wine recommendations

In between relentlessly tooting his own horn and updating his self-indulgent website, David evaluates wine.  Below are David's wine recommendations, posted as he finds bottles of unusual value or extraordinary quality:
 

-  September 8, 2010

Chateau St. Michelle Dry Riesling 2007 (Columbia Valley).  Dry, with a solid core of minerals, lime, green apple, peach, and lanolin.  Shows excellent balance, and a long, zippy finish (tart citrus) that keeps you coming back for more.  Drink now.  About $10.

-  August 19, 2010

Beringer Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve 1997 (Napa Valley).  Deep ruby in color, but brown on the rim.  Offers complex scents of coffee, black cherry, cola, cloves, and dark wet soil.  Bell pepper, cassis, plums, dark spices, and vanilla flavors lead to an explosive, layered finish.  Elegant, but with sure power and intensity.  Outstanding Cabernet.  About $100.

-  August 8, 2010

Almira Los Dos Old Vines 2008 (Campo de Borja).  Dusty aroma that also shows ink, freshly brewed coffee, cola, and lavender.  Medium-bodied, with dark cherry, black, tea, dark spices, and grapefruit on the finish.  A little rustic, but interesting, and a great value.  Made from 85% Grenache and 15% Syrah.  About $10.

-  July 24, 2010

Perrier Jouet Brut Champagne Non-Vintage.  Pretty aromas of yeast, bread dough, and ginger.  Medium-bodied, with considerable power to the smoke, ginger, biscuit, red apple, and hazelnut flavors.  Long finish retains its freshness. About $35.

Attilio Ghisolfi Barolo Bricco Visette 2001. Rusty brown on the edge, and featuring cola, licorice, coffee, and black tea scents.  Medium-bodied, with a fine grained texture.  Tomato paste, coffee, lavender, and dark chocolate on the palate.  Good intensity to the finish.  About $40.

-  July 15, 2010

Domaine de Fontsainte 2009 (Corbieres).  Copper/pink in color, with strawberry and rhubarb aromas.  Plenty of floral, orange, peach, and citrus rind flavors, with outstanding balance.  Lingering finish.  Excellent rosé.  About $16.

-  July 10, 2010

Albet I Noya Petit Albet Blanc 2009 (Penedes).  Made from organic Chardonnay and Xarel-lo grapes, this is beautifully perfumed, with white peaches, freshly cut grass, and Fuji apples.  Very inviting, with zippy acidity and sweet corn, green apple, and lime flavors.  About $10.

-  July 6, 2010

Rosenblum Syrah Rominger Vineyard 2006 (Yolo County).  Cola, white pepper, dried herb, and dust aromatics on this opaque purple/black colored Rhone-styled California red.  Impressive black fruit, smoke, espresso ice cream, and licorice.  Full-bodied and lasting in the mouth, with great intensity.  Excellent value.  About $18.

-  June 20, 2010

Mustiguillo Mestizaje 2006 (Valencia).  A blend of 70% Bobal, with Tempranillo, Garnacha, and Cabernet Sauvignon.  Exhibits ink, espresso, charcoal, violets, and erasers on the nose.  Dark on the palate, with black cherry, exotic spices, and smoke on the finish.  About $15.

-  June 13, 2010

Aramis Vineyards Shiraz / Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 (McLaren Vale).  Deep purple/red in color, with a nose reminiscent of bacon fat, blueberries, blackberries, burnt wood, and black licorice.  Plush mid-palate, featuring dark berries, charcoal, and black plums, this is well-balanced by acidity on the long, layered  finish.  Very good intensity, and good value.  About $15.

-  June 11, 2010

La Cartuja 2008 (Priorat).  Dark aromatics that include blueberry, smoke, and black cherries.  Strong on the attack, then smooths out to coffee, dark berries, and evergreen flavors.  Needs aeration, so be patient to bring out the saturated mid-palate.  A blend of 50% Garnacha, 30% Mazuelo, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 10% Syrah.  A bargain for Priorat, at about $15.


-  June 5, 2010

Domaine De La Citadelle Le Chataignier 2009 (Luberon).  Pretty copper/peach color, with fresh, inviting aromatics that include white pepper and grapefruit .  Great balance to the zippy acidity, with berry, citrus peel, and toast flavors.  Graphite on the finish.  About $12.

-  May 28, 2010

Cal Blanca 2007 (Toro).  Beets, charcoal, campfire, and cherry aromas emerge from this 100% old vine Tempranillo.  Exhibits excellent intensity, with spicy arugula, tomato, and black fruit flavors.  Vibrant finish.  Gutsy wine.  About $15.

-  May 27, 2010

Naia 2008 (Rueda).  Made from 100% Verdejo, this is straw colored, with a fresh, lively nose of clementine and limestone.  Tangelo, white peach flavors are solidly anchored by excellent minerality.  Drink now.  About $12.

-  May 25, 2010

Crios de Susana Balbo Rosé of Malbec 2009 (Mendoza).  Raspberry in color, with hints of funk, red apple, plum, and ripe berry on the nose.  Solidly built palate that's generous with fresh berry, orange, and spice flavors.  About $11.

-  May 23 ,2010

King Estate Pinot Gris Acrobat 2008 (Oregon).  Aromas of river rock, tangerine, and hints of tropical fruit.  Juicy, with clementine and mango flavors.  Very enjoyable, thirst quenching, and excellent with food.  About $10.

Flechas de Los Andes Malbec 2007 (Mendoza).  Espresso, plum, raisin, date, and licorice scents.  Dark, dark profile of smoke and charcoal.  Gusty and masculine.  Impressive for its price/quality ratio.  About $15.

-  April 27, 2010

Bodegas Borsao Garnacha Tres Picos 2008 (Campo de Borja).  Dark, dark ruby/purple in color.  Emitting complex scents of cherry liqueur, vanilla, smoke, leather, and blackberry.  Very full-bodied, fleshy, and overflowing with cherry fruit.  Soft and very approachable.  Drink now.  About $15.

-  April 23, 2010

Chateau St. Martin de la Garrigue Tradition 2009 (Coteaux du Languedoc).  A blend of Cinsault and Grenache, this is light raspberry/watermelon in color, with strawberry and kiwi aromatics.  Zippy, inviting, and fresh, with wet stones on the finish.  Easy to like.  About $14.

-  April 22, 2010

Quinta Do Coa 2007 (Douro).  Cola, wild berry, and black cherry aromatics.  Full-bodied, with a plump texture, featuring blueberry, Dr. Pepper, and black olive flavors.  Tart on the finish, with dust and dark spice notes.  Organic.  About $15. 

-  April 20, 2010

Coudoulet de Beaucastel Cotes du Rhone Rouge 2007.  Spicy/peppery nose, with lavender, leather, cherry, licorice, and hints of cream.  Silky, but full texture, with raw cranberry, leather, smoke, plum, and licorice flavors.  Good intensity.  Could use short term cellaring to integrate the dark tannins on the lengthy finish.  About $25.

-  April 18, 2010

Chateau Bellevue La Foret Rosé 2009 (Fronton).  Rhubarb/strawberry in color, with a fresh and floral nose. Strawberries, orange, cherry, watermelon, and peach flavors remain vibrant with mouthwatering acidity.  Very enjoyable.  About $11.

-  April 10, 2010

Dashwood Sauvignon Blanc 2008 (Marlborough).  Appealing for its zesty lime, gooseberry, grass, and tangerine profile.  Uncomplicated, but pleasurable.  Crisp, and demanding of a warm day in the sun.  Very good value.  About $10.

-  April 8, 2010

Chateau Larrivet-Haut-Brion 2000 (Pessac-Leognan).  Beautiful nose that's fresh and vibrant, showing blue ink and violet notes.  Plums, cranberry, cassis, and tobacco on the palate.  Licorice on the long finish, along with blackberries and prunes.  Excellent balance.  About $40.

-  April 3, 2010

Loma Larga Sauvignon Blanc 2008 (Casablanca Valley).  Clear, very light yellow color, with a shy nose hinting at grass and limestone.  Refreshing, with bright tropical fruits (guava, mango), lime, grass, and fresh herbs.  A darker profile on the finish.  About $15.

-  March 24, 2010

Feudi di San Gregorio Falanghina 2007 (Sannio).  Golden in color, with excellent minerality to the nose, along with white flowers.  Honeysuckle, white peaches, naval orange, funky cheese, and tart apple flavors.  Rich in texture, but still refreshing.  About $16.

-  March 16, 2010

Ridge Three Valleys 2007 (Sonoma County).  A blend of 76% Zinfandel, 8% Petite Sirah, 7% Syrah, 6% Grenache, and 3% Carignane, this is deep purple in color, and having wild berry, coffee, vanilla, and exotic spice aromatics.  Intense, saturated palate includes Cherry Coke, ink, lavender, mocha, and blackberry flavors.  Shows real depth to the long finish, where the briary notes show up.  Excellent value.  About $20.

-  March 14, 2010

Piazza Barbera 2007 (Piemonte).  Ruby in color, with an evergreen, raspberry, and green tobacco nose.  Fun and easygoing, with the requisite acidity for many foods, this has cherry, ruby red grapefruit, and mushroom flavors.  Nothing too complex, but great Italian red for the price.  About $10.

-  March 12, 2010

Thierry Triolet Brut Champagne Grande Reserve Non-vintage.  Striking citrus and dough aromatics, along with pineapple, coconut, cream, and hazelnuts.  Lively and frothy in the mouth, with flavors of candied ginger, lemon curd, pina colada ,and tropical fruits.  Red berries on the long finish.  Impressive.  About $40.

-  March 6, 2010

Tohu Chardonnay Unoaked 2008 (Gisborne).  Clean, fresh, and inviting, with lime, tangerine, and passion fruit flavors.  Uncomplicated.  A fun summer wine for a picnic.  About $11.

-  February 25, 2010

Montes Pinot Noir Limited Edition 2008 (Casablanca Valley).  Earthy nose, with grape skin and black olives.  Cherry, tobacco, cola, and plums on the palate, with nice tartness on the finish.  Easygoing, fresh, and likeable.  About $12.

Terrazas de los Andes Malbec 2008 (Mendoza).  Deep, opaque ruby/purple color.  Medium-bodied, with good intensity to the black pepper, boysenberry, wet earth, and Dr. Pepper flavors.  Symmetrical and focused, with fine tannins.  Peppery finish.  About $11.

-  February 18, 2010

Chateau Beauregard-Ducort 2007 (Bordeaux).  Straw colored.  Grass, cat's pee, and fresh herb aromatics are followed by a briny, salty, lime-tinged palate.  Fresh, bright, and lively in the mouth.  Save it for the summer, with a plate of raw oysters.  About $10.

-  February 16, 2010

Columbia Crest Merlot H3 2005 (Horse Heaven Hills).  Deep Burgundy in color, and possessing Cherry Coke, Dr. Pepper, and prune aromas.  Starts off with candied apple and plum notes, then moves into darker espresso and charcoal flavors.  Very soft, medium-bodied, and having good balance.  Pleasurable, with no hard edges.  Drink now.  About $15.

-  February 15, 2010

Palestra 2008 (Douro).  Deep ruby in color, with a great rustic nose of cherry, tobacco, leather, dark soil, and coffee.  Medium-bodied.  Shows acidity to go with the plum and cola flavors.  Short finish, but very food friendly and a great value.  Drink now.  Made from 40% Touriga Franca, 40% Tinta Roriz, and 20% Tinta Barroca.  About $10.

-  February 9, 2010

Gruet Blanc de Noirs Non-vintange (New Mexico).  Golden color.  Almonds, bread dough, and butterscotch caramel on the nose.  Good depth to the blood orange, ginger, red berry, and pomegranate flavors.  Graphite on the lingering finish.  Drink now.  About $16.

-  February 7, 2010

Pietra Santa Zinfandel 2006 (Cienega Valley).  Mint and other herbs show on the expressive nose, along with black fruit, butter, espresso, and licorice.  Medium-bodied, but with good palate intensity on the attack where blackberry, bitter chocolate, licorice, and briary notes really develop.  Drink now.  About $15.

-  February 2, 2010

Falesco Vitiano Rosso 2008 (Umbria).  Dark & deep aromatics of plum, black cherries, tobacco, and coffee.  Medium to full-bodied.  There's a strong licorice component to go with the loam, eucalyptus, black fruits, and espresso flavors.  Impressive value for an everyday Italian red.  Made of Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese, and Merlot.  About $11.

-  January 30, 2010

Villa Angoris Sauvignon Blanc 2008 (Friuli Isonzo).  Notes of honey, white peach, bright citrus, and grass on the nose.  Starts off with petroleum, then moves to tangerine, lime, and fresh herb flavors.  Very interesting, and unlike many Sauv Blancs.  Likeable acidity.  Drink now.  About $12.

-  January 18, 2010

Pol Roger Brut Champagne Non-vintage.  Golden straw color, with bread dough, green apples, tomato, spices, and mozzarella on the nose.  Crisp, with great balance to the dough and crisp fruit flavors, ending with a subtle earthy/mushroom note.  Would benefit from a year in the cellar.  About $40.

Mitolo Shiraz G.A.M.  2005 (McLaren Vale).  Opaque purple/black and glass-coating, with very perfumed aromatics of vanilla, blackberries, licorice, coffee, cherries, and chocolate cake.  Extremely full-bodied and rich, with intense charcoal, mocha, and meat/bacon flavors.  Nice tartness on the finish.  A monster wine.  About $60.

-  January 11, 2010

Louis M. Martini Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 (Sonoma County).  Slightly closed aromatically (hinting at Pine Sol and moss), but very expressive on the palate, with licorice, black cherry, mint, and cassis flavors.  Ripe, lingering finish exhibits black pepper and tobacco notes.  Shows surprising levels of refinement and precision for this price.  About $16.

-  January 9, 2010

Gruet Brut Non-vintage (New Mexico).  Golden yellow in color, with raw sourdough bread, lemon, and hints of white button mushroom.  Displays some richness, with yeasty dough, lemon bars, and dark earthiness.  Remains vivid on the finish.  Great complexity for a wine that's less than $20.

-  January 5, 2010

Maison La Caminade 2007 (Cahors).  Made from Malbec and Merlot, this is briary on the nose, with wild berry, licorice, leather, dust, and dried oregano.  Cheese curds, evergreen, underbrush, dried leaves, dark fruits, and blackberries on the medium-bodied palate.  Drink with a hearty winter stew.  About $12.

-  December 28, 2009

Cloud Dancer Sauvignon Blanc 2008 (Marlborough).  Clear straw in color, with a bright, inviting nose of fresh cut grass, clementine, sweet peas, and hints of smoke.  Juicy citrus flavors that dance in the mouth with good persistence.  Not outstanding, but likeable and fun.  Good as an aperitif.  Drink now.  About $13.

-  December 21, 2009

Fabla Garnacha 2007 (Calatayud).  Blackberry and licorice notes emerge in the glass, then followed by an uncomplicated but generous palate, with its sweet cherry, smoke, and dried cranberry flavors.  Medium-bodied, fresh, and pleasant.  Great value.  Drink now.  About $9.

-  December 15, 2009

El Arte de Vivir Tempranillo 2006 (Ribera del Duero).  Made from 60 year old Tempranillo vines, this is deep ruby/purple in color, with shy dark earth aromatics.  Rich in the mouth, and showing plum, espresso, licorice, wild berry, and dried cranberry flavors.  Full-bodied.  Drink now.  About $15.

-  December 13, 2009

Marques de Aragon Old Vine Grenache 2005 (Calatayud).  Spicy reticent nose, showing hints of plums, but exuberant fruit on the palate (mostly cherry), buttressed by supportive acidity and rustic tannins.  Leather and black tea notes.  Finishes with dried cranberry and dark spices.  Drink now.  About $10.

Renacer Punto Final Malbec 2008 (Mendoza).  Extremely ripe and loaded with blackberry, blueberry, and dark cherry fruit.  Succulent, juicy, and soft in the mouth, with interesting coffee and spice notes.  Drink now, on its own.

-  December 6, 2009

Montinore Estate Pinot Gris 2007 (Willamette Valley).  Clear, light straw hue.  Very fragrant, with under-ripe peach, flowers, orange, apple, and lime notes.  Clean, vibrant, and precise, with excellent balance.  Drink now.  About $15.

-  December 2, 2009

Cline Cashmere 2007 (California).  A blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvedre, this exhibits a complex bouquet of deep blackberry/blueberry, with grape juice, smoke, licorice, mint, and eucalyptus.  Medium-bodied and very soft in the mouth, but is resonant with dark fruit.  Balanced acidity retains interest.  About $14. 

-  November 29, 2009

Chateau Montrose 1998 (Saint Estephe).  Ruby, with hints of brown, this offers complex scents of leather, raw meat, dried herbs, tobacco, black tea, coffee grinds, and hints of funk.  Medium-bodied, with cassis, leather, and clove on the palate.  Very elegant, showing symmetry and balance.  Licorice and coffee on the finish.  Not the greatest Bordeaux, but very enjoyable.  Drink now.  Purchased for about $40, but now sells for about $80.

-  November 27, 2009

Hacienda Molleda Garnacha 2006 (Carinena).  Deep red in color, with a smoky bacon, ripe cherry nose.  Very enjoyable for it's soft, sweet cherry fruit and generous character.  Shows excellent purity, at an amazing price.  About $12.

-  November 24, 2009

Chateau St. Michelle Sauvignon Blanc 2008 (Columbia Valley).  Made in a New Zealand style, this offers vibrant white grapefruit and under-ripe stone fruit aromas, with a juicy palate of clementine, lime, and hints of tropical fruit.  About $10.

-  November 23, 2009

Chateau Cote de Baleau 1998 (Saint Emilion).  Sweet cherry, tobacco, and lavender aromatics.  Medium-bodied, with great delivery leading to plum, slate, and cherry flavors.  Excellent balance, freshness, and elegance.  Ready now, or hold for another five years.  About $20.

-  November 22, 2009

Vignarco Orvieto 2008.  Straw colored, with good depth to the nose, featuring white peaches, flowers, and limestone.  Ripe in the mouth, with fleshy peach, mandarin orange, and fuji apple flavors.  Finishes clean and refreshing, but with mouthwateringly ripe fruit.  About $11.

-  November 17, 2009

Trapiche Malbec Broquel 2007 (Mendoza).  Deep purple/red, with ripe aromatics of blackberries, plums, dark spices, coffee, toasted oak, cherries, and flowers.  Medium-bodied and soft in texture.  Exhibits vanilla and wild berry flavors.  Easygoing, but good presence on the finish.  Drink now.  About $14.

-  November 13, 2009

Fine Estates From Spain Volver Tempranillo 2007 (La Mancha).  Deep purple in color, with complex aromatics including blackberries, black olives, cola, smoke, and black cherries.  Youthful on the palate, with sweet cherry flavors and a slightly tart frame.  An excellent value.  Drink now or hold for a couple years.  About $15. 

-  November 11, 2009

Casa Castillo Monastrell 2007 (Jumilla).  Aromas of wet soil, black licorice, espresso, and hints of funk.  Deep, concentrated black fruit, anise, smoke, leather, and beef blood.  Full-bodied, with a savory, almost sharp finish.  Have with fatty meat.  About $10.

-  November 9, 2009

Campo de Luz Garnacha Old Vine 2008 (Carinena).  Ruby in color, this Spanish red is made from old vine Grenache, and shows kirsch liqueur, bacon, and bell pepper aromatics.  Medium-bodied and fresh, with ripe black cherry, plum, cola, and orange rind flavors.  Great purity for not a lot of money.  About $10.

-  November 8, 2009

Chateau Beauchene Cotes du Rhone Premier Terroir 2006.  Deep ruby in color, and exhibiting rusty nail, coffee, anise, and wet soil aromatics.  Licoice, ripe black fruit, smoke, dried herbs, and black tea flavors on a moderate frame.  Good balance and presence for the price.  About $15.

-  November 1, 2009

Chateau St. Michelle Merlot Indian Wells 2006 (Columbia Valley).  Enjoyable for its depth of plum, dark spices, green tobacco, blackberries, blueberries, and cola.  Toasted oak and vanilla on the finish.  Full-bodied and very approachable.  Drink now.  About $16.

- October 26, 2009

Bodegas Senorio de Barahonda Monastrell Heredad Candela 2006 (Yecla).  Very fragrant, with prunes, black cherries, warm stones, coffee, chocolate, and licorice notes.  Medium to full-bodied, and nicely spicy on the palate, with black pepper, cardamom, licorice, and candied apple flavors.  Hearty.  About $10.

-  October 23, 2009

Bodegas Valdesil Godello Montenovo 2008 (Valdeorras).  From in Galicia region of Spain, this 100% Godello is aromatically reminiscent of limestone, white flowers, white grapefruit, and peaches.  Tart on the attack, then medium-bodied, with more weight than one would expect from the nose, and featuring zippy clementine flavors.  About $10.

-  October 15, 2009

Araldica Gavi La Luciana 2008.  Reminiscent of wet river stones, chalk, grass, lemons, and touches of cream.  Refreshing, and almost medium-bodied, with some real personality.  Drink now.  About $14.

-  October 14, 2009

Sequoia Grove Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 (Napa Valley).  Cola, eucalyptus, menthol, bell pepper, green tobacco, and cassis aromatics emerge from this deep, rich color Cabernet.  Shows good presence, with plum, cassis, black cherry, cola, and tobacco flavors, with a moderate finish.  Varietally correct.  Drink now.  About $25.

-  October 9, 2009

Allegrini Palazzo Della Torre 2005 (Veronese).  Closed for business right now aromatically (hints of prune, acetone), but dark, dark in the mouth, with licorice, tar, ink, charred oak, black cherries, and dried mushroom.  Long and intense.  Excellent presence for the price.  Fine now, but will be even better in a couple years.  About $20. 

-  October 5, 2009

Moet & Chandon Brut Dom Perignon 1993.  Golden hue, with fantastic bread dough, lemon, ginger, and baked apple aromatics that jump from the glass.  Full-bodied and rich in the mouth, showing ripe pear, grapefruit, brioche, and lemon curd.  Long, creamy finish.  Drink now.  About $150.

-  October 3, 2009

Vina Cornejo Costas don Rodolfo Tannat 2007 (Cafayate Valley).  Peppery, beefy nose, with green bell peppers and tobacco.  Rustic on the palate, with earthy black pepper, smoke, and beef jerkey flavors.  Holds interest with nice acidity and black fruits on the finish.  Excellent value at about $10.

-  September 27, 2009

Newton Cabernet Sauvignon Le Puzzle 1997 (Napa Valley).  Brownish red, with an amber halo, this gives off a nose of green and red bell peppers, tobacco, eucalyptus, lavender and tomato paste.  Good attack, but really blossoms on the mid-palate, where the plum, cassis, and other black, ripe fruits show up.  Persistent, powerful, and more French in style.  Elegant and intense at the same time.  About $75.

-  September 16, 2009

Mulderboch Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé 2009 (Coastal Region).  Beautiful rosy pink in color with a hint of orange.  Very pleasurable aromatics, reminiscent of strawberries, rhubarb, apricots, and white raspberries.  Juicy and inviting, with concentrated fresh berry and orange peel flavors.  Really enjoyable rosé.  About $11.

-  August 29, 2009

Bradford Mountain Zinfandel 2005 (Dry Creek Valley).  Striking, powerful aromatics that ooze blackberries, licorice, smoke, espresso, buttered popcorn, cola, and chocolate.  Rich in the mouth, with a Nyquil/loamy earth quality to go with the ripe fruit.  A bit hot on the finish, but otherwise an outstanding Zin.  About $30.

-  August 26, 2009

Saladini Pilastri Rosato Consenso 2008 (Marche).  Flowery, fresh, and inviting, with its orange peel, raspberry, cherry, and strawberry profile.  A touch of pleasant bitterness on the finish.  About $12.

-  August 22, 2009

Las Rocas de San Alejandro Rosado 2008 (Calatayud).  Almost red in color, with a beautiful nose of tangerine, flowers, watermelon jolly rancher, and bing cherries.  Well-balanced cherry and red grapefruit flavors, with a persistent finish.  Offers excellent depth, and would pair well with many foods.  Good stuff.  About $10.

-  August 17, 2009

Black Box Sauvignon Blanc 2008 (New Zealand).  For a wine that costs less than the equivalent of $5 per bottle, this offers modest lime, grapefruit, and jalapeño flavors on an easygoing frame.  Hints of gooseberry and citrus on the nose.  Nicely zippy.  Made from grapes grown in the Hawkes Bay, Marlborough, and Gisborne areas.  Note that unlike some boxed wine, this is even vintage dated.  About $18/3L box, or $4.50/bottle.  A steal!

-  August 7, 2009

Cono Sur Sauvignon Blanc Vision 2008 (Casablanca Valley).  Reminiscent of white grapefruit, peaches, fresh cut grass, cider, and pomegranate.  Inviting.  Shows much more depth than their standard Sauvignon Blanc.  Clean, lightly fruity, with a refreshing, chalky, smoky finish.  About $15.

-  August 6, 2009

Domaine Houchart Cotes de Provence 2008.  Composed of 35% Grenache, 25% Syrah, 20% Cinsault, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Mourvedre, and 5% other varieties, this rosé is almost zippy, but with plenty of red berry fruit, lemon, herbal tea, and melon flavors.  Pretty pink color and an inviting, fresh strawberry nose.  About $12.

-  August 2, 2009

La Posta Cocina Blend 2007 (Mendoza).  Wild, earthy aromas mixed with coffee.  Briary palate, with wild berry, cassis, pipe tobacco, and loam flavors.  Medium to full-bodied, with well-defined tannins on the finish.  A blend of 60% Malbec, 20% Bonarda, and 20% Syrah.  About $16.

-  July 30, 2009

Chateau de la Vieille Tour 2008 (Bordeaux).  Clear and surprisingly fruity, with apricot, lemon, white grapes, melon, and kiwi aromas.  Not unlike a fruit tart.  Juicy, with ripe exotic fruit flavors.  Clean, minerally finish.  Made from 60% Sauvignon Blanc, 35% Semillon, and 5% Muscadelle.  About $11.

-  July 27, 2009

Celler de Capcanes Mas Donis Rosado 2008 (Montsant).  Strawberry and citrus aromas emerge from this very good rosé.  Has a gorgeous, clear  rosy color, with a ripe, refreshing palate.  Great acidity and length.  A richer style of rosé.  About $12.

Falesco Vitiano Bianco 2008 (Umbria).  Straw hue, with pretty, floral aromatics that include lavender and fresh herbs.  White grapefruit and Sweet-Tarts on the light-bodied palate, then a Marcona almond finish.  Try with pesto sauce on pasta.  About $10.

-  July 20, 2009

Mas Que Vinos Ercavio Blanco 2006 (La Mancha).  Made from 100% Airen, this vibrant Spanish white is golden in color and reminiscent of white peaches on the nose.  Mustard, peaches, and braeburn apple flavors show up on the light-bodied palate.  Fresh herbs on the finish.  Try with grilled fish or paté.  Drink now.  About $10.

-  July 13, 2009

Librandi Rosato 2008 (Ciro).  Handsome light crimson color, and overflowing with deep cherry, citrus rind, and fresh herb flavors.  Hints of barnyard and roses on the nose.  Medium-bodied, and very enjoyable.  About $12.

-  July 10, 2009

Chateau de Sancerre Sancerre 2007.  There's a fine minerality running through the lime/tangerine/tide pool aromas.  Fresh, inviting, and pleasurable with its grassy, white stone profile.  Seamless and approachable.  About $20.

-  July 5, 2009

Kumeu River Sauvignon Blanc 2006 (Marlborough).  A real cut above the average New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, with a fresh, inviting grassy nose, and an intense, appealing palate.  Abundant lime, grapefruit, passion fruit, gooseberry, and mineral flavors that sail on through the long, zippy finish.  Shows focus and symmetry.  Drink now.  About $22.

- July 2, 2009

Vinedos Y Bodegas Pablo Garnacha Menguante 2007 (Carinena).  Deep ruby in color, with a nose of black cherry, campfire, pencil lead, and rosemary.  Rustic, like the taste of the countryside, with licorice on the finish.  About $11.

-  June 30, 2009

Domaine de Fontsainte Gris de Gris 2008 (Corbieres).  Really pleasurable for its raspberry, orange rind, bing cherry, and lemon profile.  White pepper on the finish.  Refreshing and dry.  About $15.

- June 28, 2009

Nita 2007 (Priorat).  An interesting mix of dark flavors, such as plums, licorice, black tea, cola, coffee, and blackberries, but uplifted by spritely acidity that keeps this refreshing.  Manages to keep it's balance, and exhibits a moderately long finish that shows off a crushed rock quality.  Intriguing.  Try with roasted garlic chicken.  A blend of of 45% Garnacha, 35% Carinena, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 5% Syrah.  About $24.

- June 19, 2009

Bradford Mountain Syrah Grist Vineyard 2005 (Dry Creek Valley).  Made from organic grapes, this exhibits a powerful nose of ripe, sweet blueberries, anise, smoke, bacon, cola, and black cherries.  Fleshy, but not at all flabby, with a sturdy frame that holds up the dark fruit and herb flavors.  Shows intensity.  Only 500 cases produced.  About $30.

-  June 17, 2009

R Wines Shiraz Strong Arms 2006 (Southeast Australia).  Opaque, deep bluish red color.  Dark nose of charcoal, licorice, dark chocolate, and peppermint.  Shows cola, bacon, blueberries, and blackberries on the palate, with a thick texture.  Alcohol stands out on finish, but this is still a crowd-pleasing, rich value wine for near-term drinking.  About $11.

-  June 14, 2009

Schramsberg Brut Rosé Mirabelle Non-vintage (North Coast).  Pale copper color that's barely a rosé, with a floral, watermelon, and white peach nose.  Starts off with white grapefruit flavors, then moves to raspberry and strawberries.  Dry.  Great now, but will improve with a couple years in the cellar.  About $28.

-  June 12, 2009

Bastianich Rosato 2008 (Venezia-Giulia).  Pretty salmon-copper color.  Very floral, with ripe tangerine, bing cherry, orange rind, red apple, and hibiscus flavors.  Well-balanced, and food-friendly.  About $15.

-  June 9, 2009

Marco Felluga Molamatta Bianco 2007 (Collio).  Striking lemon verbena, honeysuckle, melon, and pizza dough aromas.  Ripe, almost fleshy, with pea shoot and red apple flavors.  Well-balanced.  Fresh herbs on the lingering finish.  About $18.

-  June 6, 2009

Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe Telegramme Chateauneuf Du Pape 2006.  Serious wine, featuring dried herb, anise, and dusty earth scents.  Dark palate, where the briary wild berry flavors show up, along with licorice.  Lasting fine tannins on the finish.  Not as complex or layered as the flagship bottling, but still worth it.  Try with coq au vin.  About $30.

-  June 4, 2009

C. Donatiello Pinot Noir 2007 (Russian River Valley).  Strikingly clear, with deep cherry, milk chocolate, and cola aromas.  Rich in the mouth, featuring eucalyptus, dark berries, and loamy earth flavors, with enough acidity to keep it honest.  Pepper on the finish.  Shows precision and intensity.  Aged in 40% new French oak.  Try with grilled salmon . . . topped with mushrooms.  About $45.

-  May 28, 2009

Altovinum Evodia Garnacha 2007 (Calatayud).  Made from old vine, high altitude Grenache, this red is very smoky on the nose, with blueberry and kiwi fruits.  Focused, well-defined black cherry, plum, anise, chocolate, and grapefruit flavors.  Acidity provides the framework for a long finish.  About $10.

Familia Zuccardi Sparkling Chardonnay Vida Organica 2007 (Mendoza).  Shy nose featuring brioche dough, then a doughy, green apple, lemon, and chamomile palate.  Ripe fruit on the finish.  Shows good depth for this price.  About $15.

-  May 11, 2009

Stephen Vincent Crimson 2006 (California).  A blend of 75% Syrah and 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine labeled "Crimson" exhibits sweet spices, chocolate milk, eucalyptus, and mint on the nose.  Inky palate featuring ripe cherry and spices, then a nice tartness on the finish.  About $12.

-  April 14, 2009

Falesco Montiano 2000 (Lazio).  Made from 100% Merlot, this features a powerful nose of bitter chocolate, prunes, espresso, pencil shavings (graphite & wood), and dust.  Has plenty of backbone to support the chocolate, mint, and "fresh, tall greens" that are evident on the palate.  Licorice on the long finish.  Masculine, outstanding Merlot.  About $50.

-  April 12, 2009

Santa Rita Sauvignon Blanc Medalla Real 2008 (Leyda Valley).  Effusive, ripe, and very enjoyable, with red grapefruit, river stone, and grass flavors.  Fresh and inviting, with excellent weight and acidity.  Drink while on a hike, or with grilled fish.  About $16.

-  April 9, 2009

Chateau Laffitte-Teston Vielles Vignes 2003 (Madrain).  Lavender, pollen, fresh dust, plums, and eucalyptus scents.  Powerful, with flavors of rare red meat, mint, and wild berry.  Deep ripe tannins, and a long finish.  About $15.

-  April 6, 2009

Starborough Sauvignon Blanc 2007 (Marlborough).  Intense gooseberry nose.  A real blast of lime, grapefruit, and passion fruit on the palate, this remains juicy despite the lively acidity.  Fresh parsley and other herbs on the refreshing, refined finish.  Drink now.  About $14.

-  April  4, 2009

Vinedo de los Vientos Tannat 2006 (Atlantida).  A dark, brooding kind of red from Uruguay, this is inky with a touch of animal and dark chocolate.  Blackberries, smoke, bacon, and espresso, with a great backbone.  Try with game braised lamb or game meats.  About $15.    

-  April 1, 2009

Santa Rita Carmenere Medalla Real Special Reserve 2007 (Colchagua Valley).  Deep crimson in color, and unfiltered.  Very perfumed nose, featuring cloves, star anise, wild berries, prunes, and freshly brewed coffee.  Velvety in the mouth, and long on the finish, where the fresh berry, tobacco, and licorice flavors really sing.  About $18.

-  March 29, 2009

Pares Balta Blanc de Pacs 2007 (Penedes).  An intriguing blend of 42% Parellada, 33% Xarello, and 25% Macabeo, this Spanish white is well-balanced and likable, with a minerally nose that also shows tangerine and stone fruits.  Grapefruit and clementines on the palate.  Enjoyable acidity.  Drink now.  About $12.

-  March 14, 2009

Greppone Mazzi Brunello di Montalcino 2003.  Crimson, with hints of rust and yellow at the rim.  Aromas of blueberries, sawdust, toothpaste, and wet leaves.  Medium-bodied, soft, with an impressive attack that features dried and fresh cherries, tobacco, blueberries, flowers, and orange rind.  Nicely layered, pretty mid-palate.  Ripe, and ready.  A reminder of what great wine tastes like.  Drink now.  About $70.

-  March 12, 2009

Lot 205 Petite Sirah 2005 (California).  Inky, dense, and broodingly dark on the nose, but surprisingly easygoing when it hits the tongue.  Exuberant cherry, coffee, plum, tobacco, and green bell pepper flavors.  A robust (but not nuanced) red, for little money.  Drink now.  About $10.

-  March 4, 2009

Saint Peyre Picpoul de Pinet 2007 (Coteaux du Languedoc).  Juicy, fresh, and inviting is this 2007, with wonderful green melon, tangerine, and fresh herb flavors.  Straw-colored and bright on the nose.  Notes of fleshy braeburn apple and lemon.  Very pleasurable.  Drink now.  About $10.

Trivento Amado Sur 2006 (Mendoza).  An interesting blend of 75% Malbec, 15% Syrah, and 10% Bonarda, this Argentine red possesses aromatics reminiscent of fresh mozzarella, green peppers, grape jelly, cigar smoke, and tar.  Starts off with wild berries on the palate, then a blast of licorice/smoke/bacon, and finally a charcoal close.  About $12. 

-  February 28, 2009

Rocca delle Macie Sasyr 2005 (Toscana).  Deep aromatics, featuring green bell pepper, Bazooka gum, cherries, and cola.  Round, fleshy, and ripe, with plum, cigar, meat, licorice, and lavender flavors.  Good finish.  Made from 60% Sangiovese and 40% Syrah.  Outstanding value.  About $15.

-  February 17, 2009

Cono Sur Pinot Noir Vision 2007 (Colchagua Valley).  Hints of crayon and toe on the nose.  Exuberant cherry, smoke, pepper, tobacco, spice box, and dried herbs.  Cola on the long finish.  A real step up from the regular bottling (that's pretty good too).  Excellent value.  About $15.

-  February 14, 2009

Chateau Soucherie Anjou 2007.  Aromas of white rock, white flowers, spring grass, and "sidewalk after it rains".  Not an obvious wine, with brown pear and chalk flavors.  Great acidic edge that's still balanced and inviting.  About $16.

-  February 3, 2009

R Wines Shiraz Luchador 2006 (South Australia).  Dense color, with aromas of meat, smoke, and black fruit.  Full-bodied and powerful.  Tons of licorice flavor, along with tobacco, graphite, iron shavings, and beef tartare.  Lengthy finish.  Hedonistic.  About $20.

-  February 2, 2009

Camille Cayran Cotes du Rhone Les Pas de la Beaume 2007.  Pleasant and fresh, with welcoming black fruit, smoke, herbs de provence, rainwater, and mineral flavors.  Try with game meats.  Made from 75% Grenache, 10% Syrah, 10% Carignan, and 5% Cinsault.  About $12.

-  January 30, 2009

Maschio dei Cavalieri Prosecco di Valdobbiadene Non-vintage.  Exhibits clarity to the straw hue, with a nose reminiscent of white truffles and Easter lilies.  Good focus to the tangerine and pear flavors.  Nectarines on the finish.  About $11.

-  January 28, 2009

Rosenblum Syrah Vintner's Cuvee 2008 (California).  Pleasurable and easygoing, the regular Rosenblum Syrah Vintner's Cuvee isn't as intriguing as their single vineyard bottlings, but is nonetheless an solid value.  It expresses good weight, with peppery plum, blackberry, and dried herb flavors.  Worth a try for only $10.

-  January 9, 2009

La Cova del Vins Ombra 2005 (Montsant).  Spicy, fresh, and inviting nose that also features licorice, coffee, and briary dark fruit.  Good precision and length, with refined walnut, dark cherry, and clove flavors.  Made from Garnacha, Carinena, and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes.  About $20. 

-  December 24, 2008

Seghesio Zinfandel 2007 (Sonoma County).  Jammy, rich, and satisfying for its ripe fruit, new leather, bacon, and tobacco flavors.  Coffee and licorice notes on the finish.  Full-bodied, intense, and long.  Great value.  About $20.

-  December 19, 20008

Domaine Lafage Cote Est 2007 (Vin de Pays des Cotes Catalanes).  An interesting blend of Grenache Blanc, Chardonnay, and Marsanne, this wine really delivers with a nose of honeydew melon, Fuji apple, fresh herbs, and freshly opened bubble gum package.  Juicy, fresh, and lively, featuring melon, green grape, and clementine flavors on a moderately weighty frame.  Very pleasurable.  About $12.

-  December 10, 2008

Scharffenberger Brut Non-vintage (Mendocino).  Yeasty nose, along with white grapefruit, brioche, and almonds.  Very lively in the glass, where there's plenty of coconut, ginger, and nutty flavors.  A complex, beautiful bubbly, for not much money.  About $18.

-  November 11, 2008

Burgans Albarino 2007 (Rias Baixas).  Effusive melon, red apple, and fresh herb aromas give way to a well-balanced, soft palate that features white peaches, limes, and nectarines.  Very inviting.  Great on its own or with grilled fish.  Excellent value.  About $13.

Boekenhoutskloof The Wolftrap 2007 (Western Cape)  A bit funky on the nose, but there are plenty of black fruits, anise, dark chocolate, and coffee flavors.  A pleasant sharpness on the finish, this has a nice rustic, peppery quality.  Made from 60% Syrah, 39% Mourvedre, and 1% Viognier.  Like a really solid Cotes du Rhone.  About $10.

-  November 9, 2008

Trimbach Pinot Blanc 2005 (Alsace).  With a nose reminiscent of rubber glove, minerals, and white grapefruit, this is refreshing and crisp, having hints of green pepper and cilantro on the palate.  Very food friendly.  Dry.  About $15.

-  November 1, 2008

Barossa Earth Shiraz Cat Amongst the Pigeons 2006 (Barossa).  A real mouthful of blueberries, blackberries, and licorice, this is a nearly overwhelming wine of ripe fruit and alcohol.  Extremely full-bodied, long and intense.  Not for the timid.  A wine to have by itself.  About $18.

Razor's Edge Shiraz/Grenache 2006 (McLaren Vale).  Powerful, inviting nose, featuring black pepper, barnyard, wet bark, black fruits, ink, and coffee.  Saturated, mouthfilling, with ripe nectarine, cherry, and cola flavors.  The 25% Grenache really shows here.  Lengthy finish.  About $12.

-  October 28, 2008

BenMarco Malbec 2005 (Mendoza).  Expressive, with cola, wild berry, underbrush, wet soil, toasted oak, and black cherry notes.  Brightness on the finish.  Food-friendly and refined.  About $20.

-  October 20, 2008

Rosenblum Syrah Base Camp Vineyards 2003 (Santa Barbara County).  Reminiscent of cola and cough syrup on the nose.  Hearty, with an intense rush of blackberry, anise, smoke and black pepper through the attack and mid-palate.  Rich, with a Nyquil texture.  About $18.

-  October 18, 2008

Montes Alpha Syrah Apalta Vineyard 2006 (Colchagua Valley).  Distinctively spicy, with plenty of New World fruit and Old World earthiness, this offers notes of cherries, blackberries, freshly ground black pepper, coffee, and licorice.  Shows great depth, with nice weight and structure.  Real spicy on the finish.  About $22.

-  October 13, 2008

Lewelling Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 (Napa Valley).  Ripe nose, featuring plenty of cassis, blueberries, dark tobacco, wet earth, and hints of buttered popcorn.  Fleshy and succulent in the mouth, with rich black fruits and herb flavors.  Acidity is a little tight on the finish, but that's the only fault on this one.  About $40.

-  October 9, 2008

Big House Petite Sirah The Prodigal Son 2005 (Paso Robles).  Shows focus, with its profile of inky dark blackberry, licorice, blueberry, cough medicine, iodine and floral notes.  There good structure here too, helping the finish last and provide definition.  Great value for those who enjoy a hearty wine.  About $15.

Bastide de Rhodares Cotes du Luberon 2003.  Deep in color, and showing complex aromatics of blueberries, cedar, tobacco, pink roses, and metal.  Spicy black pepper, licorice, lavender, and cola flavors, with bright acidity.  Try with steak frites.  About $17.  

-  September 25, 2008

Summers Cabernet Sauvignon Andriana's Cuvee 2005 (Napa Valley).  There's good depth to this one, especially for the price, with rich plum, cassis, tobacco, and coffee flavors.  Deep red in color, and possessing a moderately long finish.  Juicy, fresh, and satisfying.  About $22.

-  September 23, 2008

Tamari Malbec Reserva 2006 (Mendoza).  Strong nose of black fruits, brown sugar, coffee, and cocoa.  Notes of tobacco, oak, vanilla, blackberries, and squid ink on the palate.  Well-balanced for the price.  About $12.

Marquis Phillips Roogle Red 2006 (South Eastern Australia).  Super-jammy, with crushed blackberries & blueberries, along with licorice, plum, and coffee flavors.  Very ripe, and exhibits an alcoholic, but lengthy finish.  About $10.

-  September 14, 2008

Ottella Lugana 2005.  Having color like golden blonde hair, this Italian white is reminiscent of nectarines, peaches, chlorine, grapefruit, and hints of funky cheese.  Medium-bodied, with sprightly acidity and good balance to the citrus and stone flavors.  Made from Trebbiano grapes.  About $13.

-  September 7, 2008

Krug Champagne 1990.  Golden in color, with small, limited bubbles.  Aromas of unbaked bread dough, honeysuckle, cranberries, jasmine, orange peel, and blackberries.  Flavors of cream, butterscotch, red apples, coconut, and pickled ginger on the long finish.  Martyn says the earthy qualities are "like walking in the undergrowth".  About $300.

-  September 5, 2008

Silvio Grasso Barolo Ciabot Manzoni 1998.  Exhibiting an amber halo, then a pretty nose of roses, plums, cough syrup, and nail polish.  Medium-bodied and refined, featuring coffee, leather, tobacco, bacon, eucalyptus, and orange peel flavors.  Long, intense finish.  About $60.

-  August 31, 2008

Franciscan Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 (Napa Valley).  Dense purple to the rim, with a tobacco tinged, dark earth nose.  Medium-bodied and showing precision on the current, plum, anise, black cherry, and tobacco flavors.   About $25.

-  August 17, 2008

Les Lauzeraies Tavel 2007.  Watermelon in color, this rosé is bright, food-friendly and refreshing.  Yeasty nose, but with a fruity palate, reminiscent of raspberries, strawberries, and watermelon.  About $13.

-  August 13, 2008

Bucci Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Classico 2006.  Minerally nose, with hints white peach.  Harmonious and balanced, with well-defined acidity and floral components.  Refined.  About $16. 

-  August 11, 2008

The Black Chook Shiraz/Viognier 2006 (McLaren Vale).  Succulent, generous, and ripe, this Aussie blend of 94% Shiraz and 6% Viognier is full-bodied and round in the mouth.  Excellent vanilla, blackberry, cola, and chocolate flavors, with hints of licorice.  Deep peppery finish, and a great value.  About $18.

-  August 8, 2008

Chateau Pesquie Terrasses 2005 (Cotes du Ventoux).  Ruby in color, with spicy aromatics that include black pepper, oregano, cumin, and green herbs.  Medium to full-bodied, with plum and wild berry flavors.  Exhibits freshness and lively acidity.  Lots of black pepper on the finish.  About $13. 

-  August 5, 2008

Perrin Cotes du Rhone Reserve Blanc 2006.  Full-bodied and intriguing for its oily coriander, white peach, lavender, wet leaf, red apple, and orange profile.  Slate on the finish.  Great for hearty cuisine.  Always reliable.  About $10. 

-  August 2, 2008

R Wines Shiraz CR Ebenezer Chirs Ringland 2006 (Barossa).  Demands your attention, with a beautiful array of cola, maple syrup, vanilla, blackberries, erasers, and cherries on the nose.  Deep purple and black to the rim.  Massively rich, yet retains its freshness, with super-ripe plum, tobacco, and milk chocolate flavors.  Incredible purity, fantastic intensity, and uncommon focus.  Amazing for this price.  About $20.

-  July 28, 2008

Telmo Rodriquez Dehesa Gago 2006 (Toro).  Saturated blue/red color.  Wet soil, shitake mushroom, and cola on the nose, then a real rich mouthful of black plum, licorice, Asian spices, and blackberries.  Exhibits intensity and power, with plenty of black pepper on the long finish.  Outstanding value.  About $18.

-  July 21, 2008

Chateau Bois-Martin 2006 (Pessac-Leognan).  Reminiscent of peaches, lemons, blueberries, strawberries, candied fruit, watermelon, and fresh herbs.  Juicy, delightful, and with a racy finish.  Made from 65% Sauvignon Blanc and 35% Semillon.  About $16.

-  July 17, 2008

Luigi Righetti Amarone Classico Capitel De' Roari 2004.  Reminiscent of licorice, plums, cocoa powder, raisins, dried cranberries, and cola on the nose.  Spreads out on the palate with flavors of chocolate, black pepper, licorice, espresso, and prunes.  Expansive, long, and powerful.  About $45.

-  July 16, 2008

Vinos Sin-Ley Garnacha Caliu G3 2006 (Terra Alta).  Shows intensity to the ripe plum, blackberry, black cherry, eucalyptus, and black tea flavors.  Good acidity, full-bodied, and hearty.  Lots of length for this price.  About $10.

Dona Paula Malbec Los Cardos 2006 (Mendoza).  Dark nose, featuring black currants, charcoal, and espresso.  Saturated palate, with blackberry, plums, and anise.  Try with meat off the grill.  About $10.

-  July 13, 2008

Highfield Sauvignon Blanc 2006 (Marlborough).  Wonderful purity of ripe guava, passion fruit, lime, and clementine flavors/aromas.  Excellent balance and acidity.  Finishes with and herbal/grassy component.  About $17.

Allegrini Soave 2006.  Shy nose, with hints of acetone.  Tangerine, orange peel and fresh herb flavors.  Medium-bodied, fresh, and with enough weight to stand up to hearty foods.  Try with whole fish.  About $14.

-  July 10, 2008

Falset Etim Old Vines 2004 (Montsant).  Great intensity of dark plum, blackberry, smoke, black licorice, and smoke flavors.  Perfumed, with a piercing mid-palate, and admirable extraction.  Finishes long, where graphite, pepper, and rich tobacco notes show up.  Made from 85% Grenache and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon.  About $15.

-  July 7, 2008

Domaine de la Perriere Sancerre 2005.  Just a hint of funkiness on the nose, but there's plenty of tropical fruit, citrus, grass, and mineral flavors.  Very enjoyable, fresh, and mouthwatering.  About $18. 

Chateau St. Michelle Semillon 2004 (Columbia Valley).  Dark straw color.  Crushed granite on the nose, with hints of funk.  Exhibits green melon, red apple and tangerine flavors.  Nicely tart finish, with a moderately rich mouthfeel.  Don't serve this one too cold.  About $12.

-  June 24, 2008

Laurent-Perrier Brut Champagne 1995.  Golden hue.  Super-doughy nose, along with granny smith apple and white flowers.  Still youthful, with clean acidity to go with the white grapefruit, brioche, honeydew, apple, cream, and fresh herb flavors.  Superb length, complexity, and balance.  About $50.

-  June 10, 2008

Castano Solanera Vinas Veijas 2005 (Yecla).  Complex aromas of bacon, red tomato, black pepper, salsa, paprika, spice drawer, soil, shitake mushroom, and graphite.  Full-bodied, earthy attack, then the blackberry and blueberry fruit shows up on the lengthy finish.  Hints of beef jerky.  Made from 65% Monastrell, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 15% Tinorerea.  About $16.

-  June 2, 2008

Jones Family Cabernet Sauvignon The Sisters 2002 (Napa Valley).  Dark, dark ruby/blue color, followed by blueberries, black tea, cream, and cassis on the nose.  Well-developed mid-palate features blackberry, candied walnuts, plums, and cola.  Lengthy finish shows purity and refined tannins, with hints of tobacco/mint.  Excellent wine.  About $45.

-  May 27, 2008

Sitios de Bodega Conclass 2006 (Rueda).  Appealing for its profile of oranges, flowers, red and green apples, honey, and fresh herbs.  Fresh and easy to like.  Made from 80% Verdejo, 10% Viura, and 10% Sauvignon Blanc.  About $10.

-  May 12, 2008

Santa Rita Cabernet Sauvignon Medalla Real Special Reserve 2005 (Maipo Valley).  Really interesting for its sweet fruit nose, featuring cantaloupe, plums, cassis, and smoke.  Granny smith apples, tobacco, loam, and leather flavors.  Full-bodied, dark, and earthy.  The long finish shows off eucalyptus and black cherries.  Outstanding value.  About $17.

Elderton Chardonnay Unoaked 2007 (Barossa).  Clear straw in color.  Leans heavily toward the tropical fruit notes, with pineapple, freshly baked baguette, mango, passion fruit, and fresh herbs.  Hints of cream.  Nearly full-bodied, but crisp.  Remains lively and interesting, and goes down easy.  Good balance.  About $15.

-  May 10, 2008

Atteca Old Vines 2006 (Calatayud).  A bit shy on the nose, with hints of burnt caramel, bacon, and eucalyptus, but then a real blast of blueberry, graphite, smoke, plums, and listerine.  Exhibits purity and freshness.  Nice length, where wet tobacco and blackberry flavors shows up.  Made from 100 year-old Garnacha vines, grown at 3,000 foot altitude.  About $16.

-  May 2, 2008

Beringer Howell Mountain Merlot Bancroft Ranch 1997 (Napa Valley).  Amber halo to the dark red color.  Elegant, detailed nose of black cherries, tobacco, pepper, acetone, blackberries, ripe plum, and meat.  Powerful, with intricate fruit, wood, and espresso flavors.  Fascinating waves of flavor on the finish, where the black tea, fruit, and dark tobacco notes easily last for 30 or more seconds.  Masculine Merlot, and an outstanding wine.  About $75.

-  May 1, 2008

Dominio del Plata Malbec Crios de Susana Balbo 2007 (Mendoza).  Red/purple to the rim, with vibrant wild berry, vanilla, briar, butter, and subtle barnyard notes to the nose.  Full-bodied, with lots of creamy blackberry fruit, pepper, oak, and charcoal flavors.  Great balance and length for the price.  About $15.

Deseno Malbec 2006 (Mendoza).  Tastes and smells like a mug of dark hot chocolate, along with blackberries, plums, and espresso.  Dark tobacco on the finish.  Medium-bodied, fresh, and good for near-term drinking.  About $11.

-  April 29, 2008

Falesco Est! Est!! Est!!! Di Montefiascone 2006.  Fresh, inviting, clean white, featuring flowers, marzipan, citrus, and herb flavors.  Zippy, refreshing finish. Summery.  Excellent value.  About $9.

Heartland Stickleback Red 2006 (South Australia).  Deep red/black, uniform color.  Cola, black cherry, blackberries, espresso, and plums on the nose.  Soft on the palate, without much noticible tannin, but having good vanilla, toasty oak, blackberry, cherry coke, black pepper, and graphite flavors.  Straightforward, great value red.  Made from 52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 33% Shiraz, and 15% Grenache.  About $11.

-  April 21, 2008

Arrocal 2005 (Ribera del Duero).  Grapey, with wild berry, wet soil, leather, and tobacco aromas.  Great precision to the licorice, black fruits, and dried herb flavors.  Excellent texture, focus, and purity.  About $17.

-  April 15, 2008

Vinas del Cenit Venta Mazzaron Tempranillo 2005 (Zamora).  Reveals aromas of wet loamy soil, horse stable, cloves, raisins, vanilla, and black cherry.  Complex flavors of bitter chocolate, caramel, cream, blackberry, toast, and dark ground spices are featured on the palate.  Excellent intensity, palate presence, and good length.  About $15.

-  April 14, 2008

Angeline Pinot Noir 2006 (Russian River Valley).  Light ruby in color.  Tasty cherry, cola, black tea, and flower notes.  Nicely balanced, fresh, and slightly more than just pleasant.  Very food friendly.  About $15.

-  April 13, 2008

Domaine de Nizas Coteaux du Languedoc 2003.  Shows plenty of earthy, funky aromas.  Medium-bodied, with good definition to the black fruits, dried herbs, anise, leather, and meat flavors.  Intensity on the finish, where the cherry and tobacco notes pick up.  Best to decant this one for a couple hours.  60% Syrah, 35% Mourvedre, 5% Grenache.  About $15.

-  April 8, 2008

Farnetella Lucilla 2003 (Toscana).  Medium to full-bodied, and intriguing for its profile of licorice, black cherry, ink, cola, and oak.  Supportive acidity.  Tobacco and herbs on the finish.  Good with hearty pasta sauces.  About $15.

Rocca di Montemassi Vermentino 2006 (Maremma).  Pronounced minerality to go with the with peach, green pear, clementine, and fresh herb flavors.  Notes of flowers linger on the finish.  Balanced and refreshing.  About $12.

-  April 5, 2008

Alejandro Fernandez Dehesa La Granja 2002 (Castilla Y Leon).  Aged two years in American oak and bottled unfiltered, this Spanish red sports notes of lavender and orange blossom on the nose.  Distinctively spicy, with strong black pepper flavors in addition to the clove, coriander, and tobacco notes.  Hints of blueberry.  Good length and palate presence.  100% Tempranillo.  About $12.

-  April 1, 2008

The Crossings Sauvignon Blanc 2006 (Marlborough).  Really has an edge over the average New Zealand Sauv Blanc, with its smoky undercurrent to the lime, passion fruit, rambutan, and red grapefruit flavors.  Well-proportioned, long, and inviting.  About $12.

-  March 29, 2008

Chandon Rosé Brut Non-vintage (California).  Fairly dark in color and quite fruity, with strawberry, yeast, rhubarb,and apple flavors.  Bread dough on the finish.  Strikes a good balance between the fruit and acidity, with the yeast notes adding complexity.  Nice value.  About $18.

-  March 14, 2008

Ridge Zinfandel Three Valleys 2006 (Sonoma County).  Medium red in color.  Flowers, orange peel, coffee, cream, and erasers on the nose.  Youthful, fresh and inviting, with blackberry, plum, black pepper, clove, and licorice flavors.  Not heavy, but shows intensity on the mid-palate.  Blended with 10% Petite Sirah, 5% Carignan, and 5% Grenache.  About $18.

-  March 6, 2008

Jazmin Cellars Cuvee No. 03 2002 (Lodi).  Overflowing with ripe blueberry/blackberry/black cherry fruit, along with licorice, coffee, and brown sugar flavors.  Strong cherry cola component.  An "in your face" wine.  Very full-bodied and potent, with 15.7% alcohol.  Made from 85% Syrah, and 15% Merlot.  About $10.

-  March 4, 2008

Luigi Bosca Malbec Reserva 2004 (Mendoza).  Deep, focused palate featuring bitter chocolate, espresso, wild berries, dark soil, and hints of smoke.  Heavy use of charred oak, but there's good ripe black fruits to support it.  Medium-bodied and inky on the finish.  About $14.

-  March 1, 2008

Archetype Vineyards Shiraz 2005 (Barossa).  Likable for its blackberry, currant, plums, chocolate, coffee, and tobacco flavors, and even more impressive for its value.  Medium-bodied, with an undercurrent of dried herbs (oregano) and dark spices.  Finishes slightly short, but is still worth a try.  About $15.

-  February 23, 2008

Castell del Remei Gotim Bru 2004 (Costers del Segre).  Exhibiting great intensity on a medium-bodied frame, with powerful licorice, black fruits, coffee, crushed limestone, and toasted wood.  Not a heavyweight, but has focus and depth.  An excellent value.  About $12.

-  February 17, 2008

Kaesler Grenache/Shiraz/Mouvedre Stonehorse 2006 (Barossa).  Deep ruby in color, and a bit shy on the nose.  Full-bodied and rich with blackberry, vanilla, coffee, dark tobacco, and graphite flavors.  Exhibits great intensity on the finish, while keeping its balance and freshness.  Deep and syrupy.  This is always an excellent value.  About $20. 

-  February 15, 2008

Domaine du Cote Tariquet Chardonnay/Sauvignon Blanc 2006 (Vin de Pays Des Cotes De Gascogne).  Plenty of lemon, green melon, ham, and hints of spices on the nose.  Unctuous in texture, with flavors of rambutan, melon, apple, mango, bell pepper, and cream.  Strong enough to stand up to highly flavored foods, and enough acidity to keep it interesting.  Made from 50% of each grape.  About $12.

- February 12, 2008

Marco Real Garnacha 2004 (Navarra).  Inky, but fresh nose.  Pleasant, with tasty blueberry/blackberry fruit and hints of flowers.  No hard edges, soft, and enjoyable.  Drink now.  About $10.

-  February 7, 2008

Beasdale Sparkling Shiraz The Red Brute Non-vintage (Langhorne Creek).  Deep red/purple color, with effusive aromas of red and black berry jam, flowers, and honey.  Super-juicy, soft in texture, and oozing with dark fruit flavors.  Not as complex as some sparkling reds, but still very enjoyable and fun.  Try with burgers.  About $13.

-  February 4, 2008

Beringer Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 (Knights Valley).  Deep crimson in color, and featuring abundant aromas of cassis, leather, dark tobacco, green bell pepper, dark ground spices, and hints of vanilla.  Supple in the mouth, creamy, and just flows with dark cherry and black currant fruit.  Black tea and smoke.  Rich and smooth, but shows real definition and length.  Classic Beringer Knights Valley.  About $22.

-  January 30, 2008

Can Blau 2004 (Montsant).  A blend of 35% Carinera, 35% Syrah, and 30% Grenache, this Spanish red smells dusty, with dark fruit and more than a hint of barnyard.  Fleshy and appealing palate features blackberry, vanilla, espresso, and licorice. Focused finish.  Interesting wine.  About $18.

-  January 28, 2008

Vina Chocalan Carmenere 2006 (Maipo Valley).  Deep ruby in color, with aromas of Playdough, bell pepper, and toasted bread.  Dark chocolate, espresso, cola, and wild berry flavors.  Smooth on the finish, with pleasant acidity.  Good value.  About $11.

-  January 19, 2008

Beringer Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve 1999 (Napa Valley)  Ruby red in color, with touches of rust.  Offers mushroom, plum, cassis, wet earth, and sweet oak aromatics.  Medium-bodied, but penetrating, with a long layered mid-palate of blueberries, bacon, black cherries, bell pepper, tobacco, and dried herbs.  Not the greatest Private Reserve, but very balanced and elegant.  About $100. 

-  January 4, 2008

Los Quimiles Malbec 2005 (Mendoza).  Showing good character and flavor for the price, with wild berry, espresso, bitter chocolate, and vanilla flavors.  Fights through the cold mucus.  Not fantastic, but solid and enjoyable.  Only $10.

-  December 17, 2007

La Posta Malbec Pizzella Family Vineyard 2006 (Mendoza).  Exhibits great ripeness, with chocolate, blackberry, vanilla, and espresso flavors.  Very good definition and length.  Penetrating, without being heavy.  Excellent for the price.  Try with braised meats.  About $15.

-  December 15, 2007

Yering Station Shiraz 2001 (Yarra Valley).  Enticing, sweet nose of vanilla, cherries, blackberries, white flowers, black pepper, and roses.  Tender, flowing, and long in the mouth.  An elegant style of Aussie Shiraz.  Co-fermented with 3% Viognier.  About $15

-  December 10, 2007

Bodegas Borsao Garnacha Tres Picos 2006 (Campo De Borja).  Generous aromas of kirsch liqueur, pepper, bacon, leather, and hints of smoke.  Exuberant cherry flavors, along with black tea, blueberry, plums, and cola.  Great acidity, and moderate presence.  Shows excellent purity and value.  About $15.

-  December 4, 2007

Evil Cabernet Sauvignon 2005 (South Eastern Australia).  Rich, saturated with sweet tobacco, blackberries, plums, licorice, cassis, and lots of vanilla on the finish.  Full-bodied.  Plenty of flavor at this price.  For fans of big, thick Cabernet.  Drink now, or hold for a couple years.  About $11.

-  November 26, 2007

Curtis Heritage Cuvee Heritage Series 2004 (Santa Barbara).  Fashioned like a Cotes du Rhone, with exuberant cherry, black pepper, licorice, dust, red tea, and blackberries.  Ruby-red in color, medium-bodied, and made for immediate consumption.  Composed of 50% Grenache, 19% Syrah, 18% Mourvedre, and 13% Cinsault.  About $12.

-  November 12, 2007

Chateau De La Marechaude 2005 (Lalande de Pomerol).  Showing good cassis, leather, smoke, ink, and tobacco scents.  Medium-bodied, supple, and fresh, with good definition.  Finishes with black pepper and tea leaves.  Tasty now, but you could also hold this for a few years.  About $18.

-  November 10, 2007

Quinta do Alqueve Fernao Pires 2006 (Ribatejo).  Fresh, zippy white, featuring white peaches, fresh herbs, tangerine, and pear.  Very good value, and while pleasant on its own, it will go along with most lighter foods.  Only about $8.

-  November 4, 2007

Georges duBoeuf Morgon Jean Descombes 2005.  Deep ruby color.  Flowery, spicy, intriguing nose, featuring candied pecans.  Very peppery, with bright cherry flavors.  Good length and extraction.  Excellent value, at only $12.

-  October 29, 2007

MontGras Carmenere 2004 (Colchagua Valley).  Effusive nose of cherry, cassis, and tobacco.  Great attack, nice acidity, and blueberry fruit.  Finishes herbal, with a touch of flowers.  Juicy, but nicely balanced.  Inexpensive, and food friendly.  About $12.

-  October 17, 2007

Chateau de Sancerre  Sancerre 2005.  Pretty, clean aromatics that express zesty lime, fresh herbs, and minerals.  Great lemongrass, tangerine, and green pear flavors.  Has refinement and elegant intensity.  About $20.

-  October 15, 2007

Goats do Roam Goat Roti 2005 (Coastal Region, South Africa).  Deep red hue, with a nose of freshly ground Asian spices and blackberries.  Offering plenty of plum, vanilla, black pepper, and currant flavors on a medium-bodied palate.  Good presence, ripeness, extraction, and length.  About $18.

-  October 14, 2007

Jean Pierre Boisson Chateauneuf Du Pape Elisabeth Chambellan Vieilles Vignes 2001.  Ruby red in color, with an earthy, dark spice nose.  Peppery attack, then loaded with sweet cherries, tobacco, anise, blueberries, and toast flavors.  Chalky finish that is pure, lasting, and really enjoyable.  Ready now.  About $40.

-  October 12, 2007

La Posta Malbec Angel Paulucci Vineyard 2006 (Mendoza).  Dark, sweet aromas of wild berries, lilies, butter, anisette, and mocha.  Full-bodied, extracted, with a forceful attack.  Boysenberries, then charcoal on the good finish.  About $16.

-  October 9, 2007

Louis Roederer Brut Champagne 1995.  Golden yellow color. Very yeasty nose, which Kristin said, "smells like a bread machine". Full-bodied, with red apple, caramel, hazelnuts, butterscotch, and citrus flavors.  Finishes with vanilla ice cream flavors, and acidity that keeps it lively.  In tune with the house rich style.  Mature.  About $55. 

-  October 1, 2007

Yalumba Shiraz/Viognier Hand Picked 2004 (Barossa).  Plenty of dark fruits, vanilla, toast, black pepper, and black cherry on the nose.  Tasting like crushed blueberries and blackberries, mixed with licorice and spices.  Intense, rich, full-bodied, and balanced by good acidity.  Excellent wine.  Contains 5% Viognier.  About $35.

-  September 30, 2007

Fournier Sauvignon Blanc 2005 (Vin de Pays du Jardin de la France).  Clear, bright, and nicely endowed with chalky minerals, straw, asparagus, and fresh herbs.  Not a very complex or super-flavorful wine, but a very solid effort for not much money.  About $8.

-  September 25, 2007

Saint Clair Unoaked Chardonnay 2004 (Marlborough).  Extremely juicy palate of passion fruit, mango, lime, and ripe pears.  Fresh, lively, and almost candied with its fruit, with a full texture.  Hints at almonds on the finish.  Drink now.  About $15.

-  September 18, 2007

Planeta La Segreta Bianco 2006 (Sicilia).  Reveals excellent white peach, lime, fresh herb, and apple flavors on a fresh, inviting frame.  Has purity and moderately weighty texture.  About $15. 

-  September 11, 2007

Georges du Bouef Moulin A Vent Domanie des Rosiers 2003.  Exhibiting beautifully balanced layers of cherry fruit and acidity, along with chocolate, toast and vegetables.  Showing precision, length, with some tannin on the finish.  Fresh and inviting.  A real value at about $15.

-  September 3, 2007

Pascal Jolivet Sancerre 2005.  Clear straw in color, and showing precision on the nose.  Zesty lime, passion fruit, mango, and freshly mown grass.  Focused, with good intensity, and a juicy finish that keeps you coming back for more.  A wonderful example of a Sancerre that's great every year.  About $20.

-  August 29, 2007

Clos de la Oratoire 1998 (St. Emilion).  Unfiltered.  Offering black fruits, black pepper, asparagus, and forest floor on the nose.  Rich, mouthfilling, and full-bodied, with black fruits, ripe tannins, vanilla, and dark spices.  Showing richness and great length.  Has plenty of life ahead.  About $75.

-  August 25, 2007

Razor's Edge Chardonnay Unwooded 2006 (South Australia).  Clean and inviting.  Almost oily in texture, with fresh flavors of peaches, lime, guava, mango, and minerals on the finish.  Lively, well-balanced, and a great value.  About $10.

-  August 20, 2007

Artadi Rioja Vinas de Gain 2004.  Blue/red color, and smelling like a barn full of horses, with a background of blueberries (this is a good thing).  The palate features dark leather, ripe tannins, blackberries, and espresso.  Symmetrical, precise, and deep.  About $22.

-  August 17, 2007

Inama Soave Classico 2004.  A real mouthful of white peaches, along with fresh herbs, lime, and hints of mango.  Refreshing, lively, and enjoyable for its richness and balance. Great value.  About $13.

-  August 15, 2007

Patrick Lesec Chateauneuf Du Pape Pierres Dorees 2004.  Not a masculine style, but has great presence of dusty earth, cherries, green tobacco, and cola.  Pleasurable peppery/blueberry finish.  Effortless, lingering, and very balanced.  About $35.

-  August 8, 2007

Small Gully Maranaga Shiraz 2003 (Barossa).  Offering dusty aromatics, with wet pavement, soil, and a background of black cherries/black licorice.  Very full-bodied, and generous with its blackberry, plum, espresso, and bitter chocolate flavors.  Excellent acidity.  Vanilla/butter on the finish.  This is 15.5% alcohol, but its presence isn't all that noticeable.  About $20.

-  August 4, 2007

Tikal Malbec Amorio 2005 (Altos de Mendoza).  Starts off earthy on the nose, but moves to ripe blackberry, wood chip, and ink scents.  Full-bodied, pure, and well-delineated, with plenty of black fruits, vanilla, toast, grape jelly, steak, and espresso flavors.  Finishes with a dose of crushed black cherries and licorice.  About $35.

-  July 31, 2007

Auvigue Macon Soluté Le Moulin Du Pont 2005.  Lively and refreshing, featuring white flowers, limestone, green pear, and fresh herb flavors.  Just a touch of unobtrusive oak on the finish.  Pair with shellfish from the grill.  About $15.

-  July 26, 2007

Capcanes Mas Donis 2004 (Montsant).  Crushed rocks and pepper on the nose, then blueberry, blackberry, dusty earth, licorice, and oak flavors.  Medium ruby-red in color, and shows nice purity and precision.  Not super-rich, but makes an impression for focus and cherry-laced finish.  Great value.  About $14.

-  July 23. 2007

Ridge Vineyards Geyserville 2002 (Sonoma County).  Wonderfully elegant and refined, with precise blackberry, blueberry, and touched of cream.  Beautiful.  Andy commented that it was "like wrapping your tongue in satin sheets".  Ripe, but not overblown, very balanced and rich.  Lengthy finish that really sings with cherry flavors.  A blend of 84% Zinfandel, 12% Carignane, and 4% Petite Sirah.  Tasted from magnum.  About $60/1.5L. 

-  July 19, 2007

Mollydooker Shiraz/Merlot/Cabernet Sauvignon Two Left Feet 2006 (South Australia).  Displaying wet tobacco leaves, dark moist soil, and blackberries on the nose.  Massively thick, throat-coating, and long.  Super-ripe blueberries, vanilla, oak, red meat, smoke, espresso, chocolate, and licorice.  Burning sensation on the finish shows the 16% alcohol.  Full-throttle, and not for the weak.  68% Shiraz, 17% Merlot, 15% Cabernet.  About $20.

-  July 16, 2007

Chateau St. Michelle Semillon 2003 (Columbia Valley).  A touch chalky on the nose.  Effusive peach, green melon, apple, and tangerine flavors.  Basil and ginger on the finish.  Exhibits medium-body, generosity, and vibrant acidity.  Great value.  About $9.

-  July 14, 2007

Schramsberg Blanc de Noirs Brut 2003 (Napa/Mendocino/Sonoma).  Yeasty, bread-like nose, that also shows gardenias.  Beautiful clear, straw color.  Refined palate, offering lemon, white peach, and green apples.  Fine, elegant mouthfeel.  Nicely balanced, but could use a few years in the cellar.  About $35. 

-  July 10, 2007

Paolo Scavino Barolo 2000.  Amber halo on the edge, then tight on the nose, but offering dried flowers and cherries.  Delicious, classic Barolo flavors of tar, roses, espresso, and hints of cranberries.  Plenty of tannin, but not out of balance.  Give this some time in the cellar.  About $40.

-  July 7, 2007

Chateau De Valcombe Tradition 2005 (Costieres de Nimes).  Deep purple color.  Really peppery mid-palate is balanced by good blackberry and plum flavors.  Generous dose of underbrush and crushed rocks.  Medium-bodied.  Toasty on the finish.  A blend of 60% Syrah and 40% Grenache.  Only $10.

-  June 26, 2007

Moet et Chandon Dom Perignon Champagne 1996.  Yeasty nose, and hinting at wet earth.  Retains all of the intense flavors of golden delicious apple, white peach, and grapefruit along with its elegance and refinement.  Fantastic long, layered mid-palate, hinting at hazelnuts, cranberries, and brioche.  Hangs around for nearly a minute.  Fascinating, with laser-like focus.  Right up there with the great vintages of '85, '88 and '90.  About $125.

-  June 23, 2007

Altos Las Hormigas Malbec 2006 (Mendoza).  Dark, peppery and young, with a strong vanilla/oak/charcoal component to go with the black fruits.  Medium-bodied, slightly rustic, but well-flavored for the price.  About $10.

-  June 21, 2007

Pieropan Soave Classico 2004.  Great underlying minerality to go along with flavors of white peach, lime, and fresh herbs.  Bright, inviting, and superior to your average Soave.  Drink now.  About $15. 

-  June 18, 2007

Kaesler Grenache/Shiraz/Mouvedre Stonehorse 2003 (Barossa).  Plums, pepper, blackberries, and surprising earthiness. Powerful, but not heavy.  Black licorice and dark earth that rides along with the fruit.  Long, smooth finish.  Kristin decided, "hippie Australians make this".  About $16. 

-  June 14, 2007

Kenwood Cabernet Sauvignon Jack London 1997 (Sonoma).  At 10 years of age, this intriguing Cab has taken on fascinating nuance in the nose, with a perfume of tobacco, wet earth, vanilla, cassis, smoke, and hints cream.  Layered mid-palate of black tea, black fruits, dark chocolate, espresso, and leather.  Long, long gorgeous finish. Kristin says "this one will negotiate with Israel, but would still beat it".  Really beautiful, and shows how age brings out the details in wine.  About $30.


Villa Maria Chardonnay Villa Maria 2005 (Hawkes Bay).  Rich peach, apple, red grapefruit, and honey flavors are supported by fresh acidity in this nicely refreshing New Zealand white.  Hints at mango and passion fruit on the mid-palate, with clear minerality on the finish.  About $10.

-  June 13, 2007

Cline Zinfandel Ancient Vines 2005 (California).  Not a heavyweight Zin, but packed with black raspberry, blueberry, pepper, tobacco, and coffee flavors.  Shows sweet vanilla and licorice on the lively finish.  About $15. 

-  June 10, 2007

R.L. Buller & Son Premium Fine Tawny Non-vintage (Victoria).  This fantastic Aussie dessert wine is complex and richly appointed with flavors of apricots, hazelnuts, dried cherries, caramel, vanilla, and flowers.  Unctuous in texture, and with supportive acidity.  Made with the solera method.  About $18/375 ml.

-  June 8, 2007

Matua Sauvignon Blanc Paretai Estate Series 2005 (Marlborough).  Explodes with passion fruit, gooseberry, lime, kiwi, and mango.  Clean, pretty, and very long.  Finishes with ample fruit, acidity, and extraordinary complexity.  About $18.

-  June 4, 2007

Chateau d'Aiguilhe 2003 (Cotes de Castillon).  Offering wonderful aromas of tobacco, cassis, plums, cedar, cherry coke, and touches of vanilla.  Full-bodied, with excellent richness, depth, purity, and refinement.  Finishes with strong minerality and presence.  Ripe red Bordeaux that's drinking well now, but promises to age for a decade.  About $35.

-  May 29, 2007

Ferrari-Carano Fume Blanc 2005 (Sonoma County).  Well-represented tangerine, passion fruit, ruby red grapefruit, and eraser flavors.  Tart attack, but turns creamy on the finish, where the tropical fruits give you one last blast of juiciness.  This is one to enjoy on it's own, or with a crab salad.  About $17. 

-  May 28, 2007

Chateau Bois-Martin 2005 (Pessac-Leognan).  Offering no shortage of pink grapefruit, tangerine, peach, and melon flavors, with hints of lemon curd.  Sturdy acidity, touches of freshly cut herbs, and an inviting character. Refreshing white Bordeaux.  Begs for shellfish or a salad.  65% Sauvignon Blanc, 35% Semillon.  About $16. 

-  May 25, 2007

Paringa Sparkling Shiraz Individual Vineyard 2004 (South Australia).  Just bursting with super-ripe raspberry/blueberry jam, and kept lively through moderate effervesence and acidity.  Impenetrable purple color. Touches of black pepper and licorice.  Not the most complex of Aussie sparklers, but likeable enough for burgers or ribs.  About $12.

-  May 22, 2007

Patrick Lesec Vacqueras Vieilles Vignes 2003.  Ruby red, and offering dusty underbrush aromatics, along with cherry, tobacco, dried herbs, cloves, and black fruits.  Black licorice on the palate, supported by good texture and balanced acidity.  Decant for maximum enjoyment.  About $22.

-  May 17, 2007

Two Hands Shiraz Angels Share 2005 (McLaren Vale).  Really luscious, creamy stuff.  Just oozing with vanilla, blackberries, blueberries, licorice, smoke, and oak.  Full-bodied, impressive presence, and long in finish.  Hints of black pepper, pine needle and moist soil.  About $35.

-  May 12 ,2007

Maurodos Prima 2004 (Toro).  Striking aromatics of wet soil, prunes, blueberries, cloves, and sweet vanilla.  Fleshy, ripe, with plenty of muscle.  A youngster that needs a few years, but is already displaying ample blackberry fruit and licorice.  Toasted oak and black tea on the finish.  Buy now, and cellar.  About $16.

-  May 4, 2007

St. Suprey Cabernet Sauvignon 2002 (Napa).  Classic Cabernet scents and flavors of tobacco, cassis, plum, vanilla, and oak.  Soft in texture, with a pleasant manner.  Not thrilling, but a solid Napa Cabernet.  About $26.

-  April 30, 2007

A Mano Zinfandel 2003 (Puglia).  Previously labeled as Primitivo, this new vintage exhibits plenty of violets and ripe black fruit aromatics.  Overt blackberry, pepper, plum, and licorice flavors with medium-bodied weight.  Easy to like, especially at this price.  About $10. 

-  April 29, 2007

Graham Beck Cabernet Sauvignon Gamekeeper's Reserve 2005 (Robertson).  Dark red, and hinting at rust.  Forest, mushroom, and tobacco scents.  Medium-bodied, but light on its feet, with currant, plum, and leather notes.  With aeration, cocoa and toast show up on the finish.  Give this one time in the glass or decanter.  About $15.

-  April 28, 2007

Luigi Righetti Valpolicella Classico Superiore Ripasso 2004.  Aromatics reminiscent of black licorice, prunes, black pepper, and blackberries.  Evergreen, eucalyptus, tobacco, and cherry on the palate, with hints of cream.  Good value in a ripasso Valpolicella, and begs for food.  About $14.

-  April 21, 2007

Vina Cobos El Felino Malbec 2004 (Mendoza).  Excellent wine.  Port-like on the nose, and loaded with wild berries, new oak, vanilla, cream, tobacco, cola, and hints of herbs.  Shows refinement and precision.  Finish hangs around for a while.  About $25.

-  April 19, 2007

Henri Bourgeois La Porte du Caillou Sancerre 2005.  Perfumed nose, reminiscent of tangerines, grass, fresh basil, ammonia, and straw.  Ripe, lively, and heavy on the red grapefruit.  Finishes with guava and passion fruits.  Really enjoyable, and not without a background of minerals to keep it honest.  About $18.

-  April 17, 2007

Seghesio Zinfandel 2005 (Sonoma County).  Fantastic levels of black cherry, blueberry, licorice, coffee, and black pepper.  Hints at vanilla on the intense finish.  Provides lots of pleasure, and well balanced by ripe tannins and smooth acidity.  Careful, this one's 15.2% alcohol.  Drink now.  About $20.

-  April 12, 2007

Thorn-Clarke Shiraz Shotfire 2005 (Barossa).  Deep purple in color, and offering strong scents of crushed blueberries, vanilla, blackberries, cream, and pine sol.  A real stunner on the palate, hitting you with waves of berries, chocolate, prunes, lavender, coffee, licorice, and buttered toast.  An "in-your-face" kind of wine.  A rich mouthful at a decent price.  About $22.

-  April 11, 2007

Artazuri 2004 (Navarra).  Almost like a Cotes du Rhone, with its profile of dusty cherry, dried herb, and blackberries.  Crimson in color, and medium-bodied, with a licorice tinged finish.  Needs aeration and/or food to reveal itself.  Good for roasted meats.  About $10.

-  April 5, 2007

Montes Alpha Syrah Apalta Vineyard 2004 (Colchagua Valley).  Beyond the deep purple color is a briary nose, with hints of blackberry, freshly ground pepper, and toasted oak.  Succulent on the palate, featuring dark plums, blackberries, anise, espresso, and vanilla.  Nicely earthy, balanced by ripe fruit and fine tannins.  Great price for this quality.  From Chile.  About $18. 

-  April 1, 2007

Perrin Reserve Cotes du Rhone Blanc 2005.  Really pleasing scents of melon, mint, red apple, and honeysuckle.  Oily in texture, and rich with peaches and oranges, then spices on the finish.  Made of 50% Grenache Blanc, 20% Bourboulenc, 10% Marsanne, 10% Roussanne, and 10% Viognier.  About $10.

-  March 26, 2007

Yalumba Chardonnay Unwooded Y Series 2006 (South Australia).  This Aussie white is reminiscent of white peaches, tropical fruits, green apples, and ripe citrus, with hints of fresh herbs.  Exhibiting purity, freshness, and a friendly style, it is a excellent value.  It sees no oak aging.  Only $10.

Yalumba Shiraz / Viognier Y Series 2005 (South Australia).  This great value offers a perfumed noses of white flowers, black fruits, ink, and melted licorice.  Moderate in weight, but with good intensity and extraction on the mid-palate.  Notions of bittersweet chocolate, vanilla, and toast.  6% Viognier.  Good flavor for only $12.

-  March 21, 2007

Kotare Sauvignon Blanc 2004 (Marlborough).  Inviting passion fruit, lime, grass, and green pear flavors with a zippy, pleasing texture.  Soft, expressive and just itching for warmer weather.  Great as an aperitif, or with ceviche.  About $11.

-  March 17, 2007

Beringer Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 (Knights Valley).  While not as seamless as the 2002, the 2004 Knights Valley Cabernet is nonetheless well-made and classic in Beringer style.  Aromas of cassis and vanilla give way to flavors of black cherries, plums, blueberries, ink, and toast.  Kristin says that this "is a lot of what I like in a red wine".  About $25.

-  March 12, 2007

Terre del Grillo 2005 (Sicilia).  Don't expect loads of flavor here, just simple, refreshing lemon, herbs, and grass flavors.  Light-bodied, quenching, and dirt cheap.  About $6.

-  March 11, 2007

Las Rocas de San Alejandro Garnacha Vinas Viejas 2004 (Calatayud).  Dark red.  Intense, saturated palate of black cherries, cola, blackberries, and licorice.  Finishes with toast and charcoal.  Long and penetrating.  A fantastic value.  About $12.

-  March 7, 2007

D'Arenberg Shiraz/Viognier "The Laughing Magpie" 2005 (McLaren Vale).  Young, dense, rich wine, exhibiting aromas of white flowers, blackberries, and coffee.  Shows intensity, lasting thickness, and extraction.  Finishes with a burst of licorice, toasted oak, and dark berry flavors.  A real mouthful.  No delicate wine at 15% alcohol.  About $25.

-  February 8, 2007

Domaine Le Couroulu Vacqueras Cuvee Classique 2003.  Decant this one for an hour to really appreciate its cherry, licorice, underbrush, blueberry, and lavender flavors.  Medium-bodied, and soft.  Pairs well with coq au vin.  Made from 60% Grenache, 30% Syrah, and 10% Mourvedre.  About $15.

-  February 2, 2007

Beringer Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve 2002 (Napa Valley).  Wow.  Really penetrating aromas of coffee, cassis, plums, cream, and burnt sugar.  Floats along the palate with blackberries, black pepper, vanilla, black tea, and hints of chocolate. Long and beautiful.  Shows some youthful freshness.  Highly recommended.  About $100.

-  January 27, 2007

Lindauer Brut Special Select Non-vintage (New Zealand).  Aromas of white grapefruit, flower petal, and hints of bread dough.  Effervescent, green apple flavored, and bright.  Good flavor for only $10.

-  January 7, 2007

Mr. Riggs Shiraz/Viognier 2005 (Adelaide).  Slightly shy on the nose, with black fruits and flowers.  Powerful, dense palate of licorice, blackberries, charcoal, and plums.  Tooth-staining, intense, full-bodied, and extracted.  Made of 95% Shiraz, and 5% Viognier.  About $25.

-  January 3, 2007

Tommasi Poggio Al Tufo "Rompicollo" 2004 (IGT).  Reminiscent of mint, eucalyptus, and anise on the nose.  Blackberries, cloves, dried herbs, plums, and cassis show up on the moderately weighted palate.  Shows good character and presence.  From the Maremma, and only about $12.

-  December 29, 2006

Gloria Ferrer Blanc de Noirs Non-vintage (Sonoma).  Copper in color, looking more like a rosé.  Yeasty, with dark berries on the nose, followed by a palate of cranberries, oranges, toast, and lime.  Well-balanced, and a nice edge of acidity that keeps it lively.  A real bubbly value.  About $15.

-  December 15, 2006

Carmen Carmenere/Cabernet Sauvignon 2004 (Maipo Valley).  Offering aromas of green bell pepper, blackberries, and broccoli.  Brightness on the nose gives way to flavors of dark spices, plums, and licorice, with hints of coffee, blackberries, and caramel.  Thicker and richer in the mouth than it smells.  A blend of 60% Carmenere and 40% Cabernet Sauvignon.  About $12.

-  December 4, 2006

Saint Peyre Picpoul de Pinet (Coteaux du Languedoc) 2005.  Fresh, with lots of green melon, apple, and citrus flavors.  Cheap, food friendly, and easy.  About $7.

-  December 2, 2006

Feudo Arancio Grillo 2005 (Sicilia).  Fresh and inviting, with lots of lemon, fresh herbs, and grass.  Simple, but nicely refreshing, and a bargain.  About $7.

Marziano Abbona Barolo Pressenda 2000.  Grapey at first, then showing roses, ink, and leather on the nose.  Flavors of black tea, tar, roasted coffee, dark chocolate, and anise.  Has freshness.  About $50.

-  November 26, 2006

Hess Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2003 (Napa).  A real mouthful of Cabernet flavor for this price. Plenty of cassis, blackberries, tobacco, leather, anise, and toasted oak.  Nothing spectacular, but it's nice to see Napa cabs offering this much, for only $20.

-  November 6, 2006

R.L. Buller & Son Premium Fine Tokay (Victoria).  Beautiful aromas of caramel, flowers, hazelnuts, dried stone fruits, and citrus peel.  Complex flavors, unctuous texture, and richly layered finish.  Flows on with figs, molasses, nuts, and smoke.  Made with the solera method, from Muscadelle grapes.  There's freshness to support the weight and the 18% alcohol.  About $15/375 ml.

-  November 5, 2006

Beringer Cabernet Sauvignon 2002 (Knights Valley).  Peppery nose, with cassis, blackberries, plums, cloves, and black cherries.  Showing intensity on the attack, medium-bodied, and extracted.  Lasting finish, with touches of oak and vanilla.  Really tasty, well-made Cabernet.  About $25.

-  November 3, 2006

Pol Roger Brut Champagne non-vintage.  Nutty and chalky on the nose, with lemon, yeast, and citrus rinds.  Bright, elegant and zippy, featuring green apple and toast flavors on a medium-bodied frame. This could use some time in the cellar, but drinks beautifully now.  About $35.

-  October 29, 2006

Vincent Girardin Pommard Les Vignots 1999.  Really pretty perfumed nose, featuring sweet/dark cherries, along with cloves and black tea.  Black pepper on the attack, then moves to raspberries, cola, and cherries on the creamy mid-palate.  Finishes with hints of tea.  About $50.

-  October 17, 2006

Jones Family Cabernet Sauvignon 2002 (Napa).  Opaque, deep crimson color, along with aromas of red cherries, wet soil, cream, hints of vanilla, crème brulee, and clove.  Smooth texture, full-bodied, and mouth-coating.  Lots of tobacco, cassis, blackberries, and touches of leather, with a layered finish that sticks around.  Very well-made.  On the mailing list for $85, but now retails for about $125.

-  October 12, 2006

Mollydooker Shiraz The Boxer 2005 (McLaren Vale/Langhorne Creek/Padthaway).  Opaque, black/purple/cordovan in color.  Broodingly dark aromas, that are creamy and youthful, with prunes, blackberries, wet soil, graphite, smoke, and pipe tobacco.  Massively thick, with a very strong attack.  Meaty, substantial; oozes with blackberries, black licorice, and black truffles.  A real bruiser at 16% alcohol, that makes it's presence known on the finish.  Serious wine that packs a punch.  An absolute steal at $22.

-  October 10, 2006

Argiano Brunello di Montalcino 1997.  Inky and dark in profile, with black licorice, black raisins, and preserves on the nose.  Strong, and featuring flavors of leather, tobacco, anise, plums, and cherries.  Finishes soft.  Aeration brings out the fruit in this one.  About $50.

-  October 8, 2006

Domaine du Vieux Telegraphe Chateauneuf Du Pape 2004.  Young, powerful wine.  Overflowing with cherry liqueur, blackberries, dried herbs, licorice, and blueberries.  Shows intensity and generosity.  About $55.

-  October 7, 2006

Charles Heidsieck Brut Champagne 1990.  A Champagne for red wine drinkers.  Nearly amber in color.  Mature, yeasty, with ginger, red berries, cloves, nutmeg, and pineapple scents.  Rich, full-bodied, and featuring flavors of lemon curd, red apples, mango, bananas, and cream.  Long, intriguing finish.  About $60.

-  October 3, 2006

Louis de Sacy Brut Champagne Non-vintage.  Looking clear and bright, with aromas of lemon, pencil and bread dough.  Yeasty, along with plenty of cream, and hints of citrus and ginger.  Pleasant.  Not fascinating, but it's also $10 less than most non-vintage Champagne.  About $26.

-  September 23, 2006

Bollini Pinot Grigio 2004 (Trentino).  Really pretty lime, tangerine, and apple flavors on an easy to enjoy, supple frame.  Nicely balanced acidity, and a step above your average watery Pinot Grigio.  About $12.

-  September 21, 2006

Stephen Pannell Grenache 2004 (McLaren Vale).  Striking, rich aromas of black currants, smoke, and underbrush emerge from this thick, dark red/black Aussie stunner.  Exceptionally pure, very full-bodied, spicy, and loaded with black fruits to go along with notions of vanilla and black pepper.  Shows intensity on the considerable finish.  Outstanding wine, made from 60-year-old vines.  About $44.

-  September 16, 2006

La Posta del Vinatero Malbec Pizzella Family Vineyard 2004 (Mendoza).  Aromas of blackberries, toast, caramel, and hints of cucumber.  Medium-bodied, and featuring wild berries, black cherries, licorice, and wet soil.  Very toasty, and a bit rustic.  About $14.

-  September 11, 2006

Stone Fly Vineyard Cabernet Franc 2002 (Napa).  Fresh nose, that Kristin describes as "smells blue". Green bell pepper, blueberries, currant, licorice, prune, cola, and black cherries.  Black pepper on the finish.  Nice change of pace.  About $15.

-  September 9, 2006

Raimat Chardonnay 2005 (Costers del Segre).  Vibrant, well-balanced green apple, pear, tangerine, fresh herbs, and lime.  Touches of cream, honeydew, and peach on the finish.  Perfect for a hot summer day.  About $10.

-  September 5, 2006

Mount Langi Ghiran Shiraz Billi Billi Shiraz 2003 (Victoria).  Striking nose of blackberries, blueberries, and pepper, followed by a medium-bodied palate offering notes of vanilla, smoke, hints of coal, and cream on the moderately long and flowing finish.  Open textured and attractive.  A gift from Gilles.  About $17.

-  September 2, 2006

Alois Lageder Pinot Bianco 2004 (Alto Adige).   Crisp.  Reminiscent of white peaches, lime, flowers, white grapes, and tangerine.  Stones on the pretty, lingering finish.  Easygoing and well-balanced.  About $12.    

-  August 23, 2006

Piper-Heidsieck Brut Champagne Non-vintage.  Refreshing, spirited, and lively (though not as lively as the rosé), this offers brioche, white grapefruit, green apple, white peach, and bread dough.  Both creamy and tart on the finish.  About $35.

-  August 20, 2006

Scharffenberger Brut Non-vintage (Mendocino).  Showing definite yeastiness on the nose along with citrus, roasted nuts, and cream.  Bread dough, lime, and green apple flavors on a moderate frame.  Needs more persistence of bubbles, but there's good character at this price.  About $16.

Seghesio Zinfandel 2004 (Sonoma).  Opaque dark blue/red, and loaded with blackberry, coffee, toast, and black raspberry aromas.  Jammy, with deep plum, raisin, black cherry, anise, and black tea flavors.  Always a good value, and nearly as good as this winery's single vineyard bottlings.  Be careful . . . this one is 15% alcohol.  About $16.

-  August 15, 2006

Piper Heidsieck Rosé Sauvage Brut Champagne Non-vintage.  Extremely lively, fine bubbles in a raspberry/watermelon color.  Scents of lemon curd, cranberries, bread dough, lavender, and hints of mustiness.  Delicious palate, featuring raspberry, red apple, orange, and red grapefruit notes.  Enjoy this one by itself, as a great way to begin an evening.  About $38.

-  August 8, 2006

Pillar Box Red 2004 (Padthaway).  Consisting of 57% Cabernet Sauvignon, 32% Shiraz, and 11% Merlot, this Aussie red bursts with blackberries, blueberries, licorice, currant, vanilla, dried herbs, and toasted oak.  Shows richness, presence, and concentration.  An amazing value.  About $10.

-  August 2, 2006

Château de Flaugergues Coteaux du Languedoc La Méjanelle Cuvée Sommelière 2003.  Offering aromas of licorice, herbs de Provence, dried figs, and prunes.  Medium to full-bodied, and tasting of dark plums, black tea, and lavender, with a jammy mid-palate.  Moderate in length.  Really enjoyable, and presented with a simple, elegant label.  A blend of Grenache, Syrah and Mourvèdre.  About $15.

-  July 30, 2006

Georges Duboeuf Moulin-A-Vent 2003.  Displaying a rusty, brick red color, with amber on the edge, this Beaujolais is deeply extracted, with delicious black and red fruits, earth, leather, bubble gum, tobacco, cherries, pepper, and flowers on the finish.  Medium-bodied, delicious, and with true character.  About $14.

-  July 27, 2006

Trevor Jones "Virgin" Chardonnay 2004 (South Australia).  Pretty straw color gives way to a clean nose hinting at green melon, tangerine, and tart apples.  Beautifully proportioned palate, featuring passion fruit, lime, mango, green peppers, peach, and fresh herbs.  Just a touch of cream, but no heaviness of oak.  Inviting acidity and refreshment.  Tasty.  About $15.

-  July 22, 2006

Kenwood Cabernet Sauvignon "Jack London" 2002 (Sonoma).  Bright cherries, cola, tobacco, smoke, blackberries, black pepper, and dark chocolate on the nose.  Vibrant on the palate, featuring an attack of black tea, then lots of cassis, plum and dark spices (cloves).  Finishes with good, though slightly rustic tannin and dark fruits.  Strong and hearty, like "something that can stand up to Israel" (according to Kristin).  About $23.

-  June 27, 2006

Thorn Clarke Shiraz Shotfire Ridge 2004 (Barossa).  Well-endowed with succulent black cherry, blackberries, anise, espresso, toast, vanilla, leather, and dark ground spices.  Full-bodied, deeply extracted, and lasting.  Not the most fascinating Shiraz, but there's plenty here to like.  Has the stuffing to age.  About $24.

-  June 25, 2006

Thierry Triolet Brut Rose Champagne non-vintage.  Offers aromas of strawberry, raspberries, watermelon and tangerine.  Extremely effervescent, with copper, amber, crimson color.  Refreshing, with a chalky start, then moves into fresh fruits (melon, lemon, raspberries).  Very, very good.  About $30.

-  June 20, 2006

Pannotia Vineyards Torrontes 2005 (Mendoza).  Offers up inviting aromas and flavors of white peaches, flowers, grass, honeysuckle, lime and melon.  Lively and pleasing across the palate, with nice persistence.  Great on its own or with a summer salad.  About $9.

-  June 17, 2006

Nicolas Feuillatte Champagne Brut Palmes d'Or 1996.  Fascinating aromas of raspberries, hazelnuts, bread dough and vanilla.  Very fine bubbles.  Red apples and grapefruit show on the palate, with a creamy, beautiful texture.  Turns tart on the finish, and sails on and on.  About $100.

-  June 8, 2006

Finca Luzon Luzon 2005 (Jumilla).  Youthful, grapey, and exuberant, with a red/purple color.  Ripe blackberries, cherries, licorice and hints of toast and herbs.  Medium-bodied, attractive . . . and attractively priced.  About $9.

-  June 4, 2006

J.A. Ferret Pouilly-Fuissé "Les Perrières" Cuvée Spéciale 2002.  Stoney, and loaded with minerals, along with white peaches, lemon, tangerine, green apples and hints of smoke.  Remains elegant and complex on the lasting, beautiful finish. Price unrecorded.

Hartley Ostini Hitching Post Pinot Noir "St. Rita's Earth" 2002 (Santa Rita Hills).  Earthy, "sexual" aromas . . . like "pleasantly unwashed body".  Dusty, rust/iron, oak moss scents, with a "pungency to the nose that isn't in the flavor".  Flavors of cherry, blackberries, spices, and caramel on a medium-bodied frame.  About $28. 

-  June 1, 2006

Le Comte de Charme 2004 (Sancerre).  Lean, with stoney minerality, brightness, grass, and white pepper on the finish.  A superb summer wine.  About $16.

-  May 24, 2006

Col des Vents 2004 (Corbieres).  Deep crimson in color, with beefy, bacon fat scents that mingle with black fruits and dried herbs.  Medium-bodied and smoky on the palate, along with toast, licorice and espresso.  Finishes with good length of brighter fruits and freshness.  About $15.

-  May 23, 2006

The Crossings Sauvignon Blanc 2004 (Marlborough).  Loaded with passion fruit, lime, and mango on the nose, with lively flavors that jump out of the glass.  Lasting aftertaste and zippy acidity.  About $17.

-  May 17, 2006 

De Venoge Champagne Brut Select Cordon Bleu Non-vintage.  Toasty, citrus nose, followed by a very, very yeasty, biscuity palate.  Nicely balanced and appealing.  About $35.

-  May 14, 2006

Sebastiani Barbera 2004 (Sonoma).  Really pleasing cherry, blackberry, blueberry, cedar and cream flavors, along with hints of leather, toast, oak, and vanilla.  Cloves sneak in on the lasting finish. Medium to full-bodied, with plenty of enjoyment and supportive acidity.  Delicious.  About $15.

-  May 4, 2006

Ruinart Champagne Rosé Non-vintage. Dark salmon color.  Tasting of sherbet, raspberries, strawberries, lemon, toast and cream on the finish.  Hints of chalk.  Lively and fun. About $50.

-  April 15, 2006

Raimat Cabernet Sauvignon 1999 (Costers del Segre).  Rusty, brick-red in color, and showing earthy cassis and cherry aromatics.  Medium-bodied, with nicely proportioned mid-palate of sweet plums, cherries, hints of licorice, chocolate and new wood.  Lots of character at this price.  About $13.

-  April 6, 2006

Fernleaf Sauvignon Blanc 2004 (East Coast, New Zealand).  Showing good intensity of grapefruit, passion fruit, lime, grass, and gooseberry flavors, with a moderately persistent finish.  Zippy and refreshing.  Very good value.  About $11.

-  April 4, 2006

Fairview Goats do Roam in Villages 2004 (Coastal Region, South Africa).  Scented with crushed plums, cola, herbs, cherries and currants, this medium-bodied, soft red exhibits freshness and an easy manner.  Turns toasty on the finish, with bright acidity and fruitiness.  About $13.

-  March 30, 2006

Chateau Beauchene Cotes du Rhone Blanc Grande Reserve 2004.  Made of 100% Viognier, this wine's aromas are reminiscent of citrus oil, honey, both fresh and dried herbs, wax, flowers, and red apples.  Good depth of flavor, easy texture, and an exotic, spicy finish.  About $12.

-  March 23, 2006

Sterling Vineyards Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 1997 (Napa).  Inky dark black/maroon color.  Classic Cabernet nose of cassis, blackberries, licorice, sweet oak, and hints of prunes.  Flavorful black cherries, anise, vanilla, toast and fine tannins.  Nice texture on a medium-bodied frame.  Finish hangs on with the brighter fruits and and touches of cream.  Understated, but gets the job done.  About $80.

-  March 19, 2006

Clos de los Siete 2004 (Mendoza)  Produced by superstar winemaking consultant Michel Rolland, this internationally styled blend of 50% Malbec, 30% Merlot, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 10% Syrah is impressive for its flavor and price.  Exhibiting fresh aromatics of pepper, plums, and black cherries.  Medium to full-bodied and nearly syrupy, with blackberries, cola, black pepper, espresso, toast and cloves.  About $15.

-  March 14, 2006

Les Héritiers du Comte Lafon Macon-Villages 2004.  Shows clean, balanced flavors of pretty lime, orange, melon, pineapple, and peach.  Soft, nicely expressive finish.  Drink with swordfish or halibut.  About $16.

-  March 12, 2006

Mitolo Shiraz "Jester" 2004 (McLaren Vale).  Aromas of vanilla, plums, wet tobacco, cream, and sweet oak.  Features flavors of ripe blackberries, blueberries, with black tea on the lingering finish. Medium-bodied and delicious.  About $20.

-  March 9, 2006

Jean Laurent Brut Blanc de Noirs non-vintage (Champagne).  Scents of mushrooms, earth, herbs and red apple.  Rich on the palate, like a cream soda attack, featuring ripe raspberries, yeast and citrus flavors. Creamy, then citrus zest on the finish.  Complex and multi-faceted.  About $35.

-  March 7, 2006

Kaesler Stonehorse Grenache/Shiraz/Mourvedre 2004 (Barossa).  Smelling of pepper, butter, blackberries, blueberries, and cherries. Deep, expressive mid-palate that includes pepper, vanilla, blackberries, and coffee.  A very flavorful wine that manages to hold everything together.  About $20.

-  March 5, 2006

Chateau Thebot 2000 (Bordeaux).  Dusty, with meaty olive, blackberries, dark chocolate and espresso on the nose.  Tasting of chalk, wet rocks, dark berries, tobacco and leather.  Ready to drink, and a great value.  Tasted from double magnum.  About $60/3L, or $15/750ml.

-  February 25, 2006

Laurent-Perrier Brut Rose non-vintage (Champagne).  Salmon copper color.  Very effervescent, with yeast, wet wool, bread dough and chalk.  Cranberries, green apple, raspberries, oranges and roses.  Creamy on the finish.  Beautiful.  About $65.

-  February 21, 2006

Jacob's Creek Riesling 2004 (South Eastern Australia).  Clear, bright straw in color.  Rather lean, but featuring apple, citrus, flowers and river rocks.  Finishes clean, dry and refreshing.  Enjoy this one in the summer or with salads.  About $8.

-  February 19, 2006

Numanthia-Termes "Termes" 2003 (Toro).  Aromas of vanilla, violets, baking scents, lavender, flowers.  Medium bodied, with flavors of nutmeg, blackberries, black cherries, dark earth and espresso.  Beautiful finish.  Made from 30 year old ungrafted Tinto de Toro vines from a hot, dry region of Spain.  This is good stuff.  About $32.

-  February 12, 2006

Kenwood Sauvignon Blanc 2003 (Sonoma).  Clear, bright and refreshing, with almost juicy passion fruit, mango, lime and green apple flavors.  Hints at green peas and yellow bell peppers.  Tasty and affordable.  Great on its own, but would be awesome with simply grilled seafood.  About $10.

-  February 10, 2006

Villa Matilde Falerno del Massico White 2001.  Balanced acidity supports flavors of straw, almonds, lemon, herbs, red apples, and suggestions of honey.  Pleasant, food friendly wine.  Produced from the Falanghina grape.  About $12.

-  February 3, 2006

Domaine St. Vincent Brut non-vintage (New Mexico).  A fantastic value, this sparkler features green apple, citrus, toast, and hints of ginger on a clean, bright frame.  Great as an everyday, easy drinking bubbly.  About $10.

-  January 31, 2006

Guido Cocci Grifoni Rosso Piceno Superiore Vigna Messieri 2001.  Dark, dark red brick color.  Scents of cherry cola, pepper, dried fruits, along with blackberries, rust, and barnyard.  Bitter chocolate, damp earth, and hints of dried herbs/spices.  Overall, very old world and Italian in acidity . . . a blend of 70% Montepulciano and 30% Sangiovese.  A food wine.  About $22.

-  January 20, 2006

Two Hands Shiraz/Grenache "Brave Faces" 2002 (Barossa).  Well endowed with a deep, rich color, along with a smoky, graphite infused nose.  Full-bodied and expansive across the palate . . . featuring blackberries, dark cherries, espresso, anise, chocolate and vanilla.  Shows intensity on the long, layered finish.  Impressive.  A blend of 60% Shiraz and 40% Grenache.  About $27.

-  January 18, 2006

Schramsberg Mirabelle Brut non-vintage (North Coast).  Nose of bread dough, candied ginger, and assorted nuts.  Plenty of flavor on the palate, featuring citrus, apples and toast with lively effervescence and acidity.  Not as refined as their vintage dated versions, but has lots of character for half the price.  Great with Indian cuisine.  About $16.

-  January 3, 2006

Enrique Foster "Ique" Malbec 2004 (Mendoza).  Exhibiting dark ruby red color, along with a real chocolatey, toasted oak character.  Notions of underbrush, dark fruits, dried herbs and black licorice.  No heavyweight, but has good presence, persistence, and definite structure.  About $10.

-  January 2, 2006

Alois Lageder Pinot Grigio Vigneti Delle Dolomiti 2004 (IGT).  Shows great lime, tangerine, green apple and fresh herbs on a bright, satisfying frame.  Nice wine as an aperitif or with light pastas, and more distinguished than your average Pinot Grigio.  About $14.

-  December 17, 2005

Bellum Providencia 2003 (Yecla).  Made of 100% old vine Monestrell (80-100 years).  Exhibiting intense aromas of red and black licorice, reminicent of port, as well as raisins, prunes, black cherries and currants.  Boders on over-ripeness.  Full-bodied, intense, long, with blackberries and cassis.  About $18.

-  December 11, 2005

Charles Heidsieck Brut Reserve Mis en Cave en 2001 non vintage.  A full-bodied, rich style, featuring brioche, ginger, spices, dried lemon, candied fruits, and hints of oxidation.  True to the house style, this is a Champagne for wine drinkers.  About $30.

-  December 11, 2005

Sauvion Chateau du Cleray "Haute Culture" Muscadet Sevre et Maine Sur Lie 2002.   Made from the Melon de Bourgogne grape, this Loire Valley white really sings, with green apple, sea salt, fresh flowers, lemon, and a finish that screams of crushed oyster shells and minerals.  Fresh, lingering, and well-priced.  A must with any shellfish, and perfect with raw oysters.  About $10.

-  December 8, 2005

Beringer Cabernet Sauvignon Private Reserve 1995 (Napa).  Very dark, facinating perfume of violets, espresso, dark chocolate, dark berries and toasted oak.  Smells so good you almost don't want to taste it.  But when you do, it's contemplative, dark and amazingly intriguing.  Long, long 40 second finish.  Not at all heavy, but sits on the back of your tounge for an eternity.  Gorgeous wine.  About $100.

-  December 6, 2005

Rosenblum Zinfandel Vintners Cuvee XXVII (California).  Rosenblum's consistently high quality Zins are remarkable, but what is even more amazing is how they can also do it at the low end of the price scale.  Generously endowed with blackberries, dark plums, licorice, vanilla, toasted oak, spices and black cherries.  A non-vintage blend, this is medium-bodied, with well-balanced acidity, and an easy price tag.  About $10. 

-  December 1, 2005

Telmo Rodriquez Basa 2004 (Rueda).  Bright aromas of green melon, pineapple, oranges and cut grass.  Inviting flavors that are reminicent of assorted apples, grapefruit and herbs.  Refreshing and food friendly.  A Sauvignon Blanc, Viura, and Verdejo blend.  About $10.

-  November 28, 2005

Yalumba Antique Tawny Museum Reserve (Barossa). This fortified dessert wine offers up fantastic aromas and flavors of caramel, oranges, toffee, flowers, vanilla, golden raisins, clove, and roasted hazelnuts.  Unctuous in texture, but remains lively and inviting, with a finish that sails on and on.  Impecably balanced sweetness and focused acidity.  An unreal value, containing wine with an average age of over 15 years.  Thanks to Sarah for reminding me of how amazing this is.  About $18/375 ml.

-  November 21, 2005

Qupé Syrah Bien Nacido Vineyard 2003 (Santa Maria Valley).  Strikingly thick, with a dense purple/black color.  Somewhat shy nose, with wild berries and spices.  Full-bodied, with gorgeous flavors of blackberries, blueberries, bacon fat, and black pepper.  Never too heavy or tiring, concentrated, and lasting in mouth with beautiful purity and precision.  Outstanding.  About $30.

-  November 14, 2005

di Lenardo Sauvignon Blanc 2004 (Friuli).  Offers gooseberry, grass, sweet peas and fresh asparagus on the nose.  Tastes of ripe tangerines, green apples, pears, and hints of tropical fruits.  Fresh, very appealing, with a juicy, lasting finish.  About $9.

-  November 5, 2005

Jacob's Creek Sparkling Chardonnay/Pinot Noir Brut Non-vintage (Southeastern Australia).  Showing off far, far more yeastiness than most Australian sparkling wines in this price range, this is an absolute steal.  Aromas of citrus, bread dough, apples and ginger.  Dry, and showing hazelnut, cream and toast, this displays plenty flavor with supportive structure.  Not an elegant, refined wine, but the price doesn't suggest it should be.  It's even bottle fermented.  About $10.

-  November 2, 2005

D'Arenberg "The Hermit Crab"  Viognier / Marsanne 2004.  (McLaren Vale).  A tasty white Rhone style blend, featuring 70% Vioginier and 30% Marsanne.  Beautiful inviting aromas of stone fruits, honeysuckle, and lemons.  Tastes of apricots, tangerines, honey, red apples, flowers, and mint.  Medium to full bodied, with great texture.  About $14.

-  October 31, 2005

Domaine de la Charbonniere Vacqueras 2003.  Dark red.  Very ripe on the nose, featuring cherry liqueur, dried herbs, underbrush and espresso.  Plenty of alcohol, black cherry, integrated tannin, anise, clove and burnt coffee.  Not shy or elegant.  This is a brawny, gritty wine . . . 15% alcohol!  About $22.

-  October 24, 2005

Marco Real Tempranillo 2003 (Navarra).  Shy nose, but strongly flavored mid-palate of plums, red cherries, dried herbs and dusty earth.  Medium bodied, and nicely long.  About $12. 

-  September 28, 2005

Allegrini Palazzo Della Torre 2000 (IGT).  From a single vineyard in the Veneto region of Italy, this wine is redolent of dark soil, black fruits, licorice and leather.   Highly extracted, with fleshy tannins and tons of minerals.  Lengthy, detailed finish. Made of 70% Corvina, 25% Rondinella, 5% Sangiovese.  I've had the last 5 vintages of this wine, and it's consistently praiseworthy.  Have it with grilled meats.  About $19.

-  September 22, 2005

Les Cailloux Lucien et Andre Brunel Chateauneuf-du-Pape 2003.  Mid-toned reddish-blue.  Offers aromas of licorice, cherry liqueur, blackberries, plums, prunes, and dark spices (cloves).  Saturated palate of dark grapes, black cherries, earth, underbrush, tobacco, anise.  Long, long finish.  Medium to full-bodied.  Outstanding wine.  About $40.

-  September 20, 2005

De Bortoli "Willowglen" Petite Sirah 2003 (South Eastern Australia).  Dark ruby color.  Deep black cherries on the nose.  Dark, with licorice, tobacco, smoke, blackberries, and cola.  Inky finish with ripe tannins.  Solid red for the price.  About $9.

-  September 19, 2005

Cuevas De Castilla Cuvee R.S. Palacio de Menade 2003 (Rueda).  Nose of freshly cut herbs, followed by flavors of lemon, green pear, and melon, all supported by great acidity.  Turns earthy on the finish.  Made of 80% Verdelo, 15% Viura and 5% Sauvignon Blanc.  Thanks to Kristin for finding this one.  About $8.

-  September 7, 2005

Castano Monastrell 2003 (Yecla).  Dark ruby color.  Expressive, with aromas of black cherries, blackberries, rust, and plums.  Good mid-palate of dark fruits, bitter chocolate, and an earthy, moderately long, fine-grained tannin finish.  For those who like good fruit, but clear old world earthiness.  Mourvedre.  About $9.

-  September 5, 2005

Buitenverwachting "Beyond" Sauvignon Blanc 2004 (Coastal Region, South Africa).  Very grassy, along with crisp citrus (lime, tangerine) and fresh herbs.  Finishes with refreshing acidity.  Great Sauvignon Blanc flavor for a great price.  About $10.

-  August 31, 2005

Tikal "Patriota" (Mendoza) 2003.  Made from Argentina's signature grapes (Bonarda and Malbec), this red sports a fresh perfume of blackberries, blueberries, spices and flowers.  Thick, full-bodied, with a lasting palate impression of ripe dark berries, licorice, vanilla and dark coffee.  Very modern in style.  About $25.

-  August 23, 2005

Jacques & Francois Lurton "Les Fumees Blanches" Sauvignon Blanc 2003 (Vin de pays de Cotes du Tarn).  Clear and crisp, featuring lean citrus, grass, smoke, mineral and floral components.  Not a blockbuster, but at about $8, who cares.

-  August 18, 2005

Bodegas Borsao "Tres Picos" Garnacha 2003 (Campo de Borja).  Medium bodied and deep ruby in color, this is loaded with cherry liqueur, dark earth, crushed berries, dried herbs and graphite.  Lingering finish.  Comes in an extra-thick bottle.  Grenache.  About $14.

-  August 17, 2005

Domaine de la Becassonne Cotes du Rhone 2004. This white Rhone features honeysuckle, melon, orange and red apple flavors.  Shows crushed rocks on the deft finish, along with ground dark spices and mint.  Good stuff.  Made of 50% Roussanne, 30% Clairette, and 20% Grenache Blanc.  About $12.

-  August 9, 2005

Wishing Tree "Unoaked" Chardonnay 2004 (Western Australia).  Reminicent of tangerine, passion fruit, limes, and green apple.  Finishes with fresh herbs and clean, bright acidity. Nice value.  About $10.

-  August 4, 2005

Falesco "Vitiano" Bianco 2003 (Umbria).  Clear straw color.  Tasty aromas and flavors of green melon, peaches, apples, mint, almonds and lemons.  Finishes with a pronounced herbal note.  Not especially profound or weighty, but easy to enjoy.  A blend of Vermentino, Viognier, and  Verdicchio.  Pretty for the price.  Only $8.

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