Gems in My Glass . . . December 2011
Mazzocco 2008 Maple Creek Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley: Beautifully lush and concentrated from the expressive nose through the rich, jammy fruit that wows the palate from first yummy sip. The purity here is simply beautiful, and the balance of rich, jammy fruit and good offsetting acidity makes for a perfect balance; lingers delightfully on the finish, too.Bokisch Vineyards 2010 Terra Alta Vineyard, Garnacha, Lodi: Notes of raspberry and fresh rosemary delight the nose, and lead to consistent and bright flavors on the palate. Light on its feet with nicely defined flavors of minced herbs, raspberry, pomegranate juice and red cherry fruit, this skillfully crafted wine swirls deliciously in the mouth and remain lively and pleasing on the finish with a touch of black pepper spice.Fields Family Wines 2009 Syrah, Lodi: Sizzling sausage on the grill aromas pull you into the glass and meld with dark berry fruit and a dash of cocoa on the palate. Expansive yet oh-so elegant with hints of meatiness blending provocatively with the juicy black berry and plum layers that pop brightly but are not overly ripe. Balanced and clean with a finish that persists gratifyingly.Duckhorn Vineyards 2002 Merlot, Napa Valley: Every so often I must pull an older wine from the cellar and see how it has developed; and this one has blossomed handsomely. Blueberry pie and cocoa notes on the nose broaden on the palate with roasted tomato, blueberry, wild berry and milk chocolate coating the palate scrumptiously. Silky and elegant, well structured and stunningly balanced. Donati Family Vineyard 2010 Sorelle Per Sempre Chardonnay: This vibrant unoaked Chardonnay unveils its pretty lemon blossom, apple and melon characteristics on the nose, and follows through on the palate with crisp apple, pineapple and citrus peel flavors creating a lively, appealing mouth full of goodness. Easy to quaff and refreshing with bright acidity throughout.Palumbo Family 2008 Tre Fratelli Meritage, Temecula Valley: Black cherries and vanilla bean aromas abound with this expressive Meritage, a blend of 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot and 20% Cabernet Franc. Good depth and structure with layers of juicy blueberry, black cherry, cassis and plum with a nice accent of nutmeg and cinnamon spice all weaving together harmoniously from first sip to delicious, lasting finish. Kenefick Ranch 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Chris's Cuvee, Napa Valley: Made from estate fruit (83% Cabernet Sauvignon with a bit of Merlot and Petit Verdot adding depth and complexity), here is full bodied, supple wine to please any Cab Sauv lover. Fresh black cherry and plum aromas remain consistent on the palate, layered with black currant, coffee and a dusting of cocoa powder. Gorgeous texture, lush and balanced with a finish offering a pretty touch of oak.
