Gems in My Glass . . . September 2018
Lewis Cellars 2004 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon; Napa Valley, California: Deep and intense, this sophisticated Cabernet Sauvignon has aged beautifully, showing off both power and gracefulness. Cassis, black cherry, blackberry, tobacco, dark plum and leather notes join well-managed oak nuances, melted chocolate, and savory spice. Complex with refined tannins and a velvety smooth mouthfeel, and the dreamy finish keeps on delivering long after the last sip. SRP: ~$130 www.lewiscellars.comCougar Crest Winery 2016 Estate Chardonnay; Walla Walla Valley, Washington: This deep, full bodied Chardonnay opens with alluring aromas of fresh from-the-oven croissants. Delicious in the mouth, with layers of crisp pear, apple galette, almond paste, brown spices and fresh pineapple. Rich yet well balanced with a vibrant level of acidity that holds through the everlasting finish. SRP: $35 www.cougarcrestwinery.comMaryhill Winery 2014 Alder Ridge Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon; Horse Heaven Hills, Washington: A spice-tinged berry aroma jumps from the glass with this juicy, well balanced Cabernet Sauvignon. Black currant, tart cherry, black raspberry, Santa Rosa plum, leather, savory notes, tobacco, and oak spice wrap around supple tannins. Lush in texture and energetic as it progresses to a persistent aftertaste. SRP: $40 www.maryhillwinery.comHelwig Vineyards and Winery 2017 Roussanne; Shenandoah Valley, Amador County, California: Here is a vivacious and praiseworthy example of Roussanne. Heavenly aromas lift from the glass, and the entry is lively and dramatic. In the mouth, flavors of pear, white peach, fresh chopped herbs and a solid thread of minerality broaden on the palate. Remarkably balanced and well defined with bracing acidity complementing the succulent fruit. SRP: $24 www.helwigwinery.comLewis Grace Winery 2015 Grenache–Syrah; Sierra Foothills, California: A bit shy initially, this satisfying blend of 50% Grenache and 50% Syrah opens delightfully with aeration, showing off aromas of juicy blue and red berries. Fresh raspberries, just-picked summer strawberries, and cherry pastry flavors swirl on the palate with a splash of blood orange and a touch of spice. Well-balanced with refined tannins and a zippy finish. Decant if imbibing now, or cellar for further enjoyment ahead. SRP: $28 www.gracepatriotwines.comTrojak~Knier 2016 Sangiovese; Napa Valley, California: This delicately hued Sangiovese opens with a potpourri of Italian seasonings on the nose. Broadening on the palate are tasty flavors of cranberry, Montmorency cherry, tobacco leaf, dried strawberry, and a dusting of earthiness. Well balanced with bright acidity and gentle tannins, it remains silky smooth through the pleasing finish. www.trojakknier.comTrojak~Knier 2016 Teldeschi Home Ranch Zinfandel; Dry Creek Valley; California: An enlivening, perfumed aroma leads the way to forest berries and spice on entry. There is a nice rustic character on the palate. Rubyqueen plums, savory notes, candied raspberries, blueberries, a hint of cloves and a twist of black peppercorns meld in harmony. Smoothly textured and juicy, with just the right touch of oak adding complexity. www.trojakknier.comTrojak~Knier 2015 Cabernet Sauvignon; Napa Valley, California: The first swirl unveils a seductive dark brambly fruit, spice-tinged aroma. On the palate it’s intense and multifaceted with layers of Chelan cherries, black currants, tobacco, blackberries, crushed herbs, Satsuma plums, a nice shade of earthiness, spice box, and well-integrated toasty oak nuances. Succulent and sophisticated, it displays firmly structured tannins and fine balance as it heads to an everlasting finish. www.trojakknier.comTrojak~Knier 2016 The Blend; Napa Valley, California: This plush blend of 72% Sangiovese, 26% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 2% Cabernet Franc springs forward with charming aromas of a warm cherry pie fresh from the oven. Rich meets earthy as the wine coats the mouth with flavors of red and black cherries, raspberries, black tea, mulberries, leather, nutmeg and cardamom spice. Round and juicy with supple tannins, each sip begs for another. www.trojakknier.com
