Gems in My Glass . . . October 2017
Trojak~Knier Winery 2016 Chardonnay; Napa Valley, California: The compelling aroma of a fresh, buttery croissant is mouthwatering. Flavors of sun-ripened stone fruit, lemon zest, minerality, sweet hay, subtle oak spice and a touch of herbs interweave, exhilarating the palate. Balanced and multi-dimensional, with bracing acidity that lifts the wine through the long-lasting final drop. Trojak~Knier hit a home run with this superb Chardonnay. SRP: $48 www.trojakknier.comTrojak~Knier Winery 2015 Sangiovese; Napa Valley, California: Remarkably expressive on the nose, with dusty earth, bramble berries, and a hint of crushed spearmint leaves drawing you in. Focused and well balanced, as flavors of strawberries, tart red cherries, Italian herbs, hints of earth and savory spices fill the mouth, keeping you more than satisfied. The classic Sangiovese acidity never wavers, and you'll be delighted in the finish, which never lets up. SRP: $40 www.trojakknier.comTrojak~Knier Winery 2015 Syrah; Napa Valley, California: A rich fragrance of grilled meat and black fruits set the stage for this intensely flavored, powerfully structured Syrah. Distinctive layers of wild forest blackberries, pungent spice, a touch of smoke, and ripe black plums frame a firm backbone of tannins. The mouth feel is luxurious, and the balance is meticulous. I envision a long life ahead for this beauty, if you have the patience to wait (if not, decant now). SRP: $64 www.trojakknier.comTrojak~Knier Winery 2016 Pinot Noir; Napa Valley, California: Intoxicating at first whiff, as notes of black truffles and violets come to mind. The pale ruby hue suggests delicacy, and indeed this gem is elegant. But just wait - the vivid flavor profile bursts with precisely defined flavors. Wild cherries, underlying forest floor, cranberries, Chinese five spice, licorice and sandalwood mingle harmoniously, and the texture is as smooth as silk. The dreamy finish will tempt you into another pour. SRP: $58 www.trojakknier.comCantine Lunae Bosoni 2015 Vermentino Etichetta Grigia (grey label); Colli di Luni DOC; Liguria, Italy: Sleek and fanciful, with lots of personality as flavors of lemon grass, nectarine and star fruit, herbaceous notes and a hint of lime soda fan out onto the palate. Razor sharp acidity buoys the wine from start to vibrant, refreshing finish. Food pairing: SRP: ~$20 www.cantinelunae.itRoederer Estate NV Brut; Anderson Valley, California: This sparkling blend of 58% Chardonnay and 42% Pinot Noir offers up an expressive aroma with hints of fresh baked bread, and the lively mousse is captivating. Bartlett pear, honeysuckle and citrusy notes on the palate are complemented by a firm spine of acidity. Elegant and pure, with a long-lasting finish, and easy on the pocketbook, too. SRP: $23.99 www.roedererestate.comTonti Winery 2013 Old Vine Zinfandel Reserve; Russian River Valley, California: Here is a jammy Zinfandel that is bound to please Zin lovers near and far. Opulent and pure with impressive depth, it coats the palate with juicy boysenberries, fresh black raspberries, purple plums, vanilla bean, toasty oak notes and underlying spice. Finishes with depth and lift. SRP: $50 www.tontifamilywines.comB.R. Cohn Winery 2015 Sangiacomo Vineyard Chardonnay; Carneros, California: Glorious aromatics capture lovely fruit elements, citrus blossom and a nice touch of oak without being over the top. Rich and smoothly textured as layers of baked apple, lemon-lime, hints of ginger, and cinnamon flecked toast interlace. Full bodied and well balanced with a creamy, extended finish. SRP: $35 www.brcohn.comCliff Lede Vineyards 2014 High Fidelity Red Wine; Napa Valley, California: Here’s a stunning blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot. The fragrant, provocative aroma makes way for layer after layer of blackberry, cassis, woodsy notes, wild mushrooms, warm spiced plums, and anise seed unwinding on the palate. The 75% new French oak is precisely managed, giving the wine subtle oak spice nuances. Firm tannins wrap it up perfectly; an ageworthy selection. SRP: $85 www.cliffledevineyards.com
