Gems in My Glass . . . April 2011
Flying Horse 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley: Alluring black cherry and aromatic flowers on the nose lead way to a rich satisfying mouthful of dark berry, cassis and rainbow pepper spice notes layered with dried herbs and a dash of anise. Beautifully structured with well integrated oak, firm tannins, and a pretty touch of vanilla spice on the long lasting finish.Tor Kenward Family 2008 Durrell Chardonnay, Napa Valley: Inviting aromas of baked pear laced with a touch of honey greet the nose and remain persistent on the palate. Generous tree fruit flavors and honeysuckle notes are stylishly wrapped around a nice core of acidity that keeps it lively, and the finish is smooth and satisfying.Signorello 2007 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley: A stunning blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Merlot, 8% Cabernet Franc, this wine opens with tantalizing chocolate covered cherry aromas. Deeply fruited dark berry, cherry and currant notes with a thread of tobacco and spice box notes adding depth on the palate. Complex with powerful tannins that suggest long term aging potential.Miner Family Vineyards 2006 The Oracle, Napa Valley: All five Bordeaux varieties make up this harmonious blend (50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 23% Cabernet Franc, 17% Merlot, 5% Malbec, 3% Petite Verdot), and it really packs a punch. Blackberry and currant are dominant on the nose, and the juicy berry fruit blossoms broadly on the palate with plenty of spice, a hint of smoke and nicely integrated oak. Skillfully balanced and nicely crafted.Amuse Bouche 2008 Merlot, Napa Valley: Exotic spice, herbs and floral aromas pull you into the glass and remain persistent on the palate. The tantalizing spice and herb notes marry deliciously with dark blackberry, blueberry, chocolate mint and judicious oak notes. Builds impressively from mid palate through the long, velvety finish. Lush, complex and impeccably balanced, this Merlot should continue to develop gracefully for a good number of years.Holly's Hill Vineyards 2010 Viognier, Sierra Foothills: Gorgeous aromas of fragrant honeysuckle and delicate white flowers waft from the glass. On the palate, grapefruit and lemon notes accent the expressive stone fruit at the core, with apricot and juicy peach beautifully showcased. Rich and viscous with bracing acidity keeping it artfully balanced; an exceptional example of Viognier.Holly's Hill Vineyards 2008 Patriarch, El Dorado: The expressive fruity, earthy aromas send you gleefully into the glass. Here is a well crafted blend of 48% Mourvedre, 46% Syrah, 5% Grenache Noir and 1% Counoise. Full of generous dark cherry and berry fruit, forest floor and underbrush notes intertwined with savory spice, dried herbs and a hint of smoke from first sip to luscious lasting one; this is a palate pleasing, stylish wine.Sierra Vista 2009 Fume Blanc, Sierra Foothills: Inviting melon and citrus packed aromas burst forward and stay focused and bright on the palate. Lovely purity in this unoaked Fume Blanc with the tropical fruit flavors taking center stage, highlighted by a twist of lime peel and a dusting of herbs. Clean and refreshing through the lively finish; a perfect aperitif or a fine pairing with seafood and shellfish.Page Springs Cellars 2009 Malvasia Bianca, Bonita Springs Vineyard, Graham County, Arizona: Aromatic floral notes and distinctive stony minerality really please the nose. Tasty flavors of mandarin orange and tangerine greet the palate and mesh deliciously with notes of ginger and spice. Fresh with vibrant acidity, a delightful food pairing wine; think Asian cuisine or curry inspired dishes.Page Springs Cellars 2009 ECIPS (spice spelled backwards), Arizona: This meaty wine is a showy blend of Syrah, Mourvedre, Grenache, Counoise, Cabernet Pfeffer and Petite Syrah. Black cherry and berry fruit aromas remain pleasingly consistent on the palate alongside nice accents of baking spices, savory pepper and a touch of cocoa powder. Velvety smooth tannins are offset by a good level of acidity.MV Winery 2006 Nebbiolo, Sumu Kaw Vineyard, Fair Play: Scents of violets rise evocatively from the glass and weave subtly through the dense, rich display of black cherry and black raspberry fruit flavors and a distinct thread of minerality on the palate. This gem is powerfully built and the purity shines through with unobtrusive oak notes adding dimension. The pleasing finish hangs long and memorably.MV Winery 2006 Reserve Petite Sirah, Sierra Moon Vineyard, Fair Play: Opulent and fruity on the nose with layer upon layer of juicy blackberry, wild berry, and blueberry fruit laced with toasted caramel and baking spices. The exceptional balance of lush, concentrated fruit and lively acidity play off one another brilliantly.MV Winery 2007 Zinfandel, Fair Play: Ever so bright and expressive from the ripe, jam packed juicy berry fruit aromas through the decadent, mouth filling flavors of succulent cherries and berries. Yummy licorice and vanilla notes kick in on mid palate. Reminiscent of a childhood favorite candy treat, cherry pixie stix granules poured into a black licorice twist, delicious.
