Our local break in the weather — more like, “welcome summertime” — brings out the rosé in me. Today’s wine, from Oregon’s Dundee Hills, is one of Stoller Family Estate’s most delightful, and early, releases. This one sells rapidly and its newest iteration is simply a breath of freshness. If you don’t know Stoller, theirs […]
Celebrate Warmer Temps: Break Out the Rosé! Read More »
I, full disclosure, actually collect some of the wine produced by this exemplary winery in the Sienese hills of Tuscany. Avignonesi’s Vino Nobile Di Montepulciano is one of the most fragrant and suave reds of the region. It’s a clone of the Sangiovese grape, called Prugnolo Gentile (I just love saying that out loud), that
‘A Magical Wine to Savor, Discuss and Admire’ Read More »
Leviathan makes bold claims. Meant to compete with trophy wines in the three-figure category, this wine nonetheless sells for a healthy $48. It may be cheap for those who salt away $500 cult reds, but it’s still a price to be reckoned with. This delectable red, crafted by winemaker Andy Erickson, delivers on all cylinders.
The Price is Right for this California Red Blend Read More »
I have sampled Cecchi wines for many years and have always been impressed by their quality and what I can only call the genuineness of place. Cecchi vineyards are located in the verdant hills north of Siena. We used to joke about stopping at the nearest railroad station, whose sign said: “Castellina in Chianti —
‘Textbook Chianti Classico’ Read More »
Loveblock is a most fortunate name to help celebrate this Valentine’s Day. This is a project headed up by dynamic wine guru Kim Crawford, whose name is synonymous with the international rise of New Zealand wines. His name on the label today though is only a brand. (It was sold off to the Vincor Corporation
Fittingly Named Pinot Noir Ideal for Valentine’s Day Read More »
Chateau Montelena is famous for its Chardonnay and very age-able Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. But some of you may know that they also make a Riesling from Potter Valley grapes, high up at the headwaters of the Russian River in Mendocino County. Why bother? Because it’s special. Closer to Australia’s Eden Valley in style rather
A Wholly Remarkable Riesling Read More »
Haras de Pirque is a Mendoza (Chile) winery with the highest aspirations; and their partnership with Italian, no longer wünderkind, Piero Antinori, has produced superb results. Their smoky, earthy Syrahs are fascinating in their novelty, and the other emphasis on distinguished Cabernet Sauvignon is also producing unique, affordable wines. The “Hussonet” Cabernet Sauvignon, named after
The Thoroughbred of Cabernets Read More »
The name “Chianti” brings about a wealth of responses, both good and bad. The bottom line is this: the Sangiovese grape, ripe and well-handled, makes for unique wines that can run the gamut. Today’s wine could be called “new and improved,” but what really matters, and shows, is its inherent drinkability. Merlot, Colorino and Syrah
A Chianti That’s So Easy to Love Read More »
Wine writer Hugh Johnson used to call Cahors the “manliest” of French wines. Chauvinism aside, he was obviously referring to its black color and rather “full-speed-ahead” style of red. The grape of Cahors is Malbec, and it has found another home where it thrives in the Mendoza province of Argentina. Today’s wine, produced by the
Malbec Meant for Winter Sipping Read More »
Collio is a northeastern region of Italy, bordering on Slovenia. Part of the larger Friuli commune, it recently lost permission to name its most famous white “Tocai Friuliano” anymore. The Hungarians complained it sounded too much like their “Tokaj.” Ah well, the Italian wine is now known as “Tai.” TAi-ing one on has never been
A Charming Cabernet Franc Read More »
