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.