2013 Pine Ridge Stag’s Leap Cabernet Sauvignon
This 2013 Pine Ridge Stag’s Leap Cabernet Sauvignon is drinking very nicely right now. Cherries and strawberries, a touch of coffee bean/espresso along with a floral note on the nose. Just a touch of cedar as well. On the palate, I get some darker cherry and blackberry fruit, beautiful integration of oak with clove, vanilla […]
Wine Fermentation
At the onset of fermentation, yeast cells will struggle to survive due to the very acidic nature of grape juice. In the vineyard, both yeast and bacteria live on the grape skins. However, during fermentation, the yeast encounters the acidic juice contained within the grape berries as they begin to break down and will struggle […]
2018 Domain Humbert Pinot Noir
A beautiful Côte de Nuits Pinot from Burgundy, full of concentrated wild cherry and cranberry notes, along with that classic old world, earthy charm and a hint of mushrooms. The red fruits continue on the palate, with bright acidity mid palate that leaves you thirsting for another sip. The finish is medium but delightful.
2012 Darioush Mount Veeder Hillside Cabernet Sauvignon
I really enjoyed this 2012 Darioush Hillside Cabernet from Mount Veeder. Intense, dark purple color shows really rich extraction during vinification. This is a juicy, full bodied vintage with loads of blackberry and black cherry fruit, complimented with elements of earth, licorice, cigar box, and dried meats. The acidity is bright, refreshing and mouthwatering, and […]
2018 Mount Veeder Winery Cabernet Sauvignon
This youthful Mount Veeder Cab pairs really well with an aged Parmesan cheese. Exuding blackberry, black cherry and pepper, the young tannins are tamed by the protein in the cheese. Delicious!
2011 Cardinale Estate Red Wine
Cardinale is one of my favorite Napa wineries. This 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon & Merlot blend is a great example of what this winery has to offer. Loads of dark fruits, black currant, blueberry, blackberry with a nice leather note. Balanced acidity and tannins, that are still opening up – this can age another 10 years […]
2016 Peju Cabernet Franc Reserve
If you have not discovered Peju yet, you’re in for a treat! Award winning winemaker Sara Fowler has done an amazing job with her wines. I really enjoyed this 2016 Cabernet Franc – so much so, I joined their wine club! Beautiful aromas of raspberry, leather and cigar box. On the palate you get more […]
2016 Chateau Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon
2016 Chateau Montelena Cabernet Sauvignon is drinking well for such a young Cab. I would, however, like a little more structure to the wine as it’s acidity is not quite where I would prefer. The tannins are very fine for such a young wine. Overall, an enjoyable wine that is drinkable now but should age […]
2007 Cliff Lede High Fidelity Napa Valley Red Blend
Wow – this 2007 Cliff Lede High Fidelity is drinking amazing right now. A Bordeaux blend with traditional balance and aromatics, I was fortunate that they pried open their library wines when I visited in October 2021 and grabbed a few. Old world nose – right bank all day long. Dark cherry and blackberry, combined […]