Gems in My Glass . . . June 2012

Castello di Amorosa 2009 Chardonnay, Bien Nacido Vineyard, Santa Maria, CA:  Fresh churned butter, tropical fruit and a trace of citrus entice the nose.   Ripe melon, sliced pineapple and fig jam abound on the delectable mouth filling palate with zesty tangerine and lemon notes adding lift; balanced and pure.Castello di Amorosa 2006 La Castellana (Lady of the Castle) “Super Tuscan” blend, Napa Valley, CA:   This full flavored blend of 74% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Sangiovese and 12% Merlot opens with floral, dark fruit aromas and unfolds with black currant, cherry and blueberry flavors entwining with gusto.  Hints of earth and tobacco kick in mid palate adding complexity; well built with a backbone of firm tannins.Falcor Wines 2007 Chardonnay, Durell Vineyard, Sonoma County, CA:  Buttery, toasted oak aromas rise from the glass and meld handsomely with the creamy Asian pear, casaba melon and spice notes gliding on the palate with ease.    The ripe fruit is balanced artfully with a well-defined level of acidity; well crafted.Edna Valley 2010 Sauvignon Blanc, Paragon Vineyard, Edna Valley, CA:   Minerally with a touch of petrol on the nose, expanding on the palate with bright melon, sweet dragon fruit and a splash of fresh lemon.  Nicely fruit focused with a cut of acidity that keeps it balanced and sprightly.Pierre Paillard Brut Rose Grand Cru, Bouzy Vineyard, Champagne, France:  Yeasty, fresh baking dough aromas with floral overtones captivate the nose enticingly.  Creamy strawberry mousse with a splash of cranberry and orange peel blend harmoniously with the minerally qualities, and the tiny bead is lively and persistent.  Well-structured, balanced and complex with impressive length.