This Week’s Wine Tasting
California Wines
Duckhorn Sauvignon Blanc 2014- Napa Valley, California. “This elegant wine is a blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon harvested from our estates and other select premium Napa Valley vineyards. A portion of the Sauvignon Blanc was barrel-fermented in French oak. This technique and the addition of the Sémillon add depth and complexity to the aroma and palate, enhancing the ripe citrus and tropical flavors of the Sauvignon Blanc.” $20.99
Black Stallion Chardonnay 2013– Napa Valley, California. Aged in 100% French oak 10 months on lees. “A lovely nose of green apple, lemon zest and vanilla is followed by flavors of citrus, brown butter, pear and flint. The 2012 Chardonnay is soft and round on the palate with bright fruit and creamy notes that lead into a long, elegant finish.” $13.99
Diora La Petite Grace Pinot Noir 2013– Monterey, California. “Deep, intense garnet color in the glass with aromas of black cherries, brown sugar and mocha. Round, soft and full-bodied with excellent weight in the mid-palate, layers of black cherry, dark chocolate, spice and coffee bean unfold with earthy undertones of mushroom and truffle.” $20.99
Uppercut Cabernet Sauvignon 2013– Napa Valley, California. “The wine’s generous black cherry and blackberry aromas and flavors draw you in and then, with each swirl and sip, reveal complex hints of mocha, anise, tamari and mineral, plus a racy hint of smokiness. Well-structured tannins give this wine the backbone to stand up to boldly flavored foods, as well as a plush texture that carries the rich dark-fruit flavors through the lingering finish. This wine’s multilayered personality is unmistakably Napa Valley Cabernet.” $16.99
Cline Ancient Vines Zinfandel 2013– Contra Costa County, California. “Deep, intense garnet color in the glass with aromas of black cherries, brown sugar and mocha. Round, soft and full-bodied with excellent weight in the mid-palate, layers of black cherry, dark chocolate, spice and coffee bean unfold with earthy undertones of mushroom and truffle.” $14.99
Bogle Phantom 2012– Clarksburg, Lodi and Amador, California. Aged in barrel for over 24 months in American oak. “Bright red cherry fruit and black pepper tempt you to take that sip, with hints of brawny juniper, rich blackberry and briary boysenberry in the background. Succulent in mouthfeel, the wine showcases its versatile grape varieties: Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon and Mourvedre. Aged for over 24 months in 1 and 2 year old American oak, tones of spicy vanilla and toasted coconut moderate the firm tannins and create a focused and intense finish.” $18.99