Gems in My Glass . . . December 2017
Hawthorne Vineyards 2015 Barrel Reserve Chardonnay; Old Mission Peninsula, Michigan: This well-structured Chardonnay opens with intoxicating aromas of spice and baked pears. Bright and smoothly textured in the mouth, with flavors of savory pear chutney, juicy apples, blanched almonds, leesy notes and well integrated oak from French barrel aging. The extended finish is lifted by a splash of citrus. www.hawthornevineyards.comBlack Star Farms 2013 Arcturos Cabernet Franc; Old Mission Peninsula; Michigan: The marvelous dark fruit aromas will take your breath away. Striking perfect balance, this gem displays layers of blackberries, plums, graphite, olallieberries, and subtle spices on the palate. Just the right touch of roasted bell pepper reconfirms varietal correctness without being over the top; delicious. www.blackstarfarms.comBrengman Brothers 2013 Gewurztraminer; Leelanau Peninsula, Michigan: From a cooler vintage comes this remarkably fragranced, enticing Gewurztraminer. Streamlined, well balanced and focused with flavors of lychee, star fruit, citrus blossom and subtle herb accents complemented by a racy level of acidity. Nice restraint in alcohol (11.2%), too. Expect this gem to age gracefully for several years ahead. www.brengmanbrothers.comBel Lago Vineyards & Winery 2012 Marino Reserve Vineyard Pinot Noir; Leelanau Peninsula, Michigan: For years I’ve touted Charlie Edson’s masterful Pinot Noir, and here is another fine example. This extraordinary wine, reminiscent of a red Burgundy, opens with forest floor notes. Black cherry, wild mushrooms, raspberry, minerality, and licorice notes entwine with subtle oak from French barrel aging. Ethereal and well defined, it’s delectable now, and I envision many years of enjoyment ahead. www.bellagowinery.comHolly’s Hill Vineyards 2015 Picpoul; El Dorado, California: This distinctive, creatively made Picpoul is fascinating! Dry hopped, it opens with tropical aromas, and YES, a note of hops. In the mouth, layers of dried pineapple, hints of mango, orange blossom, peach skin and yeasty notes prevail. Delightfully unique and well balanced as it makes it way to a finish that warms you right up! www.hollyshill.comSaluti Cellars 2014 Estate Zinfandel; Sierra Foothills, California: This jammy, expressive wine proclaims Zinfandel with its alluring berry filled scents. Boysenberry, ripe plums, hints of orange peel and blackberry jam interlace with cherry soda notes, nutmeg and clove spices, while gliding smoothly across the palate. Nicely balanced, fresh and pure through the persistent finish. www.saluticellars.com
