Benjamin Going Away
-Riesling, Spatlase, Germany, 1995 (Don't know the producer, but this was awesome!)
-Rochioli, Chardonnay, Russian River, 2006 (Good but not unique)
-Hanzell, Pinot Noir, Sonoma, 1996 (Excellent, but still 10 years too young)
-Vega Sicilia, Unico, Ribera del Duero, 1994 (Insane! Near perfect. It was so good, but not fully developed. I'd suggest that this will be perfect in 10-20 more years. I hope that I can drink it again.)
-Silver Oak, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa, 1995 (Good, but not great or particularly exciting. Just good, dependable, classy Cabernet)
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Monday, October 27th, 2008
Wise Wise/Terry Thiese Tasting, oh yeah, and Arietta Release Party with Fritz Hatton
-Arietta, On The Keys White, Napa, 2007 (Excellent)
-Arietta, Quartet, Abreu Vineyard, 2006 (Bright red fruit. Higher toned and more purity of fruit. Very good)
-Arietta, Merlot Hudson Vineyards, Napa, 2006 (Excellent and plump with a lot of depth and structure)
-Arietta, Variation One, Napa, 2006 (My favorite of the line-up. This possesses the most depth of all the wines. It also shows the most long-age capability. It was remindful of Bordeaux in pedigree and class. Very impressive.)
-Arietta, H Block Hudson Vineyard, Napa, 2006 (Also awesome. I lost track of tasting notes at this point)
-Arietta, Red Wine, Napa, 1999 (Excellent and fresh as the 2006's!!!!)
-Arietta, Merlot H Block, Napa, 2002 (Awesome.)
-Arietta, Variation One, Napa, 2002 (Awesome)
-Arietta, Merlot H Block, Naoa, 2003 (Awesome)
I think that was all of the wine, but there may have been 1 or 2 more that I forgot. Needless to say. It was great evening. Fritz and Karen Hatton were a pleasure to meet and I hope that they continue to have success with Arietta so that we might have more great wines in the future.
-Arietta, On The Keys White, Napa, 2007 (Excellent)
-Arietta, Quartet, Abreu Vineyard, 2006 (Bright red fruit. Higher toned and more purity of fruit. Very good)
-Arietta, Merlot Hudson Vineyards, Napa, 2006 (Excellent and plump with a lot of depth and structure)
-Arietta, Variation One, Napa, 2006 (My favorite of the line-up. This possesses the most depth of all the wines. It also shows the most long-age capability. It was remindful of Bordeaux in pedigree and class. Very impressive.)
-Arietta, H Block Hudson Vineyard, Napa, 2006 (Also awesome. I lost track of tasting notes at this point)
-Arietta, Red Wine, Napa, 1999 (Excellent and fresh as the 2006's!!!!)
-Arietta, Merlot H Block, Napa, 2002 (Awesome.)
-Arietta, Variation One, Napa, 2002 (Awesome)
-Arietta, Merlot H Block, Naoa, 2003 (Awesome)
I think that was all of the wine, but there may have been 1 or 2 more that I forgot. Needless to say. It was great evening. Fritz and Karen Hatton were a pleasure to meet and I hope that they continue to have success with Arietta so that we might have more great wines in the future.
Friday, October 24th, 2008
Grenache
-Beckman, Grenache Rose, Purisima Mtn. 2006
-Vina Borgia, Garnacha, Campo de Borja, Spain, 2007
-Sorellina, Grenache, Santa Ynez, 2006
-Chateau de Morgues, Costeres de Nimes, France, 2006
-Broc Cellars, Grenache, Ventana Vineyard, Monterey, 2006
-Beckman, Grenache Rose, Purisima Mtn. 2006
-Vina Borgia, Garnacha, Campo de Borja, Spain, 2007
-Sorellina, Grenache, Santa Ynez, 2006
-Chateau de Morgues, Costeres de Nimes, France, 2006
-Broc Cellars, Grenache, Ventana Vineyard, Monterey, 2006
Friday, October 24, 2008
Thursday, October 23rd, 2008
Central Coast
-Beckman, Grenache Rose, Purisima Mtn, 2006
-Kenneth Crawford, Syrah, Four Play, 2005
-White Dog, Syrah, Larner Vineyard, 2005
-Saxum, Broken Stones, Paso Robles, 2005 (Everything I want in wine)
-Le Cuvia, Primento, paso Robels, 2005 (Corked)
-Ferrari-Carano, Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley, 2006 (Baked, Oaked, and not varietally correct, but still enjoyable)
-Beckman, Grenache Rose, Purisima Mtn, 2006
-Kenneth Crawford, Syrah, Four Play, 2005
-White Dog, Syrah, Larner Vineyard, 2005
-Saxum, Broken Stones, Paso Robles, 2005 (Everything I want in wine)
-Le Cuvia, Primento, paso Robels, 2005 (Corked)
-Ferrari-Carano, Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley, 2006 (Baked, Oaked, and not varietally correct, but still enjoyable)
Wednesday, October 22nd, 2008
Star Lane
-Star Lane, Sauvignon Blanc, Santa Ynez, 2006
-Star Lane, Cabernet Sauvignon, Santa Ynez, 2005
-Star Lane, Sauvignon Blanc, Santa Ynez, 2006
-Star Lane, Cabernet Sauvignon, Santa Ynez, 2005
Monday, October 20, 2008
Monday, October 20th, 2008
151 Wines on a Monday Afternoon
A Retrospective of wines from the late Didier Dagueneau
*denotes the best wines
-1994 Silex
-1995 Pur Sang *
-1996 Silex (magnum)
-1997 Buisson Menard*
-1998 En Chailloux*
-1999 Pur Sang
-2000Buisson Renard
-2001 Silex
-2002 Silex (magnum)*
-2003 Buisson Renard *
-2003 Pur Sang *
-2004 Buisson Renard
-2005 Silex (magnum)
-2006 Pur Sang (magnum)
-2006 Buisson Renard **
-2005 Jurancon, Jardin de Babylon
What can anyone say about these wines? This is a cross-section of the finest Sauvignon Blancs ever made. Period.
While the Silex bottling is the most expensive, it is also the leanest and most laser-like. I prefer Pur Sang and Buisson Renard for their concentration and array of flavors. Further, one notices how the house style has developed over the years. While the mid-90s bottlings are still beautiful, I don't think they were ever as great as the 2006s or even the 2003s. I'll look forward to drinking the 2006's 12 years from now and reflecting back on this day of tasting and comparing memory notes.
Beaujolais
Dominique Piron
-2006 en Beaujolais, Gamay
-2007 Beaujolais Villages*
-2006 Brouilly, Domaine de Combiaty*
-2006 Morgon, Cote du Py
-2006 Chenas, Quartz*
Red Burgundy
Domaine Camus-Bruchon
-2006 Bourgogne Rouge*
-2006 Savigny-Les-Beaune*
-2006 Savigny-Les-Beaune, Les Pimentiers**
-2006 Savigny-Les-Beaune, Aux Grands Liards
-2006 Savigny-Les-Lavieres, 1er Cru
-2006 Savigny-Les-Narbantons, 1er Cru**
Domaine Confuron-Cotetidot
-2006 Bourgogne Passetoutgrain
-2004 Vosne-Romanee
-2005 Vosne-Romanee
-2004 Nuits-St. Georges
-2004 Chambolle-Musigny
-2004 Vosne-Les Suchots
Chateau Puligny Montrachet
-2006 Monthelie Rouge
-2004 St. Aubin-En Remilly, 1er Cru
-2006 Nuits St. George-Clos des Grandes Vignes, 1er
Maison Deux Montille
-2006 Chambolle-Musigny, Les Babilleres
Domaine de Montille
-2006 Bourgogne rouge
-2006 Beaune, 1er Cru, "Les Sizes" *
-2006 Beaune, 1er Cru, "Les Perrieres"
-2006 Beaune, 1 er Cru, "Les Greves"
-2006 Nuits St. Georges, "Les Saints Juliens"
-2006 Nuits St. Georges, 1er Cru, "Les Thorey"
-2006 Volnay, 1er Cru, "Les Brouillards"
-2006 Volnay, 1er Cru, "Les Champans"*
-2006 Volnay, 1er Cru, "Les Tailepieds"
-2006 Pommard, 1er Cru, "Les Pezerolles"
White Burgundy
Domaine Goisot
-2006 Bourgogne-Aligote
-2007 Saint-Bris, Sauvignon
-2007 Bourgogne, Cotes d'Auxerre
Domaine Herve Azo
-2006 Petit Chablis
-2006 Chablis*
-2007 Chablis, Vau de Vey, 1er Cru
Paul Chapelle
-2006 Bourgogne Chardonnay
-2005 Meursault
-2005 Puligny-Montrachet, 1er Cru, Champgain
-Maison Deux Montille
-2006 Rully-Les Clous, 1er Cru
-2006 Montagny-Les Coeres, 1er Cru
-2006 Pernard-Vergelesses
-2006 Pouilly-Fuisse
-2006 Meursault, Casse Tete
-2006 Meursault, Tessons
-2006 Meursault, 1er Cru, Les Boucheres
-2006 Meursault, 1er Cru, Les Chames
-2006 Chassagne-Montrachet, 1er Cru, Les Chaumees
-2006 Puligny-Montrachet, 1er Cru, La Garenne
Chateau Puligny Montrachet
-2006 Meursault
-2006 Chassagne Montrachet
-2006 Puligny Montrachet
-2006 Meursault, 1er Cru, Les Poruzots
Bordeaux
Chateau Sainte Marie
-2007 Entre deux mers, Vielles Vignes*
-2006 Bordeaux Superieur, Vielles Vignes
Chateau Falfas
-2006 Cote de Bourg, Les Demoiselles de Falfas
-2005 Cotes de Bourg, Chateau Falfas
Loire Valley Dry Reds
Rene Noel Le Grand
-2006 Saumur-Champigny, Les Lizieres
Clos Rougeard
-2004 Saumur-Champigny
Pierre Gauthier, Domaine Bel Air
-2007 Bourgueil, Jour de Soif*
-2006 Bourgueil, les Vingt Lieux Dits
Chateau Pierre Bise
-2005 Anjou-Gamay, Sur Spilite
-2005 Anjou-Village, Sur Schistes*
-2006 Savennieres, Roche aux Moines*
Southern France
Mas de Daumas Gassac
-Guilhem Blanc, 2007*
-Mas de Daumas, Gassac Blan, 2007
-Guilhem Rouge, 2007*
-Mas de Daumas Gassac Rouge, 2006
Mas des Brousses
-Chasseur des Brousses, 2006
-Terraces de Larzac, Coteaux de Languedoc, 2006
Domaine Piquemal
-Cotes Catalanes, Cuvee Pierre Audonnet, 2006
-Cotes du Roussillon, 2005
Domaine de l"Hortus
-Classique Blanc, 2007
-Classique Rouge, Pic St. Loup, 2006
-Grande Cuvee, Pic St. Loup, 2006
Domaine La Cabotte
-Cotes du Rhone Rouge, 2006
Cave de Chante Perdrix
-Condrieu, 2007
-St. Joseph Rouge, 2006
-2005 St. Joseph Rouge, La Madone
Domaine de Fauterie
-2006 St. Joseph Rouge
-2005 Cornas
Chateau de Montmirail
-2006 Vacqueyras, Cuvee de l'Ermite
-2006 Gigondas, Cuvee de Beauchamp
Chateau de Gigognan
-2006 CDP Blanc, Clos du Roi
-2005 CDP, Cuvee du Regent
-2005 CDP, Clos du Roi
Domaine Richaud
-2006 Cotes du Rhone Rouge
-2006 Cairanne
Clos Marie
-2007 Manon Blanc
-2006 Simon
-2006 Metairies du Clos
Domaine de Trevallon
-2004 VdP des Bouches du Rhone Rouge
-2005 VdP des Bouches du Rhone Rouge
SPAIN
Xavier Clua
-2006 Mas d'en Pol Blanco
-2006 El Sola d'en Pol Tinto
Pere Guardiola
-2007 Floresta Blanco
-2006 Floresta Tinto
Carballal
-2007 Albarino, 7 Cepas
-2007 Albarino, Cepas Viejas
Josep Maria Vendrell
-2006 Montsant, Sere
Bodegas Zuazo Gaston
-2006 Rioja, Vendima Seleccionada
-2005 Rioja, Crianza
-2004 Rioja, Reserva
Loire Valley Dry Whites
Domaine Henry Pelle
-2007 Menetou-Salon, Morogues
Sylvain Bailly
-2006 Quincy
-2007 Sancerre Blanc, Terroirs
-2006 Sancerre, Prestige
Christian Thirot-Fournier
-Sancerre Blanc, 2006
Francois Chidaine
-2006 Montlouis, Les Choisilles*
Alsace
Domaine Roland Schmitt
-2007 Pinot Blanc
-2007 Riesling Glintzberg
-2007 Pinot Gris
-2007 Riesling, Grand Cru, Altenberg de Bergbieten, VV
-2007 Pinot Gris, Altenberg de Bergbieten
-2006 Gewurztraminer, Altenberg de Bergbieten*
Sparkling Wine
Dominique Piron
-NV Cremant de Bourgogne
Rimarts
-NV Cava Brut Reserva
Francois Chidaine
-NV Montlouis Brut
Domaine de la Fontainerie
-2005 Vouvray Brut
R.H. Coutier
-NV Brut Tradition Champagne, Grand Cru
Agrapart & Fils Champagne
-NV Brut Blanc de Blanc Champagne, Les 7 Crus
-NV Brut Blanc de Blanc, Terroirs, Grand Cru
-NV Brut Rose, Demoiselles, 1er Cru
-2002 Brut Blanc de Blancs, Mineral, Grand Cru
-2002 Brut Blanc de Blanc, l'Avizoise, Grand Cru
Domaine Balivet
-NV Bugey Cerdon
Ciders
Eric Bordelet
-2006 Sider Doux
-2007 Poire l'Authentique
-2006 Sidre Argelette
-2006 Poire Granit
Demi Sec & Sweet Wines
Francois Chidaine
-2006 Montlouis, Les Truffeaux
-2006 Montlouis, Clos Habert*
Domaine de la Fontainerie
-2003 Vouvray Moelleux
Chateau Pierre Bise
-2006 Coteaux du Layon, Les Rouannieres
-2005 Quarts de Chaume*
Chateau de Suronde
-2005 Quarts de Chaume
Domaine Piquemal
-1988 Rivesaltes Ambree, Age de Raison
A Retrospective of wines from the late Didier Dagueneau
*denotes the best wines
-1994 Silex
-1995 Pur Sang *
-1996 Silex (magnum)
-1997 Buisson Menard*
-1998 En Chailloux*
-1999 Pur Sang
-2000Buisson Renard
-2001 Silex
-2002 Silex (magnum)*
-2003 Buisson Renard *
-2003 Pur Sang *
-2004 Buisson Renard
-2005 Silex (magnum)
-2006 Pur Sang (magnum)
-2006 Buisson Renard **
-2005 Jurancon, Jardin de Babylon
What can anyone say about these wines? This is a cross-section of the finest Sauvignon Blancs ever made. Period.
While the Silex bottling is the most expensive, it is also the leanest and most laser-like. I prefer Pur Sang and Buisson Renard for their concentration and array of flavors. Further, one notices how the house style has developed over the years. While the mid-90s bottlings are still beautiful, I don't think they were ever as great as the 2006s or even the 2003s. I'll look forward to drinking the 2006's 12 years from now and reflecting back on this day of tasting and comparing memory notes.
Beaujolais
Dominique Piron
-2006 en Beaujolais, Gamay
-2007 Beaujolais Villages*
-2006 Brouilly, Domaine de Combiaty*
-2006 Morgon, Cote du Py
-2006 Chenas, Quartz*
Red Burgundy
Domaine Camus-Bruchon
-2006 Bourgogne Rouge*
-2006 Savigny-Les-Beaune*
-2006 Savigny-Les-Beaune, Les Pimentiers**
-2006 Savigny-Les-Beaune, Aux Grands Liards
-2006 Savigny-Les-Lavieres, 1er Cru
-2006 Savigny-Les-Narbantons, 1er Cru**
Domaine Confuron-Cotetidot
-2006 Bourgogne Passetoutgrain
-2004 Vosne-Romanee
-2005 Vosne-Romanee
-2004 Nuits-St. Georges
-2004 Chambolle-Musigny
-2004 Vosne-Les Suchots
Chateau Puligny Montrachet
-2006 Monthelie Rouge
-2004 St. Aubin-En Remilly, 1er Cru
-2006 Nuits St. George-Clos des Grandes Vignes, 1er
Maison Deux Montille
-2006 Chambolle-Musigny, Les Babilleres
Domaine de Montille
-2006 Bourgogne rouge
-2006 Beaune, 1er Cru, "Les Sizes" *
-2006 Beaune, 1er Cru, "Les Perrieres"
-2006 Beaune, 1 er Cru, "Les Greves"
-2006 Nuits St. Georges, "Les Saints Juliens"
-2006 Nuits St. Georges, 1er Cru, "Les Thorey"
-2006 Volnay, 1er Cru, "Les Brouillards"
-2006 Volnay, 1er Cru, "Les Champans"*
-2006 Volnay, 1er Cru, "Les Tailepieds"
-2006 Pommard, 1er Cru, "Les Pezerolles"
White Burgundy
Domaine Goisot
-2006 Bourgogne-Aligote
-2007 Saint-Bris, Sauvignon
-2007 Bourgogne, Cotes d'Auxerre
Domaine Herve Azo
-2006 Petit Chablis
-2006 Chablis*
-2007 Chablis, Vau de Vey, 1er Cru
Paul Chapelle
-2006 Bourgogne Chardonnay
-2005 Meursault
-2005 Puligny-Montrachet, 1er Cru, Champgain
-Maison Deux Montille
-2006 Rully-Les Clous, 1er Cru
-2006 Montagny-Les Coeres, 1er Cru
-2006 Pernard-Vergelesses
-2006 Pouilly-Fuisse
-2006 Meursault, Casse Tete
-2006 Meursault, Tessons
-2006 Meursault, 1er Cru, Les Boucheres
-2006 Meursault, 1er Cru, Les Chames
-2006 Chassagne-Montrachet, 1er Cru, Les Chaumees
-2006 Puligny-Montrachet, 1er Cru, La Garenne
Chateau Puligny Montrachet
-2006 Meursault
-2006 Chassagne Montrachet
-2006 Puligny Montrachet
-2006 Meursault, 1er Cru, Les Poruzots
Bordeaux
Chateau Sainte Marie
-2007 Entre deux mers, Vielles Vignes*
-2006 Bordeaux Superieur, Vielles Vignes
Chateau Falfas
-2006 Cote de Bourg, Les Demoiselles de Falfas
-2005 Cotes de Bourg, Chateau Falfas
Loire Valley Dry Reds
Rene Noel Le Grand
-2006 Saumur-Champigny, Les Lizieres
Clos Rougeard
-2004 Saumur-Champigny
Pierre Gauthier, Domaine Bel Air
-2007 Bourgueil, Jour de Soif*
-2006 Bourgueil, les Vingt Lieux Dits
Chateau Pierre Bise
-2005 Anjou-Gamay, Sur Spilite
-2005 Anjou-Village, Sur Schistes*
-2006 Savennieres, Roche aux Moines*
Southern France
Mas de Daumas Gassac
-Guilhem Blanc, 2007*
-Mas de Daumas, Gassac Blan, 2007
-Guilhem Rouge, 2007*
-Mas de Daumas Gassac Rouge, 2006
Mas des Brousses
-Chasseur des Brousses, 2006
-Terraces de Larzac, Coteaux de Languedoc, 2006
Domaine Piquemal
-Cotes Catalanes, Cuvee Pierre Audonnet, 2006
-Cotes du Roussillon, 2005
Domaine de l"Hortus
-Classique Blanc, 2007
-Classique Rouge, Pic St. Loup, 2006
-Grande Cuvee, Pic St. Loup, 2006
Domaine La Cabotte
-Cotes du Rhone Rouge, 2006
Cave de Chante Perdrix
-Condrieu, 2007
-St. Joseph Rouge, 2006
-2005 St. Joseph Rouge, La Madone
Domaine de Fauterie
-2006 St. Joseph Rouge
-2005 Cornas
Chateau de Montmirail
-2006 Vacqueyras, Cuvee de l'Ermite
-2006 Gigondas, Cuvee de Beauchamp
Chateau de Gigognan
-2006 CDP Blanc, Clos du Roi
-2005 CDP, Cuvee du Regent
-2005 CDP, Clos du Roi
Domaine Richaud
-2006 Cotes du Rhone Rouge
-2006 Cairanne
Clos Marie
-2007 Manon Blanc
-2006 Simon
-2006 Metairies du Clos
Domaine de Trevallon
-2004 VdP des Bouches du Rhone Rouge
-2005 VdP des Bouches du Rhone Rouge
SPAIN
Xavier Clua
-2006 Mas d'en Pol Blanco
-2006 El Sola d'en Pol Tinto
Pere Guardiola
-2007 Floresta Blanco
-2006 Floresta Tinto
Carballal
-2007 Albarino, 7 Cepas
-2007 Albarino, Cepas Viejas
Josep Maria Vendrell
-2006 Montsant, Sere
Bodegas Zuazo Gaston
-2006 Rioja, Vendima Seleccionada
-2005 Rioja, Crianza
-2004 Rioja, Reserva
Loire Valley Dry Whites
Domaine Henry Pelle
-2007 Menetou-Salon, Morogues
Sylvain Bailly
-2006 Quincy
-2007 Sancerre Blanc, Terroirs
-2006 Sancerre, Prestige
Christian Thirot-Fournier
-Sancerre Blanc, 2006
Francois Chidaine
-2006 Montlouis, Les Choisilles*
Alsace
Domaine Roland Schmitt
-2007 Pinot Blanc
-2007 Riesling Glintzberg
-2007 Pinot Gris
-2007 Riesling, Grand Cru, Altenberg de Bergbieten, VV
-2007 Pinot Gris, Altenberg de Bergbieten
-2006 Gewurztraminer, Altenberg de Bergbieten*
Sparkling Wine
Dominique Piron
-NV Cremant de Bourgogne
Rimarts
-NV Cava Brut Reserva
Francois Chidaine
-NV Montlouis Brut
Domaine de la Fontainerie
-2005 Vouvray Brut
R.H. Coutier
-NV Brut Tradition Champagne, Grand Cru
Agrapart & Fils Champagne
-NV Brut Blanc de Blanc Champagne, Les 7 Crus
-NV Brut Blanc de Blanc, Terroirs, Grand Cru
-NV Brut Rose, Demoiselles, 1er Cru
-2002 Brut Blanc de Blancs, Mineral, Grand Cru
-2002 Brut Blanc de Blanc, l'Avizoise, Grand Cru
Domaine Balivet
-NV Bugey Cerdon
Ciders
Eric Bordelet
-2006 Sider Doux
-2007 Poire l'Authentique
-2006 Sidre Argelette
-2006 Poire Granit
Demi Sec & Sweet Wines
Francois Chidaine
-2006 Montlouis, Les Truffeaux
-2006 Montlouis, Clos Habert*
Domaine de la Fontainerie
-2003 Vouvray Moelleux
Chateau Pierre Bise
-2006 Coteaux du Layon, Les Rouannieres
-2005 Quarts de Chaume*
Chateau de Suronde
-2005 Quarts de Chaume
Domaine Piquemal
-1988 Rivesaltes Ambree, Age de Raison
Saturday, October 18th, 2008
Nickel & Nickel Tasting
-Searby, Chardonnay, Russian River, 2006
-Truchard, Chardonnay, Carneros, 2006
-Darien, Syrah, Russian River, 2005
-Dyer, Syrah, Carneros, 2005
-Harris, Merlot, Oakville, 2005
-Sori Bricco, Merlot, Diamond Mtn, 2005
-Branding Iron, Cab Sauv, Oakville, 2005
-Rock Cairn, Cab Sauv, Oakville, 2005
-Vogt, Cab Sauv, Howell Mtn, 2005
-Martin Stelling, Cab Sauv, 2005
All the wines were surprisingly good. They aren't made in the same style as most of the Napa Cabs that I've grown to love. The "Cult Cabs" are ultra ripe, plush and rich and opulent with a velvety. By contrast, these wines are pure, focused and ultimately lighter in style. I was pleased with them across the board. They were enjoyable.
-Searby, Chardonnay, Russian River, 2006
-Truchard, Chardonnay, Carneros, 2006
-Darien, Syrah, Russian River, 2005
-Dyer, Syrah, Carneros, 2005
-Harris, Merlot, Oakville, 2005
-Sori Bricco, Merlot, Diamond Mtn, 2005
-Branding Iron, Cab Sauv, Oakville, 2005
-Rock Cairn, Cab Sauv, Oakville, 2005
-Vogt, Cab Sauv, Howell Mtn, 2005
-Martin Stelling, Cab Sauv, 2005
All the wines were surprisingly good. They aren't made in the same style as most of the Napa Cabs that I've grown to love. The "Cult Cabs" are ultra ripe, plush and rich and opulent with a velvety. By contrast, these wines are pure, focused and ultimately lighter in style. I was pleased with them across the board. They were enjoyable.
Thursday, October 16th, 2008
-Stephen Vincent, Pinot Noir, Four Sisters, Sonoma Coast, 2006
-Martin Alfaro, Pinot Noir, Santa Cruz Mtns, 2006
-La Playa, Merlot, Colchagua, Chile, 2006
-Te Awa, Merlot, Hawke's Bay, New Zealand, 2005
-Chateau du Coulat, Lussac-Saint-Emilion, 2005
-Martin Alfaro, Pinot Noir, Santa Cruz Mtns, 2006
-La Playa, Merlot, Colchagua, Chile, 2006
-Te Awa, Merlot, Hawke's Bay, New Zealand, 2005
-Chateau du Coulat, Lussac-Saint-Emilion, 2005
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
Wednesday, October 15th, 2008
Peter Franus
-Peter Franus, Sauvignon Blanc, Carneros, 2007 (I love this crap! Is so good.)
-Peter Franus, Cabernet Franc, Napa, 2005 (Okay)
-Peter Franus, Cabernet Sauvinon, Napa, 2005 (Excellent)
-Peter Franus, Red Wine, Napa, 2005 (Very good and creamy)
-Peter Franus, Mourvedre, Brandlin Vineyard, 2005 (Awesome)
Loire Valley
-Ch. de Vaugaudry, Chinon "Clos du Plessis-Gerbault", 2005 (Awesome)
-Chon, Muscadet, Serve-et-Maine Sur Lie Vielles Vignes, "Clos de La Chapelle", 2006 (Great)
-Dom. Aux Moines, Savennieres, "Roches aux Moines", 2004 (Loved it, super interesting)
-Dom. Deletang, Montlouis Demi-Sec "Les Bastisses", 2005
-Vincent Raimbault, Vouvray Sec "Les Roussieres", 2006
California
-Red Car Wine Co., Box Car, Pinot Noir, California, 2007
-Barlow, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa, 2005
-Peter Franus, Sauvignon Blanc, Carneros, 2007 (I love this crap! Is so good.)
-Peter Franus, Cabernet Franc, Napa, 2005 (Okay)
-Peter Franus, Cabernet Sauvinon, Napa, 2005 (Excellent)
-Peter Franus, Red Wine, Napa, 2005 (Very good and creamy)
-Peter Franus, Mourvedre, Brandlin Vineyard, 2005 (Awesome)
Loire Valley
-Ch. de Vaugaudry, Chinon "Clos du Plessis-Gerbault", 2005 (Awesome)
-Chon, Muscadet, Serve-et-Maine Sur Lie Vielles Vignes, "Clos de La Chapelle", 2006 (Great)
-Dom. Aux Moines, Savennieres, "Roches aux Moines", 2004 (Loved it, super interesting)
-Dom. Deletang, Montlouis Demi-Sec "Les Bastisses", 2005
-Vincent Raimbault, Vouvray Sec "Les Roussieres", 2006
California
-Red Car Wine Co., Box Car, Pinot Noir, California, 2007
-Barlow, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa, 2005
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Tuesday, October 14th, 2008
-Tr Elliot, Pinot Noir "Queste", Russian River Valley, 2006 (Very pure, elegant, and good. Just a touch too much alcohol for the elegance of the wine, but not off-putting)
-Schulz, Zinfandel, Mount Veeder, 2006
-Schulz, Syrah, Oak Knoll, 2006
-Schulz, Samuel's Cuvee, Napa, 2006
Great Burgundy's
These wines get a little confusing. They are all very good, none of them are bad, but they are very different that the wines that I'm accustomed to tasting. So there is a lot of nuance that my brain has trouble processing, but still understands that it is very good. The wines that I select to purchase are the wines that stand out as being the best, and as being the best values. They are a pleasure and delight to be able to taste.
-Domaine de Montille, Beaune, 1er Cru, "Les Sizies", 2006
-Domaine de Montille, Beaune, 1er Cru, "Les Greves", 2006
-Domaine de Montille, Nuits St. Georges, Les Saints Juliens, 2006 (Awesome, and great value)
-Domaine de Montille, Volnay, 1er Cru, "Les Mitans", 2006
-Domaine de Montille, Volnay, 1er Cru, "Les Champans", 2006 (Also awesome)
-Domaine de Montille, Beaune, 1er Cru, "Aigrots", 2006
-Schulz, Zinfandel, Mount Veeder, 2006
-Schulz, Syrah, Oak Knoll, 2006
-Schulz, Samuel's Cuvee, Napa, 2006
Great Burgundy's
These wines get a little confusing. They are all very good, none of them are bad, but they are very different that the wines that I'm accustomed to tasting. So there is a lot of nuance that my brain has trouble processing, but still understands that it is very good. The wines that I select to purchase are the wines that stand out as being the best, and as being the best values. They are a pleasure and delight to be able to taste.
-Domaine de Montille, Beaune, 1er Cru, "Les Sizies", 2006
-Domaine de Montille, Beaune, 1er Cru, "Les Greves", 2006
-Domaine de Montille, Nuits St. Georges, Les Saints Juliens, 2006 (Awesome, and great value)
-Domaine de Montille, Volnay, 1er Cru, "Les Mitans", 2006
-Domaine de Montille, Volnay, 1er Cru, "Les Champans", 2006 (Also awesome)
-Domaine de Montille, Beaune, 1er Cru, "Aigrots", 2006
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Saturday, October 11th, 2008
-Bonny Doon, Ca del Solo, Muscat, 2007
-Bonny Doon, Le Cigare Blanc, California, 2005
-Bonny Doon, Le Pousseur, Syrah, California, 2005
-Esca, Syrah, Napa, 2004
-Esca, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa, 2005
-Myriad, Syrah, Carneros, 2005
-Bonny Doon, Le Cigare Blanc, California, 2005
-Bonny Doon, Le Pousseur, Syrah, California, 2005
-Esca, Syrah, Napa, 2004
-Esca, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa, 2005
-Myriad, Syrah, Carneros, 2005
Friday, October 10th, 2008
Chris and Dana Gi's Wedding
-Aubert, Pinot Noir, Reuling Vineyard, 2004 (This was pretty stellar. My first Aubert Pinot Noir. I was impressed)
-Aubert, Pinot Noir, Reuling Vineyard, 2005 (Also very good, but a little bigger and slightly more clumsy than the 2004. Just not quite as elegant nor as well balanced.)
-Kenneth-Crawford, Syrah "Four Play", Santa Barbara, 2005
-Rinaldi, Petite Sirah, ?, ?
-Aubert, Pinot Noir, Reuling Vineyard, 2004 (This was pretty stellar. My first Aubert Pinot Noir. I was impressed)
-Aubert, Pinot Noir, Reuling Vineyard, 2005 (Also very good, but a little bigger and slightly more clumsy than the 2004. Just not quite as elegant nor as well balanced.)
-Kenneth-Crawford, Syrah "Four Play", Santa Barbara, 2005
-Rinaldi, Petite Sirah, ?, ?
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Tuesday, October 7th, 2008
Terry Thiese
-Undhof Salomon, Gruner Veltliner Hochterrasen, 2007
-Hirsch, Gruner Veltliner, Heiligenstein, Austria, 2006 (This was awesome stuff! I can't wait to share with others and see if they love it as much as I did)
-Hirsch, Gruner Veltliner, Lamm, Austria, 2003 (Clunky and disjointed. Very interesting terrior but out of whack)
-Lehrner, Blaufrankisch Ried Gfanger, Austria, 2006
-Glatzer, Zweigelt "Riedencuvee", Austria, 2005
Spain
-Alto Zano, Verdejo, 2007 (Buy it)
-Conde Valdemar, Rose, Rioja, 2007 (Buy it)
-Vina Borgia, Grenacha, 2007
-Paso a Paso, Tempranillo, La Mancha, 2006
-Conde Valdemar, Crianza, Rioja, 2004
-Conde Valdemar, Gran Reserva, 2001
-Emilio Moro, Ribera del Duero, 2005
-Mas Mallola, Marco Abella, Priorat, 2005
-Mas Mallola, Clos Abella, Priorat, 2004
-Ordonjez, Muscadelle, Malaga, 2005 (Buy 3 6-packs)
-Gonzalez Byass, Oloroso, Solera, 1847 (buy it)
-Alvear, Pedro Ximenez, Solera, 1927
-Undhof Salomon, Gruner Veltliner Hochterrasen, 2007
-Hirsch, Gruner Veltliner, Heiligenstein, Austria, 2006 (This was awesome stuff! I can't wait to share with others and see if they love it as much as I did)
-Hirsch, Gruner Veltliner, Lamm, Austria, 2003 (Clunky and disjointed. Very interesting terrior but out of whack)
-Lehrner, Blaufrankisch Ried Gfanger, Austria, 2006
-Glatzer, Zweigelt "Riedencuvee", Austria, 2005
Spain
-Alto Zano, Verdejo, 2007 (Buy it)
-Conde Valdemar, Rose, Rioja, 2007 (Buy it)
-Vina Borgia, Grenacha, 2007
-Paso a Paso, Tempranillo, La Mancha, 2006
-Conde Valdemar, Crianza, Rioja, 2004
-Conde Valdemar, Gran Reserva, 2001
-Emilio Moro, Ribera del Duero, 2005
-Mas Mallola, Marco Abella, Priorat, 2005
-Mas Mallola, Clos Abella, Priorat, 2004
-Ordonjez, Muscadelle, Malaga, 2005 (Buy 3 6-packs)
-Gonzalez Byass, Oloroso, Solera, 1847 (buy it)
-Alvear, Pedro Ximenez, Solera, 1927
Monday, October 6th, 2008
Just 1
-Charles Heidsieck, Rose, Reims, 1985 (this was a little flawed. Perhaps stored improperly and accelerated aging. It just didn't have great finesse and balance. It was dominant in burnt bread or burnt creme brulee smell. Not appealingly burnt, just too much burn. We still drank it.)
-Charles Heidsieck, Rose, Reims, 1985 (this was a little flawed. Perhaps stored improperly and accelerated aging. It just didn't have great finesse and balance. It was dominant in burnt bread or burnt creme brulee smell. Not appealingly burnt, just too much burn. We still drank it.)
Sunday, October 5th, 2008
Frenchy's Bistro
-A Champagne whose name I can't recall
-Vinas Toredonia, Rioja Blanc, 1981 (very odd, but intriguing. I enjoyed tasting it, but not drinking it)
-Domaine de La Solitude, Chateauneuf-du-Pape, 2000 (This was awesome! Great stuff)
-A Champagne whose name I can't recall
-Vinas Toredonia, Rioja Blanc, 1981 (very odd, but intriguing. I enjoyed tasting it, but not drinking it)
-Domaine de La Solitude, Chateauneuf-du-Pape, 2000 (This was awesome! Great stuff)
Saturday, October 4th, 2008
Same Spanish Wines as Yesterday, plus . . .
-Kuleto, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa, 2003
-Cliff Lede, Cabernet Sauvignon, Diamond Mtn., 2004 (This was awesome. Really, really awesome!)
-Stonestreet, Fifth Ridge, Alexander Valley, 2005
-Kuleto, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa, 2003
-Cliff Lede, Cabernet Sauvignon, Diamond Mtn., 2004 (This was awesome. Really, really awesome!)
-Stonestreet, Fifth Ridge, Alexander Valley, 2005
Friday, October 3rd, 2008
Glaetzer Lunch
-Stickleback White, Austrailia, 2007
-Heartland, Pinot Gris/Viognier, Langhorne Creek, 2007
-Heartland, Shiraz, Langhorne Creek, 2006
-Heartland, Cabernet Sauvignon, Langhorne Creek, 2006
-Heartland, Director's Cut, Shiraz, Langhorne Creek, 2006
-Glaetzer, The Wallace Shiraz, Barossa, 2006
-Glaetzer, Bishop Shiraz, Barossa, 2006
-Glaetzer, Anaperenna, Barossa, 2006
-Glaetzer, Amon Ra, Barossa, 2007 (This was perhaps the greatest Shiraz I've ever had.)
-Darioush, Cabernet Franc, Napa, 2005
-Wolf, Cabernet Franc, Napa, 2005 (This was clearly the better of the two. Softer, supple and great purity and length)
Spain
-Mont-Marcel, Cava, NV
-ZaZa, Grenache Rose, Campo de Borja, 2007
-Torremorron, Ribera del Duero, 2007
-Ramos Pinto, Adriano Red, Portugal, 2006
-Falset-Marca, Grenache, Monsant, 2004
-Copain, Pinot Noir, Cerise Vineyard, Anderson Valley, 2006
-Stickleback White, Austrailia, 2007
-Heartland, Pinot Gris/Viognier, Langhorne Creek, 2007
-Heartland, Shiraz, Langhorne Creek, 2006
-Heartland, Cabernet Sauvignon, Langhorne Creek, 2006
-Heartland, Director's Cut, Shiraz, Langhorne Creek, 2006
-Glaetzer, The Wallace Shiraz, Barossa, 2006
-Glaetzer, Bishop Shiraz, Barossa, 2006
-Glaetzer, Anaperenna, Barossa, 2006
-Glaetzer, Amon Ra, Barossa, 2007 (This was perhaps the greatest Shiraz I've ever had.)
-Darioush, Cabernet Franc, Napa, 2005
-Wolf, Cabernet Franc, Napa, 2005 (This was clearly the better of the two. Softer, supple and great purity and length)
Spain
-Mont-Marcel, Cava, NV
-ZaZa, Grenache Rose, Campo de Borja, 2007
-Torremorron, Ribera del Duero, 2007
-Ramos Pinto, Adriano Red, Portugal, 2006
-Falset-Marca, Grenache, Monsant, 2004
-Copain, Pinot Noir, Cerise Vineyard, Anderson Valley, 2006
Friday, October 3, 2008
Thursday, October 2nd, 2008
The Celebration Continues . . .
-Bogle, Phantom, California, 2005
-O'Shaugnessy, Cabernet Sauvignon, Howell Mtn., 2005 (great, very dependable)
-Owen Roe, Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla, 2005 (Excellent!)
-Ampelos, Syrah-Grenache, Sta. Rita Hills, 2005 (Over-ripe. We thought it was from Paso. Underwhelming.)
-Produtto, Barberesco, Rio Sordo, Italy, 2001 (very good)
-Pedestal, Merlot, Columbia Valley, Washington, 2005 (Excellent. The best wine of the night for me.)
-Mount Veeder, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa, 2005 (excellent)
-Far Niente, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa, 2004 (This was good, but not worth the price, at all. It was shockingly fruit driven. Almost void of backbone. The fruit was so tightly packed that it actually created a little structure for the wine, but it wasn't really from grape tannin. I enjoyed it and it was interesting. But I'm be happy to pay $40 for it, nothing more.)
-Valley of the Moon, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma, 2003 (no need for notes on this one)
-Valley of the Moon, Port, 2001 (good)
-Bogle, Phantom, California, 2005
-O'Shaugnessy, Cabernet Sauvignon, Howell Mtn., 2005 (great, very dependable)
-Owen Roe, Cabernet Sauvignon, Walla Walla, 2005 (Excellent!)
-Ampelos, Syrah-Grenache, Sta. Rita Hills, 2005 (Over-ripe. We thought it was from Paso. Underwhelming.)
-Produtto, Barberesco, Rio Sordo, Italy, 2001 (very good)
-Pedestal, Merlot, Columbia Valley, Washington, 2005 (Excellent. The best wine of the night for me.)
-Mount Veeder, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa, 2005 (excellent)
-Far Niente, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa, 2004 (This was good, but not worth the price, at all. It was shockingly fruit driven. Almost void of backbone. The fruit was so tightly packed that it actually created a little structure for the wine, but it wasn't really from grape tannin. I enjoyed it and it was interesting. But I'm be happy to pay $40 for it, nothing more.)
-Valley of the Moon, Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma, 2003 (no need for notes on this one)
-Valley of the Moon, Port, 2001 (good)
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Wednesday, October 1st, 2008
-Gobelsburger, Riesling, Austria, 2007
-Laurent Perrier, Grand Siecle, Champagne, NV
-Bernkasteler Wolf, Riesling ?????
-Kosta Browne, Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, 2005 (A great example of why people complain about California wines. The Alcohol and the fruit were overwhelming. It smelled beautiful and complex, but that intense aroma was carried by the heavy alcohol. And on the palate it was just too much. I totally understand why it appeals to people, but I don't understand why James Laube scores these wines so highly. I actually didn't like it. We left half a glass on the table.)
-Chateau d'Yquem, Sauternes, 1999 (perhaps the finest wine on the planet! It's just so freakin good. I've it a handful of times and it always evolves, from youth to aged, it always gets more compelling and complex in the absolute most intriguing ways. It is something that must be tasted to be believed. It's surreal and unlike any other beverage I've ever tasted. Get some!)
-Levendi, Late Harvest Chardonnay, Napa (This sucked compared to the d'Yquem)
-Laurent Perrier, Grand Siecle, Champagne, NV
-Bernkasteler Wolf, Riesling ?????
-Kosta Browne, Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, 2005 (A great example of why people complain about California wines. The Alcohol and the fruit were overwhelming. It smelled beautiful and complex, but that intense aroma was carried by the heavy alcohol. And on the palate it was just too much. I totally understand why it appeals to people, but I don't understand why James Laube scores these wines so highly. I actually didn't like it. We left half a glass on the table.)
-Chateau d'Yquem, Sauternes, 1999 (perhaps the finest wine on the planet! It's just so freakin good. I've it a handful of times and it always evolves, from youth to aged, it always gets more compelling and complex in the absolute most intriguing ways. It is something that must be tasted to be believed. It's surreal and unlike any other beverage I've ever tasted. Get some!)
-Levendi, Late Harvest Chardonnay, Napa (This sucked compared to the d'Yquem)
Tuesday, September 30th, 2008
Pinot Noir
-David Bruce, Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, 2006
-Calera, Pinot Noir, Ryan Vineyard, 2005
-Dierberg, Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley, 2005
-Robert Craig, Zinfandel, Howell Mtn, 2006
-Graham Beck, Cabernet Sauvignon, South Africa, 2007
-David Bruce, Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, 2006
-Calera, Pinot Noir, Ryan Vineyard, 2005
-Dierberg, Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley, 2005
-Robert Craig, Zinfandel, Howell Mtn, 2006
-Graham Beck, Cabernet Sauvignon, South Africa, 2007
Sunday, September 28th, 2008
The Magical 1981 Vintage
Louis Roederer, Blanc de Blanc Champagne, 2002 (very, very excellent)
Ricther, Riesling Spatlese, Mosel, Germany, 1982 (also excellent)
Chateau Nairac, Barsac, 2001 (another excellent wine)
Trotanoy, Merlot, Pomerol, 1981 (this was my favorite red of the night. Plenty of plumpness and fullness with silky tannin and fruit. It was just great.)
Chateau Montrose, Cabernet Blend, Saint Estephe, 1981 (Slightly off. It was probably cooked at some point in its life. However, Stetson thinks it was corked.)
Heitz Cellars, Cabernet Sauvignon, Bella Oaks, 1981 (this was good, but fell short after the Marth's)
Heitz Cellars, Cabernet Sauvignon, Martha's Vineyard, 1981 (this was great and a great example of what California has to offer.)
Freemark Abbey, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa, 1981 (This was good but not stunning)
Berard Pere & Fils, Cuvee Prestige, Chateauneuf-du-Pape, 1981 (this was very good, and a nice change of pace from the Cabernet's)
Beringer, Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa, 1981 (this wine wasn't very good)
Grigich Hills, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa, 1981 (one of the best California wines of the night)
La Conseillente, Merlot, Pomerol, 1981 (probably my second favorite wine of the night. Super floral with potpouri aromas, it as delicious)
Ramos Pinto, 1983 Porto (this was a great end to the night)
Louis Roederer, Blanc de Blanc Champagne, 2002 (very, very excellent)
Ricther, Riesling Spatlese, Mosel, Germany, 1982 (also excellent)
Chateau Nairac, Barsac, 2001 (another excellent wine)
Trotanoy, Merlot, Pomerol, 1981 (this was my favorite red of the night. Plenty of plumpness and fullness with silky tannin and fruit. It was just great.)
Chateau Montrose, Cabernet Blend, Saint Estephe, 1981 (Slightly off. It was probably cooked at some point in its life. However, Stetson thinks it was corked.)
Heitz Cellars, Cabernet Sauvignon, Bella Oaks, 1981 (this was good, but fell short after the Marth's)
Heitz Cellars, Cabernet Sauvignon, Martha's Vineyard, 1981 (this was great and a great example of what California has to offer.)
Freemark Abbey, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa, 1981 (This was good but not stunning)
Berard Pere & Fils, Cuvee Prestige, Chateauneuf-du-Pape, 1981 (this was very good, and a nice change of pace from the Cabernet's)
Beringer, Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa, 1981 (this wine wasn't very good)
Grigich Hills, Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa, 1981 (one of the best California wines of the night)
La Conseillente, Merlot, Pomerol, 1981 (probably my second favorite wine of the night. Super floral with potpouri aromas, it as delicious)
Ramos Pinto, 1983 Porto (this was a great end to the night)
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