastelive events I have participated in. Chef Bob Blumer cooking 5 wine paired dishes from his newest cookbook and the segment was correctly named "Eat the Clock. The hilarious part was poor Bob having issues with the butane burners staying lit while good natured Ziggy Eschliman (ZiggyTheWineGal) was just hammering him "Come on Bob tick tock tick tock). So while my fellow wine bloggers and I are watching the first half hour we are tasting the wines paired with todays meals. Today's wines were the 2009 Sauvignon Blanc Benziger Family Winery, 2008 Reserve Chardonnay Russian River Valley Rodney Strong Vineyards, 2009 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley Sequana Vineyards, 2007 Stagecoach Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley from Krutz Family Cellars. The 5th wine due to shipping issues never arrived so the 2006 D"Argenzio Zinfandel Russian River Valley will be a post all its own. The wines were all very tasty and I was definately spoiled drinking them.

Thinking I was a tad off this evening because on a couple of the wines my fellow bloggers seemed to identify a couple flavors and as well a couple aromas which I didn't. We started with the 2009 Sauvignon Blanc Benziger Family Vineyards. Initially the aromas of lime/lemon zest, grapefruit were dominant for me with the juicy lemon, mineral and grapefruit once in my mouth. I went back though as my fellow bloggers were picking up some tropical fruit notes and I could sense some melon towards the middle of the taste. Crisp, refreshing and perfect for this heat wave we are having. I commented I think this wine would pair well with a pan fried tilapia I make crusted in panko with lemon thyme. A nice start to the evening.

Next up the 2008 Reserve Chardonnay Rodney Strong Vineyards. A perfect chardonnay. The aroma of baked apple, spice, vanilla was as if my grandmother was here baking her famous apple pies and apple crisp. The pear, apple were layered with a creamy vanilla and the oak finish terrific. Elegant wine and one that will be in my cellar for the future. Definately spoiled me with this wine.

The third wine of the evening the 2009 Sequana RRV Pinot Noir. As my buddy Dezel (MyVineSpot) would say "How was that Pinot Miles" LOL. I really enjoyed the aroma of the earth/dust combined with the ripe cherry and fresh cut rose pedal finishing with spice. The flavors flowed nicely from the juicy cherry to the red raspberry/strawberry followed by the warming spice and finishing with the classic earthiness. I felt like I was in the vineyard smelling the soil and vines as I tasted the wine.

The final wine of the evening the 2007 Krutz family Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Stagecoach Vineyards. I opened this wine an hour before tasting, decanted and my fellow bloggers were identifying a couple different aromas. Trust me when I say this was an outstanding cabernet. When I first opened the bottle the smoke and oak came racing out. Once in the glass the rich dark fruit aroma of blackberry, a hint of tobacco, leather, smokey vanilla and oak. The flavor of blackberry, some dark cherry, a hint of molasses finishing with a touch of smoke and oak. A perfect prepared steak would be awesome with this wine. I am keeping another bottle in the cellar and want to in a month revisit and taste to see if I identify additional aromas.

What a great week of wines. The opportunity to taste Krutz Family Vineyard wines for the first time, Sequana, Benziger, to the old friends of Rodney Strong Vineyards and Gloria Ferrer Winery all having outstanding portfolios, each glass was a treat. Cailyn and Joe thank you for allowing me to participate. To the wineries again my thanks for allowing me to drink exceptional wine.

Cheers
Dan

July 12th TasteLive California Chardonnay & The Summer Grill

2011-07-12T23:01:00.000-05:00

Its been awhile since I was on a TasteLive panel but very honored to be part of California Chardonnay & The Summer Grill featuring the wines of Gloria Ferrer Vineyards, Krutz Family Cellars and Rodney Strong Estate Vineyards. It was an excellent lineup of chardonnay and one I really enjoyed with many of my blogger friends from across the country.

The first wine we opened the 2008 Gloria Ferrer Carneros Chardonnay. I thoroughly enjoy each bottle from their winery as the flavors and aromas are well balanced and the wine is easy to drink. Once in the glass a very nice citrus and pear aroma. Next ripe apple and an excellent spice which tickled my nose. Green apple starts your tasting pleasure with a long juicy lemon citrus finish. As the wine warmed in my glass tropical fruit appeared. Love Carneros Chardonnay and a big thanks to Steve & Gloria Ferrer.

The second wine we opened was the 2008 Krutz Family Cellars Chardonnay Sleepy Hollow Vineyards Santa Lucia Highlands. Excellent wine and one I thought was much better the longer the wine opened up. This would be my first bottle of the Krutz Chardonnay and definately not my last. The aroma of pineapple, spice and creamy vanilla were very pleasing to my nose. The flavors were awesome with spiced apple, pear, pineapple and as the wine warmed the citrus and creamy vanilla. Patrick thanks for allowing us to taste this beauty and I will have to try this with maple syrup for breakfast!

The final wine was the 2009 Rodney Strong Vineyards Chardonnay Chalk Hill Estate Vineyards. I have tasted Rodney Strong wines a good number of times and always find them excellent and very food friendly. Right away there is a big pear aroma that hits your nose followed by apple. Spice and oak are present towards the end of the smell. Ripe fruit (pear, apple and a slight hint of melon) with a creamy finish of vanilla and toasty oak are a perfect combination. Justin thank you as well for an awesome offering.

Well there you have it another successful Tastelive event with 3 very good Chardonnays. A big thanks to Cailyn McCauley and Joel Quigley for an excellent evening. Thank you to the wonderful winemakers for creating the juice we all enjoyed this evening.

Cheers
Dan

2007 Boedecker Athena Pinot Noir Willamette Valley Oregon

2011-07-10T08:53:00.000-05:00

Today's post comes courtesy of the Oregon wine country and a purchase of the 07 Boedecker Athena Pinot Noir. Founded in 2003 in Carleton Oregon and then 5 years later a move to their own winery in Portland, the winemakers Stewart and Athena, are committed to producing small lot, naturally crafted, small production Oregon wines. The wines they produce have minimal intervention as many a great winemaker will tell you its all about the fruit. Interesting is from the creation of the winery the closure on the bottle has always been a screw cap. Their Pinot Noir is aged 18 months, bottled then held for an additional 6-9 months before being released.

Nice aroma on this wine with black berry and dark cherry at first. Spice and earthiness greet your senses next with a slight hint of smokey oak at the end. Classic Pinot aromas and gets me excited for the taste.

Wonderful fruit flavor, well balanced just a joy to drink. The begining brought the ripe lucious cherry followed by raspberry and a hint of strawberry. The combination of spice on the finish and that touch of oak/earthiness was excellent. As I continued to taste the flavors changed places with raspberry and strawberry taking their place at the front. Quality wine and one I highly recommend. Another bottle of the same sits in my cellar and I will age it one year and can't wait to see how the wine gets even better.

If you're visiting Portland stop by 2621 NW 30th Ave for a taste. You can also visit their website Boedecker Cellars to learn more about them and purchase wine.

Cheers
Dan

2010 Stepping Stone (By Cornerstone Cellars) Rocks White Wine Napa Valley

2011-07-05T21:57:00.000-05:00

Cornerstone Cellars tasting room located at 6505 Washington Street in Yountville has a very relaxed/friendly setting to taste some very good wine. Visitors have the opportunity to taste both Cornerstone and Stepping Stone wines at their leisure. Craig and the staff do a wonderful job and its a must stop for me on my visits to Napa.

Tonights wine a sample received was the 2010 Napa Valley Rocks White Wine. In the glass the multiple fruit aromas were awesome. The wine started with a lemon citrus zest, a hint of grapefruit, a blast of tropical fruit all on day one. The next day pear, green apple and peach were the dominant aromas. Loved how this wine evolved from one day to the next.

I served the wine first with grilled yellow squash and zucchini drizzled with olive oil plus a garnish of lemon thyme. The meat was grilled chicken. The lemon citrus flavor was perfect at the beginning. A hint of grapefruit in the middle followed by the fresh tropical fruit. Great pairing. The next day I tasted the wine green apple and pear were present and the finish ripe peach/nectarine. Crisp, clean and refreshing love the versatility.

To learn more about Cornerstone and Stepping Stone wines visit their website today.

Cheers
Dan

2006 Spell Wine Spellonu Red Napa Valley

2011-07-03T08:19:00.000-05:00

Today's wine comes courtesy of my friend Traci as a new wine in her store. The 2006 Spellonu Red is produced by Kristen Spelletich as a second label (Spell Wine) at the family business Spelletich Family Winery. Time for a little research.

Started in 1994 by winemaker Barb Spelletich along with Tim Spelletich and joined in 2004 by daughter Kristen, the winery produces 3000 cases under the namesake label from some of the finest napa vineyards. Spell Wine produces around 5000 cases per year. All three of them have an extensive backround in the wine and hospitality industry and its no wonder they produce some very tasty juice. I encourage you to read their story more Spelletich Family Winery

The 06 Spellonu is a blend of 59% Cabernet Sauvignon and 41% Merlot. Loved the aroma on the wine with the dark berry really coming to the front. Blackberry, plum, a hint black raspberry, leather and spice all were pleasing to the nose.

The longer in the glass the more the wine mellowed. Big dark fruit at the beginning of the wine taste. The blackberry so bold and the plum softened as you got to the middle where I found a nice hint of sweet juicy raspberry. The finish was earthy/oak with some spice and then the bitter sweet chocolate.

Kristen a very nice wine and great price point! Love the quote on the website "My generation are visual buyers (referring to the edgy labels she created). The label, the price point is what’s important to us. We don’t read reviews." Just like wine should be......simply enjoyed!

Cheers
Dan

2007 JAQK Cellars 22 Black Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

2011-06-25T08:07:00.000-05:00

My last sample from the fine folks at JAQK Cellars I saved just for the right food pairing. I'm a huge bacon wrapped filet fan and nothing better than a fine bottle of Cabernet to round out the meal. Big thanks to my San Diego wine pal Beau of Beaus Barrel Room for introducing me to this portfolio of awesome wine.

Wonderful aroma of blackberry starts your smelling pleasure. Red raspberry, a slight hint of oak, creamy blueberry follow and I could swirl/smell this wine all night long.

The wine is full full bodied and so tasty. The mouth fills with a dark berry sensation of blackberry, black raspberry and mellows with the blueberry. The middle here comes the juicy red raspberry, an earthy/leather combo and that slight touch of oak rounds out the finish. Really enjoyed how the layers of fruit flow from start to finish.

I encourage you to visit their website JAQK Cellars to learn more about the portfolio of wines they offer and to purchase some for your tasting pleasure. Excellent food friendly juice or to sip with friends I think you will agree they are excellent wines. Thank you again to the staff for allowing me to taste and learn more about your winery.

Cheers
Dan

2009 Struttin Red Eric Ross Winery

2011-06-13T23:19:00.000-05:00

A few weeks back I had the sister wine Struttin White and with the cool down it was time to unlease The Rooster. The 09 vintage is a blend of 91% Tempranillo and 9% Garnacha. Full bodied yet smooth as glass Eric produced a beauty which I paired with burgers (well not just with burgers I had to taste while I grilled).

In the glass the fruit comes right to the front (a trait I have come to love with Eric's wines). Blackberry, a hint of raspberry, an earthy spice and finally a slight scent of strawberry. The aromas merry well together and I find the wine pleasing to my nose.

Great flavor! Red juicy fruit starting with a ripe red raspberry. A hint of blackberry and plumb in the middle of the taste and finishing with a strawberry/raspberry combination along with some spice. Its the Rooster struttin his stuff. The finish is wonderfully long and and juicy but so silky.

As a certified wine nut (well nuts is more like it) I love wines hand crafted especially Eric's. I know each bottle regardless of varietal will be consistently outstanding.

Cheers
Dan

2009 Dreyer Sonoma Chardonnay Sonoma County

2011-06-07T21:22:00.000-05:00

I picked this wine up while meeting winery owner Walt Dreyer at my friend Traci's First Avenue Wine House Cedar Rapids Iowa . Very interesting to speak with and again individuals in the wine business are some of the most down to earth you will ever meet.

In the glass the aroma of pear fills your nose. A hint of citrus, tropical fruit (pineapple) and finishes with oak. The fruit is very fresh and ripe.

Classic chardonnay here and inexpensive. The pear flavor is dominant followed by a combination of ripe green apple and pineapple citrus. The finish highlighted the oak aging prior to bottling. Not overpowering but enough to give it character. This was a light wine and refreshing on a hot day while I grilled chicken. Yes it paired well as I finished the chicken with some lemon thyme. A nice wine to start the evening.

Cheers
Dan

2009 Passaggio Unoaked Chardonnay

2011-05-29T17:58:00.000-05:00

Thursday May 26 was Chardonnay Day where folks from all walks of life around the world share their passion for this wine. One of the wines I opened was the 09 Unoaked Chardonnay produced by winemaker Cynthia Cosco. This new style of chardonnay is gaining popularity as it showcases the fruit flavors of the grape without the buttery or oak bomb experience. I still enjoy the buttery/oak wines as long as it doesn't overpower.

Once in the glass you can really smell the wonderful ripe fruit. A nice pear/melon combination hits my nose first. A hint of citrus with a lemon/grapefruit combination. Little mineral at the end and very crisp. I tasted the same vintage a year ago and the aromas changed slightly.

Wonderful tasting wine. I personally loved the 08 and I must say the 09 is even better and aged very well. Pear and apple are the dominant flavors throughout the taste. In the middle the lemon citrus makes an appearance and the finish is soft and creamy. The flavor combination and aromas make this a hard wine to put down. Passaggio Wines continue to be fantastic year after year. Cindy you get an A+ for this one!

Cheers
Dan

2009 Struttin White Eric Ross Winery

2011-05-24T11:37:00.000-05:00

One of my favorite winemakers Eric Luse of Eric Ross Winery created todays wine the 2009 Struttin White. Love this blend of 96% Albarino, 3% Orange Muscat and 1% Muscat Canelli. What you will enjoy about Eric's wines is how the fruit is showcased and he will always tell you great wine starts with the fruit. Plus if you stop by the tasting room (and it's a must) he will fill your head with wine knowledge and a few jokes for the road.

So how was the wine? The aroma is wonderful with the first fruit hitting your nose being ripe peach. Next I get an orange citrus/apricot combination which is so fresh and crisp. Little mineral tickle at the end. Time for a taste.

Nice refreshing wine and I found myself "struttin" after each taste. The star of the show is the peach and the minerality throughout each mouthful. In the middle of the wine there is the slight hint apricot and then transitions back to the peach/citrus for the finish. I enjoyed the wine as I grilled chicken breasts and legs (neighbors probably saw me going what the hell is doing walking like that) and also with dinner.

Eric you once again nailed it with this wine. Crisp, clean, refreshing, ripe fruit this is why I drink small production wines. Folks stop by and sample some of their wines today. Located at 14300 Arnold Drive in beautiful Glen Ellen California. Say hello to Diane, Dennis and Eric for me. Buy some wine too and support this fine boutique winery and producer.

Cheers
Dan

2007 DuNah Pinot Noir Sangiacomo Vineyard Sonoma Coast

2011-05-21T08:13:00.000-05:00

So excited to taste the 07 Pinot Noir from DuNah which my friend Scott Jordan from Cellars Of Sonoma has poured many times on his TVTuesday segment as I watched and drooled (yes you read that correctly). Show of hands if you didn't know I get really excited everytime I open a wine made from my favorite grape. I purchased this wine through Lot18 and introduced to them by Klout. It was #WineWednesday and this beauty was outstanding.

From the moment the wine was in the glass the aroma of ripe dark cherry was beautiful. The longer in the glass the more red berry aromas came to the front along with a hint of fresh cut rose. Finally a slight spice tickled my nose.

Wow is this wine great. The cherry evident in the aroma is front and center on the taste but not overpowering. A hint of raspberry/cranberry in the middle and a finish of cola/spice is to die for. The finish is long and smooth begging you to keep filling your glass. Chef Robin White in beautiful Sonoma wine country tells me it's one of her favorites..... mine as well Chef. Greg LaFollette my palate thanks you for this wonderful wine.

Cheers
Dan

PinkOut Tastelive Event 2011 San Francisco

2011-05-15T21:29:00.000-05:00

Unfortunately I was unable to participate due to an illness but I received the wines and tasted a couple days later. Cailyn and Joe the folks with Tastelive and Creative Furnace do a great job with these events and I can't thank them enough for the opportunity to enjoy great wines. For readers new to the blog, Tastelive events typically center (for me) around new wine releases/celebrations shared by locals as well as bloggers across the country.

This event featured Courtney Cochran, certified sommelier, entrepreneur and author of "Hip Tastes," and held at Butterfly restaurant. The virtual tasting was sponsored by CellarPass, Mutineer magazine and featured a blogger panel with Theda Sandiford of Austin Yankee, Grace Hoffman of The Cellar Mistress, Dan Goderis of The Iowa Wino, Frank Morgan of Drink What You Like, Amy Cleary of Wine Book Girl, Katie Pizzuto of Gonzo Gastronomy, Dezel Quillen of My Vine Spot, Meghan Malloy of Travel, Wine, Dine, and The Swirl Girls of the Palm Beach Post." A very distinguished panel if I do say so myself :)

Wines for the evening included the 2007 Gloria Ferrerr Brut Rose, 2010 Robert Oatley Rose' Of Sangiovese and the 2007 Chateau D'Esclans Garrus Rose. Watching the comments the tasters all agreed the 3 wines were outstanding this evening and I would agree.

The evening started with the 07 Gloria Ferrer (I followed the same tasting lineup) and what a great starter. Nice fruit and of course bubbles! Flavors of raspberry, cherry and citrus. Hints of vanilla and red fruit on the nose. Always a pleasure to drink Gloria Ferrer wines. Next the 2010 Robert Oatley was also very tasty. Strawberry, citrus, crisp loved this wine as well. I can picture myself enjoying on the back porch on a hot Midwest evening. Finally the 07 Chateau D'Esclans Garrus Rose. Cherry, raspberry, vanilla, the aroma was so pleasing. Loved the red raspberry and red cherry, the creamy vanilla was evident long into the finish. Spoiled drinking this elegant wine.

Another excellent Tastelive event Cailyn. The wines were awesome. To the winemakers kudos you are masters of your craft.

Cheers
Dan

Happy Mothers Day to All Moms

2011-05-08T08:58:00.000-05:00

Toast Mom on her special day and pamper her with gifts, flowers, good food and naturally wine. She deserves it. For she is the person who has shaped your life and made you what you are today. Her love is forever, and she shows this in good times and in bad. Remember who took care of you when you were sick, who listened when you were fighting with your best friend, when that boy or girl you really liked broke your heart...... mom was always there to comfort. Kids cherish the time you have with Mom, life is short so make the most of every opportunity.

Kick your feet up Moms its time for the royal treatment. By the way HAPPY MOTHERS DAY ......LOVE YOU TOO.......FOREVER!

Cheers

Dan

2008 Ceja Vineyards Syrah Sonoma Coast

2011-05-01T10:41:00.000-05:00

Many of my followers know I truly enjoy the wines created by Armando Ceja of Ceja Vineyards. I find the wines easy to drink but so food friendly and love the recipes from Amelia and Dalia Ceja. The 2008 Syrah was chosen by Armando for the wine club shipment in March and trust me, you will love this wine.

When first pouring this wine I caught a quick hint of smokey aroma which quickly gave way to a wonderful ripe blackberry sensation. A hint of black raspberry followed by a huge pepper aroma. The ripe fruit combined with the spice of the pepper was very pleasing to my nose.

Armando you have created a wonderful Syrah. The dark fruit (blackberry and black raspberry) flavor carried from the start to the finish of the taste. The spice and that wonderful hint of earth and leather balanced the wine perfectly. The flavor is awesome and yes the bottle did not last the night. Normally I would pair a Syrah with BBQ but I tried something new last night. Ravioli made with black angus beef, a light marinara but loads of fresh garlic and a touch of cheese. Loved the pairing.

On your next trip to Napa make sure you stop by Ceja Vineyards Wine Tasting Salon located at 1248 First Street in beautiful downtown Napa and taste their wonderful portfolio of wines. Open Sunday -Wednesday 11am to 6pm and Thursday - Saturday 11am to 8pm. After tasting, head over to Bistro Sabor 1126 First Street to meet Ariel Ceja and enjoy some excellent dishes prepared by the staff. To learn more about the Ceja Family please visit their website http://www.cejavineyards.com/

Cheers
Dan

Earth Day with Deloach Pinot Noir and Bottlenotes

2011-04-30T08:30:00.000-05:00

What a surprise to get a chance to sample wonderful wine celebrating Earth Day courtesy of Bottlenotes, Klout Perks and the folks at Deloach. While my wine arrived a day late it was well worth every drop. Remember I am the Pinot God :). The wine was .50ml bottles of Deloach Vineyards fine Pinot Noir. Each was outstanding and I enjoyed what the various vineyards offered from its fruit.

Starting with the 07 Green Valley Russian River Pinot, classic RRV with black cherry, raspberry, cola, earthy characteristics. Outstanding wine.

Next the 07 Masut Vineyard Pinot Noir. Nice aroma with floral notes, cherry with a hint of chocolate and boysenberry. The taste was spicy for a pinot and had a nice combination of black cherry and currant, finishing with a touch of oak.

07 Maboroshi Vineyard Russian River Valley Pinot Noir. Black cherry, a hint of raspberry, a touch of cedar all pleasing aromas. Nice flavor with cherry and raspberry, the hint of earthiness in the middle and a wonderful long finish. Did I mention yet I'm in heaven?

06 Le Roi Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir. Cherry and fresh cut rose pedal aromas were present right from the start. As the wine opened a hint of the cocoa. Nice dark fruit with black cherry, raspberry and what I thought was cola (turns out its a root beer flavor). Impressive.

06 Van Der Kamp Vineyard Sonoma Mountain Pinot Noir. Definate clove aroma hit the nose first, followed by ripe cherry and raspberry. Dark cherry and clove spice a nice flavor combination with a hint of plum in the middle. The cherry/clove lingered long into the finish.

Finally the 06 Sonoma Stage Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir. Excellent fruit aroma of cherry, strawberry followed by cola and a hint of leather. The taste of ripe cherry and spice were impressive with hints of leather and earth. Felt like I was part of the vineyard.

Can't thank the folks at Bottlenotes, Klout Perks and Deloach for the opportunity to taste these outstanding Pinots. I am very impressed with your wines.

Cheers
Dan

2010 Passaggio Grande Cappello Rose Napa Valley

2011-04-25T22:31:00.000-05:00

Ah the joy of discovering rose wine. So many different styles, flavors and yes dry not sweet. Absolutely excited to taste the latest offering from Cynthia Cosco winemaker/owner of Passaggio Wines. I purchased the wine which was part of her "Summer Wine Offering" and also received a bottle as a tasting sample.

I really enjoyed this wine. The aromas of cherry and fresh cut rose pedals are so pleasing to the nose. Hints of ripe strawberry continue the red fruit theme.

The flavor is outstanding with the cherry and wild berries (raspberry, strawberry) really complimenting each other throughout the taste. A hint of plum towards the middle and the finish is long and juicy. What an awesome Rose Cindy. Mom will be proud!

The video would not play any sound so here is a toast to the winemaker for spoiling us with your Grande Cappello Rose!

Cheers

Dan

2009 Charmed Sauvignon Blanc Napa Valley JAQK Cellars

2011-04-16T08:51:00.000-05:00

Wine sample number three sent to me by the fine folks at JAQK Cellars was the awesome 2009 Sauvignon Blanc "Charmed". Refreshing, crisp and lively was everything I wanted on this hot day in a refreshing glass of wine.

In the glass you really get the bouquet of citrus hitting your nose. Lemon with a touch of lime, some subtle hints of grapefruit, a nice cream/vanilla aroma were all so pleasing.

Absolutely love the citrus flavors in the mouth. The lemon/lime is excellent from start to finish. The hint of grapefruit gives the wine just enough "tart" and is not overpowering which I really like. Faint oak at the end really ends the taste nicely. Wonderful balanced wine which I drank without food although I was cooking dinner and the wine ran out before the cooking was done :)

Check out their website http://jaqkcellars.com/ to learn more about this new wine company making some very tasty juice.

Cheers
Dan

1st Avenue Wine House Welcome's Walter Dreyer Sonoma California

2011-04-14T23:13:00.000-05:00

An evening of tasty wine awaited the patrons of 1st Avenue Wine House and of course Traci once again did a marvelous job for all of us. Upon entering the shop I was greeted by a familiar face Traci's Dad Jim who is a hoot and his customary large wine glass filled of course.

Once my glass was filled with the first wine of the evening the Dreyer Sonoma Chardonnay $13.99 (and my purchase for the evening) I was introduced to Mr. Walter Dreyer who is informative and a pleasure to talk with about his juice. He even commented about the selection of small production vineyards Traci carries in her shop and stores like hers are the places of the future. Couldn't agree more! The grapes from this wine come from both Sonoma County and the Alexander Valley. Aged in stainless steel and only a short time in oak, loved how the fruit expressed itself. Aromas of pear and pineapple were pleasing. Apple and pear, nice acidity on the flavor and one of my favorites for the evening.

Wine #2 was the Compass Merlot $13.99. So smooth. The aroma of plum to me was dominant. Follow that up with some red berry, black cherry and a touch of oak. The flavor was outstanding with the black cherry/plum combo and very easy to drink. My second favorite of the night.

Wine#3 we head to the 2nd floor to find Il Coure Chardonnay $11.99. These chardonnay grapes were harvested in the Mendocino County region. Blended with 9% Viognier, the wine had the aromas of ripe apple, melon, pear. The taste was crisp, with the traditional apple and pear flavors with a hint of sweetness towards the end. Nice balance.

Up next was the IL Coure Cabernet Sauvignon $13.99. A nice wine with the aromas of black cherry, a hint of currant, plum, slight touch of earthiness and oak. Great black cherry, dark berry and plum flavors. The blending of merlot into the cabernet really softens the wine. Very impressed so far with the wines and their price point.

Top floor brought us the Il Coure Barbera $13.99, Il Coure Rosso $12.99 and the Dreyer Sonoma Cabernet $15.99. Starting with the Barbera and my first time tasting this grape. A big red raspberry and oak aroma, the wine was definately full bodied and full of ripe red fruit. The Rosso a blend of Zinfandel, Merlot, Petite Sirah, Syrah and Carignane. I commented to the distributor who was pouring what a spicy aroma on the nose and the dark fruit. Rich and loved the spicy peppery flavor. Finally the very impressive Cabernet Sauvignon with its blackberry flavor dominant. Just as the tasting notes say the aroma of black cherry and plum was present with the cherry coming to the front. If you like bigger reds then the 3rd floor was your favorite.

Last wine of the night was the Seabiscuit Ranch Superfecta $24.99. A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc this wine was another of my evening favorites. Raspberry, black cherry, plum, blueberry and a smooth finish made this big wine so good.

Great fruit, great wine make for an enjoyable evening. Traci thanks for introducing us to the excellent wines.
http://www.dreyerwine.com/
http://www.ilcourewines.com/
http://www.seabiscuitranch.com/

Cheers
Dan

2009 Black Stallion Chardonnay Napa Valley

2011-04-11T22:39:00.000-05:00

The weather turned slightly warm and to me a sign to start migrating some white wine into the tasting routine. Tonights feature the 2009 Chardonnay from Black Stallion. The winery is beautiful and a must stop on your next visit to Napa and the Silverado Trail.

On the nose a wonderful crisp, fresh citrus aroma. Toasted almond gives you a hint of nutty goodness. Ripe pear rounds out the fruit sensation.

Excellent flavor and while aged in oak I don't get the "oak bomb" which can overpower the fruit. What I did get was a wonderful pear and peach combination. The tart of the pear combined with the creaminess of the peach balanced the wine. Toss in some vanilla as you hit the middle of the taste and finish with a hint of apricot. Each flavor was nicely layered and complimentary. Loved the Chardonnay and a definate keeper on hand!

Cheers
Dan

2007 TR Elliott Queste Pinot Noir Russian River Valley

2011-04-03T09:03:00.000-05:00

I'm a regular viewer on the Tuesday Live wine show from Cellars Of Sonoma hosted by Scott Jordan. TR Elliott is one of the wines poured there and has been featured on the show along with proprietor Ted Elliott. Imagine my excitement when checking out the shelves of my friends shop 1st Avenue Wine House I find and 07 Pinot Noir from the Russian River Valley. Worth every penney as you will see.

Founded in 2002, TR Elliott is dedicated to creating some of the finest hand crafted Pinot Noir made. The Russian River Valley in Sonoma has long been known as one of the perfect regions for soil and temps suitable for growing pinot grapes and not surprised Mr Elliott would chose this region in his quest to produce award winning Pinot.

As soon as I uncorked this beauty the rush of black cherry filled my nose. There is such a distinct fruit aroma from the rrv and so beautiful. Continuing I get the leather aroma, a slight hint of vanilla and finishing with just the right amount of earthiness. Having said this before with some excellent wines introduced to me, this wine you could smell all day and never stop.

Lets just say I died and went to heaven after my first taste of this Pinot. The ripe dark cherry is very pleasing to the palate. The mushroom flavor compliments the cherry and brings the earthiness into the wine (in my mind I pictured the vine and the soil so yes call me crazy). Finally the smallest hint of chocolate rounds out my tasting experience. Amazing bottle of wine that truly spoiled this Pinot Noir lover.

I encourage you to visit their site http://www.elliottfamilycellars.com/ and sign up for their mailing list. If your in Santa Rosa for a visit stop by and say hello to my friend Scott at Cellars Of Sonoma and order a glass of TR Elliott Pinot Noir. Trust me when I say you will thank me later.

Cheers
Dan

2007 Edward Sellers Syrah Selectionnee Paso Robles

2011-03-30T22:36:00.000-05:00

My latest post comes courtesy of "the wine fairy" who so nicely dropped this wonderful Paso Robles Syrah (only 598 cases produced) sample at my door step. It's my first post from the Edward Sellers Vineyards and excited to learn more about their wines.

Edward Sellers Vineyards was established in 2003 in the booming farm community of Paso Robles by Ed and his wife Dani. Ed even described the area as "Napa 30 years ago!" The area they chose "The Templeton Gap Corridor" is perfect for growing their favorite rhone varietals syrah, grenache, mourvedre, roussanne, marsanne and grenache blanc. The soil is rocky where temps can reach 90 but cools nicely by the winds from the Santa Lucia Coastal Mountain Range and the Pacific Ocean. On each bottle of their award winning wines you will find a 32 point compass rose usually found on old world maps chosen specifically by Ed.

When I first poured the wine in the glass just amazed the first aroma was the pronounced smoke. Next the black raspberry with hints of black cherry and oak.

I paired the wine with my family favorite pulled bbq pork sandwiches and homemade slaw. The spice, oak and smoke were perfect with the bbq sauce and meat. Full bodied wine with the star of the taste the dark fruit. The dark fruit gives me flavors of blackberry and black raspberry. The spice and earthiness compliment the fruit perfectly. Hints of dark cherry and oak round out my tasting pleasure. A wonderful bottle of wine and one of the great Syrah's I have tasted. I look forward to enjoying more selections from the Edward Sellers Vineyards portfolio of wines.

Cheers
Dan

2007 Bone Dance Merlot Napa Valley JAQK Cellars

2011-03-23T21:18:00.000-05:00

Tonights wine was a sample sent to me and is the 07 Merlot from JAQK Cellars in beautiful San Francisco. You see from the previous post I was very impressed with their chardonnay and honestly this merlot is really really good. Merlot is making a comeback and folks are taking notice.

Big aroma as I poured this wine. Rich dark cherry starts your sniffing pleasure. Next comes the raspberry, licorice and finishes with a wonderful earthiness (for my followers you know how I enjoy that aroma earth). My wife would describe the aromas as "potent" to which I would laugh and say yes dear ripe fruit.

Definate full bodied wine in my opinion rich defined flavors. Love the combination of the black cherry followed by the black raspberry. Very juicy from start to finish. I get a slight hint of licorice, plum and oak towards the end. Highly recommend this merlot to drink and share with your friends.

Cheers
Dan

2008 Her Majesty Napa Valley Chardonnay JAQK Cellars

2011-03-20T22:13:00.001-05:00

A big thanks to Kelsey Morrison Marketing Manager at JAQK Cellars in San Francisco for tonights very nice sample. The Her Majesty Chardonnay will also be one of the feature wines March 22 at Sullivans Steakhouse in Omaha Neb as Republic National sponsors a dinner featuring 4 JAQK Cellars wines. Wine bloggers in the Omaha area this is your chance to taste great wine along with some awesome food. Email if you are interested in attending and I'll get you in touch with Kelsey.

Really a nice nose on this wine crisp and refreshing. A fresh green apple aroma followed by ripe pear. The second swirl gives me a blast of citrus with a slight hint of vanilla.

The first sip really showcases the pear and follows quickly with a lemon citrus sensation. I get a touch of the green apple in the middle but very impressed with the fruit how lively and fresh. The finish is long and juicy. Nice impressive chardonnay. Stay tuned for my review of their Sauv Blanc, Merlot and Cabernet. JAQK Cellars will be a wine you want to keep on hand.

Cheers
Dan

2008 Black Stallion Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley

2011-03-11T07:49:00.000-06:00

Scouring my local wine store (my good friend Traci at 1st Avenue Wine House who by the way was in napa while I was shopping) and craving some cabernet I spotted this lovely Napa Valley Cab from the folks at Black Stallion Estate Winery located on the beautiful Silverado Trail in Napa. The winery is open daily 10-4 for your tasting pleasure and a highly recommended stop!

I'm guessing there are a few reading this thinking "It's an 08 Cabernet why don't you allow the wine to age awhile?" Good point but then what fun would that be for me :) What a wonderful nose on this wine. When first poured in the glass a huge lucious dark cherry aroma fills the nose. Fresh plum greets you on your next swirl and finishes with a rich spice.

Excellent flavor! The taste starts you off with a ripe fruit berry jam sensation (dark cherry, blackberry, plumb, hint of red raspberry) which was tremendously delicious. Towards the middle a hint of chocolate and finishes with just a touch of spice and oak. While this was my first wine from Black Stallion it won't be my last.

Cheers
Dan

2007 Alexander Valley Vineyards Merlot Alexander Valley

2011-03-03T21:22:00.000-06:00

Having talked with Harry Wetzel on numerous occasions online I was so thrilled to find some of the wine in my local area I just had to grab a bottle to drink. I chose the 2007 Merlot one because I tend to shy away from the grape not having enough knowledge about it but also because the Wetzel name is synonymous with very good wine the merlot must be good one.

Excellent nose on this wine with a wonderful spice and ripe blackberry and dark cherry. Hint of fresh plum and rounding out with a nice touch of oak.

The blackberry and black cherry so juicy and a nice long finish. The spice compliments the wine perfectly. Slight hint of plum in the middle of the taste with a touch of vanilla. Wonderful smooth wine right now I can't wait to see how it ages and gets better.

Really enjoyed the opportunity to taste this Merlot from Alexander Valley Vineyards and glad I chose this wine to add to the blog. I can't wait to taste many more of their fine wines.

Cheers
Dan

2008 Cliff Family Winery The Climber White Wine

2011-02-28T21:39:00.000-06:00

This selection comes courtesy of my friends monthly wine store newsletter and the wine she chose for Feb was a wonderful white blend from Cliff Family Wine. The Climber White wine is a blend of 88% Sauv Blanc, 2% Chenin Blanc, 4% Muscat, 3% Chardonnay and 3% Reisling. Loved how this was such a crisp refreshing wine and yes my first from these fine folks.

Once in the glass there was just an absolute abundance of aromas starting with ripe melon and tropical fruit. Citrus, lemon zest and a hint of floral notes. Aromas blend well and very pleasing to the nose.

I was afraid the wine would be sweet but wrong I am. The Sauvignon Blanc being the dominant used grape in this wine starts the tasting fun off with the grapefruit/melon combo. Towards the middle a hint of mineral, some wonderful citrus zest of lime and then the finish is so smooth yet maintains a crispness throughout. Nice refreshing white wine so well balanced. I can see this in my glass often.

Cheers
Dan

Pinot Noir To Me Heaven In A Bottle

2011-02-22T20:44:00.001-06:00

The 9th Annual Pinot Summit will be in full swing this Saturday in San Francisco with many small production wines on hand for pinot lovers tasting pleasure plus a ton of informative sessions about the wine. While I'm sad I cannot attend it takes me back to my first discovery of Pinot and why I continue to love this wine today.

No I did not start drinking this because of "That Movie". My love of this grape started long before Sideways mainly because I'm a sucker for the flavor cherry. Cobbler, pie I can still smell my grandmothers fresh cherry creations (she was damn good at apple too and chardonnay is another story). You shove a wine with cherry, spice, red berry and add some earthiness or leather and I'm yours for life. Perfectionists make great Pinot and settle for nothing less.

While the pinot grape is high maintenance and difficult to make into wine, some say its best grown in France, California's Russian River Valley, Sonoma Coast, Carneros, Santa Barbara and up in Willamette Valley Oregon. Cool regions with sun and fog allowing the grape to thrive and produce are ideal. Walking the vineyard at various times of the day gives you an appreciation of "a grapes life" and the contrast between warm and cool throughout the day. Seeing those "pine cone" clusters of deep purple grapes beautifully hanging from the vines makes the heart race knowing what lies ahead for these beauties.

The first 2 bottles of Pinot both introduced by friends Adelsheim Pinot Noir from the Willamette Valley in Oregon and La Crema Pinot Noir from Sonoma County California. That started off my "pinot" quest to discover every bottle produced and rarely will you see my small cellar with zippo bottles of this fine juice (except for now which I blame on the wine gremlins). Visiting with the likes of Eric Luse at Eric Ross Winery sipping that beautiful Saralees Vineyard Pinot, Jason Deloach of HookNLadder Winery tasting both bottled and barreled Russian River Valley Pinot, Amelia Ceja of Ceja Vineyards and the wonderful earthy Pinot of the Carneros Region of Napa, Cuvaison's Carneros tasting room on the patio overlooking the vineyards gives you an appreciation for the different characteristics of the regions. Santa Barbara Cambria or Highliner from the famous Hitching Post, Cartlidge and Browne, John Tyler Wines, Owen Roe, Bouchaine the list is endless. Smooth, silky light to medium bodied its why I say "Heaven In A Bottle"

This weekend in honor of the 9th Pinot Summit I shall raise a glass and toast my many friends attending and hope they share some of their thoughts on the event. Some even have orders to remember the wines they tasted and email me a list. To the winemakers may you all enjoy success, gain many new "friends" of your wines but most of all have a great time sharing your story. Afterall without all of you we wouldn't have this wonderful juice to enjoy.

Cheers
Dan

2005 Bouchaine Pinot Noir Carneros

2011-02-19T20:35:00.000-06:00

In honor of reading Vertical I felt the need to enjoy a wonderful pinot noir for such a special occasion. I chose Bouchaine partly because I love Carneros wine and from reading about them in the book A Moveable Thirst. Scouring the Pinot aisle at Benz Beverage Depot I spotted this new wine never tasted by yours truly. "Hey Matt this is your last bottle" and with a smile he informed me it was also good :)

Bouchaine Vineyards is located in Southern Napa Valley and specializes in delicious Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in a region perfectly suited for these varietals. Located at 1075 Buchli Station Road in Napa, the winery is open for tasting from 10:30am to 4pm daily.

What a wonderful nose on this wine. The dark cherries really come to the front quickly followed by a fresh red berry combination. Prior to the wine opening up the presence of the orange peel which I have never experienced in a pinot was very evident. The aroma finishes with that wonderful earthiness of carneros.

Ok I'm in heaven. The dark cherry flavor combined with the wonderful warming spice and ending with a hint of earthiness makes this one outstanding Pinot Noir. Elegant, smooth and rich this wine will spoil the pinot lover.

Cheers
Dan

Broman Cellars A Great Family Wine

2011-02-04T05:19:00.002-06:00

Imagine my excitement to have an opportunity tasting and writing about a small production winery located in beautiful St Helena California Broman Cellars. Striking up a conversation with daughter Lisa, I found the history of family and winemaker very interesting. Great time to share a story and drink wonderful wine.

The winery has a family flair with daughter Lisa being the only "paid" employee. Guess that means Bob and Deborah are in the business for the sheer joy! No just kidding, Bob has been a winemaker all his adult life and and a darn good one. His first job and his "break" in the wine business started as a cellar worker at Martini. Other well known wineries Concannon, Stags Leap, Guenoc and St Supery have been graced by Bob's wine creations. Even stints in France, Republic of Georgia, Italy and Chile have added tremendously to his wine knowledge and skill.

Meeting Deborah a realtor by trade for the first time something sparked for Bob. One twilight picnic in the vineyards later..... that's where we are today. Production of Broman Cellars wine is 1400 cases with a goal to increase slowly while still maintaining that personal touch. Winery permit in hand, plans are being drawn up to build the winery on their 11 1/2 acres in Deer Park. Can't wait to visit. Now how was the wine you ask? Drop dead good Cabenet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc and Syrah.

First up the 2005 Boman Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon. Grapes for this wine were picked from 2 vineyards Dr. Crane in Saint Helena and Georges III in Rutherford. When I initally poured the wine the black cherry and currant were dominate aromas. As the wine opened up the blackberry came to the front with a splash of what I swear is cola/currant. What a nose! The flavor so good. Ripe fruit, perfectly balanced juicy long finish. I loved the black cherry/blackberry combination and the wine was so smooth. Slight spice on the end. Only 626 cases produced so hurry before they sell out this outstanding Cabernet.

Second wine was the 09 Broman Cellars Sauvignon Blanc Napa Valley. These grapes were harvested from the Beckstoffer property Melrose Vineyard in Rutherford. Excellent crisp refreshing wine. Aromas of lemongrass and lime zest hit my nose first. Swirl 2 finished with a slight hint of grapefruit. Very pleasing to the nose. Enjoyed this wine tremendously. The white peach starts out your taste followed by fresh apricot. Citrus balance is wonderful and the crispness of the wine so good. Only 397 cases produced and one of the best Sauv Blanc I have tasted.

The final wine was the 05 Broman Napa Valley Syrah. The grapes were picked from Page Nord Vineyard in the Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley and aged in French oak for 28 months. No wimpy wine here folks but a full bodied syrah. Once in the glass the aromas of fresh blueberries and blackberries fill the nose finally finshing with a hint of earthy leather. The wine was very warming and the blueberry/blackberry combo absolutely perfect. Deep rich color and taste. The finish long and the slight hint of earthiness pleases the palate. 229 cases produced of this gem.

There you have it folks your and my introduction to Broman Cellars hand crafted wines. Each bottle showcases the family passion for creating delicious wine. Lisa a big thanks to you for introducing me to your family and their wines. Bob you have a wonderful gift and both my palate and I thank you. Please visit their website by clicking the link Broman Cellars to place your wine order!

Cheers
Dan

2007 Ravenswood Old Vine Zinfandel Napa Valley

2011-01-23T09:16:00.000-06:00

I received this sample of Ravenswood Old Vine Zinfandel as I migrated away from my normal pinot noir tastings and ventured into other varietals. Actually I had tasted zins before but never found one I like and then many of my wonderful wine friends flooded me with suggestions of excellent zinfandels. I'm now a Zin fan!

Loved the aroma on this wine. The combination of ripe blackberry and plum on the nose is awesome. Currants and smokey oak round out my smelling pleasure.

Excellent flavor and definately full bodied. Fresh plum and raspberry started off my taste. Very juicy fruit! Touch of blackberry in the middle followed by the spice of clove and the finish lovely vanilla. The combination of flavors were perfect and made the wine very enjoyable. A big thank you to the folks at Ravenswood for introducing me to their wines!

Cheers
Dan

2008 Cartlidge and Browne Pinot Noir

2011-01-22T19:50:00.000-06:00

A wine I chose for this post is one which sells out fast in my area. Folks here tend to taste a wine and then proceed to buy it out especially if its a great value. Cartlidge and Browne fits that mold and I can't tell you how many times once their wine is sold out I have to wait for the next vintage.

The 08 Cartlidge & Browne Pinot Noir California is full of juicy cherry on the nose. Slight hint of ripe plum and then a wonderful spice to finish out the aroma's. Whenever I smell ripe cherry in a wine I'm so excited to taste. Probably why I love Pinot so much.

Great taste on this baby. The cherry is jamy and really gives you the feeling of cobbler! Loved the plum which tasted as it was fresh picked. Combine that with the slight warm spice finish and you have one outstanding wine. Priced at $12.99 this is a very good Pinot and one that won't last long on the shelf.

Cheers
Dan

2002 Tenuta Vitanza Quadrimendo Italy

2011-01-15T08:12:00.000-06:00

The always fun trip to the wine store 1st Avenue Wine House to see my friend Traci (and she greets me like family which is what I love about going in there), the quest was for a nice italian wine because it had been awhile. After the usual me flipping her crap and I getting much more in return :) I headed upstairs to the Italian wine section.There I spotted todays offering the 2002 Quadrimendo a nice red wine showcasing the Sangiovese and Merlot grapes.

Nice fruit aroma, dark and rich. The blackberry is very dominant in the beginning of the smell followed by a hint of black currant. Towards the middle I get a little hint of juicy raspberry followed by a wonderful earthy aroma. Looks very silky smooth in the glass to me a sign its fine wine.

Yum! The silky juicy blackberry starts off your tasting pleasure so smooth you really forget its wine. Layers of licorice, raspberry, chocolate follow and the finish just the slightest hint of oak. Wonderful combination of complex flavors. Priced at $20, an excellent value.

Cheers
Dan

2008 Toad Hollow Unoaked Chardonnay Francine's Selection

2011-01-14T07:08:00.000-06:00

Chardonnay lovers have so many wonderful choices and styles to choose from today. I see the questions posed many times by friends on facebook and twitter "Do you like the traditional buttery, heavy oaked chardonnay or the new unoaked fruit forward chardonnay?" For the record I like both but starting to sway in a little different direction. Something about wonderful layers of fruit flavor with no oak or little oak really pleases my palate.

My first introduction to unoaked or oak free chardonnay as some refer to it, was on my trip to Napa last June (Passaggio and St Supery). I now have a 3rd to add to that awesome list the 2008 Toad Hollow Vineyards Unoaked Chardonnay. Crisp, refreshing, full of fruit its one you will definitely want to drink and keep on hand.

Once in the glass the aroma of green apple crisp and fresh fills your nose. As I continued to swirl the glass citrus tickled my nose. The aroma of this wine excites you and suddenly to heck with smelling it's time to let the palate enjoy.

Just like the aroma the wine is awesome. The apple/melon combination at the beginning of the taste followed by a hint of mango is very pleasing. Love the quick hit of mineral right before the creamy finish which really lingers long.

Pick up a bottle today to share with friends this weekend. I know they will enjoy it as well.

Cheers
Dan

2007 Kris Pinot Noir Italy

2011-01-09T10:40:00.000-06:00

Exploring different pinots to me is such a thrill. What region did they come and what characteristics do they showcase? Does my palate love one region over another (I have not even broke the surace in CA, OR, Italy, New Zealand). How is the price relative to the taste (great wine comes with a price and I love great wine). I was very surprised as my oldest dropped off a bottle of 2007 Kris Pinot Noir from Italy. Dad I bought you the bottle because the label was cool looking :). I figured out quickly this was a new product carry in my area and the price range is $10.99 to $13.99 depending where you purchase.

The wine comes from the Apennine foothills of Oltrepò Pavese in Pavia Province, Lombardy known for it's mild days and cool nights. So how did my nose like this Pinot? A lot of red and black fruit on each swirl and smell. First aroma was the a wonderful combination of cherry and red raspberry with a hint of earthiness. Next some black raspberry and blackberry. Excellent ripe fruit aromas.

As in the aroma the fruit flavor was very juicy. Raspberry, cherry, blackberry, black cherry with each sip. What I felt the wine lacked for me was some spice on the end. Maybe I drank it too young? It would be a nice evening starter wine for a gathering at your home or party though in my opinion especially for those who prefer a lighter wine.

Imagine the first blog post of the year being a pinot noir :)

Cheers
Dan

Gloria Ferrer Blanc de Noirs to ring in 2011

2011-01-01T09:33:00.000-06:00

How did you ring in the New Year? Dinner, a night of drinks with friends or maybe you just got home from your celebration in which case you need a nap because football heaven starts in just 3 short hours.

After an early dinner we chose to celebrate the new year at home (actually I celebrated as one of us headed to sleep due to having to work this morning) by opening a bottle of Gloria Ferrer Blanc de Noirs. A wonderful tasty sparkling wine. Now I must know more about the winery and its production.

Known as the first sparkling wine house in Sonoma's Carneros region of California (one of my favorites), Gloria Ferrer Caves and Vineyards was established in 1986. It was very interesting that Gloria Ferrer on a trip to the Carneros region, absolutely fell in love with the beauty of the scenery as it reminded her of her homeland Catalonia. Her dream of producing California wine became reality as Gloria, her husband Jose and their 2 sons found a home for Gloria Ferrer Caves and Vineyards in beautiful Carneros. Jose Ferrer who's family was well known in Spain for their excellent sparkling wine production, never forgot his father wish of one day making wonderful sparkling wine in NorthAmerica. Congratulations on reaching that dream from 70 years ago. Kudos as well to today's winemaking team of Bob Iantoska Director of Winemaking who has the title of of creating the most award winning sparkling wines than any other single winemaker, Steven Urberg Winemaker who joined in 2001 and Vineyard Manager Mike Crumly who has worked with Bob for over 25 years. You each have a special gift!

Just loved this sparkling wine. From the first sip to the last the wonderful berry flavor found in my favorite grape Pinot Noir was light and fruity. Combine that with the citrus of the Chardonnay and it was all complimented by a creamy vanilla finish. Perfect combination of flavor and bubbles! I brought in the new year in style with this awesome wine. Gloria Ferrer quotes on her website "For generations, my family has said, ‘When you serve sparkling wine, you are serving a smile." Couldn't agree more.

Cheers
Dan

Merry Christmas and a Happy Prosperous New Year!

2010-12-23T22:22:00.000-06:00

It's been quite a year and I have many of you to thank. Building friendships on twitter and facebook has introduced me to so many wonderful winemakers, winery owners, bloggers, wine public relation social media folks, and friends just as nuts about wine as myself. Your friendship, insight and encouraging words are so much appreciated that saying thank you doesn't seem enough.
Over the past year having the opportunity to travel to Napa/Sonoma and meeting Amelia & Dalia Ceja of Ceja Vineyards, Rick Bakas formerly of St Supery, Christophe Smith of Titus Vineyards, Cindy Cosco of Passaggio Wine, Eric Luse of Eric Ross Winery, Jason Deloach of Hook and Ladder Winery, Craig Camp and the staff at Cornerstone Napa, the staff at Cuvaison in beautiful Carneros your kindness and generosity I will always cherish.
I am very excited about 2011. Using technology I hope to meet many more of you this year and look forward to live tastings online. So many ideas, so much energy around promoting great wine its going to be an awesome year for The Iowa Wino.

May all of you and your families have a Very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Cheers
Dan

2007 Sharecroppers Pinot Noir Owen Roe

2010-12-12T10:56:00.000-06:00

Once having the opportunity to meet David O'Reilly of Owen Roe Winery (located in beautiful St Paul Oregon) on both his visits here to Iowa, taste an outstanding portfolio of wines I was blown away and became an immediate fan. Each bottle that I purchase at the event tends to be consumed at an early age (wine is meant to be enjoyed right!) but this particular bottle aged a few months. Having my discussion with David he said it will be even better 3-5 years down the road. Guess I better locate a few more!

Honestly I could smell this wine all day long. Wonderful red cherry aroma as you first stick your nose in the glass. Cola as I swirl a second time followed by a wonderful spice and a hint of earthiness. Beautiful color on the wine and it's screaming "drink me now"!

Excellent Pinot Noir. The cherry and red raspberry fill your mouth like an explosion of fresh fruit. The hint of cinnamon spice warms the mouth and a slight touch of pepper at the end begs you to drink more. The finish is long and smooth. I purchased this bottle for $17.99 but it drinks more like $25.00.

Folks if you have an opportunity to partake in an Owen Roe wine tasting do not pass it up. Even better if David O'Reilly is there to sign your bottle and chat about his philosophy on wine making. Cool winemaker outstanding wines.

Cheers
Dan

Charity Case Wine 2008 Napa Valley Rose and 2009 Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc

2010-12-04T12:43:00.000-06:00

Imagine my curiosity when a box arrived a few weeks ago with 2 bottles of wine produced for the Charity Case Foundation. Who are these folks behind the scenes and what kind of wine do they produce? Before I get into their story may I just say the individuals involved have a heart as big as California and wines that are outstanding.

Jayson Woodbridge of Hundred Acre, Layer Cake and Cherry Pie wines had an idea to create wines which could be sold to benefit Napa Valley Charities. As I learned that vintners were more than happy to contribute juice to produce these wines, it reminded me of my own travel this past June and the wonderful folks of Napa. Pat Woodbridge, Jaysons mother gathered the info to form the foundation. Add in Helen Mawson, Sheila Daugherty and Peggy Garcia. All services volunteered, the wines donated to the foundation are produced throughout Napa Valley and labeled with the Charity Case logo. Isn't it wonderful to know that all monies received are distributed to the charities ( The Wolfe Center , Cope Family Center, Aldea Children and Family Services and Foster Kids Fund). Yes generosity and good will still exists!

I chose to start my tasting with the 2008 Charity Case Rose' which is 100% pure Napa Valley. Lovely strawberry aroma hits the nose first. As a kid we grew rhubarb and I will never forget how pleasant the smell and the wine reminded me of being young again. The taste is to die for. The ripe berry flavors of cranberry, strawberry, raspberry are so juicy. I loved the little hint of white pepper at the end. Outstanding!

Wine 2 was the 2009 Charity Case Sauvignon Blanc which again was 100% pure Napa Valley. Nice citrus aroma of lemon zest, melon and apricot. Really smelled crisp and full of wonderful fruit. Pineapple and melon combine perfectly to start your taste off. The finish is a wonderful creamy coconut. Loved this wine as well. So refreshing!

Please visit their website CharityCase Foundation to order great wine and support a wonderful cause not only during this holiday season but all year long. To the folks at the Foundation, volunteers and all the vintners I applaud you for donating your time so that those less fortunate have opportunities to live happy successful lives. Special thanks to Laura Kirkham for introducing me to these wonderful wines.

Cheers
Dan

2009 Wente Vineyards Chardonnay Morning Fog

2010-11-27T21:36:00.001-06:00

I knew the Wente Vineyards name but for some reason had never tasted their wines. My choice to serve with the Thanksgiving Turkey was their chardonnay which I purchased at my local wine shop.

Located in Livermore Valley which sits east of San Francisco, the winery founded over 125 years ago was the first California winery to produce a wine labeled as Chardonnay. The description of the vineyard on the bottle "Our Morning Fog Chardonnay is Estate Grown in the Livermore Valley, a region where the vineyards are cooled by morning fog that rolls in from the San Francisco Bay, resulting in longer hang-time and enhanced varietal character." Sounds like a beautiful place doesn't it!

The wine looked perfect as I poured it in the glass. Clear and crisp, the aroma of green apple and pear filled my nose first. Vanilla and fresh melon followed by a very slight hint of oak. Wonderful aromas and very pleasing to the nose.

The wine was a great pairing with the seasonings in the stuffing and the bird. I loved the apple melon combination at the beginning of the wine. The middle features a creamy vanilla along with a hint of pear and citrus. The layers of flavor are so well balanced and the finish crisp. Awesome bottle of wine and one I highly recommend if you love chardonnay.

To learn more about Wente Vineyards and the wonderful wines they produce click on the link to visit their website.

Cheers and Happy Holidays
Dan

Three Sticks, Three Ways For the Holidays Tastelive Event

2010-11-21T10:29:00.000-06:00

Another great TasteLive event which I was honored to participate in was live from Cellars Of Sonoma in beautiful railroad square downtown Santa Rosa California (as my buddy Scott Jordan can only say) hosted by award winning radio host, journalist and wine judge Ziggy "The Wine Gal" Eschliman. Loved the format via ustream because also in attendance was winemaker Don Van Staaveren who the panelists were able to bounce questions off and hear first hand his thoughts on the wines, winemaking and how well the foods paired with the evenings dishes. Chef Duskie Estes also in attendance provided some wonderful recipes for all of us to cook. Special thanks to Cailyn McCauley Tastelive's Managing Partner for bringing such a wonderful event together and my fellow bloggers for a wonderful evening talking wine (Grace Hoffman, Craig Drollett, Douglas Trapasso, Amy Corron Power and Joe Power).

As I said before loved the live visual of seeing Ziggy and Don along with Chef describe the wines and pairings making you feel as if your right there and not a million miles away :). We started the evening off with the 2008 Durell Vineyards Chardonnay and the pumpkin soup. The wine with the wonderful aromas of baked apple, pear, melon, butterscotch (yes as the wine warms) and vanilla. The texture of the soup combined with the creamy finish on the wine was outstanding. Apple, pear, melon and vanilla are a perfect balance of flavors so beautifully layered. Love this chardonnay!

Next up and you all know how excited I get any chance I taste awesome Pinot Noir was the 2007 Durell Vineyards Pinot Noir paired with duck. Because I was unable to find the main ingredient I substituted pork tenderloin. Wonderful nose on this Pinot with juicy black cherry followed by a fresh rose pedal. Black raspberry and spice round out the aromas. Great pairing pork and pinot. The juicy cherry, raspberry and spice was so smooth and drank like velvet. Officially the bottle did not make it through the night!

The final wine of the evening was the 2006 Sonoma Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. Black cherry, blackberry, raspberry and plumb aromas filled your nose with a slight hint of oak. The fruit smells so ripe and fresh. The wine is a fruit sensation in your mouth exploding with flavor. The plum really comes to the front followed by layers of boysenberry, black cherry and black raspberry. Awesome cabernet!

Well folks as we fast approach the holiday's where we share good food and wine with our families, Three Sticks Wines are an excellent choice. Elegant, balanced, exceptional fruit in each wine Mr Van Staaveren creates. Thank you Bill Price and all the staff at Three Sticks Wine for treating us to some special juice. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Cheers
Dan

2003 Chateau St Georges Bordeaux St Georges St Emilion

2010-11-20T09:01:00.000-06:00

If you have never treated yourself to a bottle of bordeaux its probably time you spoil yourself. Mine happened to be a gift from a good friend 3 1/2 years ago. Why did I cellar for so long? Cause it said best to consume in 2010 and 2011 is about here so now you know :)

Prior to even thinking about taking a drink the cork was removed for well over an hour to allow the wine a chance to open up. Once in the glass a wonderful dark fruit aroma of blackberry and plum followed by raspberry, a hint of tobacco and oak. Nicely layered and very pleasing to the nose. The wine is 60% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 20% Cabernet Franc.

Classic taste on this beauty. The combination of rich plum, juicy black raspberry, ripe blackberry was a palate pleaser. Earthy with a slight hint of oak but definately full bodied yet a soft silky finish. Excellent wine.

Cheers
Dan

2006 Z-52 Zinfandel Lodi

2010-11-10T21:36:00.000-06:00

I received this sample a couple weeks ago as I have been experimenting with Zinfandels. Still trying to find my way and it seems hit or miss with my palate.

The nose on this wine I thought was very nice. The plum and raspberry seemed to flow very well. Add in the black pepper spice and the wine has a pleasant aroma.

While I will start off with this wine was not one of my favorites it's only my opinion. I researched the web and found multiple reviews which showed folks were really impressed and liked the wine. Plum was dominant at the beginning with a hint of dark berry along with the raspberry. The black pepper spice was a little too much for me at the end. I'm more for wines with subtle spice vs bold spice.

I encourage you to try a bottle of the Z-52 Zinfandel for yourself. You have my permission to email me afterwards and tell me I'm nuts especially for those Zinfandel fans who love the wine.

Cheers
Dan

2006 Cambria Julia's Vineyard Santa Maria Valley

2010-11-07T07:42:00.000-06:00

My first ever taste of Cambria was courtesy of my oldest child and her gift "Happy Belated Birthday Dad". Still trying to figure out how she knows good old pops is a Pinot Lover!

I knew very little about the winery before I tasted so naturally I headed to their website Cambria Wine to learn more about them and the wines they produce. Located 3 hours north of Los Angeles in Santa Barbara County, Cambria has been producing estate Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Syrah for 20 years. I guess I must have been living in a fog for all these years missing out on this wine.

When this wine hits the glass there is no doubt its great Pinot. The ripe cherry aroma fills your nose first. Next the combination of the strawberry and the cinnamon spice followed by a slight hint of vanilla is absolutely perfect. Nice bright color I am ready for a taste.

Silky smooth and full of ripe fruit this wine will not disappoint. Cherry was dominant on the aroma and its no different when you first taste. What was really nice is the cinnamon spice combines with the cherry giving you a warm feeling. Next the strawberry and vanilla appear and really completes the wine. All I could say when the bottle was finished WOW! Yes Cambria you have a new fan and now I must visit and taste more of your wine.

Cheers
Dan

2006 Ceja Vineyards Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast

2010-11-06T08:54:00.000-05:00

Pondering when to drink the last bottle of wine purchased from my June trip to the beautiful wine country of California (which feels like a lifetime dear Napa and Sonoma), I could not think of a better pairing than pork medallions and pinot noir. The 2006 Ceja Vineyards Pinot Noir handcrafted in beautiful Carneros, was the perfect wine to serve. The berry flavor of the wine combined with the dried cherry pomegranate sauce over the pork was heaven.

In each bottle of Ceja wine, the fruit aroma is very intense and it's what I love about their wines. The 2006 Pinot Noir starts with the cola and the earthy raspberry aromas. Next I get a rich dark berry aroma and floral notes. Wonderful combinations of fruit and spice.

The wine in your mouth is elegent and rich. The flavors are very intense yet the wine so smooth. The raspberry and blackberry come right to the front as you first taste the wine and lingers long. Slight hint of dark cherry towards the middle of the taste. The spice while not overpowering compliments the fruit perfectly.

In talking with Amelia Ceja owner of Ceja Vineyards I asked her how she would describe the 06 Sonoma Coast wine. "Fresh and floral with hibiscus tea scents aromas. A savory medley of Jamaican tea, dried berry, herb and spice flavors."

My introduction and visit to Ceja Vineyards will always hold a special place in my heart. Trademark words the family lives by Vinum, Cantus, Amor......Wine, Song, Love. Found in each bottle of wine and any time you visit Amelia and her family. Stop by and visit their tasting room at 1248 First Street in Napa open daily at 11am.

Cheers
Dan

2007 Ravenswood Old Vine Zinfandel Sonoma County

2010-10-29T20:39:00.000-05:00

My next entry was a sample received the 2007 Sonoma County Old Vine Zinfandel from Ravenswood. A nice wine I paired with roast, vegies and a hearty gravy. Aged 18 months in French Oak the wine can be opened now or in 5 to 7 years.

Once in the glass the oak really game to the front and bold. Time in the glass opened the wine up with the black cherry and spice combination. Now comes the blackberry and a slight hint of vanilla. Outstanding berry aroma.

Surprised how juicy this wine is. The blackberry and black cherry start at the beginning and are present all through the long finish. Little oak, slight vanilla, spice but the ripe fruit is the star. Overall a very good wine, nicely balanced, concentrated ripe fruit. One I think you should drink if you're thinking Zinfandel tonight.

Cheers
Dan

2008 Salvatore Principe Malbec Cafayate Valley Argentina

2010-10-22T20:03:00.000-05:00

Another bottle break away from my norm was a wonderful Malbec from Argentina. Having tasted this varietal on a few occassions, I found that they are either hit or miss with my palate. The Salvatore was a wonderful wine.

Once in the glass the aroma of ripe plum followed by a wonderful spice really sets the wine up nicely. A hint of chocolate as I continue to swirl.

Nice silky wine. The juicy plum really starts you taste off. In the middle the spice really warms you and the finish is a wonderful juicy raspberry. I am excited to taste other Malbecs if they are as good as this one.

Cheers
Dan

2007 Cardinal Zinfandel Beastly Old Vines

2010-10-21T21:55:00.000-05:00

Zinfandel was a wine I knew very little about and frankly I tasted rarely if ever. Some followers of the blog said Zins are great wines, full of flavor and enjoyable. Just happened that I was headed tailgating and picked up a Zin to go with the BBQ. Great pairing so it was definately time to try more of this great wine. I received the Cardinal Zinfandel 2007 as a sample and wow what a wine.

The first aroma once in the glass is an awesome spice. I really think it actually warmed my nose! Next the blackberry, plum, red berry round out my swirl smell swirl smell. Nice color on this wine as well.

Ok I now know why Zinfandel lovers get excited. The juicy plum begins your tasting pleasure. The spice appears in the middle of the wine and warms you. The blackberry follows up the spice and the finish is long and juicy with the plum/blackberry combination. Seriously good wine and one I will continue drinking. A big thank you to the folks at Cardinal Zin Cellars for a wonderful opportunity to taste their wine.

Cheers
Dan

2008 Spanish Tempranillo and 2007 Cabernet from Chile

2010-10-18T06:22:00.000-05:00

Yes you read correctly I have gone outside the box and tasted wine from Spain and Chile. A good friend nicely pointed out that I tend to migrate to the American wines and particularly the regions of California, Oregon with a splash of Washington. It's time to branch out and find some gem's from other parts of the world.

The first wine I tasted was the 2008 Senda 66 Tempranillo from Spain. The aroma of plum, red berry, spice, a hint of leather and mocha. Excited to taste this one.

Nice intense flavor. The plum comes right to the front at first followed by the red berry flavors (cherry and strawberry). Mix in the spice and what a great wine. The finish is juicy and long with the cherry/strawberry combination.

Next up a wine brought over to the house from Chile the 2007 Los Vascos Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon. Really nice wine here as well. The aroma of the red cherries and raspberry combined with a smokey tobacco started the senses off. A hint of pepper as well.

Luscious flavor on this wine. The cherry/raspberry combination along with the pepper and clove spice really made this a nice wine. The smokey tobacco in the aroma vacated the glass the longer the wine was open. So far 2 for 2.

The final wine another brought over was the 2007 Ecos De Rulo Cabernet Sauvignon from Chile. The aroma of the spice on this one to me overpowered the fruit with black pepper, currant and cloves. Some plum and redberry evident towards the end.

Definate full bodied cabernet but again didn't really excite me. The spice in the aroma carried over to the taste with the pepper and currant overpowering the red raspberry and plum. Nothing wrong with the wine but just not one I enjoyed.

Overall a very good experience with these wines offered from the regions of Spain and Chile.

Cheers
Dan

2008 Toad Hollow Pinot Noir Goldies Vines

2010-10-15T21:15:00.000-05:00

I can always count on recommendations from my wine friends when it comes to great wine. Toad Hollow wine at a price tag of $12.99( 1st Avenue Wine House) was in my opinion an absolute steal! Before you drink the wine though you need to understand "The Legend Of Toad Hollow"

The story of Dr Toad and The Dancing Badger who retired to the hollow is hilarious with or without a glass of wine. As you read the story you can really picture these 2 fine gentlemen and their friendship. Now before you proceed any further I am requiring you to click on the link Legend Of Toad Hollow but first a glass of wine. I would agree Toad Hollow creates some seriously great wine.

In the glass the aroma of black cherry and spice really treats the nose. Earthy leather, some red berry...... we have a good one here!

Talk about some great fruit used to create this wine. Black cherry very dominate at the beginning of the taste. In the middle the spice warms your mouth. The finish showcases the raspberry and the black cherry with a long juicy finish. Outstanding wine Toad Hollow!

If your planning a visit to the California Wine Country then Toad Hollow is a must stop. The tasting room located at 409A Headlsburg Ave in downtown Healdsburg, is open everyday from 10:30 to 5:30. Treat yourself to great wine.

Cheers
Dan

Three Sticks Tastelive Panel Tasting 08 Durell Vineyard Chardonnay 06 Cabernet Sauvignon

2010-10-04T22:16:00.001-05:00

What an absolute honor to be chosen as a panel member for the release of Three Sticks Vineyards 08 Durell Vineyard Chardonnay and the 06 Cabernet Sauvignon. Luscious fruit, complex flavors this wine will spoil you with each taste. Sharing the stage with the likes of twitter friends DrinkwhatULike, HoustonWino, SwirlGirls, Cellarmistress, WineWonkette, MyVineSpot, CailynQ, and Three Sticks owner Bill Price was truly an experience I will never forget. Highly recommend all wines from Three Sticks!

We started this evening with the 2008 Durell Vineyard Chardonnay. First I found the aroma of butterscotch followed closely by pear. Others were just the opposite. As the wine warmed I really saw the pear aroma come to the forefront. Lemon zest/citrus along with the tropical fruit/melon.

I paired this wine with an iceberg lettuce salad and Cesar dressing and how wonderful. The flavors of apple, melon, peach along with a creamy vanilla flowed perfectly. A wonderful lemon zest finishes the wine which lingers long. A wine which truly spoils the Chardonnay lover.

The second wine of the evening the 06 Cabernet Sauvignon I paired with an Amana Beef Fillet grilled of course. Another spectacular pairing but then great cabernet and beef are a marriage.

The aromas of black cherry and blackberry explode once in the glass. Excellent nose on this wine. In the middle juicy plum. Another wine I could smell all night.

Wow was my first reaction. Boysenberry and plum with spice was so very good. Very smooth, juicy and as I commented drinks like a wine well above $100. The flavors flow nicely together and neither overpowers the other. A blend of 82% Cabernet, 10% Cabernet Franc, 5% Petit Verdot and 3% Malbec this lush wine spoiled me.

I know your excited to try your own bottle. Please visit their website Three Sticks Wine and sign up for their allocation list or to learn more about their wines. A big thank you to Owner Bill Price, Head Winemaker Don VanStaaveren, Assistant Winemaker Tracey Bledsoe, COO Prema Behan and all the fine folks at Three Sticks. Superb wine, great people. You spoil me with each bottle I enjoy.

Cheers
Dan

2008 William Hill Chardonnay Central Coast

2010-09-30T21:52:00.000-05:00

A new wine at my friend Traci's wine shop and a winery which I've never tasted before I chose the 2008 William Hill Chardonnay Central Coast. Great price point at $12.99 and a very nice wine.

Once in the glass a wonderful vanilla aroma hits my nose first followed closely by pear and melon. Love how the aromas blend together and anytime vanilla is present to me its a great one.

Excellent flavor on this wine. Pear and melon start the tasting pleasure. Next a creamy vanilla enhances the middle of the wine and the finish is a lime citrus. Long finish outstanding chardonnay.

Learn more about William Hill Winery by clicking the link to their website. "Renowned for crafting elegant Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot wines due to its exceptional location just off the Silverado Trail in Southern Napa on the Silverado Bench", I will be tasting many more William Hill wines very soon.

Cheers
Dan

2009 Dutcher Crossing Sauvignon Blanc Dry Creek Valley

2010-09-29T22:33:00.000-05:00

The second purchase at the all popular "meet the owner, winemaker" tasting event at First Avenue Wine House featuring Deb Mathy and Kerry Damskey was the 2009 Sauvignon Blanc. Up till this year I actually would "shy" away from Sauv Blanc due to the overpowering grapefruit flavor which I felt flat ruined the wine. Funny how your opinion changes when you find some folks who make great Sauv Blanc and now I really enjoy them.

Both at the tasting and home the combination of floral notes and crisp citrus on the nose really excited me. Some melon, grapefruit, slight pineapple along with a citrus zest rounded out my aromas. The wine is a blend of 79% Sauvignon Blanc, 4% Roussane, 10% Viognier and 7% Semillon

Excellent Sauvignon Blanc. The melon/grapefruit flavor was very mellow and combined with a lemon zest that lingered long. I pick up a hint of pineapple in the middle. No one flavor or aroma was dominate and I think that really makes the wine. Crisp refreshing I enjoyed this with some baked cod with a lemon zest in the coating and the wine paired nicely. I also enjoyed after dinner and found the wine alone smooth. I've found a Sauv Blanc I will always keep on hand! Matter of fact I found Dutcher Crossing to have outstanding wines which I will always have on hand for friends to enjoy.

Cheers
Dan

Cindy Cosco Owner Of Passaggio Wines Winemaker Interview

2010-09-25T09:44:00.000-05:00

Talking with owner, winemaker, marketer and how ever many other titles placed upon her, you get a friendly perspective of the world of wine from none other than Cindy Cosco of Passaggio Wines and Crushpad. I have known Cindy now for about a year and after being introduced to her Pinot Grigio and Unoaked Chardonnay, you can't help not loving her wines. Visiting with her, you see the passion and excitement as she describes her wines, philosophy behind their creation plus the love of her job. I hope you enjoy learning more about Cindy and her wine.

Iowa Wino : Cindy you are always using the phrase "follow your passion". Where did this come from and can we say this is your motto?

Cindy: Wine has always been a passion of mine...I decided in 2004 to follow that passion and move to California to pursue it. Here I am today living that dream. I would say yes, it is my motto.

Iowa Wino: You were in law enforcement before wine making. Was it an easy transition?

Cindy: Law enforcement was a great career. I thought it would be a difficult move but following what I loved made it easy. The excitement of getting to do what I dreamed of doing made the transition a great one.

Iowa Wino: Can you give the readers some backround on the name Passaggio and your winemaking philosophy? What characteristics do your wines showcase.

Cindy: Passaggio means Passageway in Italian - it is a tribute to my great grandfather who came over from Italy to pursue his dreams. My winemaking philosophy - all great wines are made in the vineyard...to make awesome wines that are balanced and that go great with food. I believe that wine brings people together and that is what it's for...to pair well with food and to drink with family and friends. I believe the Passaggio Unoaked Chard and the Pinot Grigio are great food wines although they can stand on their own as great drink alone wines. They are fruit forward - balanced - and really showcase the varietal in which it is intended.

Iowa Wino: You produce a Pinot Grigio and a Chardonnay currently. Why did you choose those varietals and will you be expanding the portfolio any time soon?

Cindy: Unoaked Chard and Pinot Grigio - two great white wines...my label is "New Generation" - I wanted to showcase these two varietals in the California style without the oak. To create a fresh, crisp, clean, wine so that you could enjoy it just sitting out back watching the sun go down. I am hoping to expand the label Passaggio and want to produce a Rose in 2010.

Iowa Wino: You juggle a lot of hats at Crushpad being the lab manager along with winemaking and pouring/promoting your wines. What's happening now? Is the harvest in full swing or has the weather delayed the process?

Cindy: Juggling lots of hats is what I do...I manage the lab at Crushpad and in charge of over 1500 different barrels of wines. I also am in charge of the white winemaking in which we have about 80-90 clients that make white wine. I also have my own brand that I try to promote. I wear different hats for that too. I do the sourcing of the grapes, make the wine, marketing, selling, blogging, twittering, facebooking...you name it I do it...

Harvest is underway but at a slow start. Grapes are coming in anywhere from two - three weeks later than last year. I do believe it will be a great year for the white wine maker. Sugars are at great levels, acids are high, and you will see lower alcohols.

Iowa Wino: What time of day are the grapes for your wines typically harvested? How far are the vineyards from the winery?

Cindy: The grapes for my wines are hand picked very early morning. This year we picked on Sept 15th at 0630. The vineyard is about an hour from the winery.

Iowa Wino: For readers who are unfamiliar with the winemaking process can you explain what happens with the grapes once they are received at the winery until they become "heaven in a bottle"?

Cindy: Typically for my white wines, the grapes are brought in and weighed first (I pay the grower by the ton) - they are then whole cluster pressed and put into tank to cold settle. The next day they are racked off the lees and put into stainless drums. I add the nutrients and different yeasts to each drum. The fermentation period, hopefully, is about 14 days. I prevent malolactic fermentation. I do leave some lees in each drum for stirring. They are then stirred each week. I like to test for SO2 once a month and taste them then too. I will do trial blends and at some point along the way they will be racked off the lees and will get ready for heat and cold stabilization. Once they are stable they are ready for bottling...

Iowa Wino: You probably meet many different folks tasting wine from the beginner to the advanced taster. What's the best advice you have given to a beginner who may be trying to find wines they enjoy?

Cindy: I would say to the beginning wine drinker - taste as many wines as you can and find what you truly like. Everyone's palate is different so find the wines that you enjoy and stick with that. The fun part is tasting, tasting, tasting....

Iowa Wino: Final question as we wrap up the interview: Now that folks are interested in Passaggio wine (hint hint) where is it sold?

Cindy: You can find Passaggio in the tasting room at Crushpad 3105 Silverado Trail, Napa, CA - you can buy it at the Valley Wine Shack in Sonoma, CA - it is also available at the California Wine and Cheese Shop in Monrovia, CA - and of course on my website http://www.passaggiowines.com/
There is even a link upper left side of the Iowa Wino blog to the website.

A big thanks to Cindy Cosco for taking time out of her busy schedule to speak with us as I showcase her awesome "boutique" wines on my journey of wine. If you have not tried Passaggio wine I highly encourage you to pick up a bottle today. Crisp, clean and the flavors of fruit so well balanced. Mouth watering yet?

Cheers
Dan

2007 Hook & Ladder Third Alarm Reserve Pinot Noir Russian River Valley

2010-09-12T10:54:00.000-05:00

Ever had the chance to visit Hook and Ladder Winery located at 2134 Olivet Road in beautiful Santa Rosa California? Make time on your next tour of the Sonoma wine country and request a visit with the winemaker Jason Deloach. Passionate, full of energy and ready to answer all your wine questions the visit will be memorable. Plus he makes some very nice wines especially the 07 Third Alarm Reserve Pinot Noir which I enjoyed tasting at the winery and opened yesterday watching college football.

Huge black cherry aroma while I was pouring the wine into the glass and after my usual monster swirls. Next a slight hint of vanilla but the spice aroma is wonderful. Smells almost too good to drink (like that will ever happen in my glass).

Taste? Outstanding top notch Pinot Noir. Black cherry very juicy which lingers long into the finish. Slight raspberry flavor in the middle which is a very nice compliment followed by the spice and hint of vanilla. Nicely done on the oak its very mild in my opinion.

If you love wine don't miss your chance to enjoy wines produced by Jason Deloach at Hook & Ladder Winery by visiting the fine folks on location or via a retail location near you. No distributor in your area, the winery will be happy to ship directly to your door. Nicely done Jason.

Cheers
Dan

2008 Sharecroppers Cabernet Sauvignon Owen Roe

2010-09-11T19:54:00.001-05:00

Well some neighbors stopped by the other night and he being a cabernet fan, my choice that evening was the Owen Roe Sharecroppers Cabernet. I picked this bottle up when winemaker David O'Reilly made his second trip to the ever popular meet the winemaker event at First Avenue Wine House. Naturally I had an opportunity to chat with David and have him sign the bottle.

On the nose the smokey aroma hit me first but the longer the wine was opened it relaxed. Next the aroma of blueberry followed by what I thought was blackberry but after further review was a deep dark cherry aroma. Some really nice spice at the finish.

Tom really liked this wine as he is a fan of washington cabernet and merlot. The first flavors we both picked up were the blueberry, cherry, strawberry combination. The spice and smokey flavor finished the wine off nicely but we were both fooled by the flavor in the middle of the wine. Hence the trusty laptop fired up, we noticed the tasting notes mentioned licorice and it was like a light bulb went off. Excellent flavor and being a fan of David O'Reilly wines, they do not disappoint. I really think this wine will get even better with age.

Cheers
Dan