Tuesday, November 01, 2005

2003 Selby Cabernet Franc

Susie has done it again! To take a Bordeaux blending grape such as Cab Franc and to create a silky soft wine with structure to carry the palate deserves the attention of the critics. Unfortunately, there just not enough production of this grape (120 barrels) to spoil the party!

The source of the grape is from the Alexander Valley, long known for the gentle warm days and slightly less cooler night temps than other AVA's in Sonoma but enough to secure the growth of this great fruit. Made from 100% Cab Franc, a rarity in California. Another great example from the Selby family.

1999 Gundlach Bundschu Tempranillo

Tempranillo is the main grape in Spanish Rioja wines. Light and fruity with a bit of an earthy taste easily captures the description of these wines.

Gun Bun has shown how the California terrior can take control of grapes and make them their own. This example illustrates a bold fruit. Not over the top in terms of tannins but typical structure for a Gundlach wine. What grabs you is the strength of the abundant fruit. This wine takes you where the Riojas can only hope to go. Tremendous fruit with a lasting palate combines to make this a favorite in my cellar! A must buy and a must try!!

2003 Roshambo Zinfandel

Roshambo is considered one of the wunderkind in the Sonoma wine market and the Zinfandel and the Syrah's released this year show shy as they have been windely praised by Wine & Spirits Magazine with 92 and 93 ratings respectively.

The Zinfandel shows the youthful exuberance of vines still trying to find their way. Although it can not be described as watery, the young zin offers a sweet light balance more attributed to a light Pinot instead of a Zin. The price is right on this venture as well at $21 a bottle considering the going price of the average mature Zin is closer to $30!





Rated 92 rate Wine & Spirits

Monday, October 17, 2005

2001 Fess Parker Pinot

A favorite fall wine is a fruity Pinot Noir. I recently tasted a 2001 Fess Parker Santa Barbara County Pinot Noir. Fess Parker gained notoriety from the film Sideways, although I don't think they drank the Pinot.

It's full of fruit. You can taste the berries and cherries immediately followed by hints of spice and pepper. I like my Pinots chilled a bit; slightly below room temperature. This wine needs to open. The initial finish is harsh. It's best to decant it so the tannins mellow and soften.

It’s a simple wine, perfect for a barbeques or if you’re looking to slam a glass or two to unwind after a long day. The price is right – I found it for $13. Cheers!