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Occasio Merlot 2009
Winery: Occasio
Grape(s): Merlot
Region: Livermore Valley
Year: 2009
Special Designation: n/a
Farming Certification: (n/a)
Price: 30-15

Review:
Aromas of earth and dried herbs meld with notes of currants and blackberries on the nose. Flavors of dark berries and plum come together with dusty earth and Italian herbs on the palate. A fuller, more robust Merlot than many out there, perhaps it's more reminiscent of Bordeaux than California. In any case, those who enjoy a nice balance of fruit and earth, along with a solid structure, should give this wine a try.
Rating: 90

Occasio Cabernet Franc 2009
Winery: Occasio
Grape(s): Cabernet Franc
Region: Livermore Valley
Year: 2009
Special Designation: n/a
Farming Certification: (n/a)
Price: 45-50

Review:
Aromatics of blackberries and cherries mingle with suggestions of sweet spice and floral notes on the nose. A sip unfurls flavors of blackberry, plum, and cherry with accents of all-spice and earth. With concentrated fruit flavors framed by supple tannins, if you enjoy lighter, slightly earthy Cabernet Sauvignons, give this Cab Franc a try. Odds are you'll be happy.
Rating: 90

Occasio Cabernet Sauvignon 2009
Winery: Occasio
Grape(s): Cabernet Sauvignon
Region: Livermore Valley
Year: 2009
Special Designation: n/a
Farming Certification: (n/a)
Price: 30-40

Review:
The nose offers dark berry fruit accented by hints of smoke, vanilla, and earth. Blackberry and currants meld with suggestions of dusty earth and sweet spice on the palate. A fairly soft, elegant Cabernet that's very approachable now, but still has the structure to age nicely. Fans of more elegant reds will enjoy this bottle very much. 250 cases produced.
Rating: 90

Occasio Sotto Voce 2009
Winery: Occasio
Grape(s): Cabernet Sauvignon 50% & Petite Sirah 50%
Region: Livermore Valley
Year: 2009
Special Designation: Sotto Voce
Farming Certification: (n/a)
Price: 30-35

Review:
A blend of fruit from two distinct Livermore Valley vineyards, the wine offers aromas of blackberries and currants mingle with highlights of dark chocolate, sweet spice, and floral hints. A sip delivers flavors of black currants and bramble fruit along with suggestions of all-spice, coffee, and floral, earthy notes. A smoother red, with some heartier edges, if you enjoy a nice balance of fruit and non-fruit flavors, this is worth a try.
Rating: 89

Occasio Petite Sirah 2009
Winery: Occasio
Grape(s): Petite Sirah
Region: Livermore Valley
Year: 2009
Special Designation: n/a
Farming Certification: (n/a)
Price: 30-35

Review:
Sourced from Del Arroyo Vineyard, dense black fruit, leather, and a nice highlight of black pepper rise up from a glass. Blueberry, currant, and blackberry flavors mingle with notes of clove, spice, leather, and pie crust. A hearty Petite Sirah with smooth edges, fans of bold, rich reds will really enjoy this wine. 252 cases produced.
Rating: 90

Occasio Pinot Noir 2011
Winery: Occasio
Grape(s): Pinot Noir (rosé)
Region: Livermore Valley
Year: 2011
Special Designation: n/a
Farming Certification: (n/a)
Price: 20-25

Review:
Aromas of cranberries and cherries rise up from a glass accented by hints of sweet spice and herbs. Bright red berries emerge on the palate along with suggestions of springtime flowers and honey. A fairly crisp rosé, with bright fruit flavors and a smooth mouthfeel, it's a fine wine for a warm summer afternoon.
Rating: 88