New Wine Releases January 2010

CALIFORNIA

CENTRAL COAST

Paso Robles

Eberle
2006 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon; $33
14/20 — Displaying flavors of rich black currant, dark cherry and hints of mocha, this robust Cabernet pairs well with filet mignon, lamb or barbecued ribs.

Bianchi
2006 Merlot; $22
13/20 — A dark, robust Merlot offering cherry fruit and meaty flavors; pairs will with barbequed salmon.

Purple Cowboy
2007 Night Rider Merlot; $12
13/20 — Smooth and full-bodied, this dark Merlot displays flavors of cherry pie and cassis, with cocoa tannins on the finish.

Santa Maria Valley

La Fenetre
2007 Bien Nacido Vineyard Chardonnay; $38
15.5/20 — A bouquet exhibiting fresh citrus leads to an entry dominated by lime, lemon zest, sour apple and quince; A smooth finish of creme brulee followed by toasted coconut.

Bianchi
2006 Pinot Noir; $30
Santa Maria Valley—Garey Vineyard
14/20 — This vintage offers fruity flavors of berry and dried cherries, and stands up well to braised lamb shanks.

Sierra Madre Vineyard
2007 Pinot Noir; $42
14/20 — French oak-aged, this spicy and elegant Pinot Noir offers smoky, red cherry fruit aromas and displays notes of vanilla and subtle earthiness.

NAPA VALLEY

Joseph Phelps
2005 Insignia; $200
17.5/20 — Comprised of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Petit Verdot and 1% Merlot, this elegant blend is classically structured with balanced tannins and a persistent finish.

Antica
2006 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon; $55
15.5/20 — This vintage offers currant, blackberry and black cherry flavors, with a full-bodied and powerful palate.

Krupp Brothers
2005 Veraison Synchrony; $60
14.5/20 — This meritage fills the palate with strong fruit flavors of blueberries, raspberries and black cherry; A bit too young, it's best to let it age.

Robert Mondavi Winery
2006 Cabernet Sauvignon; $28
13.5/20 — This well-structured vintage offers blueberry and black plum flavors with a hint of black olive.

Stags Leap

Clos Du Val
2002 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon; $52
16/20 — Aromas of dark fruit, spice and dried herbs give way to fleshy dark fruit flavors and silky tannins; This rich and full-bodied red will age well.

SONOMA COUNTY

Bennett Valley

Matanzas Creek Winery
2005 Merlot; $49
14.5/20 — This full-bodied, well balanced Merlot is a beautifully rich crimson color with notes of cassis and hay on the nose and clove, coffee and white pepper on the palate. Enjoy today or over the next ten years.

Dry Creek Valley

Dashe Cellars
2006 Louvau Vineyard Old Vines Zinfandel; $32
14.5/20 — Conveying scents of raspberry, cherry and spice, this dark purple Zin’s palate consists of round, chalky tannins and flavors of black raspberry, cherry, lavender, anise and clove.

Russian River Valley

Blackstone
2007 Sonoma Reserve Pinot Noir; $20
13/20 — Red fruit flavors and a hint of vanilla and spice complement the fleshy mouthfeel and a silky finish.


SAN JOAQUIN VALLEY

Quady
2007 Essensia; $16
13.5/20 — Composed from 100% Orange Muscat grapes, this dessert wine pairs well with sweets, particularly chocolate and those containing almonds, peaches and apples.

MULTIPLE AVAs

Candor
Merlot; $20
14/20 — Rich and full-bodied, this Californian Merlot offers flavors of blackberry and plum, with smoke and vanilla accents.

Robert Mondavi Winery
2007 Fume Blanc; $20
14/20 — Aromas of lemon verbena and orange blossoms lead to fresh flavors of white peach and kumquats, complemented by a creamy texture.

Dancing Bull
2008 Sauvignon Blanc; $12
13.5/20 — This crisp and clean wine exhibits bright citrus tanginess balanced with a hint of cut grass.


MICHIGAN

OLD MISSION PENINSULA

Chateau Grand Traverse
2005 Riesling Ice Wine; $70
14/20 — This concentrated dessert-style wine abounds with fruit flavors and sweet nectar-like qualities; we recommend serving slightly chilled.


OREGON

ROGUE VALLEY

Rockblock
2001 Del Rio Vineyard Syrah; $30
15.5/20 — This dark and complex wine displays a palate of wild black cherry, anise, dark chocolate and leather.

WASHINGTON

COLUMBIA VALLEY

Seven Hills
2007 Merlot; $22
14/20 — This balanced wine with gentle tannins offers aromas of red plum and blackberry, complemented by sweet oak tones of toffee and spice.

Gordon Brothers
2006 Syrah; $20
13.5/20 — Flavors of cranberry and currants are framed by black licorice; The lingering finish complements grilled meats.

Simonsig
2005 Pinotage; $14
12.5/20 — Plum and berry fruit aromas lead to ripe berry and sour cherry fruit flavors; Best served with rich and aromatic dishes.

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