Gems in My Glass . . . February 2010
Rosenblum 2008 Viognier, Kathy's Cuvee, Lodi: A bowlful of succulent fresh peaches and vanilla overtones on the nose are joined on the palate with sun ripened pineapple and juicy apricot; lush with good depth and elegance. The beautiful acidity balances the ripe fruit, and a subtle hint of sweetness in the aftertaste lingers pleasingly.Rock Wall 2008 Monte Rosso Zinfandel: This Zinfandel rocks! Fresh, juicy ripe berries jump from the glass and never let go. Delectably rich in red and black fruits, jammy without being overripe, with nice spice accents. Boasts a beautiful structure and texture, deft balance, and finishes long and lip-smackingly delicious.St Francis 2007 Behler Chardonnay, Sonoma County: Inviting aromas of French Oak and tropical fruit pave a captivating path to the round, mouth-coating, buttery notes that interplay with the ripe tropical fruit on mid palate. Round and full with a backbone of acidity offsetting the opulent fruit.St Francis 2005 Behler Merlot: St Francis really nails this varietal - and this is another beautiful example. Chock full of mocha and cocoa wrapped around a core of delicious blackberry and blueberry fruit, this Merlot is balanced with a silky texture and a long-lasting finish that leaves you begging for more.St Francis 2004 King's Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon: From grapes grown high above sea level in the Sonoma County coastal region, here is a cabernet with plenty of grip, balance and charm. After 30 months in French Oak and 2 more years of aging in the bottle, the dense dark berry and cassis lift effortlessly from the glass and blend harmoniously with anise spice, subtle oak notes and beautifully integrated tannins. Full bodied and built to last.St Francis 2006 Bacchi Vineyard Zinfandel, Russian River Valley: Inviting eucalyptus and mint leave aromas dominate the nose and persist through the finish. Gobs of blackberry and black cherry fruit take center stage on the palate with notes of candied berry adding a delightful accent. Rich and mouth filling with a clean, satisfying finish.Mayo Family Winery 2007 Los Chamizal Vineyard Old Vine Zinfandel, Sonoma Valley: Bursting with fruit from the plumy, berry aromas to the bright, juicy fruit laced with vanilla on mid palate, there's plenty of depth to sink your teeth into here. This Zin showcases a beautiful purity of fruit that stays focused and fresh from lively start to memorable finish.Mayo Family Winery 2007 Ricci Vineyard Zinfandel, Russian River Valley: Aromas of dark wild berry and raspberry open up on the nose, and lead to a luscious palate full of juicy blackberry and raspberry fruit alongside cinnamon spice and sweet candy apple coating notes. Decadent and firmly built; this Zin would pair nicely with barbequed ribs or pulled pork.Mayo Family Winery 2006 Page/Nord Vineyard "Lillyann's" Block" Syrah, Napa Valley: Enticing plumy, meaty notes on the nose really grab your attention. This classic Syrah expands broadly on the palate with dark berries and plums layered with pepper, Asian spice and a hint of earthiness blending harmoniously with well integrated tannins. Intensely structured and age worthy, if you can manage to wait!
