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2008 Winery & Vineyards Label Reviews
 

2008 FEATURED WINES
AronHill
AronHill 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon / Paso Robles
This estate grown cabernet greets you with a heady nose with hints of cherry and raspberries. Very smooth, this well aged cab with gentle oak overtones does not disappoint with its subtle tannins and hints of pepper. A delightful and drinkable cab that ís bold enough to stand up to a steak. It definitely stood up to ours.
AronHill 2005 Primitivo / Paso Robles
This estate grown varietal imparts a zesty, bold first sip that mellows into a well balanced bright and smooth wine with a medium full body. Gentle nose with subtle hints of blackberry and raspberry make it a perfect accompaniment to a barbecued steak dinner hot off the grill. This wine has a strong center with nice tannins that cleans the tongue without the bite. Buy a bottle for now, and a bottle for much later, as this has all the qualities for a wine to age well.
  AronHill 2005 Quatre Melanges / Paso Robles
A positive forward floral nose with subtle hints of cherry, blackberries and oak gives this dashing wine a very good first impression. Take a nice long sip and feel the tingle on the tongue as the fruit continues to unfold. The excellent balance and finesse make this seamless blend of Petite Syrah, Zinfandel, Syrah and Merlot a perfectly versatile wine to pair with your juicy thick steaks, or hearty Italian meals. Flavor is the key here, and your carefully prepared dinners will never be overshadowed with this seamless blend of estate grown grapes carefully blended for balance and longevity.
AronHill 2005 Vinho Doce / Paso Robles
This fresh warm port nose is the prize conclusion to a wonderful meal with friends. Sip slowly and swirl, as the subtle fruit flavors warm the palette and open the soul, never smother. Boasting a blend of 3 Portuguese varietals and one syrah, its smooth velvety finish pairs wonderfully with a rich, chocolate bite or a selection of triple creamy cheeses to while away the evening. Keep an extra bottle on hand for those special moments when you really want to extend the magical feel to a wonderful evening. It pleases every time.
AronHill 2006 Sauvignon Blanc / Paso Robles
Chill this light blonde sauvignon blanc to serve mid day during the hot but never lazy summer days to come. Crisp and tart with hints of citrus, pear and acres of green grapes and grass, this delicate and fragrant white will pair easily with salads, Asian food, cheeses and seafood. Drinkable, drinkable, drinkable are the three important words here, as the winemaker's love of wide open spaces and free galloping horses converges into a single bottle of romance ready to be broken open with favorite staples seasoned with spices used the world over in Chinese, Thai, Indian and even Mexican food dishes. We recommend two chilled bottles and no switching.
Beaulieu Vineyard
  Beaulieu Vineyard, Georges de Latour
Private Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2005

The first Georges de Latour Cabernet vintage came in 1936. This most recent addition to the line adds another gem to the long history of quality. The wine's full body holds up rich dark fruit flavors of cherry, blackberry and plum. Soft hints of vanilla round out the palate. Gentle tannins and a touch of acidity provide the wine with a lovely balance, which makes for an exquisite drinkability. A perfect wine to compliment a beef tenderloin or an exceptional steak.
Bianchi Winery
 
Bianchi Winery 2005 Petite Sirah / Paso Robles
Deep,intensely ripe, lush, dark fruit flavors make this petite sirah a vintage to treasure. Wonderful fruit forward nose with a structured palate are supported by firm tannins and notes of truffle, cigar, truffles, cola and leather. Big flavor goes with big steak, full flavored cheeses, dry aged all natural roasts, stews and even a Beef Wellington. Unbelievably Smooth.
  Bianchi Winery 2006 Edna Valley Chardonnay / Paso Robles
Beautiful bright golden color with intense tropical fruit aromas, this fruit forward chardonnay is a product of the wonderful Edna Valley of the Paso Robles region. Slight citrus tones marry up with tropical pineapple, kiwi and creamy banana. Aged in oak barrels to give this wine a toasty, vanilla oak flavor. Superbly balanced..
 
Bianchi Winery 2005 Smoot Vineyards Merlot / Paso Robles
An intense jammy nose of ripe cherries, dark berries and plums, this meaty, full flavored red greets the palate with a firm, supple mouth feel and ripe tannins. Savor the first sip, as this complex merlot unfolds into a long finish with hints of vanilla, cloves and earthy minerals. Oh, what a feast to have with a sizzling, dry aged rib eye charred to perfection on the grill. This wine is from their Signature collection, aged 19 months to perfection in French and American oak, and guaranteed to cellar well..
  Bianchi Winery 2005 Pinot Noir- Garey Vineyards
Paso Robles

A Beautiful, deep berry color with great legs greets the nose. The complex bouquet of
fruit aromas give way to an inviting first sip. Hold tight, because this just gets betters. A structured, well balanced palate gives way to mild tannins and a lingering finish, topping off with wild mushrooms and earthy mineral tones. Pairs well with pasta seafood dishes, roasted game, smoked meats and full flavored cheeses. MMmmmm enjoy!.
 
Bianchi Winery 2005 Syrah / Paso Robles
A heady aroma of packed berries is your first introduction to this signature wine. Luscious blackberries, plums, ripened cherries and raspberries unfold into a pocket of earthy mushroom, cigar, and crisp fall leaves.Well balanced acidities and mild tannins make this easy to drink, as your last sip leaves an ever so slight memory of clove, toasty oak and vanilla. A hearty, full flavored wines that goes best with hearty stews seasoned with basil, bay, sage and thyme. A must have for the cellar.
  Bianchi Winery 2005 Primitivo / Paso Robles
This estate grown varietal imparts a zesty, bold first sip that mellows into a well balanced bright and smooth wine with a medium full body. Gentle nose with subtle hints of blackberry and raspberry make it a perfect accompaniment to a barbecued steak dinner hot off the grill. This wine has a strong center with nice tannins that cleans the tongue without the bite. Buy a bottle for now, and a bottle for much later, as this has all the qualities for a wine to age well.
Chateau Felice Winery
Chateau Felice Winery 2006 Chardonnay / Chalk Hill
The rich golden color of this 100% chardonnay estate grown wine hints at its rich toasty vanilla aromas surrounded by Meyers lemon zest, flint, and rose geranium. Flavored with orchards of another era of Sonoma history, taste the nectarine, lemon, papaya, sweet almond, and ripe pear that gives way to a floral, lemon verbena finish with zesty acids and a soft hint of English toffee. Pair a nice chilled bottle of this oh so drinkable wine with your favorite summer salad topped with left over salmon, or freshly skewered shrimp. Eat light, feel refreshed, and have that second bottle handy - you'll be wanting it.
Concannon Vineyard
Concannon Vineyard 2007 Assemblage White
/ Livermore Valley

Over their 125 year history, the folks at Concannon have learned how to take advantage of the austere, rocky soil of Livermore Valley estate to produce fruit with highly concentrated flavors.  For this wine, winemaker Adam Richardson has expertly blended the classic Bordeaux varietals of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon.  Pause to take in the nose and you'll find lively aromas of melon, grapefruit and other citrus fruits, balanced by herbier, grassier notes.  The crisp, refreshing acidity flows into a bright, citrus finish that makes for great drinkablity.  Pair a bottle with fresh cuts of swordfish hot off the grill and you won't be disappointed.
Concannon Vineyard 2006 Viognier / Central Coast
Concannon's stony soils, cool mornings, and late afternoon breezes are key elements in their production of quality viognier fruit.  The sweet, floral nose of honeysuckle and orange blossoms, which rises out from the soft yellow hue, is best savored in the warm, fresh air of a clear day.  A palate busting with pineapple, honeydew melon, and green apple flavors make a second sip hard to resist.  The wine comes to a close with a smooth, creamy finish.  Bring a bottle along for a nice romantic picnic or grab a few and cook-up a spread of your favorite shellfish for friends.
Concannon Vineyard 2007 Righteously Rosè / Central Coast
Rosès are often overlooked in America, but winemaker Adam Richardson's effort might cause a few cynics to give them a second look.  A blend of mainly Rhone varietals, including Petite Sirah, Cinsault, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Zinfandel, this is a lively wine.  Aging in cool stainless steel highlighted the floral notes and maintained a crisp hint of acidity, giving the wine a bright, fresh character.  Out of the vibrant pink-ruby hue, flavors of cherry, cranberry, and strawberry fill the palate, flowing into a tart, citrusy finish.  This is a wine made for summertime!
Concannon Vineyard 2005 Stampmaker's Syrah
/ Central Coast

James Concannon, the vineyard's founder, was a stampmaker by trade.  His memory is honored with this Rhone-styled wine, blending 77% Syrah, 14 % Petite Sirah, 4% Cinsault,3% Cunoise, 2% Grenache.  Hold a glass to the sun and admire the deep violet hue.  A sip will bring ripe flavors of blackberry and boysenberry.  More subtle notes of vanilla, licorice, and pepper float upon supple tannins.  Close your eyes to savor the smooth finish, with lingering notes of toasted oak from 12 months of aging in French and American barrels.  Enjoy this fine, newly released wine with hearty dishes, like a well-seasoned rack of lamb.
Concannon Vineyard 2005 Assemblage Cabernet Sauvignon
/ Central Coast

This rich Cabernet is made in the style of elegant Bordeaux wines.  Central Coast and Livermore Valley fruit was aged in carefully in selected oak barrels after long periods of cool fermentation. The resulting wine is one which deserves your full attention.  Pause to appreciate the deep purple hue and its soft ruby edges.  Take a sip and firm tannins allow lush flavors of black cherry, currants, and plum to drift over your palate, unfolding into a silky finish that offers complex layers of oak, dark chocolate, and hints of smoke.  A very nice wine that deserves the company of elegant cheeses or a delectable cut of filet mignon.  Open a bottle now, but cellar one for later, too.
  Concannon Vineyard 2005 Petite Sirah / Central Coast
Concannon Vineyards pioneered producing the varietal back in the early 1960's.  Today, winemaker Adam Richardson carries on the tradition, making the grape a cornerstone of the winery.  This limited release vintage offers rich and complex flavors.  A nose of bright red fruit, oak, must, and spice unfolds into a palate bursting with black cherry, vanilla, pepper, and earthier tones, held up by a full-body and firm structure.  At its finish, the wine leaves dry and smooth, with lingering hints of cherry to tide you over untill your second glass.  Serve this wine to dinner guests alongside hearty meats, or pair it with your favorite dark chocolate dessert as a special indulgence.
Decoy Wines
  Decoy Wines, 2006 Napa Valley, Red Wine
The sister label of Duckhorn since 1985, Decoy has produced fine wine from classic Bordeaux varietals. The 2006 vintage is a blend of 49% Cabernet Sauvignon, 44% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot from the Napa Valley. The resulting wine, with its lush, deep violet hue, is graceful, smooth and sure to please a crowd. Its nose has tremendous depth, with springtime aromas of lavender and roses unfolding into ripe black cherries, tobacco, and hints of spice. The supple, yet solid tannins wrap the palate in soft fruit layers of red plums, cherry, and currants, with notes of fresh cracked pepper mingling beneath. Pair this excellent wine with a dry-aged prime rib eye roast with truffle oil and rosemary. At $30, this bottle is a great value
.
Duckhorn Vineyards
  Duckhorn Vineyards, Napa Valley, Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
A wet growing season and long harvest yielded a crop of excellent fruit for this vintage. Aged for 18 months in French oak and blended with Merlot to add further complexity, this Cabernet unfurls a nose jam-packed with layers of fruit, including plum, cherry, boysenberry, blackberry, and currants. From its deep, dark purple hue pours ripe red fruit flavors that unfold upon plush tannins into dynamic notes of cedar, spice, and herbs, with a hint of black olive on the lingering finish. Serve this wine with grilled lamb in rosemary pepper marinade and enjoy.
  Duckhorn Vineyards, Estate Grown, Napa Valley,
Cabernet Sauvignon 2005

Fruit from five different estate vineyards was blended with a touch of Merlot and aged in oak for 20 months to produce this fine wine of excellent depth. Held up to sunlight, the very deep violet hue glows. Connoisseurs will admire the rich and complex nose packed with earthy overtones of hickory, smoke, and cedar, contrasted by mellow notes of red fruit and vanilla. Nicely structured and well-balanced, the palate opens up with flavors of cassis and blackberry surrounding pockets of earth that finish soft and smooth. Indulge in a bottle now, and cellar another for ten years, as this wine shows great promise for development.
  Duckhorn Vineyards, Napa Valley,
Cabernet Sauvignon 2005, Monitor Ledge

With its cobblestones and gravelly, sandy loam soil, vines struggle to grow on the Monitor Ledge Vineyard but produce excellent fruit. This estate grown Cabernet, blended with a touch of Merlot and Petit Verdot and aged in French oak, is a well-structured, mouth-filling wine. Swirl a glass and lush aromas of cherry, raspberry, and red currants rise from the deep purple hue, mingling with subtle hints of sweet spice. On the palate, velvety tannins unfurl layers of red fruit with elegant notes of vanilla, chocolate, and coffee that finish oh so smoothly. An exceptional Cabernet, it deserves to compliment a juicy beef tenderloin, seasoned with roast garlic and rosemary.
  Duckhorn Vineyards, Napa Valley,
Cabernet Sauvignon 2005, Patzimaro Vineyard

At the based of Spring Mountain, the Patzimaro Vineyard enjoys high daytime temperatures and mild, cool evenings that produce outstanding fruit. The favorable growing conditions of the vineyard, combined with a fine growing season, have turned out a refined and balanced wine. From its deep black-purple hue, classic scents of black currants, blueberry, spicy earth, and mint envelop the senses. Sip slowly and close your eyes to savor the rich dark fruit flavors, lovely acidity, and soft tannins. The gentle dusty finish conjures up the majestic Napa countryside. Treat yourself to a bottle now, and cellar one away for ten years. Then treat yourself again.
  Duckhorn Vineyards, Napa Valley, Merlot 2006
This Merlot is a blend of fruit from several individual vineyard lots, with grapes grown on the Estate Vineyard, as well as by independent growers. The standout quality of the fruit required only small amounts of Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot for complexity. Though still a young wine, lush aromas of plum, raspberry, and boysenberry pour from the ruby-purple hue, with nuances of earth and spice lingering in the background. Silky smooth tannins carry overtones of red plums and bing cherry, accented by the soft touch of oak. Picture the rich, fertile soils of the Napa Valley as the wines closes with a lingering dusty finish. Another classic Duckhorn wine!
  Duckhorn Vineyards, Estate Grown, Napa Valley,
Merlot 2005

Carrying on over 25 years of tradition, Duckhorn continues to craft fine wines, using only the lots which show the true character of the winery. A blend of predominantly Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon, aged for 20 months in French oak, this luscious wine releases ripe plum and cherry aromas, with complex notes of cloves, leather, and earth out of a freshly swirled glass. Close your eyes and let velvet smooth tannins carry bright cherry and dark berry flavor over the palate, with subtle herbaceous notes adding a very nice depth. Open a bottle with an elegant cheese appetizer, and be sure to stock one or two in the cellar. This is a wine that will age well!
  Duckhorn Vineyards, Napa Valley, Merlot 2005,
Three Palms Vineyard

Located on the northeast side of the Napa Valley, the Three Palms Vineyard's soil is rocky and well drained, with the stones absorbing much of the sun's heat. The fruit from the vineyard has been producing full-bodied wines, showing all the unique elements of the terroir since 1978. This 2005 vintage is no exception, blending Merlot with accents of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. Admire the deep ruby-purple hue, before pausing to fill your senses with the rich nose of cherry and vanilla, with hints of oak. On the palate, the soft, chewy structure carries sweet cherry, boysenberry, and orange spice that finishes with lingering notes of cedar and earth. Pair this lovely Merlot with game dishes or a tender cut of beef and enjoy.
  Duckhorn Vineyards, Decoy, Napa Valley, Red Wine 2006
The sister label of Duckhorn since 1985, Decoy has produced fine wine from classic Bordeaux varietals. The 2006 vintage is a blend of 49% Cabernet Sauvignon, 44% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Petit Verdot from the Napa Valley. The resulting wine, with its lush, deep violet hue, is graceful, smooth and sure to please a crowd. Its nose has tremendous depth, with springtime aromas of lavender and roses unfolding into ripe black cherries, tobacco, and hints of spice. The supple, yet solid tannins wrap the palate in soft fruit layers of red plums, cherry, and currants, with notes of fresh cracked pepper mingling beneath. Pair this excellent wine with a dry-aged prime rib eye roast with truffle oil and rosemary. At $30, this bottle is a great value.
  Duckhorn Vineyards, Howell Mountain, Napa Valley,
Red Wine 2004

Duckhorn has crafted a bottle from this distinctive region since 1989, taking advantage of the high elevation terroir that produces wine with excellent structure and complexity. The 2004 vintage is no exception. Bottle-aged for a year longer than most of their other wines to promote further development, this fine red wine enchants drinkers with aromas of exquisite chocolate, wild blackberries, mushrooms, and spice. A sip brings rich flavors of dark berries and currants, surrounding bolder notes of coffee and dark chocolate that unfold into a dry, smooth finish with lingering hints of oak and soft floral tones. A very nice wine!
  Duckhorn Vineyards, Napa Valley, Sauvigon Blanc 2007
This Sauvigon Blanc is made of fruit from several individual vineyard lots throughout the Napa Valley with various microclimates. Blended together and combined with Semillon, the fruit has produced a rich wine with a soothing, soft acidity. From its translucent-gold hue, fresh aromas of citrus fruits, peach, and orange blossoms invigorate the senses. The first sip sends lush tropical fruit, lemon, grapefruit, peach, and sweet spice drifting over the palate. With a full, slightly creamy mouthfeel and great depth of flavor, this is a wine well worth drinking. Enjoy it on its own before dinner, or pair it with halibut in a light Asian marinade.
Eberle Winery
 
Eberle Winery 2006 Zinfandel, Steinbeck/Wine Bush
Paso Robles

A deep, jammy nose with a fruit forward palate and exceptional color take away your breath on this first sip. Ripe blackberries, tart cherries, prunes, and a peppery finish unfold into a complex finish with hints of floral surrounded by an absorbing mineral and earthy edge. Well balanced and elegant, trust this wine to work with your carefully and lovingly prepared main dishes with rich sauces. We paired with barbecued ribs slow smoked in a whisky sauce for 8 hours, but Beef Wellington will work also.
Eberle Winery 2007 Estate Chardonnay / Paso Robles
A beautiful golden hue greets the eye, as the dense fruit flavors make for an aroma worthy of lingering. A tart first sip greets the palate and quickly unfolds into a flow of pear, apples, pineapple and green apple, rounded out by a touch of vanilla and caramel. Very well balanced, offering the perfect accompaniment to barbecued chicken, raw oysters, spicy food and pasta alfredo with freshly steamed clams.
 
Eberle Winery 2006 Barbera / Paso Robles
A beautiful deep ruby red edged with light garnet hues greets the eye and invites your senses to relax, and take that first sip. This is an elegant wine, that takes you back to its Italian roots. The sweet grassy profile of Piemonte is captured here in the Steinbeck section of the Eberle winery, offering a smooth palate with soft tannins and well balanced, but bright acidity. Ripe raspberry, cherry, blackberries with truffles and other earthy notes make a warm, lingering, fruitful finish worthy of this wineryís creation. Pair with barbecued quail and an Asian slaw. Only 928 cases produced.
  Eberle Winery 2007 Mill Road Viognier / Paso Robles
A dense floral bouquet of honeysuckle and apricot with gentle edges of melon, peach and ripe figs.†A long, dry finish with lingering spicy notes. Perfect for a spicy Thai or Chinese dish, or a very drinkable wine all by itself as the warm summer days become a prelude to the cooling fall days to come.
 
Eberle Winery 2007 Syrah Rosè / Paso Robles
Dense fruit flavor greets the nose with bright strawberry, green apple and raspberry flavors. A full flavored, dry rose with bright acidities and a neutral oak finish. This is a light wine that drinks like a red, and should be paired with gently spiced dishes to bring out the unique characteristics of the wine. We paired with barbecued turkey, and a savory corn, heirloom tomato, fresh pea and basil salsa. Mmmmm. Only 628 cases produced.
Eberle Winery 2005 Syrah, Steinbeck Vineyard / Paso Robles
The traditional flavors of the syrah grape are captured here, with the deep, elegant dark fruit hue that only ripe black berries, cherries and even blue berries create. Itís depth and complex bold structure greets the palate with a beautiful crisp nose of rich fruity berry, ripe plums and freshly cracked pepper. Smooth on the palate with fruity hints and a subtle tart finish and tight, subtle tannins. Grown and harvested from the Steinbeck vineyard lot, this wine is the careful creation of a beautiful wine aged in both American and French oak barrels. A rhone style syrah with the structure to age well in the cellar. Buy one for now, one for the cellar, this is a wonderful wine.Bring it out with that wonderful holiday fare that fills the table and is part of the memory. Fifteen hundred cases made. GREAT WINE
 
Eberle Winery 2006 Cùtes-du-Rùbles / Paso Robles
A luscious, deep purple hue and an intense, deeply packed fruit forward aroma of dark berries, cherries and earthy minerals make this classic Cotes du Robles a noteworthy addition to the Eberle Winery. Syrah, Mourvedre, Grenach and Viognier, all separately harvested in small lots throughout 4 different vineyard lots, were carefully nurtured to bring you one of Eberleís signature wines. Complex layers of rich fruit flavors with notes of mushrooms, truffles, leather, cigar box, with an oaky finish and hints of vanilla. An easy to pair wine, will go well with that Sunday sit down meal with friends around the table and plenty of laughter.
  Eberle Winery 2007 Estate Muscat Canelli / Paso Robles
This estate grown Muscat Canelli is a beautiful, light golden color with intense floral aromas of orange blossoms, honey suckle, and sweet melons. Citrus tones blend well with orchard inspired sweetness, offering a well balanced dessert wine low in alcohol content. Easy to drink, this well crafted wine offers a crisp, long finish, making this the perfect wine to serve after dinner with cheese cake, crËme brule, soft cheeses, or a chocolate cake. A staple of the Eberle Winery, 1500 cases produced.
Flora Springs
  Flora Springs, Rutherford Hillside Reserve
Cabernet Sauvignon 2005

The rich golden color of this 100% chardonnay estate grown wine hints at its rich toasty vanilla aromas surrounded by Meyers lemon zest, flint, and rose geranium. Flavored with orchards of another era of Sonoma history, taste the nectarine, lemon, papaya, sweet almond, and ripe pear that gives way to a floral, lemon verbena finish with zesty acids and a soft hint of English toffee. Pair a nice chilled bottle of this oh so drinkable wine with your favorite summer salad topped with left over salmon, or freshly skewered shrimp. Eat light, feel refreshed, and have that second bottle handy - you'll be wanting it.
Fountainhead Cellars
  Fountainhead Cellars, Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Rains that lingered until April combine with a mild summer bestowed this 2005 fruit with well developed flavors. The bouquet presents with indulgent aromas of raspberry and cherry layered over earthier scents. A pleasant acidity provides the wine with a bright character, which is balanced nicely by rich fruit flavors of black cherry and plum that fill the palate, along with a bold sprinkling of classic Rutherford dust.
4 Sisters Ranch
4 Sisters Ranch 2005 Syrah / Paso Robles
Hold this glass up to the sunlight and revel in the beautiful gem like hues. A light, highly drinkable wine with great legs make this Syrah a great compliment to warm summer evenings with friends. Its wall of floral nose with a hint of leather offers a dry, subtle fruit palate that builds to a lingering, balanced finish with a hint of spice. Grill up some salmon and enjoy, but this drinkable wine will go great with anything you've got going.
4 Sisters Ranch 2005 Cabernet-Sauvignon / Paso Robles
A laidback and balanced wine make this Cabernet easy on the palate. It offers a sophisticated floral nose with hints of violet, black currants, cherries, chocolate, and yes, vanilla, that heightened this drinkerís curiosity. The wineís subtle tannins make for a light mouthful, and soft fruit flavors provide a pleasant hint of sweetness. A great wine to pair with lighter grilled meats, honey walnut prawns, or a braised lamb shank.
Four Vines
  Four Vines Heretic 2006
Pure, unadulterated petite sirah brings deep nose, layered with black currants, deep dark chocolate and pepper notes. Amazingly smooth mouth for such a layered taste. Feels like there should be a huge lingering mouth after swallowing but it's surprisingly mellow and warm and sensuous. Break with convention. The winemaker wants you to know you are in for something different, and you are. Only 856 cases produced.
  Four Vines Loco 2006 (Spanish Tempranillo Blend)
Paso Robles -Tres Cajones Vineyard

Deep plummy nose, rich in blackberries, with depth that belies its youth. A complex wine. This original blend of Syrah and Grenache comes together to form a splendid layered effect with rich yet tight tannins and a deep earthy, fruity, flavor with a rich oak finish. Beautiful, deep, soft, smooth finish sips like a wine with more age on it. This is what great wine is all about. Itís summer now. Get out the ribs, or enjoy all by itself.
  Four Vines Anarchy 2006 / Paso Robles
Take it slow, and pause over the exquisitely huge jammy nose, for winemaker Christian Tietje did this wonderfully balanced Rhone blend of Syrah, Old Vine Zinfandel and Mourvedre on purpose. Huge, deep, dark fruit flavor with peppery undertones on the palate unfold into a delicate balance of Old Vine Zin terroire and a delicate lingering taste of licorice and crushed fall leaves. Beautifully balanced, very delicate. A finish so perfect you'll want to linger in the mouth unlike any wine before it. Unusually delicious.
  Four Vines 2007 "Naked" Chardonnay, Santa Barbara
A bright fruit forward bouquet greets the nose. Tart apples balance with ripe peaches and pears, unfolding into a citrus finish with earthy minerals. An honest expression of chardonnay with no oak, and no malolactic fermentation. Keep a few bottles cooled and ready to pull out. You can use this as your every day wine for all occasions.
Frank Family Vineyards
  Frank Family Vineyards, Reserve, Cabernet 2005
Here we are offered a lovely blend of Cabernet along with other Meritage varietals. The deep purple hue and nose abundant with sweet blackberry, dark cherry, and hints of chocolate, make this is an inviting wine. The palate is full, supple, and packed with dark fruit flavors over hints of coffee, which are balanced nicely by layered tannins, making this a highly drinkable wine. The finish is delicate and dry making it well suited for a tender steak.
Freemark Abbey
Freemark Abbey, Cabernet Bosche 2003
Ample hang-time allowed for a slow ripening period and superb flavor development of the 2003 crop. The result is a wine a great depth. On the nose, indulgent aromas of black cherry, currents, chocolate, and blackberry fill the senses. Hints of cinnamon drift in the background. Lush flavors of dark berries, smooth chocolate, and notes of spice float on supple tannins building towards a dry finish, which leaves lingering essence of fruit behind.
Frog's Leap
  Frog's Leap, Rutherford 2005
Comprised of mostly Cabernet Sauvignon with just a splash of Cabernet Franc, this single bottle is winemakers' John Williams and Paula Moschetti sincerest endeavor to capture the history, tradition, and legend that sets Rutherford cabernets apart. Swirling a glass releases effervescent aromas of currants and other dried fruit, along with cool earthy tones. The essence of black currents and dark cherries drift upon elegant tannins in concert with notes of pepper and spice giving the wine a lovely balance of flavors. Come October, look for a bottle to try yourself.
Goldeneye Winery
  Goldeneye Winery, Anderson Valley Pinot Noir 2005
Moderate temperatures and superb ripening conditions in the Anderson Valley made for a slow and steady harvest, producing fruit of excellent quality. Aging in French oak for 16 months, helped produced a lighter, highly drinkable wine, with a bold depth of flavors. Black cherry, sweet spices, and hints of herbs rise up from a freshly swirled glass, setting you at ease for your first sip. Strawberry and cherry flavors pack the palate, with notes of vanilla and a touch of oak floating in the deep layers. A wine worthy to share with your dearest friends, cook up some portabella burgers and open two bottles. Youíll want them both.
  Goldeneye Winery, Anderson Valley, Pinot Noir 2005, Confluence Vineyard
Located in the heart of the Anderson Valley and offering a distinctive array of soils, exceptional Pinot fruit comes out of these vineyards. For this 2005 vintage, the quality was superb, as many of the blocks were harvested at near perfection. Out of this first-class fruit has come a first-class Pinot Noir. Leisurely swirl a glass, and then indulge your senses in the luxurious aromas of fresh strawberry, ripe plum, and dark cherry, with rich pockets of sweet spice and toasted oak. Sip ever so slowly, and relish the intoxicating blackberry, strawberry, cinnamon, and earth flavors that envelope the palate. Incredibly smooth and very well-structured. Aging in the cellar will certainly result in further development. A spectacular wine!
  Goldeneye Winery, Anderson Valley, Pinot Noir 2005,
Gowan Creek Vineyard

Two miles north of Confluence Vineyard, the Gowan site combines the valley's warmer character with the cooler elements of the northern “deep end" These unique conditions produce wines that are potent and expressive. This 2005 vintage leads you in with a nose brimming over with ripe black cherry, blackberry, and raspberry, which opens into deeper scents of tea, dusty earth, and hints of oak. Bursting from the rich ruby hue, come ripe fruit flavors of cherry and wild blackberry, with complicating nuances of earthy minerals. Well-controlled acidy and a lush mouth feel make this a highly drinkable wine. Paired with roast duck, fresh grilled salmon, rich mushroom dishes, or an elegant cheese plate, this excellent wine will not disappoint. Drink now or in a few years.
Halter Ranch
Halter Ranch 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon / Paso Robles
A laid back nose with a strong body, this dark, complex cabernet has a sophisticated nose of currants and ripe blackberries. Overtones of chocolate, olives, and hints of oak help to integrate all the flavors in a rich mouth fill with deep tannins. The long finish keeps you coming back for more. Designed to age well, this wine is perfect for aging over the next decade.
Halter Ranch 2004 Ancestor / Paso Robles
Drink this Estate Reserve Cabernet blended with Petit Verdot, Merlot, Malbec and Syrah and feel the connection to a rich history with hints of mellow old vines. This vintage Bordeaux style blend has already been softened by two years in the bottle. Ancestor is a complex and sophisticated nose of rich cassis and blackberry fruit. Combine that further with the legacy of its wide open surroundings: bark of the cedar tree, tobacco leaf, surrounding berry bushes. The almost jammy intensity of the blackberries is balanced by the young tannins. Don't be afraid to hold on to a bottle for at least a decade, as this wine was made with a respect for aging. Named after the ancient Coast Live Oak tree that sits center stage on the Halter Ranch Estate, this venerable tree represents all that is sacred to them. It is their ancestor. Only 400 cases produced.
Halter Ranch 2005 Syrah / Paso Robles
Close your eyes and picture the steep cliffs of the Northern Rhone, and then swirl your first glass of Halter Ranch Syrah, blended ever-so-lightly with the Mourvedre and Malbec grapes. Your first sip shall transport you to an out-of-California experience, yet everything is grown right here in the Paso Robles region, by winemakers specializing in the Rhone Valley experience. Smokey plums and cassis aromas are accented with rich mocha and hints of licorice. A lush mouth feel is enhanced by just enough acidity to bring out brightness and zest. A very hearty red with lots of tannins, pair with your boldest barbeque and grilled fare. Guaranteed to age well over time..
Hewitt Vineyard
  Hewitt Vineyard, Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Ideal weather conditions aloud for remarkable hang time of this 2005 Cabernet crop. The result is a big wine with a bold reddish-purple hue, a nose full of dark fruit and oak, offering sumptuous flavors of black-cherry as well as ripe plum. A tinge of licorice and sage round out the wine's intense palate. A touch of Rutherford dust lingers on the finish, along with hints of coffee. With a full body and firm tannins, this wine can hold up to rich red meats like a bold steak or roast lamb.
Honig Winery
  Honig Winery, Mitchell Vineyard, Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Made from 100% Rutherford fruit, this wine shows the benefits of well drained soil and pristine exposure. After twenty months of aging in French oak, a full, rich wine emerged, offering lush flavors of dark berries amid highlights of spice mixed with earthy herbs. Bold tannins fill the palate upon each sip before giving way to a signature dusty finish. Pairing it with your favorite steak promises not to disappoint.
Hunt Cellars Vineyards
 

Hunt Cellars Vineyards 2004 Maestro Red Wine
Paso Robles - Destiny Vineyards

A dense, fruit forward bouquet surrounded by honeysuckle that makes all the senses go "ahhhhhhh" -- and that's before the first sip. A blend of sangiovese, merlot, cab, cab franc and petit sirah, this original blend is a creation of the maestro of Hunt Cellars, David Hunt. Ripe dark fruits are balanced with spring floral scents to get you going, while notes of a wine well aged unfold into layers of smooth tannins lapping up against earthy and spicy tones, guaranteed to play over and over. A nice big red, so well balanced, this can be paired so nicely with fresh young all natural lamb seasoned with garlic and rosemary, or a dry aged rib eye roast with truffle oil and fresh thyme.

  Hunt Cellars Vineyards 2003 Unforgettable Merlot
Paso Robles

A deep fruit forward, perfume nose, so well balanced, lovely. Luscious, dark ripe fruits blend with mushroom, cigar box, smokey oak and almonds to bring you a finish that lingers and invites, begs for more. Warm memories stay at the back of the throat, with a smooth finish at the end urging you to start over, drink more... a work of art. Aptly named. You can drink this one alone, but always good with smoked almonds, creamy cheeses, and oh.. everything else..
  Hunt Cellars Vineyards 2003 Syrah Serenade
Paso Robles - Raging Bull Vineyards

Inhale this aromatic bouquet of intense dark fruit. Let the first sip begin and sing your first "ahhhh". Lush, ripe plums, berries and cherries with hints of floral give way to earthy notes of truffle, cigar box, crispy leaves that have fallen to the ground and are once again part of the terroire. Smooth on the palate with a long, lingering finish, this is a medium body wine with mild tannins, a serenade to the land and all that it produces. Get the whole table ready with full flavored cheeses, great artisan breads, smoked fish, and lead into a great roast seasoned with garlic and rosemary. Bring friends..
  Hunt Cellars Vineyards 2004 Cab Ovation
Paso Robles - Destiny Vineyards

A deep well of 100% estate grown cabernet fruit greets the nose. The lush ripe plums, dark cherries, tart raspberries and cassis take turns making their entrance, while the strong body of the muscular tannins provide a steady under current in this complex, full bodied wine. Lingering notes of terroire gently fade, but with great tone. A smooth mouth feel, this wine has been aged in French and American oak for over two years. Bring out your most adventurous food creations ñ game food, cheeses, smoked ribs, for this is a full symphony. Give this cab a standing ovation.
Justin Vineyards
  Justin Syrah 2006 / Paso Robles
Slow down, and appreciate the details of this hand harvested wine. The rich, dark purple color gives off a light maroon edge when held up to the sunlight. The fruit forward nose invites that first sip with aromas of currants, cassis, spices, and blackberries. The mid palate is firm, and takes you on a journey of toasted oak, vanilla, all encased with light, supple tannins for a soft, smooth mouth feel. The lingering finish definitely leads to another sip and another, and another. A great pre dinner drink, or pair with roasted game and strong cheeses. Aged 18 months in oak barrels, this wine can be consumed young, but will age well.
  Justin Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 / Paso Robles 
An elegant, dark red Cabernet with a heady bouquet of raspberry, cherry and notes of smokey mushroom, and vanilla. Soft tannins make for a velvety palate that is balanced nicely with a dry finish. The finish lingers with soft tannins and overtones of cedar and oak. A highly drinkable wine by itself or paired with a seared Ahi-tuna, Porterhouse steak, or barbecued quail! Aged 18 months in both American and French oak barrels. Buy one for now and one for the cellar.
La Rochelle
  La Rochelle 2006 Classic Clones Pinot Noir / Arroyo Seco
The Mirassou family has a long history with Pinot Noir and this wine is the latest addition to that account. The fruit, which comes from a late fall harvested on the family vineyards in the Arroyo Seco region, was aged for over a year in French oak.  The resulting wine presents with a bold ruby hue in bright sunlight.  Swirling a glass releases aromas of black cherry and cola, with hints of spice and herbs lingering in the background.  Ripe cherry flavors dominate the palate, with subtle hints of spice and earth that give the wine added depth and entice you back for a second sip.  With its lingering, lively finish, the flavors' memory hangs on.  A very nice Pinot Noir to pair with salmon in a soy sauce and garlic marinade or a roast chicken seasoned with rosemary.
  La Rochelle 2006 San Vicente Vineyard Chardonnay
/ Monterey

The San Vicente Vineyard was first planted back in the 60's, and quality fruit has been coming from there ever since.  With this latest harvest, winemakers Tom Stutz and Steven Mirassou have produced a fine wine, with an excellent depth of flavors that unfold from its golden hue.  The ripe essence of peach and pineapple are balanced by softer nuances of vanilla, caramel, and toasted oak.  A nice lively acidity and a crisp tropical finish make this wine quite drinkable and a lovely compliment to an outdoor dinner on a soft, sunny evening.  You may even want a second bottle, just in case.
Martin & Weyrich

Martin & Weyrich 2003 Nebbiolo II Vecchio / Paso Robles
A distinctive, expressive wine worthy of notice. Itís bouquet of earth tones, smoke, and dark fruit unfold on the palate with an engaging complexity. Layers of cedar, cigar box, tobacco leaf give way to dark berries, plums and raspberries in the true Italian sense of this varietal. The palate is firm and savory and the finish lingers and unfolds, offering many edges to the last sip. Mild tannins make this the wine to place at both ends of the table when crafting that hearty Italian feast. If this is your first venture into Italian varietals, this will please, please, please. Aged in French Oak for 24 months, Wine maker Craig Reed has immersed himself in the Italian varietals, and leads the way.

Martin & Weyrich 2003 Nebbiolo / Paso Robles
An earth driven bouquet greets the nose, yet this wine is much more delicate than the Nebbiolo Reserve. Aromas of cherry with floral notes are the difference here, and lighter tannins lend themselves to an easy mouth feel and a bright finish. Paired with bold marinara sauces and pestos ground from fresh basil right out of the garden, this Italian varietal is crafted right here in Paso Robles by talented wine maker Craig Reed.

 

Martin & Weyrich 2006 Pinot Grigio / Paso Robles
Think fresh, light and crisp with a bright fruit forward bouquet of fresh figs, pears and citrus. The palate has a subtle hint of tartness and a well balanced acidity that leads to a clean, refreshing finish. This oh so drinkable wine is perfect for a summer dinner party, especially when paired with a prosciutto and melon appetizer.

 

Martin & Weyrich 2006 Pinot Noir / Paso Robles
A fruit forward Pinot that truly caters to a crowd. An exquisite dark red color with the edges of a warm sunset give this wine an enticing hue. Subtle cherry notes on the nose are pleasant and refreshing, and the subtle tannins make this wine highly drinkable. The balanced finish is dry yet smooth. A great table wine to be framed with many platters of food and warm laughter. Pass the bottle, please!

Martin & Weyrich 2004 Sangiovese II Palio / Paso Robles
The varietal character and richness shines through with scents of cherry and leather, yet the palate is supple and lighter than the aromas would indicate. Earthy tones surround the dark fruit flavors that are well balanced and spicy. The finish is superb, a fine balance of smooth and dry. This is meant to be a hearty companion to an Italian feast, and we made sure by tasting with our own sausage lasagna and rich 5 Italian cheese raviolis with a freshly ground pesto sauce. MMmmmmm. Just to be sure, we tested it twice!

Martin & Weyrich 2003 Cabernet Sauvignon Etrusco
Paso Robles

A tasteful blend of 85% Cabernet and 15% Sangiovese make this a superb wine. This understated Tuscan blend hits the mark with its marriage of the dark rich fruit flavors of the Cabernet, and the brighter red berry characteristic of the Sangiovese. The full nose bouquet and the endless bottom belies the simplicity of the blend. The mouthfeel is rich, well-balanced, supple and smooth, yet the finish still retains a pleasing hint of dryness. An incredibly fine wine overall. Pairs exquisitely with tomato based dishes and pastas in general. Makes a great impression sitting on the table, too !

Martin & Weyrich 2006 Moscato Allegro / Paso Robles
A warm, apricot nose offering a full floral bouquet, this dry, smooth white wine is perfect as an after dinner drink, or with dessert. Fermented at very cold temperatures, this 7% alcoholic content wine pleases with intense flavor without the hangover. Wine maker Craig Reed has developed a following for this one, producing over 70,000 cases a year. Well balanced acids keep it dry on the palate, and fresh in the glass. If you've been looking for just the right wine to finish the meal with, this is a must try!

Midnight Cellars
  Midnight Cellars 2006 Chardonnay Estate Reserve
Paso Robles

A beautiful, light golden color with a full nose of fresh, tart apple with scents of floral sets the stage for this luscious chardonnay. A rich mouth feel of green apple, pear and mango are balanced with an almost honey like blanket of ginger. The refreshing finish is long and satisfying, highlighting a well balanced oak which doesnít overpower the grape. Only 175 cases made. A special feel to the palate, youíll want to capture one of these chardonnays for your collection.
  Midnight Cellars 2006 Estate Zinfandel / Paso Robles
Hold this beautiful ruby red zin up to the sun, and savor the color. Then, slow down, and enjoy the aroma. A wall of power nose. Dark ripe fruits blend with fresh tart raspberries to bring you a fruit forward nose that truly stands out. A big mouth feel, with the spice of the terroire. This is 100% zinfandel, with a long finish and a lingering, fruit filled moment. Bold, bold, bold. Well balanced, this should age well. Buy one for now, one for the cellar. Only 950 cases made of this, so zin lovers, have some on hand.
  Midnight Cellars 2004 Mare Nectaris / Paso Robles
A complex, unfolding fruit forward aroma of dark ripe fruits, spicy notes with a hint of anise. Take your time to sip. The unfolding layers of light and dark fruits against well balanced earth tones of leather, crushed leaves, truffles provides a balance in this beautifully balanced blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot, malbec, cabernet franc, and petit verdot. A long, beautiful, lingering finish with luscious oak tannins. Pairs well with a spicy barbecued rib platter, or a succulent roast. 298 cases produced.
  Midnight Cellars Aurora Reserve White Wine / Paso Robles
A rich bouquet of tropical fruit greets the nose. A creamy, full mouth with a notable bottom creates a lingering finish of vanilla spiced coconut. Tame tannins take the background as a grapefruity flavor leaves a delightful tingle on the tongue after swallowing. A full bodied white, this wine is clean, crisp, and a seamless blend of Viognier, Rousanne, and Marsanne.
Migration Winery
  Migration Winery, Anderson Valley, Pinot Noir 2006
Mild temperatures during harvest time allowed the 2006 fruit to be handpicked by block based on ripeness. Such ideal conditions resulted in superb fruit for winemaker Zach Rasmuson. With this excellent harvest, he crafted a fine, dark ruby wine, with great depth and drinkablitity. Take a moment to indulge yourself in the bouquet of strawberry, raspberry, cola, hints of mint, and subtle floral notes that emanate from the glass. Savor the bright flavors of cherry, spiced plums, vanilla, and cola as they float across the palate. This is another fine effort from the Duckhorn company. Enjoy a bottle now, and save another for the cellar.
Monticello Winery
  Monticello, Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Produced from fruit plucked right from the western Rutherford bench, we are offered a truly delectable wine. The wine bursts with lush scents of ripe cherries, along side notes of spice and vanilla. Scrumptious blackberry and current flavors mingle amid notes of herbs and soft minerals. A touch of acidity deliverers a pleasant bright character to the wine and makes for easy drinking. At $55-$60, this is a cabernet that can rival some of its triple digit competition. Only 224 cases were produced, so get a bottle while you can.
Murrieta's Well
  Murrieta's Well 2006 White Meritage / Livermore Valley
The vineyards 92-acre estate was first planted in 1884 with cuttings brought over from France.  Today, winemaker Sergio Traverso carries on the tradition of making Bordeaux- style blends.  This white consists of 65% Sauvignon Blanc and 35% Semillon, achieving a lovely balance between the crisp and creamy characters of the contrasting grapes.  The result is a rich wine with very nice depth.  Pineapple and other tropical fruits are carried by a fresh acidity and balanced with flavors of ripe melon, honey, and creamy oak.  Combined with the zest of a crisp, tart finish, this wine is sure to please.  Pick up a bottle and toast with some good friends.
  Murrieta's Well 2006 Zinfandel / Livermore Valley
This is a classically produced Zinfandel, from carefully farmed old vines on the historic Raboli vineyard.  Aged for twenty months in French and American oak, we have a lovely, lighter wine, with an elegant ruby-purple hue, which is oh so drinkable.  Lush aromas of strawberries, plums, and tea rise from a freshly swirled glass.  With a sip, the strawberry returns, accented by hints of cloves and earth.   The light, jammy finish is sure to put a smile on your face.  Drink this one on its own or with succulent slow smoked ribs.  Without an abundance of spice, it won't overpower the flavors.
  Murrieta's Well 2004 Zarzuela / Livermore Valley
Winemaker Sergio Traverso offers up a delectable blend of Spanish and Portuguese grape varietals, including Touriga Nacional, Tempranillo, and Souzao. Zarzuela is the Spanish word for "operetta," and this wine exhibits a similar character of great harmony.  After 14 months of aging separately in oak, the wine was then blended and returned to the barrels for further development.  Finished, the wine invites you in by its deep violet hue, with bold ruby edges.  A bouquet of cherry, currants, pepper, and floral notes wraps around your senses.  After a sip, lush flavors of black cherry, leather, and spices fill your palate as they drift upon supple tannins.  The wine's finish is smooth and dry, leaving hints of coffee lingering behind.  A very nice wine.
  Murrieta's Well 2005 Red Meritage / Livermore Valley
The California tradition of making excellent French Style wine continues.  Here we have a lovely blend of meritage varietals with 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Merlot, 12% Petit Verdot, and 6% Cabernet Franc.  Great care by the winemaker and extended aging in French, American, and Hungarian oak give this wine excellent depth.  Scrumptious flavors of plum, blackberry, and chocolate drift upon solid tannins, accented by the elegant spice of cinnamon and pepper.  A soft touch of oak, hints of coffee, and dark fruit are left lingering by the well-balanced finish.  Pair this with full-flavored cheeses or a barbecued lamb chop and enjoy.
Opolo Vineyards
 
Opolo Vineyards 2005 Sangiovese / Paso Robles
Beautiful light berry bouquet sets the stage for a hearty peasant wine with a musky undertone. This single vine varietal is to the point. Raspberries and black berries dominate, while American oak aging tame the tannins. Earthy tones linger below the surface. Well balanced and versatile. Put at both ends of the family table and keep pouring. Works great with marinara based sauces, spicy smoked meats, tastey salads.
  Opolo Vineyards 2004 Rhapsody Red Wine / Paso Robles
A luscious wall of floral and fruit greets the nose. The warm, full fruit flavor offers layers of complexity while earthy tones of truffle and hints of cocoa play out in a well balanced, light tannin , lingering finish. Masterfully created in small lots by an estate blend of Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Verdot aged in French and American oak barrels. This is an easy drinking wine and the pride of the vineyard. This should age well.
 
Opolo Vineyards 2006 Mountain Zinfandel / Paso Robles
This estate grown Zin starts out with a big California nose of tart raspberries, dark blackberries, with hints of mountain terroire and spicy notes. A warm, friendly mouth feel continues to unfold with a long, lingering finish. Toasty oak warmth comes from 12 months of aging in neutral oak barrels. Bold, bold, bold.
  Opolo Vineyards 2005 Rousanne / Paso Robles
Meet the Rousanne grape. A gentle bouquet of honeysuckle and summer fruit greets the nose like a ray of sunshine. Tart, fresh apple is tempered with melon, pears, sweet almonds well balanced with the accent on an earthy mineral finish. A supple palate with a good acidic balance, this is an easy drinking wine that has been aged only three months in a neutral oak. A little less flexible than a sauvignon blanc, but when paired with creamy cheeses, or a summer salad with a great artisan bread and high quality butter, you canít make it any better.
Paraduxx Winery
  Paraduxx Winery, Napa Valley, Red Wine 2004
An elegant blend of 65% Zinfandel, 28% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 7% Merlot, winemaker Bill Nancarrow offers an excellent wine with lush fruit flavor. Spicy overtones add to its complexity. Swirl a glass and take in the sweet aromas of cherry, raspberry, and strawberry jam with notes of mocha, walnut, and black pepper rounding out the bouquet. Sip and allow supple tannins to carry ripe red-fruit flavors over the palate, unfolding into deeper notes of currants, oak, and spice. A lovely, dynamic wine you can serve to dinner guests with pride.
  Paraduxx Winery, Napa Valley, Red Wine 2005
Above average rainfall led to abundant clusters of fruit and a long harvest period. This prime fruit was then aged for 18 months in French and American oak for further flavor development. Out of the bottle, this rich, medium-bodied blend of Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc is smooth yet bold with flavors. Strawberry, plum, spice, and tobacco mingle together in alluring bouquet. When slowly sipped, ripe blackberry and plum unfold upon supple tannins into bold notes of cocoa, coffee, and smoky earth. Winemaker David Galzignato has done some fine work. Savor a bottle now, but this wine promises to age well, too. So grab an extra one for the cellar.
Pedemonte Winery
  Pedemonte, Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Harvesting the grapes by hand in the soft, cool hours just after dawn, Pedemonte prides itself on meticulous and caring winemaking. The result is a wine with deep garnet and crimson hue offering lush cherry, blackberry, and current aromas. A sip brings ripe dark fruit and cassis flavors. An elegant dusty character accents the nicely balanced finish making this a classic Rutherford cabernet.
Peju H.B Vineyard
  Peju H.B Vineyard, Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Made from hand-selected grapes of the utmost quality, this Peju cabernet is a delicious wine. Its color consists of layered purple and ruby hues. Rich dark fruit, tobacco, and leather emanate from the nose. Bold flavors of ripe plums and blackberries pack the palate, with soft hints of bitter chocolate lingering around the edges. This complex wine of some intensity can be enjoyed with a New York Steak now or aged over the next ten years for further development.
Provenance Winery
  Provenance, Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
An elegant light purple, this wine opens with a nose that envelops you in scents of black cherries and other red fruits, with hints of coffee and must floating around the fringes. Medium to full bodied, the wine shows great balance with supple tannins. Rich berry flavors surround notes of sour cherry that build to a finish, which is quite dry and nicely prolonged by lingering notes of "Rutherford Dust". This wine would pair very nicely with a juicy steak right now or would age quite nicely for the next five years.
Quintessa Winery
  Quintessa 2005
Taking full advantage of even, mild weather, Winemaker Charles Thomas - with assistance from consultants Aaron Pott and Michel Rolland ñ produced a fine example of a Meritage blend. There is great depth on the nose, with ripe plum, dark berry, earth, and spice mingling together. Elegant tannins and caressing fruit allow the concentrated flavors of black plum, currents, and vanilla to drift over the palate. An excellent balance and sophistication make this bottle a pleasure to drink.
Round Pond Winery
  Round Pond, Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
The rich golden color of this 100% chardonnay estate grown wine hints at its rich toasty vanilla aromas surrounded by Meyers lemon zest, flint, and rose geranium. Flavored with orchards of another era of Sonoma history, taste the nectarine, lemon, papaya, sweet almond, and ripe pear that gives way to a floral, lemon verbena finish with zesty acids and a soft hint of English toffee. Pair a nice chilled bottle of this oh so drinkable wine with your favorite summer salad topped with left over salmon, or freshly skewered shrimp. Eat light, feel refreshed, and have that second bottle handy - you'll be wanting it.
Rubicon
  Rubicon, Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Optimal growing conditions lead to great color and fruit intensity and vigilant attention from the winemaking team have produced an outstanding wine of tremendous depth. Swirling a glass releases luscious dark fruit aromas and alluring hints of sweetness. Velvety tannins carry ripe blackberry and raspberry flavors smoothly over the palate. The elegant finish leaves rich, lingering notes of coffee and dark chocolate. The best wine I've had this year!
Rutherford Grove
  Rutherford Grove, Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Blended from two single vineyard lots of Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon and exclusively sourced Estate Merlot, this fine, approachable wine offering a nose ripe with cherry and blackberry aromas. Though the palate is packed with rich dark fruit flavors, the wine is still nicely balanced, finishing soft and dry, with a classic hint of Rutherford Dust.
Sawyer Cellars
  Sawyer Cellars, Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Here is a wine continuing the tradition of classic Rutherford Cabernets. Opening with indulgent aromas of sweet blackberry, cassis, and hints of spice, it unfolds gracefully on the palate as bold flavors of dark berries and black currents drift upon supple tannins. The elegant finish sets you down with a soft hint of dust. Enjoy this Cabernet now, or let it develop over the next ten years, and see what awaits.
Scarecrow Winery
  Scarecrow, Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Prime growing conditions yielded a large crop of outstanding quality. The result is a wine with a vibrant garnet hue, busting with aromas of wild blackberry, cherry, violets, and dark chocolate. A dynamic acidity and rich tannins, give the wine bold character that hold up a palate bursting with flavors of blackberry, currants, chocolate, and hints of savory earth. A wine of great sophistication that can be enjoyed now or cellared for promising development.
Sculpterra
  Sculpterra 2006 Maquette / Paso Robles
This brilliant Bordeaux blend of 63% Cabernet, 25% Merlot and 12% Petite Sirah was carefully handcrafted in small lots to capture the dominant characteristics of the Cabernet, while the warm berry flavors of the Merlot continue to unfold into a lingering finish of the Petite Sirah. This bright, piquant wine has a deep color and nice legs with a soft perfume nose. Well balanced with a hint of oak, this oh so drinkable wine offers a completely balanced feel in the back of the mouth with a triumphant finish minus the heat and sharp edges. Easy to drink with your favorite barbecue fare. We went with thick, juicy rib eye steaks done to a very precise 135 degree center. Get one bottle for now, and one for the cellar.
Sculpterra 2006 Statuesque / Paso Robles
If you drink wine to feel the love, be one of those that partake of this wine makerís efforts to create the ultimate Rhone Wine experience. An incredible blend of classically grown and nurtured Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Petite Sirah, each varietalís characteristics are defined by what nature brought to the table. Yes, the wine has plum and floral notes on the nose with rich tannins and cherries, boysenberries and leather that linger, but the wine maker wants you to close your eyes and picture the steep cliffs of the Northern Rhone, while you taste the luscious calcareous and chalky soil of the Southern Rhone so carefully nurtured and replicated in the versatile growing environment of Paso Robles.
  Sculpterra 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon / Paso Robles
A wonderful aroma with a spicy nose and great legs, this estate grown cabernet was handled with extreme care during the growing stage to bring you a classic cabernet with an intense fruit flavor with strong tannins. The resulting complex palate with a balanced middle and peppery, tart spikes maintained its balance with a strong finish that worked well when paired with full flavored cheeses, steaks, pork and even salads. This wine is drinkable now and will age well in the years to come.
Sculpterra 2006 Cabernet Sauvignon / Paso Robles
This full bodied cabernet sauvignon follows in the footsteps of its 2005 sister, with its full bodied, rich tannin profile, balanced with rich cherries, blackberries and hints of oak and yes, eucalyptus, too. Well balanced by 12 months in American oak barrels, this second vintage of Estate grown Cabernet Sauvignon represents the continuation of the winemakerís vision to produce complex and full bodied wines with attention to every detail in the growing and nurturing stage of the grapeís glorious life. Its final rich fruity flavor with a well centered structure and strong peppery finish makes it a perfect red to pair with your heartiest meals this winter, whether it be game, lamb, stews or roasts.
  Sculpterra 2006 Petite Sirah / Paso Robles
Keep an eye on this robust wine, for its small, delicate grapes have yielded to a big flavor with brilliant color and intense aromas. Boasting strong plum flavors surely as a result of judicious pruning and intentionally low yields, this very well balanced wine has a smooth mouth feel followed by rich tannins. Aged one year in American oak, its rich profile makes it a contribution to any cellar. Winemaker Shannon OíNeill deserves a following.
  Sculpterra 2006 Syrah / Paso Robles
Slowly swirl and take your time before your first sip of this intensely spicy, fruity aroma. Notice its brilliant, deep purple color with a pale red edge that matches the setting sun along with its deep legs, and then taste the plums and cherries balanced superbly with a light tannin and spicy fruit finish. Aged in American, French and Eastern European Oak, the wine was aged for one year. The details are in the nurturing prior to harvest, leaving the purity of the fruit your rich reward at the table, paired under a variety of circumstances, such as grains and seafoods in addition to your beef or pork. Only 140 cases of this wine, grown right here in the Paso Robles region.
Staglin Family Vineyard
  Staglin Family Vineyard, Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Thanks to a delightfully temperate growing season, the Staglin Family Vineyard Estate Cabernet Sauvignon entices drinkers with a powerful bouquet of currants, plum, and black cherry, mingling with hints of cedar and earth. The exceptionally rich and full-bodied palate offers lush impressions of dark cherry and cassis that drift upon creamy tannins. At its finish, hints of plum and spice are left lingering. While scrumptious now, there is great potential for cellaring, so grab two bottles, and enjoy the best of both worlds.
Steven Kent

 

 

Steven Kent 2006 Merrillie Chardonnay, Unfiltered
/ Livermore Valley

This wine comes from the gravelly soils and rolling hills of the Livermore Valley.  Made with fruit harvested out of the Ernest Wente and Wisner Vineyard and named for Steven Kent Mirassou's great-grandmother, we are offered a pure Chardonnay, without filtration.  Aging in American, French, and Hungarian barrels brought out rich notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak to balance the vibrant fruit flavors of pineapple, melon, peach, and green apple.  With such depth, it is a wine to savor straight through to the smooth, light, oaky finish.  Paired with sole in a butter and lemon sauce or pasta alfredo, it's sure to please.
Steven Kent 2006 Sauvignon Blanc, Ghielmetti Vineyard
/ Livermore Valley

With its refreshing crisp character and vivacious acidity, this is one of the best Sauvignon Blanc's to come out of the Livermore Valley.  From its white-golden hue pours zesty scents of lime, grapefruit, pear, and subtle floral notes.  After taking in the vibrant nose, sip and savor the bright palate, full of peach and citrus fruit flavors.  A clean, crisp acidity make for a fresh, dry finish that's the perfect remedy to a balmy afternoon.  Enjoy this delicious wine, relaxing on your own, before dinner with good friends, or as an accompaniment to a lemon and herb shrimp scampi.
Sullivan Vineyards
  Sullivan Vineyards, Estate Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Cooler than average weather in the Napa Valley allowed for a long ripening process and a late October harvest. The result is a fine blend of Cabernet (90%) Petit Verdot (10%), with a vibrant purple hue. A lively nose emanates from the glass offering bold fragrances of spice, white pepper, and herbs, along with cooler berry notes. A full, yet smooth palate is packed with rich, ripe flavors of cherry and plum that lingering long after a soothing finish.
Tablas Creek Vineyards
  Tablas Creek Esprit 2006 de Beaucastel Blanc / Paso Robles
Golden sun hues greet the eye. First swirls produce a deep musty nose, an elegant reflection of an old vine blend of Rousanne, Grenache Blanc and Picpoul Blanc grapes. Aromatics of honeysuckle, lemon, and apple with hints of caramel unfold into a rich creamy palate. The lingering mineral finish refreshes, making this not only a wonderful summertime white, but a wintertime white for your best holiday presentations. A complex white that pairs well with full flavors, but we invite you to bring out the essence of the vines with a fresh pea soup flavored with smoked pork and thyme. Now that was a great pairing!
  Tablas Creek Côtes de Tablas Blanc 2006 / Paso Robles 
A blend of white grapes in the style of French Côtes du Rhone, a luscious aroma of fresh spicy fruits awakens the senses to a refreshing and well balanced wine. A wonderful table wine that goes with absolutely everything, this is the drink to keep on hand for those hot summer months still in front of us. Rich flavors of apricot and peaches greet the palate, followed by a bright acidity and a long clean finish. Predominantly Viognier and Marsanne balanced with Grenache Blanc and Roussanne, try this wine and then compare to more traditional whites, such as Sauvignon Blancs and Chardonnays. Pairs great with seafoods, salads, Chinese and Indian foods. Keep it chilled and on hand, ready for last minute meals and unexpected company. An excellent choice!
  Tablas Creek 2006 Rousanne / Paso Robles
A rich, jammy nose unusual for a white, reminiscent of baked peach pie. Luscious mouth feel with aromas of pear, honeysuckle, figs, unfolding into a long, creamy, mellow finish of honey and earthy minerals. A serious food wine. No blending, no oak, just beautiful, well balanced Rousanne. Get to know this single varietal, and surprise guests this holiday season by bringing a bottle with you wherever you go. Pairs great with a zesty salad, bold seafoods and game food.
  Tablas Creek Rosë 2007 / Paso Robles
Wine connoisseurs will sip this wine with interest, as this traditional rose blend of Southern Rhone varietals greets the nose with a rich aroma of plum, spice, strawberry and subtle floral notes. On the palate, strawberry flavors are balanced nicely by a vivid acidity that gives the wine a bright character. The finish is light and dry with a few lingering hints of tartness. Blended with Mourvedre, Grenache and Counoise on the organically grown estate of Tablas Creek, the final taste is a tribute to carefully nurtured terroire. A wine to be enjoyed at a summer picnic or to pair with grilled chicken sausages, full flavored pastas and grain dishes, or even a salad.
  Tablas Creek Esprit de Beaucastel 2005 / Paso Robles
Slow down and close your eyes before you take your first. First, enjoy the aroma of this heady, fruit forward nose. Layered with aromas of ripened luscious fruit, you do not want to pass by this moment too quickly. A rich blend of Mourvedre, Grenache, Syrah and Counoise, packs the palate with the dark fruit flavors of cherry, plums, berries with hints of cinnamon and mocha. Solid tannins give the wine a full mouth feel, unfolding into a warm, bright finish with lingering hints of earthy minerals and black cherry. Rich in structure, this wine will age well over the next 10 — 15 years, but don't pass up the chance to drink this now with a dry aged naturally raised , rare ëní juicy steak or a T- Bone Veal Chop
  Tablas Creek Côtes de Tablas 2006 / Paso Robles
Transporting France to California , this organic, well balanced blend of the Rhone varietals Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre, and Counoise, draws you in with a rich, fruity bouquet of berries and notes of pepper. Delicate tannins provide a smooth mouth feel and make for easy drinking. The finish is bright, with hints of spices and licorice. Relax the summer away with a bottle of this very drinkable wine and some grilled gourmet sausages. Wine maker Neil Collins doesn't disappoint.
  Tablas Creek Mourvëdre 2005 / Paso Robles
A grape not commonly produced as a single varietal, this effort just might make other wineries think again. A beautiful deep ruby red color unfolds into a jammy nose of plum, spice, and strong earthy tones. Solid tannins make for a slightly chewy mouth feel, giving way to a palate abundant with flavors of plum, currants and hints of leather. Savory earth tones of coffee, truffles set you down with a long, lingering mineral finish. A beautiful example of the Mourvedre characteristics. We recommend two bottles ñ one for now, one for the cellar. This will predictably age well.
  Tablas Creek Syrah 2005 / Paso Robles
A refined, lighter red, with an inviting dark purple hue and notes of pepper and dark fruit on the nose, this classic Syrah combines the sweet and savory at the hands of wine maker Neil Collins. Supple tannins make a round mouthfeel that leads to a dry, delicate finish, with lingering notes of spice. Easy to drink, you can count on this wine to come through with your quickly prepared steak and salad fare. Count on it to age well, and stock the cellar.
Tamás Estates
  Tamás Estates 2007 Pinto Grigio / Arroyo Seco
An old world varietal gets a new world touch with this wine.  Produced from fruit grown in the Arroyo Seco region, the moderate costal temperatures allow for gradual ripening that produces vibrant flavors.  Aging in stainless steal tanks allowed the wine to retain its crisp, fruity character.  A warm evening with a soft breeze is a perfect time to take in the lively nose of zesty lemon, grapefruit, and fresh cut grass.  Then savory the bright palate as the wine's firm acidity is balanced nicely by vivid citrus flavors.  Soft hints of minerals are left lingering on the finish.  Grab a bottle next time you indulge in a salmon or shrimp topped salad or with a juicy chicken breast marinated in a light Italian sauce.
Tres Sabores Winery
  Tres Sabores, Perspective Cabernet Sauvignon 2005
Steaming from the rich Rutherford fruit that stretches for two acres outside her front door, winemaker Julie Johnson offers up a classic "perspective" on what Rutherford Cabernet should be. The wine has a coaxing dark ruby hue. It sits rich and silky on the palate with lush flavors of black currants, blackberry, plum, and hints of vanilla. Warm spices bring the wine to a finish. Only 200 cases were produced, so grab an extra bottle if you can.
Trinchero Napa Chicken Ranch Winery
  Trinchero, Napa Chicken Ranch Cabernet 2005
The rich golden color of this 100% chardonnay estate grown wine hints at its rich toasty vanilla aromas surrounded by Meyers lemon zest, flint, and rose geranium. Flavored with orchards of another era of Sonoma history, taste the nectarine, lemon, papaya, sweet almond, and ripe pear that gives way to a floral, lemon verbena finish with zesty acids and a soft hint of English toffee. Pair a nice chilled bottle of this oh so drinkable wine with your favorite summer salad topped with left over salmon, or freshly skewered shrimp. Eat light, feel refreshed, and have that second bottle handy - you'll be wanting it.
Wente Vineyards
Wente Vineyards 2007 Riva Ranch Chardonnay / Arroyo Seco
Made predominantly from grapes grown on prime land in the Arroyo Seco region where the cool growing season and gravelly soil are ideal conditions for ripening Chardonnay, this wine is another fine effort from fifth generation winemaker Karl Wente.  Eight months in American oak brought out rich vanilla and oak character to balance the ripe bouquet of fruit, including apple, pear, and peach that rise out of a translucent golden hue .  More subtle flavors of tropical fruit and caramel round out the palate, which comes to a close with lingering hints of oak.  Pair this very nice, medium-bodied, wine alongside pasta topped with your favorite cream sauce or salmon with a fresh pesto marinade.
  Wente Vineyards 2006 Riverbank Riesling / Arroyo Seco
Picture the cool fertile vineyards of the Wente Family ranch when you pour a glass and admire the soft yellow hue.  Swirl and wait for indulgent aromas of honeysuckle and orange blossoms.  A sip adds lush fruit flavors of peach, apple, and melon.  Slightly sweet but charged by a firm crisp character, the wine strikes a nice balance, making it easy to drink.  It's a perfect compliment to a light fruit and cheese appetizer.  So chill a bottle or two and invite some friends over to join you.
William Harrison Winery
  William Harrison Estate Rutherford Red 2005
Steaming from superb fruit grown on their sun-kiss Rutherford estate, we are offered a lovely Bordeaux style blend of 72% Cabernet Sauvignon, 16% Petit Verdot, 8% Malbec, and 4% Cabernet Franc. Scents of cherry, currants and other dark fruit comprise an alluring bouquet. Nuances of black cherry and cedar build softly on the palate and finish dry and smooth. With only 320 cases produced, be sure to grab a bottle while you can.
Windward Winery
 
Windward Winery 2006 Pinot Noir / Paso Robles
Hold this deep plum colored wine up to the light and savor the first sip to come, for this Burgundian style Pinot Noir so carefully nurtured every step of the way deserves to be savored. The complex bouquet of plum, cherry, spice and hints of truffles, cigars, laced gently with spicy notes of clove unfolds into a supple palate with firm structure. The tannins are firm with lingering notes of spice. Drink now, but buy for the cellar, for this wine will age well and will pair well with smoked meats, hearty roasts, deep flavorful cheeses, and wild game.
Zahtila Vineyards
  Zahtila Vineyards Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon Vineyard Georges III
A vibrant bouquet of violets and roses give this wine a nose that stands out from many cabernets. Ripe flavors of black plums and cherries with subtle hints of tartness rise out of the deep lavender hue and drift across the palate supported by rich tannins. A long, lingering finish puts a final exclamation on a fine wine.

Other Great Related Links:
Andy Beckstoffer's Imprint On The Wine Industry
A Day in the Dust: A Tasting of 2005 Rutherford Cabernet Sauvignon
Portfolio of Duckhorn Vineyards Wine Reviews
Freemark Abbey
Rutherford Napa Valley Tastings 2008
Rutherford - Napa Valley, A Day in the Dust Newsletter

Paso Robles, CA Tastings 2008
Paris Wine Bars (Bistros) By Eric Gaudet
Italian Wine Classification
Guide to Napa Varietals
Ten Best Wines of 1998

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