Wine Club

Craig The Wine Guy

Wine Recommendations

Call Root Restaurant (269) 512-1171 or Craig McMurry (269) 372-4614

Below are descriptions of the wines that we have tasted, plan on ordering or think deserve inclusion. 

There are times when the winemaker captures the essence of their wine, or a wine magazine reviews a wine, and we concede to their description. 

After the description of a wine there are notations in parentheses that reference the name of the distributor

All wines below can be ordered from the distributors with minimum order requirements, and you can also request a special order of your favorite wine. 

Legend for the wholesale bottle price:  Under $15.00 ($), $30.00 ($$), $50.00 ($$$), $100.00 ($$$$), and over $100.00 ($$$$$)  

Wine with a wholesale price over $100.00, allocated, or distinctive wines are subject to different pricing.

Argentina

SALTA 

(Northwest Argentina)

Terrazas de los Andes Malbec Single Vineyard: This wine has an intense red plum color; the wine is smooth but also displays spicy notes, and there is a slight effervescence along with the finish. This is a polished Malbec and is very elegant. (GL), $$$$

Enjoy with red meat.

Terrazas de los Andes Torrontes Reserve, Salta: The Torrontes grape is a white grape indigenous to Argentina.  The grape can have a high minerality, but this wine is aromatic and stands out with a freshness and intensity which is very distinctive, with a mild minerality. (GL), $

Enjoy with appetizers and spicy Asian dishes.

Mendoza

Catena Alta, Historic Rows, Chardonnay, 2019: Fresh, crisp, and full-bodied, this is serious Chardonnay.  Consume with food. (Vtg.), $$ 

Catena Alta, Historic Rows, Malbec, 2018: The grapes for this wine come from five different lots. It is earthy and full-bodied. (Vtg.), $$$ 

Catena La Consulta Malbec, 2019: A good production of a Malbec with soft tannins. (Vtg.) $$

Catena Cabernet Sauvignon, High Mountain Vines, 2019: Catena delivers a nice Cabernet Sauvignon with depth at a reasonable price. (Vtg.), $$

Catena Zapata, Nicasta Vineyard, Malbec, Mendoza, Argentina:  An exceptional Malbec. (GL), $$$$

Cheval des Andes, 2015, Mendoza, Argentina:  A big Bordeaux blend produced in Mendoza, Argentina.  This wine has achieved a 98-point rating by James Suckling.  Please refer to the winery’s fact sheet. (GL), $$$$

D.V. Catena, 2019: (75%) Malbec, (19%) Bonarda, (6%) Petit Verdot. A good savory blend with that sharp finish of Petit Verdot. (Vtg), $$

Kaiken, Ultra, Malbec, 2017, Los Rocas, Mendoza, Argentina: This Malbec pours into the glass reflecting a deep violet color, the nose radiates a fresh bouquet of berries evoking the senses of a classic Malbec.

This wine is not tannic but smooth, and the finish is long and pleasant. A well-balanced Malbec and very reasonably priced. (RBC), $

MAAL WINES Vineyards

bestial Malbec, 2016: This is a nice high-quality Malbec. The wine is rich in color, connected, and balanced, with soft smooth tannins. (W), $$$ 

biutiful, Malbec, 2018: A good entry level Malbec for folks who want to explore. (W), (($)

impossible, Malbec, 2016, MAAL Wines. This wine is ready to drink when you open the bottle and pour it into the glass.  Enjoy this wine over casual conversation, with appetizers or an entrée. (W), $$

Mad Bird, Dark Malbec, 2019: This Malbec is full-bodied and reasonably priced.  A terrific deal!  (R), $

Patagonia

J Alberto, Malbec, 2019: This winery is in the Rio Negro Valley, which is dry and    has desert like conditions.  The wine is full-bodied, has lots of dark berry flavors, depth, and elegance. This is a fantastic Malbec!  (GL), $$$

Australia

South Australia

Penfolds Max’s Cabernet Sauvignon, 2016:  This wine is a bold cabernet that starts out strong but, if left to breath, will smooth out and finish nicely.  This Max’s cabernet is an enjoyable value from Penfold of Australia. (A), $$

Adelaide Hills

Sidewood Shiraz, 2018: This is an Australian Shiraz with a big bouquet.  This wine offers up an abundance of Shiraz spiciness and ends with a nice, weighted finish.  Lots of bang for your dollar! (W), ($)

Barossa Valley

Tait “The Ballbuster Shiraz”: (80%) Shiraz, (12%) Cabernet, (8%) Merlot. This is an earthy wine and extremely drinkable, smooth, and ending with light pepper notes. (V), $ 

Tim Smith, Barossa: (76%) Mataro, (synonymous with the Monastrell grape), (20%) Grenache, (4%) Shiraz. A big and full wine, with a little time in the glass it opens into a spicey wine with cool tannins. (i-I), $$$ 

Welland, “Old Hands”, Cabernet Sauvignon. This Cabernet Sauvignon hits all the right notes!  It has the spice of a Shiraz, with the dark fruit berries that you expect from a Cabernet Sauvignon, and incredibly smooth silky tannins. (V), $$$

Yalumba, Bush Vine Grenache: With an exquisite red color, cherry berry flavor, you could mistake this wine for a lovely Pinot Noir, but the wine is (100%) Grenache. An easy to drink wine that you open and enjoy, relaxing with friends. (GL), $

Koonunga Hills

Penfolds Koonunga Hills Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon 2019: This wine scores 87 to 90 points. Penfolds’ history dates to 1844 in Australia and is a premier winery. This wine is deep red in color; the cabernet sauvignon (76%) is strong and accented with the pepperiness of the shiraz (24%).  The grapes are sourced from all the Penfolds South Australia vineyards. This wine offers great berry flavors and a long finish. Is a great buy. (AL), $     

McLaren Valley

d’Arenberg, The Dead Arm Shiraz:  The color is dark and rich, full bodied, finishing with just the right number of tannins. (I), $$$ 

Enjoy this wine with savory cheeses and hearty red meats.

Southwestern Australia

Clare Valley

Hesketh, Fiano,2021: Known for being an Italian grape, Hesketh has produced Fiano in the Clare Valley. This wine is aged on the lees and is aromatic with lots of acidity.  Although not a Sauvignon Blanc, it tends to have a lot of the same qualities. (V), $$

Jim Barry, Watervale Riesling, 2017:  The color of this wine is like water reflecting on a summer day.  A dry Riesling with just a hint of sweetness on the finish.  Very pleasant. (GL), $ 

Kilkanoon, Clare Valley, Killerman’s Run, Shiraz:  A nice Shiraz from Australia with a fun story about its origins. A bio and description of the wine is printed and available next to the wine. (I), $

Edna Valley

Pewsey Vale, Eden Valley, Dry Riesling, 2017:  This wine exhibits a light platinum color, is dry and non-minerally. A very pleasant Riesling. This wine is a bargain. (GL), 

Western Australia

Hope Estate Shiraz “The Ripper”:   100% Shiraz, from Australia, the “Ripper” is a medium to full bodied wine, which depends on your level of palate, regarding Syrah/Shiraz. Easy to drink, this wine is good for entertaining small or large groups or by yourself. (RBC), $

Enjoy this wine with pork and other meat dishes.

Austria

Niederposterreich

Kamptal

Barbara Ohlzelt

Barbara Ohlzelt, Gruner Leader, 2019: A refreshing and acidic Gruner Veltliner white wine for the summer. (i-L), $

Barbara Ohlzelt, Gruner Veltiner, Zobinger, 2018:  At first you will wonder if you are going to enjoy this wine, then you set your glass down.  In the next sip, after the wine has sat for about 10 minutes, the wine opens, and you will probably drink the whole bottle. (I-L), $$

Canada

Niagra Pininsula, AVA

Cava Spring Riesling: This is a dry Riesling, medium-bodied with very pleasant melon and fruit flavors. An easy to drink wine that is great for outdoor patio activities or boating.  (R), $ 

Chile

Aconcagua

Casabalanca Valley

Cuvee Alexandre, Chardonnay, Lapostolle: A big Chardonnay with a bright golden color, plenty of richness going on here.  This wine is produced by one of the most well-known vintners in Chile. (GL), $$ 

Central Valley

Corazon Del Indio, Vina Marty, 2019: (40%), Carmenere, (35%) Cabernet Sauvignon, (25%) Syrah. This is one of Pascal Marty’s premium wines produced under the Vina Marty vineyard. Decant an hour before serving and enjoy a smooth and soft tannin red blend with a hint of spiciness. (W), $   

Mariposa Alegre, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2019, Gran Reserva: This Cabernet is bolder and fuller than the Vina Marty Estate Cabernet.  The Mariposa Cabernet and the Estate Cabernet are both nice and balanced, offering their own unique qualities.  James Suckling has scored this wine 91 points. (W), $ 

Vina Marty Estate Cabernet 2019: The winemaker of this estate has an impressive resume.

Pascal Marty is a graduate of the Enology Institute of Bordeaux, has stints with Baron Philippe de Rothschild S.A. and Robert Mondavi, and ended up in Chile producing the wine for Vina Marty.

This Cabernet Sauvignon will surprise not only your palette but your wallet, too!  A must try. (W), $

Enjoy with any casserole dish, meats, or drink it by itself.

Maule Valley

Garage Wines

Garage wines is a boutique wine company that gathered other independent small wineries which owned small, old dry-farmed vines, to produce all natural, low sulfite wines, using native fermented yeasts and traditional wine producing techniques.  The wines are all in recycled bottles.

Quinto Cuarto Solera: Think of how a ruby red port is produced by pulling together various grapes. The Garage group pulls together grapes from 2007 to 2012 mixing Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Carignan, Merlot, Petite Syrah, Garnacha, Syrah, and Cinsault by aging in old wood barrels over 2 to 4 winters. The result is a “WOW” factor! This wine is big, bold, and pungent. (EE), $$

Las Higueras Vineyard 2018-Lot 102: 100% Cabernet Franc. This is one of the best Cabernet Francs that we have ever tasted. (EE), $$$$

Maule Valley

Terrnanoble Gran Reserve, Carmenere, 2018:  Purplish red in color, with blackberry fruit notes and a nice spiciness; this wine has mild tannins and has consistently received high marks from the major wine critics. (GL), $

A good accompaniment with barbecued foods.

Rapel Valley/Cachapoel

Marques de Casa Concha, Camenere, 2016: This is subtle and fragrant wine that continues to please the palate with the passage of time. This is an amazing value. (GL), $$ 

Terrunyo, Carmenere, Concha Y Toro: This wine is dense ruby red, a nose of dark cherries, spicey with a smokey cigar taste which finishes like a truck running off the road. Fasten your seat belt. (GL), $$$

Enjoy heavy meat dishes, especially those meat sauces served over pasta.

Rapel Valley/Colchagua

Lapostolle, Cuvee Alexandre, Carmenere: A big red, nice tannins and spicey. This red holds up very nicely for the next day drinking. (GL), $$

TerraNoble 2013 CA2 Costa Carmenere: The Carmenere grape is an old grape from Bordeaux.  Carmenere’s parents are Cabernet Franc and Gros Cabernet and the siblings of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Camenere is now widely grown in Chile. This wine turns into a big red after breathing for 30 minutes.  The wine maintains a nice spiciness, long finish and is reasonably priced. (GL), $

Enjoy with meat.

Elqui Valley/ Coquimbo

Elqui, 2016, Carmenere (50%), Syrah (14%), Malbec (26%), Elqui Valley: A big red wine with a low price, this wine needs one hour of breathing.  Please see the winery fact sheet.  (EE), $

Enjoy with hearty meat pasta dish.

Croatia

Peljesac Peninsula

Dakovack Vina Cabernet Sauvignon: This is an easy to drink Cabernet that you can enjoy on its own or with food. Good value from Croatia. (R), $

Kutjevo Wine Region

Kutjevo Chardonnay: This is nice wine to enjoy sitting out on the deck with appetizers and Asian cuisine.  The wine is light and refreshing. (R), $ 

Dingac, 2017: Plavac Maili is a blend of old zinfandel and a small blue grape widely planted in Croatia. This region is considered the prized location for producing outstanding wines. The wine is rich, full-bodied, and robust.  This wine will need to be breathed for 2 hours before drinking but is well worth the wait. A bargain for the boldness of this wine. (R), $$

Dingac Pelijesac, 2019: (100%) Zinfandel. A nice fruit forward and semi-dry wine with a terrific price point. (R), $  

France

1. Chenet, Original, Blanc De Blancs, Brut: JP. Chenet is one of France’s most recognizable producers of wine. This sparkling wine is a very affordable Brut that is dry and works well by itself or with drink mixes.  A great Brut for gatherings. (EE), $ 

Bordeaux

Chateau Carignan:  This wine is (100%) Merlot, and you will want to decant the wine for a bit. This wine is rich, heavy, and robust.   Ready to drink now! (V), $$

Chateau Du Pin: (60%) Merlot, (20%) Cabernet, (20%) Cabernet Franc, a smooth, fresh wine; an easy to drink Bordeaux.  Exceptionally good value. (AHD), $

Chateau Marjosse, 2018: A nice blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon.  (AHD), $

Chateau Moulin De Bernat, 2019, La Viticultrice:  This wine is produced around the City of Bordeaux, called Nouville Aquitaine, which you do not hear much about. (90%) Merlot and (10%) Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine is very pleasant and easy to drink; it would accompany pasta and cheeses. (V), $

Mary-Taylor, Jean Marc Barthez

Mary-Taylor is a negociant and Jean Marc Barthez heads up a co-op of vineyards in the Bordeaux region. We tasted their Bordeaux Blanc, (95%) Sauvignon and (5%) Semillon, and Bordeaux Rouge, (50%) Merlot, (50%) divided equally between Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc.

Both are nice drinking wines.

Their price points are terrific. You can’t go wrong. (Vtg,), $

Virginie Thunevin, 2018: A good Bordeaux with a rich dark color. Nice value. (AHD), $ 

Bordeaux Superieur

Chateau Camarsac:This Chateau has been producing wines dating back to the 14th century.  The wine produced today is an easy to drink Bordeaux and is reasonably priced. (AHD), $

Chateau Croix-Mouton, 2015:  The vintner for this wine, Jean-Phillippe Janoueix, is known for producing wines from Bordeaux, such as La Confessions and La Croix St. George. This wine is a budget friendly Bordeaux with nice layers and is ready to drink. (AHD), $  

Chateau Pasde Rauzen, Bordeaux Superieur, 2016, Maison Riviere:  From the Maison Riviere family, wine producers and merchants since 1875, this wine is (35%) Cabernet Sauvignon, (30%) Cabernet Franc and (35%) Merlot.  The Riviere family are known for their Gran Crus. Although this is a young Bordeaux, after 10 minutes of breathing, it smooths out into a delicious wine with low tannins.  A particularly good Bordeaux value. (EE), $

Chateau Thieuley Blanc: (50%), Savignon Blanc, (50%) Semillon. The wine is bright and has a pale gold color. It has a nice roundness, richness, and elegant tropical fruit subtlety.  A good wine with or without food. (AHD), $

Chateau Thieuley Rouge: A merlot-cabernet blend which is easy to drink and is great value. (AHD), $

Cotes de Bordeaux

Chateau Joamim Becot, 2016: (75%) Merlot, (25%) Cabernet Sauvignon, this is a beautiful full-bodied wine that is intense and polished which ends with a great finish and smooth tannins. AHD, $$$$

Chateau De Frances, “Les Cerisiers”, 2018: This winery was started by Hubert De Bouard, of Chateau Angelus and Dominique Hebrard, of the Chateau Cheval Blanc, two prestigious Chateaux of the Bordeaux region; recognized around the world.   This is an amazing value. (90%) Merlot and (10%) Cabernet Sauvignon. (AHD), $$  

Chateau de Macard, 2018: Another great value from Bordeaux Superieur. This wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Merlot.  What a beautiful job the vintner has accomplished!  Soft and velvety with a superb finish.  This wine is ready to drink now! (R), $ 

Chateau Marsau, 2016: 100% Merlot, this wine is subtle and has refined tannins.  A good buy.  (AHD), $$

Enjoy with a rich fish dish.

Esprit de Pavie, 2015: A full bodied Bordeaux with a deep garnet purple color. This wine is rich with lots of dark berry flavors. Decant for one hour before serving.  AHD, $$

Les Hauts de Palette Bordeaux, 2015: (60%) Merlot, (30%) Cabernet Sauvignon. (10%) Cabernet Franc.  A well-balanced wine.  It is supple on the palate, and rich smooth tannins.  Good value. (V), $ 

Blaye Cotes De Bordeaux

Chateau Roland La Garde, 2019, Tradition: (25%) Merlot, (75%) Cabernet.  This wine is earthy and dusty. The nose is strong and loaded with tannins. It is traditionally aged in stainless steel.  There is good value in this wine.  After three hours of decanting, it will fully open. (AHD), $  

Fronsac

Chateau La Dauphine: This is another good bargain Bordeaux.   The wine produces a nice thinness and opens beautifully in the glass.  The blend of (90%) Merlot and (10%) Cabernet Franc is a nice grape combo. (AHD), $$

Chateau La Vieille Cure 2017:  When you drink this wine, imagine that you are sharing the wine with the nobles and the king. This was a favorite wine being served from this Chateau at Versailles and the hunting lodges during that time.  Located in Fronsac, this area offers some good Bordeaux values. Located west of St-Emilion and Pomerol, you can a enjoy a reasonably priced Bordeaux.  This wine is a mix of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon and is medium to full bodied. Let the wine breathe for an hour before serving.   (AHD), $$     

Entie-Duex-Mers

Chateau De Fontenille, 2021, Blanc: Entie-Duex-Mers is the oldest wine producing area in France.  The vines were planted over 2000 years ago by the Romans. 

(40%) Sauvignon Blanc., (20%) Sauvignon Gris, (20%) Semillon, (20%) Muscadelle.

This wine exhibits big citrus flavors and will pare well with zesty foods. (AHD), $

Graves

Pessac-Leognan

Chateau Bouscaut, 2016, Grand Cru Classe De Graves: (50%) Semillon and (50%) Sauvignon Blanc, this wine is rich, classy, and elegant.  With its fragrant, creamy, and dry finish, you can consume this wine with any seafood or poultry dish. (AHD), $$$

Chateau Tour Leognan, 2017: A crisp white wine with wonderful fruit notes; a good combination of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon resulting in a dry easy to drink wine. (AHD), $$

Chateau Tour Leognan, Rouge, 2018: (50%) Cabernet Sauvignon, (50%) Merlot.  This is a wine made from young vines. If you let this wine breathe for an hour or two, it develops into a fresh and delightfully smooth red.  The price point is terrific.  When you find a good wine from Graves, it is a real treat. (AHD), $ 

Le Petit Havt Lafitte, 2016, by Smith Havt Lafitte: (60%) Cabernet, (40%) Merlot, this wine is produced from young vines but has plenty of weight resulting in a medium bodied wine.  With dry and soft tannins, this wine is a thoroughly enjoyable drinking experience. (AHD), $$$

Chantegrive Graves:  This wine is a combination of Semillon (a Bordeaux original grape, pure, clean, and fresh) and Sauvignon Blanc (a big white grape with intense flavors, such as straw, hay, grass, smoke green herbs, green tea, lime, etc., acidic, and full flavored).  Chantegrive is a dry white wine that is floral on the nose and mouthwatering appealing texture, the Semillon tames the Sauvignon Blanc. (AHD), $

Enjoy with appetizers, poultry, and seafood.

Chateaux Graville Lacoste: (Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon), aromas of grapefruit, a tangy crisp taste, and a clean finish. This wine is produced by the same vintner as Chateaux Ducasse. (V), $

Enjoy with cheese and fish.

Clarendell Blanc. 2019: The color of this wine looks like it is from a crystal-clear mountain spring water.  Light and refreshing. (AHD), $

Clarendell Rouge, 2015:  A medium body Bordeaux, smooth with light tannins.  Decant for an hour before serving. Quite lovely. (AHD), $

Haut-Medoc

Chateau Beaumont, 2017.  This is the largest estate in Haut-Medoc dating back to 1772, but its wine beginnings started in 1824. This is a young Bordeaux, but you can it drink now. The wine can also be cellared for up to 10 years. (AHD), $$  

Chateau Belgrave, Haut-Medoc, 2010:  A heavy wine and excellent representation of Bordeaux. This wine has a great color, is low in tannins and acidity. Decant for 1 to 2 hours. (V), $$$

Chateau Cissac, 2019: (70%) Cabernet Sauvignon, (22%) Merlot, (8%) Petit Verdot.  This 2019 is ready to drink now. Good value and a nice wine. (AHD), $$ 

Chateau De LaMarque: This property dates to the 11th Century and was once an estate for King Henry V. 

Now a family property for generations, this Bordeaux is fragrant and substantial. You can decant this wine for two hours, although we could only wait an hour and still thoroughly enjoyed the wine. (AHD), $$

Chateau Lanessan, 2018: We can’t believe what a great bargain this Bordeaux is! wine is (52%) Cabernet Sauvignon, (42%) Merlot, (6%) Petit Verdot. The color is gorgeous; this wine exudes nice ripe dark berry flavors and has soft tannins. The wine scored up to 90 to 93 points. (AHD), $$

Chateau Larrivaux, Grand Vin De Bordeaux, 2018: (64%) Merlot, (26%) Cabernet Sauvignon, (3%) Cabernet Franc, (7%) Petit Verdot. This wine scored 91 points.  Larrivaux is a full-bodied wine with a nice long finish.  Let the wine breathe for one hour to fully open. (AHD), $$ 

Chateau De Camensac, 2019: (55%), Cabernet Sauvignon (45%), Merlot. This Chateau was purchased in auction by the Popp family in 1799.  The family was awarded cinquiemes cru (fifth growth) award at the Universal Exhibition in 1855, organized by Napoleon Bonaparte. 

The Chateau has gone through several ownerships but now is part of the family of Gruaud-Larose, Haut-Bages Liberal, Ferriere, Chasse-Spleen, and Citran.

The color of this wine is stunning. It is medium-bodied and velvety.  Wine critics have scored this wine 90-92 points and will tell you to drink after 2024.  We can’t wait that long!  Decant for 2 hours. (AHD), $$$ 

Listrac

Chateau Ducluzeau, 2016: A family business that dates to 1740; the wine that they produce is medium bodied, dry, and reasonably priced.  This wine needs to be breathed for one to two hours before consumption.  (EE), $$   

Margaux

Paveill De Luze, 2016 Cru Bourgeois:  This winery dates to 1862; the wine is robust, but also rich, and elegant, with a delightful finish; (100%) Cabernet Sauvignon. We let this wine decanted for an hour. (EE), $$

Siran, 2019: (46%) Merlot, (44%) Cabernet Sauvignon, (9%) Petit Verdot, (1%) Cabernet Franc. This is an all-organic wine aged in French Oak. Dark and rich, the berries in this wine all contribute exactly what they are supposed to.  The Merlot is soft with raspberry notes. The Cabernet Sauvignon blackberry comes through but is not overpowering. The Petit Verdot gives the wine a sharpness. A perfect Cab Franc touch. 

This wine from one of the most prestigious and famous appellations in the world is affordable.  Decant for two hours. (AHD), $$$$   

Moulis-Medoc

Chateau Anthonic, 2016: This wine is Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot.  An eighteenth-century vineyard that today produces biodynamic wine. 14.5% alcohol and 12 months aged in oak. Give this wine plenty of time to breathe.  (V), $$

Chateau Branas Grand Poujeaux,2014:  Dark berries, full bodied, and rich.  Decant 1 to 2 hours.  (AHD), $$$

Chateau Poujeaux, Grand Vin, 2015: (49%) Cabernet Sauvignon, (42%) Merlot, (7%) Petit Verdot, (2%) Petit Verdot.  Silky, smooth, and bold describes this wine which has enjoyed a ninety plus rating except for 2006 and 2008. (AHD), $$$  

Medoc

St. Estephe

Chateau Lilian Ladouys, 2019: (59%) Merlot, (37%) Cabernet Sauvignon, (3%) Petit Verdot, (1%) Cabernet Franc. This wine has a deep ruby red color and lots of spiciness. The spiciness does mellow out after decanting for an hour.  The result is a full-bodied and velvety wine with big dark berry flavors.  2019 is considered a good year and this wine has achieved 91 to 93 points.  Great value.  (AHD), $$ 

Chateau Morin, 2016 Grand Vin De Bordeaux: (60%) Merlot, (40) Cabernet Sauvignon. A delightful and ready to drink Bordeaux.  The grapes are hand harvested and aged in French oak for 18 months.  You should be prepared to let this wine breathe for 3.5 hours. (AHD), $$

Pomerol

Chateau Bonalgue 2012 Pomerol: See the fact sheet on Chateau Bonalgue and the vineyard’s history. (AHD), $$$

Chateau Beauregard, Pomerol,2015: This Bordeaux has several impressive reviews rating the wine in the 90 plus point range. We have printed off some of these reviews for you to read. (AHD), $$$

A great steak wine!

Clos Grangeneuve:  A beautiful Bordeaux blend, (Merlot/Cabernet), the wine opens beautifully and is elegant and smooth.  Exceptional value. (AHD), $$

Enjoy seafood, poultry, and pork.

Lacoste-Borie, 2019: (62%) Cabernet Sauvignon, (29%) Merlot, (5%) Cab Franc.  Aged in French Oak and medium bodied, this wine offers good value from the origin of Pauillac. (AHD), $$$  

Lalande-Pomerol

Chateau de Cruzelles, 2016: (90%) Cabernet, (10%) Cabernet Franc, Cruzelles is a solid and reasonable value from a “satellite appellation” of Bordeaux.  Smooth and soft tannins stand out with this wine. (AHD), $$

Saint-Emilion

Chateau Haut-Brisson, Grand Cru, 2016: The following wine authorities, James Suckling, Robert Parker, Jeff Dunnuck, have rated this wine between 91 to 94 points.  It is medium to full bodied, has a wonderful ripe berry and plum flavors with a long finish.  This wine is under $30.00 at the club right now. It doesn’t get any better. $$, (AHD)   

Chateau Du Mignon, 2016, Grand Vin De Bordeaux: The producer of this wine is Chateau Du Rocher, a family-owned vineyard since the 15th century.  This is an easy to drink Bordeaux; the wine opens quite nicely with a good balance of fruit and low tannins. A good price for a Saint-Emilion. (EE), $$

Enjoy pasta, meat dishes, and hearty casseroles. 

Qvintus, 2016: This is one of the top vineyards of Bordeaux that commands 95+ ratings on the wines produced.  This is an entry level bottle that is reasonably priced, and Bordeaux lovers will not be disappointed.  (61%) Merlot Noir, (29%) Cabernet Franc (11%) Cabernet Sauvignon. (AHD), $$

Tempo d’Angelus, Grand Cru de Bordeaux, 2019:  Chateau d’Angelus is ranked as a Premier grand cru classe (A) in the classification of wine. The Chateau received its designation at the Exposition Universelle, 1855, in Paris, hosted by Emperor Napoleon Bonapart III. This was the introduction of the Bordeaux wine official classification of 1855.

The Chateau is managed by the Bourd family who arrived in the area in 1792.

The family also produces Carrillon d’Angelus.  The name Angelus comes from the bells that ring from the chapel at Mazerat church which can be heard at the vineyard.

This wine is (90%) Merlot and (10%) Cabernet Franc.  The color is very impressive, like a rich Pinot Noir.  The wine is medium bodied, and you will be taken by its elegance. Critics have rated this wine 90 to 93 points. (AHD), $$ 

Lussac

Chateau Bel-Air, Jean & Gabriel, 2016: A wonderful wine from Saint-Emilion that is affordable.  A nice blend of (50%) Cabernet and (50%) Merlot.  Smooth and soft tannins. Let the wine breathe for one hour before drinking. (AHD), $$

Chateau Du Courlat, 2019: (90%) Merlot, (10%) Cabernet Franc. Great value from Saint-Emilion.  (AHD), $$

Montagne

Chateau Roeher-Calon, Grand Vin De Bordeaux: (95%) Merlot, (5%) Cabernet Franc, this Bordeaux is a bargain.  (AHD), $$  

Saint Georges

Chateau Cap St Georges: Merlot and Cabernet Franc. This wine is produced by Jean Phillipe Janoueix, a well-known wine maker in Bordeaux. We carry other wines from this vintner in the club.  I tasted this wine alongside three Grand Crus and enjoyed this wine more than the Grand Crus. With scores of 89-91 points, I think this is good value for an enjoyable wine from Bordeaux. (AHD), $$  

Chateau Tour Du Pas St. Georges, 2016: Saint Georges, of Saint-Emilion, is considered by many folks the most prestigious satellite. This wine is soft and balanced. (AHD), 

Saint-Julien

Chateau Du Glana, 2019, Grand Vin: This is a medium -bodied wine with nice structure and food friendly.  Let the wine breathe for an hour and enjoy. Critics have scored this wine 90-92 points. (AHD), $$

Chateau Langrange, 2015: This wine is delicious! The Langrange winery is one of the grand crus of Bordeaux, medium bodied, and although very drinkable from the start, let the wine breathe for an hour.  This wine also scores in the low and mid 90’s.  (AHD), $$$$

Sauternes

Barsac

Chateau Climens, Asphodale Grand Vin Blanc, 2019: This Chateau dates to 1547 and achieved its first growth status in 1855.  Asphodale is 100% Semillion and when first opened bursts with honey and ripe pear fragrances.   With a little time, the wine relaxes to a gentle, smooth, and elegant white Bordeaux. (AHD), $$

Enjoy with Asian, Seafood, Pasta, and Soups.

Chateau Doisy Daene, 2016, Grand Vin de Sauterens: A Grand Cru Classe of 1855.  Lots of fresh, bright, and tropical flavors are going on in this wine.  Serve as a sweet dessert wine to accompany fine chocolates.  (AHD), $$$ 

La Fleur d’Or Sauternes 2017: Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, and Muscadelle. A combination of apricot, citrus, and sweetness, this wine makes a delightful dessert wine. (AHD), $ 

Champagne

1. Moncuit Delos Mesnil-surOger Grand Cru NV: 100% Chardonnay from 45-year-old vines in the Cotes des Blancs most celebrated Grand Cru village.  24-36 months on the lees before disgorgement.  Dosage 7 g/1 with a yearly production of 5000 cases. (AHD), $$$$

Burgundy

Bret Brothers, Macon-Chardonnay, Grand Vin De Bourgogne, 2016:  Non-oaky or buttery.  An easy Chardonnay to drink. (GL), $$

Bret Brothers, Vire-Clesse, Grand Vin De Bourgogne, 2015:  A crisp chardonnay, with hint of oak and butter. (GL), $$ 

Burrier Chateau de Beauregard Saint Veran 2016:  This wine is a white Burgundy from St. Veron, Maconnais, Burgundy, France.  This is not a heavy Chardonnay and will pair nicely with fish and roasted vegetables or poultry.  Easy to drink.  (AHD), $$$ 

Jean Foillard Beaujolais Villages:  The Gamay grape is known for low tannins and fruitiness. Jean Foillard is considered one of the top producers of old-style Beaujolais’s production; described as traditional “Burgundian”. The winery uses no herbicides or pesticides and ages the wine in older Oak barrels. (V), $$  

Enjoy charcuterie, pork, and poultry.

Les Allies Brut Rose: A Chardonnay and Pinot Noir blend. From the tasting notes of the vintner, “the wine color is coral pink, crisp, and bright, with raspberry, strawberry, and subtle minerality.” A perfect description.  (V), $

Louis Chevallier, Bourgnone, Pinot Noir, 2017: The wine is bright, fresh, and ready to drink when opened.  This a great Pinot Noir value from Burgundy, France. (DC), $$

Enjoy with Salmon or Cheeses.

Meo-Camuzet: A wonderful Chardonnay. The color is beautiful, the wine is light and refreshing. The finish is distinctive and stimulating but does not overwhelm. (V), $$

Moillard NV Cremant de Bourgogne Brut: Lots of bubbles with this sparkling wine. Dry and refreshing, great price, it’s from Burgundy. (EE), $ 

Enjoy seafood.

Valmoissine Pinot Noir, by Louis Latour, 2016: This Pinot Noir will surprise you with both its richness and low price. (V), $

Beaujolais/Morgan

Chateau Grange Cochard, 2015: This chateau was established in 1759.  The Chateau is still producing a quality Pinot Noir which is very affordable. (AHD), $

Chablis

Fourrey Bourgogne Pinot Noir 2018: This wine is produced in the Chablis region of Burgundy by a 4th generation family.  A medium body and acidic wine with smooth tannins, and an easy finish. Good value from Burgundy. (AHD) $$

Michel Briday, 2011 Rully Vin De Bourgogne: The color of this wine is light golden. The texture is perfect.  A delightful accompaniment to a roast chicken, potato, and vegetable dinner. (AHD), $$$ 

Louis Michel & Fils: The Michel family has been operating this vineyard since the late 1850’s. The wines are organic. The vineyard is in the heart of the most prestigious wine growing region in Chablis, Burgundy.  The wine is aged in stainless steel tanks, and the result is a full-bodied, fresh, and crisp Chardonnay.  We could drink this wine by itself or with almost any food. 100% organic. (AHD), $$$  

Simonnet-Febvre Chablis:  This wine exhibits a beautiful color, a very pleasant fruitiness on the nose and ends in an extended gentle finish. (V), $$ 

Enjoy appetizers on a summery day.

Macon

Domaine de la Denante, Bourgogne White Burgundy, 2020: When you find a white Burgundy that is affordable and elegant in style and goes with almost any type of food or occasion, you should purchase a nice quantity.  Need we say more? (AHD), $$

Macon-Villages

Deux Roches “Tradition”, 2020: This wine is light and easy to drink. (AHD), $$

Enjoy with food or by itself.

Maconnis/Vire-Clesse

Verpalle Grand Vin de Bourgogne Vire-Clesse, 2018: A delightful Chardonnay which is reasonably priced.  Don’t drink immediately after opening; let the wine take five minutes to breathe. (EE), $$ 

Cotes de Nuits/Marsannay

Domaine Collotte, En Combereau, 2017: This is a reasonably priced red burgundy wine, medium to full-bodied, packing plenty of berry flavor, and is masculine. A good complement to heavy seafood and chicken dishes.  (AHD), $$   

Saint-Veran

Les Tros Pecheurs”, Saint-Veran, Cuvee Exceptionnnelle,2019: This a great white table wine, made up of 100% Chardonnay grapes. A rich and savory white wine. (R), $$

Cahors

St. Dieder Parnac, Prieure De Cenac, Malbec: A rich and elegant wine which is dry and very quirky on the palate, with the color and fragrance to go with it. (C), $$

Enjoy this wine with duck and lamb.

Clos Siguier, 2018: This is a medium bodied Malbec, with light tannins and easy to drink.  The wine is very versatile to pair with meat and heavy pasta dishes. (i-L). $

Corsica

Maestraacci Corse Calvi Rouge ‘Clos Reginu’: (35%) Niellucci, (30%) Grenache, (15%) Sciaccarellu. The Sciaccarellu grape is highly perfumed, and the Niellucci is closely related to the Sangiovese.  The wine maker describes this wine as “juicy, with wild herbs, and spicey”; with the Syrah and Mourvedre, the wine reminds me of a kicked-up sophisticated Pinot Noir. (V), $

Languedoc Rousillon

Cabernet Sauvignon Larche, 2019: This Cabernet Sauvignon is smooth and drinkable. We did not find this Cabernet intense, but mild and balanced with velvety tannins.  The price is great! (Vtg.), $

Corbieres

Chateau Camplong, Grand Reserve, 2020: (Carignan, Grenache, Mourvede, Syrah) A full-bodied wine with a nice fruit balance.  (EE), $

La Lumiere, 2015 3: (70%) Syrah, (30%) Mourvedre, a well-structured, connected, and smooth wine. This is a delightful wine that will continue to open. (W), $$$

Kermitt Lynch Cabrieres Cuvee Kermitt Lynch, 2020: (50%) Syrah, (35%) Grenache, (10%) Carigan, (5%) Cinsault. This wine is nothing but smooth and easy to drink.  It drinks best after two hours of being open. The pleasant finish lingers. (V), $

Vaugelas Corbieres, 2019: This wine is Syrah, Grenache, Carignan, and Mourvèdre. The wines coming out of Corbieres have been quite good and the prices fantastic. Vaugelas is no exception!  This medium bodied red wine is smooth and soft that will accompany cheese, meat, and possibly salmon. (AHD), $

Minervois

Le Lien, 2015 2: (80%) Syrah, (20%) Grenache Noir. A wine with character, richness, and spiciness; the finish is great! (W), $$  

Loire Valley

Anjou Blanc, 2021: Mary Taylor continues to impress with this Chenin Blanc from Anjou, France.  Crisp, light, and great price point. (Vtg.), $

Champalou, Vouvray, 2018:  This wine comes from a certified Sustainable Farming Vineyard. 100% Chenin Blanc, the wine is neither sweet nor dry, a nice balance. (V), $

Domaine de la Grenaudiere, 2020, Muscadet Sevre Main, Sur Lie:  This family estate has been producing wine for two centuries. Two brothers currently operate the estate.  The estate is planted with the Melon de Bourgogne grape.

The wine is delicious! (Vtg.), $

A wine to enjoy with appetizers, by itself, and seafood.

Muscadet Sevre Et Maine, 2019: If you are looking for a wine that tastes part Chardonnay with the elegance of a French Sauvignon Blanc, this is your wine.  The grapes are harvested by hand and are organic.  This wine is dry, has weight, is lively, and has a long finish. (W), $

Enjoy with cheeses, Seafood, and our Frontier vegetarian or chicken soups.  

Sancerre

Comte Lafond Sancerre, 2018: The Ladoucette family purchased the Chateau and vineyard in 1787 from the illegitimate daughter of the French king Louis XV. This is a lovely Sancerre that is elegant in style.  The wine offers wonderful citrus and minerality.  (Vtg.), $$$ 

Fournier Sancerrre, “Les Belles Vignes”, 2020:  This is a nice, reasonably priced Sancerre.  The wine begins with a punch of grapefruit but quickly mellows out. (C), $$

Joseph Mellot, Destinea Sauvignon Blanc,2020: This Chateau was founded in 1513 by Pierre-Etienne Mellot and is still owned by the same family. They must be doing something right! This is a good Sauvignon Blanc and excellent value. (EE), $  

Sancerre “Pascal & Nicolas Reverdy”:  This wine has an understated bouquet that does not overwhelm but enhances the accompaniment of cheeses and seafood. (AHD), $$

Enjoy shellfish, white meats, vegetables.

Rhone Valley

Domaine Lombard, Lare Nommee, 2014: (90%) Syrah, (10%) Viognier. This is a biodynamic wine estate, located in the Cotes du Rhone Brezeme wine region in the Northern part of the Rhone Valley. Wine making dates to the Roman reign.  There are no sulfites added to this wine and the two grape combinations work beautifully together. Besides being ridiculously inexpensive, this wine is smooth. (AHD), $ 

Domaine de Beaurenard “Rasteau”:  The Beaurenard family is an old Château with a rich history of wine production in the Rhone Valley region going as far back as the late 1600’s. 

 Rasteau is a parish in the Southern Rhone Valley. The appellation is known for their Grenache varietal grapes. This wine is (80%) Grenache, (17%) Syrah, and (3%) Mouvedre. 

The wine is smooth and light and represents good value. (AHD), $$

Enjoy with game, meat or serve for large gatherings.

Chatauneuf-du-Pape

Beaurenard Chatauneuf-du-Pape, 2015: (70%) Grenache, (10%) Syrah, (10%) Mourvedre, (6%) Cinsault, (4%) other AOC varieties.

Excellent ruby red color, wonderful aromas of berries and spices. A smooth wine with an elegant finish. (AHD), $$ 

Boisrenard, Chateaneuf Du Pape, 2015: (70%) Grenache, (10%) Syrah, (10%) Mourvede, (6%) Censault, (4%) other. The wine pours and opens with a bright ruby red color. There are wonderful aromas of fruit and spice notes.  After 30 minutes of breathing, we found the wine to have smooth tannins and a very pleasant finish. (AHD), $$$

Enjoy with any hearty red meats.

Chateau Simian Atout Rouge, Chateauneuf-du-Pape: (40%) Merlot, (40%) Cabernet Sauvignon, (10%) Caladoc and (10%) Syrah, this wine is referred to as a rare blend when the wine is blended with the Caladoc grape which was cultivated to be like the grenache grape.

The wine is smooth and exhibits very supple tannins. Reasonably priced. (i-L), $ 

Enjoy meat dishes.

Chateau Simian Chateauneuf du Pape Le Traversier: (70%) Grenache, (20%), Syrah, (5%) Cinsaut, (5%) Mourvedre, this is a medium body wine that is silky and graceful. The wine conveys wonderful berry flavors and has a lovely finish. A good value Chateauneuf du Pape. (i-L), $$$

Enjoy meat dishes.

La Chasse Des Princes, 2020: (Cellier Des Princes) (70%) Grenache, (15%) Syrah, (15%) Mourvèdre.  The color of this wine is a beautiful blend of cherry and cranberry.  This is a full-bodied wine worthy of any grilled meat dish and, with 16% alcohol, plan on decanting for up to one hour and possibly more to achieve the wine’s potential.  The price of this wine will make you very happy. (R), $$

Costieres De Nimes 

Chateau L’Ermitage,2019 Auzan: (60%) Roussanne, (20%) Grenache, (20%) Viognier. This is a dry aromatic white wine. This wine will be an amazing crowd pleaser. (AHD), $

Serve with fish, poultry, and appetizers.

Chateau L’Ermitage, 2018, Auzan: (40%) Mourvèdre, (40%) Syrah, (20%) Grenache. Red fruit and spiciness characterize this wine.  The vintner recommends serving it a little chilled. (AHD), $

Epicuria, 2018: Epicuria is (100%) Mourvèdre:  This wine is produced by Chateau L’Ermitage Auzan. It can be very difficult to find a pure Mourvèdre that is a solid drinkable wine.  The Castillon family has accomplished the task.  This wine is earthy and full-bodied. Any Mourvèdre fan will enjoy this wine and its great price tag. (AHD), $$

Domaine Gassier, Nostre Pais, 2019: (53%) Granache Blanc, (22%) Clairette, (14%) Viognier, (11%) Roussanne. This wine is all about fresh taste and brightness. Open this wine and party with friends.  It will go with all kinds of occasions.  A fun wine from Gassier. (AHD), $

Cotes du Rhone

Domain Durand, Cornas Premieces, 2019: A rich Syrah from the Coronas Appellation. This Syrah opens for over an hour and drinks beautifully. (AHD), $$ 

Domain Durand, Saint-Prey, 2020: (50%), Marsanne, (50%) Roussanne, a fresh and full-bodied white wine with an elegant finish. (AHD), $$

La Font du Loup Signature CDR Blanc 2020: (50%) Grenache, (25%) Viognier, (25%) Clairette. A fresh and well-rounded wine. Enjoy with cheese and white meats. (AHD), $  

Les Terres Vierges Cotes du Rhone, 2019: Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault blend; a very easy and pleasing wine to drink.  Enjoy yourself on its own or with meat dishes. (R), $ 

M Chapoutier, Belleruche, 2019: This is a well-known producer of fine French wines. Belleruche is an affordable easy to drink Grenache and Syrah which is smooth and delightful.  Drink this wine as an everyday go-to or use for large gatherings. (GL), $

Cotes du Rhone Villages

La Chasse des Princes, 2020: The grapes for this wine come from vineyards that surround Chateauneuf-du-Pape in the Rhone Valley. The wine is (70%) Grenache, (15%) Syrah, (15%) Mourvèdre. Full-bodied, balanced, and with depth, this wine offers great value. The wine scored up to 90 points. (R), $  

Enjoy this wine with meat dishes.

Saint-Anne,2019:  Grenache, Syrah, Mourvèdre.  You will need to let this wine breathe for at least an hour before drinking; also, this wine can be refrigerated after being pumped and brought to room temperature the next day and will drink well. (AHD), $

Lirac

Domaine Pierre Usseglio, Lirac, 2017: (50%) Grenache, (25%) Syrah, (20%) Mourvèdre, (5%) Cinsault. Just north of Avignon, where 580 years ago the pope vacationed for the summer and located directly across from Chateauneuf Du Pape and divided by the Rhone River is Lirac.  

What a marvelous wine! With depth and body, this wine rests on your tongue and slides back with soft tannins.  This wine has 15% alcohol-decant and let breathe for an hour. (AHD), $$

Maby Lirac La Fermade 2018: (70%) Grenache, (20%), Syrah, (10%) Mourvèdre. This wine has a deep purple color and is lush with soft tannins. (AHD), $$ 

Giogondas

Pierre Amadieu, Romane Machotte, 2018: (80%) Grenache, this wine has a brilliant red color and opens into concentrated berry flavors.  A charming and nicely textured wine with a long finish. (AHD), $$

Pierre Amadieu, Roulepierre, 2018: A Grenache and Syrah, ready to drink.  A good dinner wine with a meat dish. (AHD), $ 

Enjoy pasta meat dishes.

Vacquequeras

Domaine Le Couroulu, Vacqueryras 2017: (60%) Grenache, (25%) Syrah, (10%) Mourvèdre.  This winery was founded in 1928 by the Ricard family.  Vacqueryras is located between the premier appellations of Chateauneuf du Pape and Gigondas.  Let this wine breathe for an hour and it will open into a lovely, textured, and savory blend.   (I), $$

Provence

Chateau Canadel, Bandol, 2015: This wine is (65%) Mourvedre, (25%) Cinsault and (5%) Granache.  The wine makers describe the wine as follows, “Pretty deep red dress.  On the nose, the wine reveals aromas of red fruits and spices.  We find these aromas in the mouth, coated with tannins of extreme finesse.  The finish is long and fresh, with minty spicy notes.” We agree. (GL), $$ 

Domaine Fredavelle Cuvee Aromance: Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon, dry and easy to drink.  The grapes come from old vines and is the 2nd largest appellation from this wine region. (R), $

Mirabeau Rose 2019: Easy to drink, food friendly, and a fresh minerality describes this, Rose.  (i-L), $

Villa La Vie En Rose 2021: Light strawberry in color, the wine is floral, dry, and refreshing. (AHD), $

BANDOL

Tempier Rose, Bandol, 2018:  This is an allocated wine and is sold out immediately upon arrival. Only a few bottles in stock. (V), $$$

Tempier Rouge:  Located in Bandol, Provence of France, on the Mediterranean coast, the winemaker, Peyraud family, are icons of Bandol.  Tempier Rouge is (70-75%) Mourvedre, one of the major grapes used in Bandol Provence to provide structure to reds and roses. Also, the wine is a mixture of (25%) Grenache, adding luscious berry flavors, (20%) Cinsault, for spiciness, (2%) Carignan. (A grape that is earthy, acidic, and adds tannins. (V), $$$

Enjoy meat and game dishes.

Germany

Nahe

Paul Anheuser, Blanc de Noir, 2018: Nahe is considered a wine region of Germany that produces quality Rieslings and Pinot Noir Blancs.  This Blanc de Noir has a touch of pink but is also transparent. This wine has a freshness which bursts with a fantastic acidic finish.  (AHD), $

Paul Anheuser, Schlossbockelheimer Konigsfels Riesling Kabinett: This Riesling is not overly sweet and is refreshing.  This wine is a good accompaniment to spicy dishes. (AHD), $

Enjoy with appetizers, Asian, seafood, and other dishes that have a bit of spiciness. This wine is perfect for a hot summer day!

Rheingau

Schloss Vollrads, Riesling, 2015, Spatlese, Rheingau: This is a sweet delicate Riesling, clear in color with a long finish. This Riesling will accompany nice spicy foods and is great to drink on those hot summer days. (RBC), $$

Georgia

Kakheti

Orgo Saperavi Red.2021: This red is made from 80-year-old vines. A low sulfite wine that is heavy and spicey. (AHD), $$

Rosha Timothee Dry Amber Blend, 2020: (70%) Rkatsiteli, (30%) Mtsvane, where all the grapes come from a single vineyard in Kvarelij.  The Amber wine can have a color like that of a blood orange. This wine is aromatic and strong. You will taste new accents and open delve into a new world of wine. (AHD), $ 

Zurab Tseretchi: Located in The Alazani Valley on the eastern side of the Republic of Georgia, this white wine offers a mild, light, semi-sweet, pleasant drinking experience with a smooth finish. (i-l), $ 

Hungary

Tokaj-Hegyalia

Late Harvest Royal Tokaji, 2018: This is a sweet dessert wine that is smooth, crisp, with pleasant acidit. Serve with fruit desserts. (Vtg.), $$$

Royal Tokaji, Furmint, 2019: This wine is a white Hungarian grape used for dry white and dessert wines. They are known for their acidity and longevity. This wine is intense and lively. It is great for appetizers, spicey foods, and parties. (Vtg.), $$ 

Greece

Macedona

Kamnik, Cuvee De Prestige, 2018: (43%) Merlot, (38%), Vranac, (Vranac is native to Macedonia and is full-bodied and aromatic), (19%), Cabernet Franc.  This is a full-bodied wine, a Bordeaux blend from Macedonia. Very smooth after decanting for an hour, and soft tannins and a long finish. (R), $$

Kamnik Heritage, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2016, Grand Reserva: This wine is rich, with depth, and big dark berry flavors, and spices.  One to two hours of breathing for this wine.  Don’t expect any deals on the price! (R), $$$$

Kamnik, Montipulciano, 2019: (71%) Montipulciano, (29%) Vranac. This wine you find different from other reds.  The wine is spicy, complex, and needs breathing for an hour.  This is a wine to enjoy with appetizers and hearty meals.  A red wine lover’s surprise.  $$, (R)

Kamnik, Pinot Noir, 2019: A delightful Burgundian style Pinot Noir.  You will get your red berry flavors and spices. This wine is elegant and smooth and retains a medium-bodied balance. A great wine with salmon and cheese. (R), $$

Kamnik Ten Barrels Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, 2016: This wine is one of our Distinctive Stock wines.  Intense, full-bodied, and robust, this wine delivers great dark berry and spicy flavors.  The wine is aged for 23 months which lends it to age well. The alcohol content is 15.7%.  (R), $$$

Kamnik Wine Makers Selection 2020: (37%) Viognier, (37%) Greco Di Tufo, (20%) Chardonnay. This wine is dry white, full-bodied, with tropical fruit notes. It is fresh and delightful. $, (R) 

Stobi Merlot: The location of this winery is the largest archaeological site in the Republic of Macedonia.  The site dates to 200 BC. The Tikves region is rich in history with Roman legions and the Ottoman Empire that marched through the lands to conquer other civilizations. This wine is affordable and a nice surprise for your palette. Its history makes a great story to share with friends. (R), $ 

Stobi Winery Vrancec Selection, 2020:  Stobi Winery is known for producing good wines at a great price point.  This an intense red. (R), $

Italy

Villa Cardini, 2019, Edizione Privata: Sangiovese, (Merlot), Primitivo, (Zinfandel), Nero D’Avola. Nero D’Avola is a black grape that originated in Sicily and is used for blending to add complexity and structure. This wine is quite easy to drink, and the price is fantastic!  (AHD), $

Abruzzo

San Zopito:  The Montepulciano grape is rustic, powerful, and full of spices. This wine offers great value and delivers Montepulciano grape strengths. They include wild black cherry, plum, chocolate, cinnamon, licorice, and a savory finish that is soft and lingering. (AHD), $$

Enjoy this wine with hearty appetizers, casseroles, and meat dishes.

Tiberio, Trebiano D’Abrruzzo, 2018: A full bodied white wine with fresh melon and tree fruit flavors.  The wine has a very pleasant minerality; Vinous magazine describes the wine as “drinking a baby white, burgundy”. (C), $

Alto Adige

Abbazia di Novacella, 2019: The wine has a light straw yellow color and fresh melon and citrus flavors.  This wine comes with a rich history dating back to 1142 in the Alto Aldige region.   A rich Riesling with a nice acidic finish. (AHD), $

Andrian, Pinot Noir, 2018: The wine is ruby red in color, delicate and medium dry, an elegant wine. (V), $$

Andrian, Pinot Grigio, 2018: The wine has a light straw color with fresh fruit aromas and a soft, long finish. The 13.5% alcohol content makes this pinot grigio nice and dry. (V), $  

Terlan Pinot Grigio: Wine Spectator, James Suckling, and Robert Parker give this wine high scores.  The description of this wine includes fresh apples and melons.  A dry Pinot Grigio that is rich, creamy, and elegant. (V), $

South Tyrol

Abbazia Dei Novacella

Abbazia di Novacella, 2020, Kerner: The Kerner grape is a crossover between a red Trolinger grape and a white Riesling.  The result is an amazing fresh, dry, vibrant, and fantastic minerality wine which the Valle Isarco is known for.  This winery dates to 1142 which makes it one of the oldest active wineries in the world. (AHD), $$

Abbazia di Novacella, 2019: The wine has a light straw yellow color and fresh melon and citrus flavors.  This wine comes with a rich history dating back to 1142 in the Alto Adige region.   A rich Riesling with a nice acidic finish. (AHD), $

Very food friendly, cheeses, spicy seafood, and Asian dishes.

Klaus Lentsch Winery

” Start the day with a smile and end it with a glass of Klaus Lentsch.”, Klaus Lentsch.

Klaus Lentsch grew up in an established wine making family in the South Tyrol region, an area known for producing exceptional whites.

In 2008 he decided to go out on his own and start producing his own wine. 

We think that the following two whites, Pinot Blanc, and the Pinot Grigio, are some of the best that we have tasted.

Amperg, 2020: This is a Pinot Grigio made from The Weissburgunder grape, which is a Pinot Blanc, the German Pinot Grigio grape. (AHD), $

Klaus Lentsch Pinot Grigio, 2020: Buy this wine. There is nothing more to add. (AHD), $     

Enjoy with cheeses, seafood, poultry, or by itself.

Campania

La Capranere Falanghina:  The Falanghina grape is thought to be the Falernum wine revered by the Romans. An easy to drink white wine at a good price. (V), $

Enjoy this awine with cheese, shellfish, and seafood.

Corsica

Pala Vermetino Sopresole, 2021: (100%) Vermentino. If by the pool, on the deck, or in the boat, this wine is a must.  Incredible bright, full bodied, and goes down effortlessly.  (V), $

Emilia Romagna

Drei Dona, Pruno, Sangiovese Riesrva, 2015: One of Italy’s renowned wine makers produces this fantastic Sangiovese; this beautiful is a darkish ruby red, subtle but powerful fullness, ending with a lingering warm and soft finish. (EE), $$ 

Friuli-Venezia Giulia

Isonze

I Feudi Di Romans, Pinot Grigio, 2020: This winery is in a little-known Sub AVA, between the Alps and the Adriatic, bordering Austria and Slovenia. This Pinot Grigio has achieved a 92-point rating. (W), $  

Enjoy this wine with fresh melon flavors with appetizers and fish.

Lazio

Casale Del Giglio, Cesanese, Rosso, 2020: This winery is located around the towns of Affile and Piglio, about 31 miles east of Rome. The grape variety Cesanese dates to 488 B.C. This low yielding grape is suitable for aging. The wine is a deep ruby color and offers nice pepper and spicy notes. A good table wine for beef and sausage dishes. The vintner says the wine can pair with some fish dishes; I’m not sure about that but you could try it if the fish is made in a red sauce. (EE), $

Piedmonte

Borgo La Caliera Moscato d’Asti: It is difficult to find a sweet white wine for folks who like to drink dry wines.  This Moscato crosses over that threshold; sweet wine drinkers will enjoy the wine by itself, and dry white wine drinkers will be able to see themselves making mimosas. (AHD), $

Borgo Maragliano Chardonnay Brut:  This winery specializes in Blanco wines. This sparking dry white wine is full of bubbles. A nice and affordable sparkling for a celebration. (AHD), $ 

Barbera D’Alba

Gomba Boschetti Riofava Barbera D’ Alba, 2017: (100%) Barbera. The color is ruby-purple red, a balanced wine that is silky and elegant.  (R), $

Serve with light meat and pasta dishes.

Barolo

Azienda Agricola, Riofava Barolo: The wine starts out with a medium ruby color and looks thin.  Let this wine breathe for three hours and watch the color of the wine become darker.  The wine further develops into a full-bodied Barolo worthy of any great Italian dish. $$, (R)     

Manzone Merieme Barolo, 2015: With a color of light rose red, this wine delivers a punch.  It is dry, chalky, and earthy.  A terrific wine with steak and pasta. (AHD), $$$ 

Paolo Manzone, Barolo, Serralunga D’Alba, 2015: This is a dry red wine-fresh acidity, earthy and elegant. (AHD), ($$$)

Paolo Scavino, Barolo:  Piedmont, Italy is the home to Barolo. The Scavino family is a fourth-generation winery located in Castiglione Falletto, Piedmont.  Their Barolo exhibits fresh fruit flavors, is delicate and well balanced. The wine has a long finish and should age beautifully through 2030. (V), $$$ 

Reverdito Barolo, 2016: Organically grown grapes with no pesticides, Barolo lovers will find this wine a bargain. (AHD), $$

Scavino Dolcetto D’Alba: From Piedmont region of Italy, this is an affordable wine and can be utilized as an everyday drinking wine for those that would like a glass or two a day. The wine is light and bright with low tannins. (V), $

Langhe

Dosio, Riesling, 2021: This wine is aged in stainless steel. It is floral and fresh with very pleasant tannins. If you are looking for a dry Riesling this wine, will hit the spot; the wine will go with seafood, Asian food, or outdoor parties. (EE), $$

Elvio Tintero Langhe Arneis 2021: (50%) Favorita, (35%) Arneis, (10%) Chardonnay, (5%) Moscato.  This wine is not Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, or Riesling.   The wine encompasses all those grape flavors and throws off a distinctiveness of its own.  Easy to drink white that will go well with appetizers, salads, or Asian foods. (V), $

Sicily

Tascante Buonara 2017: This wine is made from the Carricante grapes of Sicily. It is spicy and fresh, a yummy white wine. (V), $

Terra Costa Ntino, deAetna, etna rosso doc, 2016:  The grape for this wine is Nerrello-Mascalese.   The grape is related to Sangiovese and from the Italian region of Sicily. This is a savory and classic wine. (V), $$

Terra Costa Ntino, deAetna, etna Bianco doc, 2017:  The two main grapes that make up this wine are Carricante, an acidic white grape indigenous to Sicily and Catarrato, a blending grape grown in Sicily.

The combination of these two grapes makes a delicate white wine that is medium dry and full bodied with citrus flavors. A nice wine with seafood. (V), $$

Marche

Verdicchio dei Castelli Jesi, 2021: Verdicchio grape is a white like you have never tasted.  It jumps out at you and stuns you with its freshness and crispness.  This wine is totally enjoyable on its own. (V), $

Tuscany

Cantaloro Bianco:  Surprisingly refreshing.  See Vintners fact sheet.  (I), $

AIA Vecchia Sor Uugo, 2017: This wine pours into the glass a beautiful red garnet color, the taste is smooth and exhibits a unique richness. The grape combination that delivers these fine qualities are Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot. The finish is smooth and lasting. (I), $$

The vintner’s food recommendations are red meat, game, hard cheeses; we resoundingly agree.

Laagone, AIA Vecchia, Tuscany, 2017:  This wine is smooth and delivers soft tannins.  A particularly good value for a Tuscan wine. (I), $

Piaggia, Riserva 2017, Carmigmano, Mauro Vammucci: (70%) Sangiovese, (15%) (5%) Cabernet Franc. This a super Tuscan wine from the oldest appellation in Italy. This is not a cocktail wine but a “wine for the table”, says wine maker Emiliano Falsini.  All super Tuscan wines need breathing. (AHD), $$$ 

Vietti, Roero Arneis, 2017:  This wine comes from Santo Stefano Roero, a municipality in the Provence of Cuneo, the Italian region of Piedmont.

The wine is (100%) Arneis grape; the varietal is known for its floral, citrus, and dry attributes. 

Vietti’s fact sheet is available to view. This is a wonderful summer wine to enjoy with a variety of foods.  (V) , $$

Villa Cardini: This wine is a blend of Sangiovesse (Merlot), Primitivo (Zinfandel), and Nero D’Avola, a black grape from Sicily that is complex and adds structure.  The wine is a bargain and super easy to drink and will complement any meat or pasta dish. (AHD), $   

Torre Raone Rosso, 2011:  A grape blend of Montepulciano/Merlot/Cabernet Franc. By adding the Merlot and Cabernet Franc., these two grapes tone down the Montepulciano spiciness, and create a wine that is more refined and smoother.

A wine that offers a lot of value!  (AHD), $

Enjoy this wine with appetizers and socializing with friends.

Chianti

Bibbiano Vinyard is one of the oldest vineyards in Chianti now in its fifth generation.

Bibbiano, Chianti Classico: The wine has a bright ruby red color and can be decanted several hours before drinking. (i-l), $$

Bibbiano, Chianti Riserva: A wonderful wine, dark red color, smooth and silky with soft tannins. (i-l), $$

Bibbiano, Chianti, Capannino, 2016: This is an impressive wine that is rich and full-bodied. (i-l), $$$

Cantine Renzo Chianti Riserva, Cornioleta, 2018, DOCG: A medium-bodied Sangiovese which is dry with soft tannins. The wine exhibits flavors of black cherry, raspberry, and pepper. A nice wine to drink by itself or with pasta and meat dishes.  The name Cornioleta comes from a plant that grows around the vineyard. (R), ($) 

Ormani, Borro del ‘diavolo, Chianti Classico, Reserva, 2015: A good Sangiovese from the Chianti region of Tuscany. A wonderful wine to serve with your favorite Italian dishes. (W), $$

Podere Ciona, Chianti Classico, 2018: This is a great wine for Chianti lovers, drink every day or purchase for parties. (AHD), $

Podere Ciona, Chianti Classico Reserve: Sangiovese (92%), Merlot (7%), Alicante (1%). An Earthy wine with tight tannins and good length.  Great with hearty dishes and a step up from their Chianti Classico. (AHD), $$

Valdisanti, Tolaini, 2014, Chianti, Tuscany:   Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese, Cabernet Franc, this wine is full bodied and elegant. (V), $$

Viticcio, Chianti Classico, 2018: A good Chianti value. The wine is medium-bodied and thin but has layers of complexity. This is a wine you could enjoy alone or with pasta and pizza. (AHD), $

Montalcino

Mastrojanni Costa Colonne, 2019: Sangiovese, Celliegolo, and Cabernet Sauvignon.  This wine is aged in French oak for 12 months, has ripe red fruit and is floral. The tannins are smooth and mild.  Achieve the most from this wine by decanting for an hour. (W), $$

Mastro Janni Brunello di Montalcino, 2017: This wine is from a low case volume production. 100% Sangiovese, the wine delivers spicy notes and displays a silky ruby red color.  Critics have scored this wine up to 97 points. This thoroughly enjoyable wine needs decanting for an hour. (WB), $$$$

Rufina

Carino Rosso 2020: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Sangiovese, Syrah. This wine is produced by Paolo Masi of the Renzo Masi Winery. The winery is in its third generation.  After breathing for a bit, the wine opens and develops into a very drinkable red with the Syrah adding a nice spiciness. This wine is even delicious the next day if you do not polish off the bottle that day. (R), $

Veneto

BiancoVigna: BiancoVigna is in Veneto which is considered the origin of Prosecco.  The vineyard has received many awards and accolades.  It is dry, crisp, and elegant. (I), $ 

Enjoy this wine with appetizers, fried chicken, and special occasions.

Colle Dei Tigli: Light, fruity, and refreshing but dry.  An alternative to Pinot Grigio. (AHD), $

Fattori Valpolicella Superiore Col De la Bastia, 2019: (65%) Corvina, (15%) Corvinone, (10%) Rondinella, and ten percent other varietals. This wine is aged in French oak for 18 months and has red tree fruit nuances. (W), $$ 

Ottella Valpocicella Ripasso: With ripe red fruit on the palate, a raisin accent, a color of intense deep red, the wine possesses velvety soft tannins which entice you to drink more. You will find this wine priced up to $45.00 in some fine wine stores. (AHD), $$

Della Valpolicella

Speri, Amarone, Della Valpolicella, Classico: The Speri family winery dates to 1874.  They are one of the established family-owned wineries in the Valpolicella Classico area.  This Amarone is outstanding with heavy appetizers.  A word of caution; you need to decant this wine for 6-7 hours before serving. (I), $$$$ 

Ripassa Della Valpolicella

Tenuta Santa Maria Valpolicella Ripasso, “Classico Superiore”:  The grapes in this wine are Corvina, Rondinella and Corvinone.  This wine has a ruby red color and aromas of intense berry and spice flavors.  The Valpolicella wine is achieved by a secondary maceration fermentation over the Amarone grape skins, called the “Ripasso method”. The wine is fruity but dry, with a long finish. This is a great way to enjoy a wine like Amarone at the price. (I), $$

Enjoy with meat, game, and savory cheese.

Verona

Marchesi Biscardo, 2018, Corvina: This winery was started in the late 1800’s and is now in its fourth generation of family business. Corvina is a good summer red wine that you can enjoy outdoors with appetizers, great value. (EE), $  

MiddleEast

Massaya:  From Lebanon and the Beqaa Valley, with a tradition of producing wine that dates back 6,000 years, this is an interesting wine. (35%) Cinsault, a blending grape that adds spiciness’, a grape crossed over with Pinot Noir to create Pinotage. (35%) Grenache Noir, a white Grenache grape, adding spiciness and savory notes. (15%) Syrah and (15%) Tempranillo, a black grape that is full bodied and closely resembles the Pinot Noir grape of Burgundy.   

The wine maker recommends serving chilled. We opened the bottle and let the wine breathe for a half hour and found the wine a pleasure to consume. (V), 

New Zealand

Hawke’s Bay

Paritu 2018, Syrah: This is a nice spicey Syrah that smooths out and develops into a rich wine and ends in a long finish, with great tannins. A good wine when you are in the mood for something a little edgy; serve with a zesty vegetarian, seafood, or poultry dish. (W), $$  

Marlborough

Arona Sauvignon Blanc, 2020: A nice and distinctive fruit forward Sauvignon Blanc. Very reasonably priced. (W), $

toi toi, Sauvignon Blanc, 2021: Fresh, crisp, and big citrus notes; this wine offers all the ingredients for the fans of Sauvignon Blanc produced in New Zealand.  (EE), $

Wairau River Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, 2018: Wairau River Winery is family owned and operating in the Marlborough region of New Zealand. 

This wine is a good representation of an affordable New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc that offers grapefruit finesse and other citrus notes. The wine has a nice supple finish. (GL), $ 

Zephyr, Sauvignon Blanc, 2019: This wine is part of the Glover Family Vineyards located in Dillion Point.  The term Zephyr refers to “a gentle westerly breeze”.  The wine has a very pleasant grapefruit nuance that opens in the glass with other supple fruit notes that come with a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. (i-l), $

These Sauvignon Blancs can pair well with Asian food.

Portugal

Portal De Calcapa, 2016, Portugal: This is a full-body red blend.  Needs about a half hour of decanting and is really good value. (WB), $

Silk and Spice, 2019, Red Blend: This wine is produced by Sogrape of Portugal, but which also have properties in Argentina, Chile, New Zealand, and Spain.  The wine is (40%) Touriga National, (30%) Alicante Bouschet, and (30%) Baga. The wine is spicy and has silky tannins.  A very popular wine that has earned 90 points several times and is good value. (RNDC), $

Silk and Spice,2020, Spice Road: (50%) Alicante Bouschet, (30%), Shiraz, (20%) Touriga National.  This is inkier in color and spicier than its counterpart Silk and Spice, red blend.  We have found that most people enjoy both wines equally. (RNDC). $

Douro

BOA-VISTA, Reserve, 2015:  A big and bold red blend which is complex but also refined. The grapes that make up this wine are Tempranillo (like the Burgundy Pinot Noir grape), Alicante Bousehet (Grenache), Touriga Franca (a blending grape usually used in Ports), and Touriga National (the leading grape used in blending with Ports to add richness, depth, aromas, deep coloring, and structured tannins).  (W), $$$$

Churchills Port, 2000: This Port and vintage is some of the world’s best.  The color is like black ink, full bodied, with a long finish and slight sweetness. (A), $$$$

Dona Antonia Old Tawny 20 years Porto: Dried fruit and spice, intense but elegant, this wine goes with desserts, strong cheeses, or by itself. (V), $$

Meneres LBV Porto, 2013: This winery is in its 15th generation; records indicate that the winery was started between the years 1620-1640, and it is believed by some folks to have in inventory some of the most precious Ports today.   Meneres LBV Porto is a rich and full-bodied Port with a modest price tag. (AHD), $$ 

Meneres Porto Ruby Red: This Ruby Red Port from Meneres is a delightful blend of other ports aged in oak vats and fortified with 150 proof grape brandy. A wonderful complement to desserts and cheeses. AHD), $

Enjoy this wine with hearty cheeses and chocolate desserts.  Use small port glasses.

Pousada Special Reserve Tawny Port: A good rich Port, that gets better the next day; one of the standout features of this port is its raisin long finish. (W), $$

Quinta Do Noval, Colheita, 2005, Tawny Porto: This is a small production Port by Noval.  Rich and creamy with a pleasant fruit forward finish, it is a great addition to cheese, chocolate, and desserts. (I), $$

Quinta Do Noval, Late Bottled Vintage Unfiltered, Port: The winemaker describes this Port as follows, “intense and elegant…and a mouthful of ripe black fruit and spices”; we will leave it at that. (I), $$

Quinta Das Tecedeiras, Reserva, 2015: The grape combo in this wine includes Touriga Nacional (the leading grape used in blending with Ports to add richness, depth, aromas, deep coloring, and structured tannins), Tinta Roriz (Tempranillo), Tinta Boreca (called the “Black Baroque”, a red blending grape native to Douro region), Touriga Franca (a red blending grape adding finesse),  Tinta Coa (called “red dog”, a blending grape specific to Portugal), Tinta Amarela (a grape specific to Portugal, known for its rich color, nice acidity, injecting a peppery and aromatic nose).

The wine is dry and needs time to breathe but is a rich heavy wine.  Contains some dairy allergens. (W), $$  

Ferreirinaha Callabriga 2019: 100% Tempranillo. This wine has received up to 93 points.  It is bold and intense.  One hour of decanting is required before serving.  (V), $$

Vinha Grande Douro Red, 2018: (40%) Touriga Franca and (30%) Touriga National which are the two big Port blending grapes; (25%) Tinta Roriz and (5%) Tinta Barroca, which are two table wine grapes.  This blend creates a rich and intense wine which has a nice long finish.  Good value. (V), $$ 

Warre’s Optima 20, Tawny Porto:  This is a well-balanced Port, slightly sweet but refined and elegant. (RBC), $$

Enjoy this wine with any variety of desserts.

South Africa

Cape of Good Hope

Bloem Chenin Blanc-Viognier, South Africa: An easy to drink Viognier and very reasonably priced, resulting in a good value. (i-L), $

Paarl/Wellington

Doolholf Single Vinyard Collection, Pinotage, 2017: Thick on the middle of the tongue and a smooth lasting finish with that Pinotage finesse.  Good value.  (EE), $$

Stellenbosh

Babylonstoren Candide, 2020: A dry, crisp, medium body white wine with tropical notes. This wine is (45%) Chenin blanc, (28.5%) Viognier, (16.5%) Chardonnay, and (10%) Semillon. This is a good wine to serve with fruits, salads, light dishes, or to enjoy drinking on the patio. (AHD), $ 

Bockenhoutskloof Cabernet Sauvignon: This is a Cabernet Sauvignon with 8% Cabernet Franc added.  The wine maker describes the style as “Claret like in its profile”.  This cab is rich and elegant with smooth tannins. (RBC), $$$

Groot Constantia

Groot Constantia is a winery with a deep history. With a beginning that started in 1685, customers of this winery were Frederick the Great of Prussia, King Louis Philippe of France, and Napoleon Bonaparte.

Constantia Glen, Two, 2014: Sauvignon Blanc (70%), Semillon (30%), this is a rich white blend of these two grapes resulting in a delightful tropical fruit flavor.  13.5% percent alcohol. (W), $$

Grand Constance, 2015: The story goes that Napoleon, during his exile on the island of Elba, in his final days, would ask the wine Steward to retrieve a bottle of this aperitif daily, which the former Emperor would consume before retiring for the evening.  

Made from 100% red and white Muscat, this wine is sweet but incredibly delicious. The color is stunning, and the flavors of caramel, toffee, and honey are delicate.  This is a treat for special occasions or to end an evening.

Pair this wine with cheeses, chocolates, nuts, dried fruits, and fruit-based desserts. (I), $$$$ 

Groot Constantia Shiraz, 2016: All the grapes are from a single vineyard. The wine is full bodied and can use an hour of breathing to reach the wine’s full potential. This is a good wine to accompany a hearty meat dish. (I), $$

Groot Constantia Pinotage: You will think that you are drinking a Burgundian style wine from Burgundy, France. It is a good representation of Pinotage. (The Vintner’s fact sheet is available for review with a full description of the wine.) (I), $$

Groot Constantia Sauvignon Blanc: Lively and fresh with tropical fruit tones. (I), $$ 

Klein Constantia, Estate Red 2016: (40%), Cabernet Sauvignon, (25%) Malbec, (19%) Shiraz, (16%) Petit Verdot. A nice full-bodied and elegant red blend. (I), $$ 

Rustenberg John X Merriman, 2013: (52%) Merlot, (38.5%) Cabernet Sauvignon, (4.5%) Malbec, (3.7%) Cabernet Franc, (1.3%) Petit Verdot, this wine, can be described as a Bordeaux blend.  The winery was started in 1892 by John X Merriman.  The wine will excite you and tease your taste buds.  You can drink now but decant for an hour prior to serving. According to Wine Spectator, this wine can be cellared until 2023. (I), $$  

Simonsig Chenin Blanc:  This wine has a light straw color with a tint of green. On the nose, the wine has moderate acidity with melon and tree fruit. An easy to drink wine that is well balanced and would be great to serve at a luncheon. (I), $

Serve with Asian, cheeses, salads, shellfish.

Swartland

1. H. Badenhorst, Curator, Red Blend: Shiraz, Cinsault, and Mouvedre. A medium bodied wine with fruit and spiciness. This wine truly opens after an hour and continues to improve.  A nice summer wine. (V), $   

A.H. Badenenhorst, Curator, White Blend: Lots of great layers come together in this fun white. (V), $

A.H. Badenhorst, Red Blend: Shiraz, Grenache, Cinsault.  This wine is not as spicy as the Curator Red blend but still has a nice body and fruitiness.  A good summer wine that needs an hour to open will continue to improve. (V), $ 

Boekenhoutskloff, Chocolate Block, 2019: (71%) Syrah, (11%) Grenache, (11%) Cinsault, (9%) Cabernet Sauvignon, (7%) Viognier.  The blending of the Cinsault and Viognier adds nice complexity to this medium to full bodied wine. This wine can easily take an hour to open, and we found that it is best consumed in one evening (usually an easy task). This wine can possibly be aged up to 2032. (RBC), $$

Enjoy this wine with big meat dishes.

Spain

Andalucia

Jerez-Xeres Appellation

Vina 25, Pedro Ximenez:  Pedro Ximenez is the white grape used to produce sherry.  Vina 25 is sweet but also dry; it has a silky flavor and is dense with raisin notes.  This sherry is good value. (AHD), $

Enjoy this wine with chocolates, hearty chesses, and desserts.

Malaga

Victoria #2, 2017: Where to start? This dessert wine is produced in the dry mountain region of Malaga from 50-year-old vines. The grapes’ ancestors were brought over and planted by the Phoenicians from Alexandria, Egypt 2,800 years ago. 

15lbs of grapes are used to make a .375 ML bottle.  The wine is sweet but in an amazing, delicious way that all wine lovers will appreciate. You can have this wine with dessert, but do not rule out cheese.  The wine maker recommends serving chilled, but we also enjoyed the wine at room temperature. (V), $

Aragon

Legado del Moncayo Garnacha Vendimia Selectional Compo de Borja: Its floral notes and bright citrus flavors make this a wonderful wine for a hot summer day ride on the water.  (W), (NO), $ 

Alicante and Mercia

Alaya Garnacha, 2015: (100% old vines) Alaya is produced by the Juan Gil wineries that also produce Clio and Shaya.  Juan Gil maintains an impeccable reputation for producing high quality wines. 

This wine has a 16% alcohol content and needs aerating and decanting before serving. The wine is dry but finishes with a distinctive bit of sweet Garnacha. (V), $

Jumilla

Clio, Jumilla, Spain, 2017: (70%) Monastrell and (30%) Cabernet, this is one of our favorite wines; with its opaque purple color that paints the wine glass and posh fruit notes, it rounds out to a savory long finish. (V), $$$

Juan Gill, Blue Label 18 Months:  Monastrell, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah. Monastrell is a late ripening grape used to blend with other grapes to produce an intensity in the wine. Please see the Vintner’s fact sheet. (V), $$ 

Juan Gil Red Blend, 2019: (45%) Cabernet Sauvignon), (45%) Monastrell, (10%) Syrah.  This is a very rich and lush wine. You will admire the deep purple color and blackberry flavors of Syrah’s peppery kick. (V), $

Enjoy this wine with meat and heavy pasta dishes.

Valencia

Biutiful Cava, Brut: A dry and delightful sparkling wine. (W), $

Biutiful Cava Rose: A nice dry sparkling Rose, great for beginnings or sipping on the deck. (W), $

Enjoy with meats and rich cheeses.

Castilla y Leon

ABADIA RETIERTA:  From the Castilla y Leon region of Spain, this wine is composed of (75%) Tempranillo, (15%) Cabernet Sauvignon, (10%) Syrah.  Immediately you pick up the aromas of black fruit and find the wine elegant to drink.  The wine maker describes the wine as possessing the “richness of Tempranillo, the suppleness of Syrah, and aromatic elegance of Cabernet Sauvignon, which result in a well-balanced wine.” (AHD), $$  

Enjoy this wine with meat and hearty casserole dishes.

Matsu- “El Picaro”: 100% Tempranillo-this is a young wine, but the grapes are from 50- to 70-year-old vines. This wine is hearty and ready to drink.  Great value. (R), $ 

Matsu- “El Viejo”, 2019: “The old one”, from Matsu, is produced from110 year old Tempranillo vines.  The wine is aged in French oak for 16 months.  This wine is complex but smooth as silk with subtle nuances.  You can enjoy this wine anytime, but it will pair well with meat dishes.  Decanting is recommended for at least 1 hour. (R), $$$ 

Biezo

Petalos, (Bierzo), Descendientes De J. Palacios, 2017:  A blend of Mencia (a spicy grape), and Alicante Bousechet (Grenache), this wine is highly rated by Robert Parker and James Suckling. (GL), $$

Ribera Del Duero

Bodega de Bardos Romantica Crianza, 2016: 100% Tempranillo and located in the Castile y Leon district, this wine offers depth, liveliness, and complexity.  Extremely well priced. (R), $ 

Garmon Ribera del Duero, 2015: 100% Tempranillo, this is a very impressive, full-bodied, intense, and rich wine.  Decant for one hour.  (AHD), $$$$

Tinto Pesquera, Ribera Del Duero, 2017, Crianza: (100%) Tempranillo, rich, intense, and bold. (I), $$ 

TheTorres Family has been producing wines in Spain since the 17th century.

Torres Altos Iberices Crianza, 2016: This is a medium bodied Tempranillo with a lovely cherry color and soft tannins.  Particularly good value. (VTG) $

Torres Celeste Crianza: This is a full-bodied Tempranillo with a dark cherry color that is savory and rich. (VTG) $$ 

Toro

Erbo River Valley

Alto Moncayo Veraton: This is a Spanish winery and the wine Veraton is (100%) Grenache, produced from 30- to 50-year-old grape vines and aged 16 months in French oak barrels.  90+ points. (V), $$

Enjoy with Pasta, Pasta, Pasta.

Alto Moncayo: This wine is an old vine (100%) Grenache produced from 40-70-year-old vines and aged in French oak barrels for 20 months.  This wine is a bit fuller than the Alto Moncayo Veration, the wine is more complex, and it finishes with nice spiciness. (V), $$$

Enjoy with Pasta, Pasta, Pasta.

Bodgas Breca: (100% Old Vines Garnacha) With a taste of black cherry, blackberry, and raspberry, this wine delivers a smooth and velvety richness and easy finish. (V), $ 

Enjoy this wine with pasta dishes served in a red sauce.

Godina Garnacha, 2016:  This is another highly rated Garnacha from the Juan Gil family of wines. This wine is produced in what is known as the “Empire of Garnacha” that rests at the foot of the Moncayo Mountain in Spain. The wine is not heavy, nor too sweet on the finish. A pleasant wine. (V), $$

Gota De Arena, 2016: (100%) Tempranillo, Gota De Arena is an inexpensive Tempranillo, a nice wine to serve a large group. It can replace more expensive Pinot Noirs. Please visit the fact sheet. (V), $

Teremes: The Pinot Noir grape is considered fragile and difficult to cultivate. In the tough Spanish region of Toro where Teremes produces their Tempranillo grape, this winery owned by the Moet-Hennessy Louis Vuitton Group, grows a robust full bodied wine worthy of recognition. Teremes is their entry level bottle for their Tempranillo line up and will more than satisfy. (GHL), $$

Cataluna

Valdalevia Brut: A very good sparkling wine that is fresh and dry. (I), $

Flama D’Or Cava Brut: This Cava has some weight.  Dry and yet the berry flavors are ever so present. The 100% Trepat grape that makes up this wine is delicate to grow yet produces a rugged and intense wine that exudes balance and a complex structure.  Absolutely worth trying. (R), $ 

Enjoy this wine with meat and heavy pasta dishes.

Penedes

Jean Leon 3055, 2014: This wine came as a big surprise. We tasted a few reds and never thought that Jean Leon Cabernet Sauvignon could be as robust and full-bodied as it turned out.   I think this is a good wine for parties or casual drinking and is amazingly affordable. (AHD), $

Priorat

Camins del Priorat, 2018, Alvaro Palacios: (40%) Grenache, (30%) Samso, (Samso is a grape native to northern Spain with the characteristics of the Carignan grape.), (20%) Cabernet Sauvignon, (10%) Syrah, this wine needs 30 minutes of breathing, preferably by the decanting method.  After a half hour of breathing, the wine will change color from a dull red and transform into a deep ruby red.  Initially the wine will have a distinct sweetness but loses that intense sweetness and mellows out into a soft wine. (GL), $$

Clos Figueras, Serras Del Priorat, 2019: This is Granacha Blanc that is hard to beat. The color is beautiful, the wine is crisp, lively, floral, and just plain yummy! We highly recommend this white wine which critics have scored 90 points plus?  (AHD), $$

Font De La Figuera, 2018: (58%) Grenache. (25%) Carignan, (10%) Syrah, (7%) Cabernet Sauvignon. The grapes are sourced from the Gratallops old vines. The wine pours into a decanter a dark cherry red.  We decanted this wine for three hours.  The result, after decanting, was a thick layer of dark fruit on the palate with smooth tannins and worth waiting for. The wine is aged for 12 months in French Oak and integrates beautifully.  A delightful red blend from Priorat. (AHD), $$$

Red blends from Priorat should be enjoyed with hearty meat dishes and pairs great with lamb chops.

La Figura Com Tu 2018: “Com Tu”, meaning like you, is 100% Grenache. This is a medium-bodied, earthy, and a bit fruity wine. The wine has a high alcohol content, so it needs some breathing. The wine scored up to 93 points. (AHD), $$ 

Petite Pissarres, 2020: This wine is Granacha and Samso, aged in French oak for 6 months.  All the grapes are organic with minimal sulfites added.  This full-bodied red wine has a DOQ classification.  (GL), $$

Salmos, 2016, produced by the Torres family: (65%) Carinena, (30%) Grenache, (5%) Syrah. This is a premium red blend; bold, full-bodied, intense, and concentrated.  A quality wine for the lover of big reds. (VTG), $$

Terra Alta

Edetana, 2017: (60%) Grenache, (30%) Syrah, (10%) Samso, this wine displays a beautiful ruby red color, is pleasant, savory, and finishes with a slight sweetness that is delicate.  A good bargain. (AHD), $$   

Castille La Mancha

NISA Rueda Verdejo, Old Vine 2016:  The Verdejo grape is the Spanish Sauvignon Blanc.  The wine is citrusy, floral, and dry but not too fruity. (V), $

Enjoy with appetizers or light meals.

Venta Morales, 2020: This is a young Tempranillo but has quite a wallop. The wine is from the Jorge Ordonez Collection in collaboration with Rafael Canizares. The price is fantastic! (V), $

Alamansa

La Atalaya Del Camino Red Blend, 2020: Garnacha Tintorera (Alicante Bouschet) and Monastrell aged for 12 months in French oak barrels. Big, bold, and affordable. (V), $  

Galicia

Rias Baixas

Granbazan Albarino Etiqueta Verde:  This wine is bright and exhibits nice fruit aromas. An easy to drink wine with a smooth finish. (AHD), $

Neboa:  Refreshing and lively, the vintner’s fact sheet is available for review. (V), $ 

Enjoy this wine with seafood and particularly with mussels.

Getariako  Txakolina

Txakoli Txomin Etxaniz, 2018: (90%) Hondurribi Zuri, a specific grape of the Basque region of Spain, and (10%) Hondurribi Beltz, a grape which is a descendant of Cabernet Franc, are blended to produce this specific wine.

This wine is described as crisp, ethereal, with lime zest, minerality notes and a fresh acidic finish. This wine is refreshing and an up lifter for any seafood or spicy dish. (V), $ 

Rioja

Rioja Alta, Rioja Alavesa, Rioja Baja

Hacienda Lopez De Haro, White, 2019: Fresh and dry, this wine is a great summer appetizer and food wine.  The wine comes from old vines and represents amazing value.  It also has a very long finish. (R), $

La Rioja Alto Vina Arana, Reserva, 2014, DOCa: This wine scored 90 to 96 points! A big wine that needs time to breathe.  Red berries and ripe fresh fruit will jump out of the glass. This is a sophisticated and elegant wine. (AHD), $$$$

La Rioja Alto Ardonza Reserva, 2012, DOCa: If Arana is over your budget, you will not be disappointed in going for the Ardonza.  This wine scored 91 to 95 points. Ardonza is (80%) Tempranillo and (20%) Granacha.  A very satisfying wine that is medium-bodied and like the Arana delivers great berry flavors with elegance and complexity but at a lower price point. AHD, $$   

Macan Classico, 2016, Rioja:  This wine is produced by Bodegas Benjamin Rothschild and Vega Sicilla, S.A. (100%) Tempranillo, this wine is full bodied, with depth.  A breathing time of 2 hours will bring out the detailed elegance that this wine offers. (AHD), $$

Muga Vineyards

Muga El Anden, DE La Estacion, 2018: (65%) Tempranillos, (35%) Garanacha. This wine is made from young vines. It is aged for 14 months in barrels.  A very affordable and good drinking wine from Muga. (V), $  

Muga Rioja Blanco, 2018: (90%) Viura, a leading white grape of the Rioja region, is used to make dry whites with (10%) Malvasia added for floral notes. This white wine is highly rated and described as bright and citrusy. A particularly good table s white wine for almost all dishes. (V), $

Vegetable dishes, fish and tapas are the recommended foods.

Muga Reserve, 2015: (70%) Tempranillo, (20%), Garanacha, (7%) Mazuelo, (3%) Graciano; this is a nice blend of grapes from the Spain’s most popular wine growing region. (V), $$

Quatro Pagos, QP, 2014: (85%) Tempranillo, (12%) Granciano, (3%) Garancha.  This is an allocated wine. The grapes come from 80-100-year-old vines and is aged in French oak barrels for up to 18 months. 

The wine exhibits ripe black fruits, spices, and structure. Although the color is intense and you will need to let it wine breathe for an hour, the tannins are very pleasing. This is a big wine drinkers’ wine. (R), $$$$

Enjoy with game or meat.

Rioja Madre: (100%) Graciono, D0Ca. 90 to 91 points, this wine is fruity and lively.  A nice price point wine to have in the house to sip on or cook with.  Oh, do both! (V), $

Sierra Cantabria Reserve Unica 2014: (98%) Tempranillo, (2%) Graciano old vines, this wine has a rating of 90-94 points. The wine is often described as opulent, decadent, full-bodied, and velvety. It has beautifully layered textures with a great finish. This is a quality wine and outstanding value. (V), $$ 

Urbina Gran Reserva Especial, 2004:  100% Tempranillo, this wine finishes with that very distinctive Tempranillo bite.  (W), $$$

Vina Alberto Reserva, 2018:  100% Tempranillo, this wine is full-bodied.  You will get a lot of dark cherries and lushness.  The amazing taste of this wine is a chalkiness at the end which I have never experienced before in a Tempranillo.  The wine went through six years of aging in oak and four rackings separating the sediments by hand in candlelight.  The price of this wine is remarkable.  The vineyard has been producing wine since 1890.  I must stop here. (AHD), $$

Vina Herminia Crianza: This winery is in Rioja Baja, which is between the river Ebro and the Sierra de Yerga Mountain range.  The grapes come from Rioja Alta and Rioja Alavese that produce bright and elegant wines. The wine is a blend of (10%) Garanacha and (90%) Tempranillo and has DOCa designation. (AHD), $ 

.

United States

California

Conundrum Red:  The grapes for this wine are sourced from California AVA’s and the wine makers fact sheet provides a complete and descriptive picture of this reasonably priced bold wine. (GL), $

Eight Years in The Desert, Orin Swift, 2018: Zinfandel blend.  A beautiful Zinfandel, hard to obtain. (GL), $$$

Central Valley

Lodi

Michael-David Chardonnay: A good value Chardonnay for the budget minded wine buyer. The wine has a slightly buttery taste and oak flavor. (A), $ 

Peirano Estate, Chardonnay, 2018: This winery was established in 1895 and is in its sixth generation. The wine has fresh fruit nuances, a touch of butterscotch with melon, and a hint of oak with a long finish. (WB), $

Scotto Cellars Family Vineyards

The Scotto family wine making starts with the family’s great grandfather, producing wine in Italy, dating back to 1883.  Today the Scotto Cellars Vineyard is in its fifth generation of producing affordable easy to drink wines. The club is stocking the following wines from Scotto Cellars:

Scotto Cellars Brut Sparking Wine: Quite an interesting sparkling wine with a tasty cider flavor and color. A refreshing change. (V), $  

We also recommend the following Scotto Cellars wines.

Scotto Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon,2019. (V), $

Scotto Cellars Pinot Noir, 2019. (V), $

North Central Coast

Andrew Murray Vineyards Syrah:  With its hint of cherry and a Syrah spiciness, this wine opens to be very approachable, drinkable, and affordable. (W), $

Au Bon Climat Santa Barbara Pinot Noir, 2018: A lighter Pinot Noir with a lovely strawberry and cranberry color. Nice.  (I), $$  

BonAnno Cabernet Sauvignon:  For the Cabernet Sauvignon drinker, BonAnno is a reasonable priced Cabernet from California that is easy to drink and affordable. (I), $$

Arroyo Seco AVA

Montoya Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc, 2020: This is a very tropical tasting wine. It has nice tree fruit flavors that are not overwhelming.   A refreshing wine with seafood and cheese. (AHD), $ 

Monterey

Bonny Doon Vineyards, 2018 Le Caligari Volant, “Cuvee Oumuamua”: (52%) Grenache, (35%) Cinsault, (13%) Syrah, a nice Rhone style wine, lots of light berry flavors come through. (W), $

Sisters Forever, Unoaked Chardonnay: Bright, fresh, and crisp.  Enjoy this wine by itself or with cheese and chicken dishes. (VTG), $ 

Tassajara, Pinot Noir, 2019: The description on the back of the bottle captures the essence of this wine- “rich black cherry flavor, and a smooth silky finish”.  This is a really good value Pinot Noir. (i-L), $

Santa Lucia Highlands

Diora La Petite Grace Pinot Noir: Produced by Delicato Vineyards, this Pinot Noir is moderately light and opens with a little spiciness. (RBC), $

Enjoy light meat dishes and salmon.

Luli, 2018, Chardonnay: This Chardonnay hits all the right notes.  Drinkable and lush, but the price has been climbing.    A wine that scored 91 points and is no longer under $20.00. (AHD), $$

Santa Rita Hills

Sanford Pinot Noir: (Santa Rita Hills) A good representation of the Pinot Noir grape, the wine reveals fruity flavors and a smooth finish. An elegant Pinot Noir. (GL) (NO), $$$

North Coast

Kuleto India Ink Red: They are calling this a Rhone style wine but never be confused that this is a California interpretation.  The grape combination is Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Sirah, Zinfandel, and Merlot.  The grapes are sourced from Foley Vineyards throughout the North Coast AVA. The wine achieved a 90-point score. Even with a 15 plus alcohol content, the blackberry flavor explodes while decanting and the has a great finish.  Great value. (I), $  

Sebastiani Cabernet Sauvignon: This wine displays a nice ruby red color, is medium bodied, with a blackberry flavor, and finishes with soft tannins. This wine has been rated between 87-92 points. (I), $ 

Y3, JAX Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2019: We found this Cabernet to be a good value. Aged in French oak and is full-bodied. (I), $$

Alexander Valley

Alexander Valley Vineyards, Merlot, 2019: A full-bodied merlot with big berry layered flavors. This wine was quite a surprise. Merlot (89%), Cabernet (11%). (GL), $ 

Belacana Vinyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2016: This wine has several levels of complexity. At the beginning the wine displays a rich and dark succulent color with many flavors. Blackberry and a hint of vanilla are prominent, with a tantalizing spiciness. The wine smooths out to be rich and full-bodied, each level being an enjoyable experience. This is a fun Cabernet Sauvignon. (EE), $$ 

Husch Dry Gewurtraminer, 2020: This family vineyard has deep roots as one of the North Coast pioneers. Their dry Gewurtraminer is described as follows, “fresh and delicate, full fruit, with distinctive spiciness and finishes dry”.  We cannot add anything else, but this wine is delicious. (V), $

This wine screams for seafood and Asian dishes!

Rodney Strong, Alexander Valley, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2016: (93%) Cabernet Sauvignon, (4%) Merlot, (2%) Petit Verdot, (1%) Malbec.  This wine pours into the glass a rich deep red, with aromas of black fruit on the nose. The tannins give the wine a long finish.  Really good value. (A), $$

Rodney Strong, Alexander Valley, Brothers Cabernet Sauvignon, 2011: This is a single vineyard Cabernet, that is rich and lush, with smooth tannins. (A), $$

Seghesio Old Vine Zinfandel, 2016:  This wine has a charming ruby red color with warm berries on the nose, a hint of sweet spices, but is earthy with a long finish.  A genuinely nice Zinfandel. (RBC), $$ 

Silver Oak, Alexander Valley, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2014:  This wine has a dark red garnet color and connects immediately with its origin. The wine is full, smooth and maintains a long finish. (GL), $$$$

Enjoy with lamb, meats, or hearty meaty casseroles.

Mendocino

Goldeneye Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley:  See wine maker’s fact sheet. (GL), $$$

Kenwood, Cabernet Sauvignon, Jack London,2017: A solid Cabernet Sauvignon, a definite buy. (RBC), $   

Parducci, True Grit, Reserve, Cabernet Sauvignon, Mendocino County, California: A solid California Cabernet with low tannins. ready to drink. You will like the price. (A), $$ 

Saracina, Malbec, 2018: Founded by John Fetzer and his wife, along with Patty Rock, legendary figures of Mendocino County.

Critics all seem to agree that this Malbec has a heavenly silkiness, soft tannins, and balanced flavors. Simply a beautiful wine. RBC, ($$)  

Napa

Abstract:  A complex wine that brings together the strengths of the grapes Grenache, (rich, smooth, cherry flavors, elegant texture), Syrah, (California Syrah that is fruity and peppery), and Petite Syrah, (nothing petite about this grape; concentrated, flavorful, it provides a great bite to the wine). (GL), $$

Enjoy this wine with hearty appetizers, poultry, and meat.

Chaos Theory: This wine is (50%) Merlot, (25%) Petite Sirah, (25%) Zinfandel. The minute this wine touches your tongue, it pops and sizzles and continues to be vibrant! What a fun wine. (I), $$

 Just enjoy.

Darioush Caravan Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa: See the wine maker’s description. (GL), $$$

Decoy Limited, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2019: A nice well-structured Cabernet from Duck Horn Vineyards which is affordable for the mid-level buyer. (See our fact sheet) (GL), $$ 

Girard Petite Sirah:  An intense wine produced from old vine Petite Sirah grapes.  The color of this wine is incredibly vibrant displaying a deep ruby red color. This wine needs at least a half hour of breathing. (VTG), $$ 

Hendry Albarino:  The description that you will find on the web describes this wine as “mouthwatering”; that phrase captures the essence of this wine. (I), $$

A great wine to enjoy with seafood, bar food.

Hendry Primitive, Block 24: A medium to full bodied wine, a great example of a California Zinfandel that provides all the attributes that a Zinfandel lover expects. (I), $$

Jamison Ranch Vineyards Double Lariat Cabernet Sauvignon2018:  Let this wine breathe for an hour, and it will develop into a lush and elegant Cabernet.  The delivery of black cherry, soft tannins, and a little Cabernet sweetness is delightful.  A Cabernet that delivers a lot for its price and has scores from 92-94 points. (A), $$

Enjoy this wine with lamb and smokey dishes.

Theorize Sauvignon Blanc, 2020: The production of this wine was led by Jean Hoefliger, a well-known Consulting Winemaker.  This Sauvignon Blanc has a bright straw color, very nice minerality and citrus notes but not overwhelming. A great value from Napa. (AHD), $ 

Theorize Cabernet Sauvignon, 2018: Jean Hoefliger killer Cabernet Sauvignon.  Outrageously low price for the quality. (AHD), $$$

Enjoy cheese, fish, shellfish, white meat, or when you’re on your yacht.

Long Meadow Ranch Winery

Peter Franus Napa Valley Zinfandel, 2014: This wine pours from the bottle into your wine glass a ruby red color; the wine is bright with a nice aroma of berries. The wine is soft and spicy, medium bodied and has a lovely finish. (I), $$

Paraduxx, 2017, Proprietary Red Wine: (Duck Horn), (48%) Cabernet Sauvignon, (15%) Petite Verdot, (12%) Zinfandel, (8%) Petite Sirah, (8%) Syrah, (6%) Tempranillo, (3%) Merlot.  A young and bold, spicey wine with a long-lasting finish.  (GL), $$$

Enjoy savory cheeses and hearty red meats.

Robert Foley “The Griffin”: (38%) Merlot, (18%) Petite Sirah, (17%) Petite Verdot, (11%) Syrah, (9%) Charbono, (5%) Cabernet Sauvignon, and (2%) other reds.

The Charbono Grape is generally used for blending and adds wild berry aromas, acidity, a rich darkness.  The Petite Verdot grape adds spice, depth, and tannins.  When fully ripe, people associate aromas and tastes of flowers, olives, and very ripe blueberries.

The winemaker describes the wine as a “ripe blackberry fruit with floral hints”. 

You can drink it now, but it will cellar nicely and should age well. (V), $$

Enjoy meat and barbecue.

The Vice, “The House” Cabernet Sauvignon, 2018: This winery is considered one of the luxury brands of Napa Valley; their wines can sell for up to $200.00 dollars a bottle.  If you are a fan of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignons, this wine priced under $25.00 dollars is a bargain.  We recommend that you decant this wine.  (AHD), $$

Y3 Taureau, 2018: (50%) Cabernet Sauvignon, (47%) Merlot, (3%) Petit Verdot. Rich, concentrated, and lots of depth in this wine. Needs to breathe about 30 to 40 minutes prior to drinking. (I), $$

 Atlas Peak and Oak Knoll

Beaucanon Cabernet Sauvignon:  A beautiful deep ruby red color engulfs this wine. It is dry with smooth tannins and a supple finish (I), $$

Mount Veeder

Venge Red Scouts Honor.  (70%) Zinfandel, (14%) Charbono, (9%) Petite Sirah, (7%) Syrah, the wine displays a nice purple color and is full bodied. In addition to the grapes coming from Napa, they are also sourced from Sonoma. This is a rich wine and has a great finish. You can decant this wine for an hour or more. (I), $$$

Enjoy this wine with meat and hearty pasta dishes.

Napa and Calistoga

Girard Old Vine Zinfandel:  This wine has soft tannins and a beautiful red color.  This is an outstanding Zinfandel and is offered at a very reasonable price point. (VTG), $

Oakville

Saddleback Cellars Winery

Saddleback Chardonnay:  This Chardonnay is bright and lively. The wine has just the right amount of oak and butter, beautifully balanced. The finish is fantastic! (I), $$ 

Enjoy cheese, seafood, and food with cream sauces.

Saddle Back Merlot:  This wine has a rich purple color in the glass with classic Merlot flavors (blackberry, cassis, baked cherries, plums, dark chocolate, and mocha) which all come together in this wine. The wine is bright and juicy and has a long finish. I think this wine stands up to any big Cabernet. (I), $$

Enjoy hearty meat dishes.

Saddleback Cellars, Ranchers Red, 2014: (83%) Cabernet Sauvignon, (10%) Petite Syrah, (7%) Syrah. This wine exhibits a nice cherry color and is not overly bold. We encourage you to see the technical sheet written by the wine maker to get a full profile on this wine. (I), $$

Oakville/Yountville

Hoopla Vineyards

Hoopla Cabernet Sauvignon 2019: (83%) Cabernet Sauvignon (8%) Petite Sirah, (4%) Merlot, (3%) Petit Verdot, (2%) Malbec. This wine has blackberry and cherry flavors, is smooth and has an easy finish with a light oak kiss. (AHD), $$

Hoopla Chardonnay, 2019: This is a non-oaked Chardonnay with richness and depth. A wine that you will want to drink and drink some more. (AHD), $$

Hoopla Red Blend “The Mutt”, 2018: (95%) Merlot, (3%) Cabernet Sauvignon (2%) Petit Sirah. This is a fun wine, and the blending of these grapes really works. Fantastic for parties. (AHD), $$

Rutherford

The Vice, Rutherford, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2018: This is a wine from the prestigious area of Rutherford-offers great value. (AHD), $$

St. Helena

Gibbs,2019, Cabernet Franc: You Cabernet Franc lovers will go crazy over wine.  Full bodied with smooth tannins. (WB), $$

Enjoy with duck, lamb chops, and steak.

Gibbs, 2019, Dusty Red: (45%) Merlot, (32%) Cabernet Sauvignon, (20%) Cabernet Franc, (3%) Petit Verdot. This is a classic Bordeaux Blend as described by the vintner. We agree with the vintner’s assessment. This wine has nice blackberry fruit on the nose, and the Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot provide a nice bite which balances beautifully. (WB), $$ 

Enjoy savory cheeses and hearty red meats.

Sonoma

Alma de Cattleya, Chardonnay, 2019:  A nice bright apple color with apple and pear nuances.  An oak touch, soft, and a delightful finish. (AHD), $$

Alma de Cattleya, Red Blend, 2018: (60%) Syrah, (35%) Merlot, (5%) Cabernet Sauvignon. All very good blackberry flavors that will go well with hard aged cheeses, or creamy brie, and with white meat dishes. (AHD), $$      

Chateau St. Jean, Cinq Cepages,2015: This wine is a rich Bordeaux blend, deep purple in color and robust with a spicy finish. (RBC), $$$$

Day Zinfandel: This is a wine for the lovers of a Zinfandel who want it dry and not “jammy”.  A balanced wine that is pleasant and has a smooth finish.  (EE), $$ 

Dry Creek Vineyards, Zinfandel: (77%) Zinfandel, (21%) Petite Sirah, (2%) Carignane, please see the Wine Spectator review. (GL), $$

Ferrari Carano Vineyard

Ferrari Carano Chardonnay Reserve: (Carneros) A beautiful dry Chardonnay with just the right balance of fruitiness, butter, and oak.  (V), (RBC), $$

 Enjoy this wine with seafood and poultry.

Ferrari Carano Cabernet Sauvignon:  From Alexander Valley, the wine maker describes this wine as follows, “aromas of cassis, mocha, dried cherries, mint, cola, and Smokey leather”. This cab is a sheer pleasure to consume. (V), (RBC), $$$

Enjoy with barbecue, red meats, strong cheeses.

Ferrari Carano Dry Creek Zinfandel:  A particularly good Zinfandel; starts off spicy and smooths out within about 15 minutes into a lush, concentrated, rich, jammy Zinfandel. (Vtg.), $$

Ferrari Carano Tresor:  A Bordeaux blend of (71%) Cabernet Sauvignon, (10%) Malbec, (5%) Petit Verdot, (5%) Cabernet Franc; this wine has very pleasant nuances and complexity. (Vtg.), (RBC), $$$$

Other Ferrari Carano Wines that we recommend: Fume Blanc, $, Merlot, $$, Sangiovese Rose, $, Siena, (A blend of Sangiovese, Malbec, Petit Sirah, Cabernet Sauvignon.) (Vtg.), $$ 

Enjoy with roasted meats and duck.

Gehricke Vineyards

Gehricke Chardonnay:  For those that want to drink a chardonnay but do not want a heavy buttery or oaky taste will find that this wine will fit the order. (I), $$ 

Gehricke Cabernet Sauvignon, 2018: This wine has even tannins and a slight sweetness with medium acidity.  A very enjoyable Cabernet. (I), $$$$

Gehricke Russian River Valley Zinfandel, 2018:  This wine is produced from old vines, has a touch of 5% Petite Sirah, which gives the wine a nice accent.  The result is a full-bodied, nicely structured, smooth drinking Zinfandel., (I), $$

Easy to drink and pair with a variety of light food.

Gundlach-Bundschu Cabernet Sauvignon 2015: (89%) Cabernet Sauvignon, (6%) Petit Verdot, (3%) Malbec, (2%) Merlot. This wine is a good representation of a big California Cabernet from Sonoma County.  A nice long finish.  Rated from 90 to 92 points. (RBC), $$$   

Gundlach Bundschu Mountain Cuvee: (88%) Merlot, (12%) Cabernet Sauvignon, is a Bordeaux style blend, exceptionally drinkable. (RBC), $$

Enjoy this wine with almost any type of food.

Ridge Three Valleys:  This wine offers lively acidity but a medium bodied, blend of Zinfandel, (soft textured, dry red wine, a jammy characteristic, with blackberry, boysenberry notes), Carignane, (high in acidity and tannins, but earthly flavored and dark in color) Petite Syrah (concentrated and strong), Grenache (smooth and velvety).  Nice exotic spices, with a smooth and a delightful gravelly ending. (GL), $$

Enjoy this wine with hearty appetizers, pork, and meat dishes.

Stuhlmuller Vineyards, Chardonnay:  Aromas of pear and apple with a hint of butter and oak. A nice and drinkable wine. (V), $$

Enjoy this wine with seafood.

Ty Caton, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2018: A dense and rich Cabernet Sauvignon that can stand a fair amount of breathing, but the result is quite rewarding. (C), $$

Ty Caton, Red Wine, 2017: (29%) Cabernet Sauvignon, (29%) Petite Sirah, (17%) Syrah, (14%) Petite Verdot, (7%) Merlot, (4%) Malbec. All the big grapes are in this wine, producing a full-bodied rich red.  Open this wine and let it breathe. (C), $$

Enjoy with meats and try with grilled sausages, onions, and peppers.

Valraven Wines

We tasted the Valraven Chardonnay, 2020, Zinfindel, 2019, Pinot Noir, 2020, and Cabernet Sauvignon, 2019.  All the wine from this winery was acceptable. The Zinfindel and Cabernet need to breathe.  The Pinot Noir and Chardonnay surprised us by how much we enjoyed those two. The wines are reasonably priced and if you see them in a store and cannot make up your mind, go for the Valraven. (Vtg.), $

Los Carneros

Vinca Minor, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2018: Made with 100% organic grapes, with minimal sulfates, this wine has a nice spiciness and a pleasing effervescent finish. (AHD), $$

Sonoma/Russian River

Deloach Chardonnay, Russian River Valley, 2015:  A crisp Chardonnay with a hint apple and butter with a pleasant finish. This reasonably priced Chardonnay will go well with any light dish. (GL), $$

Deloach Pinot Noir:  This wine is a full body Pinot Noir, which is dry, elegant, and packed with berry flavors. The wine maker produces this Pinot Noir in a traditional Burgundian fashion and demonstrates all those qualities. (GL), $$

Enjoy this wine with salmon, pasta dishes in a red sauce, and poultry.

Edge Cabernet Sauvignon, 2017:  An easy to drink and reasonably priced Cabernet Sauvignon. (V), $$

Hartford Court Pinot Noir:  A heavy hitting Pinot Noir that starts with concentrated berry flavors and ends in a spicy finish. The wine has just enough sweetness to entertain the palate and is elegant. (A), $$

Iron Horse, Wedding Cuvee: (GL), $$$

Rodney Strong Vineyards, 2017 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon: This is a full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon that is not shy to show off the wine’s lushness and tannins from the start. This wine is very drinkable now. Cabernet Sauvignon lovers will appreciate this wine’s price point. (A), $$

Sierra Foothills

Amador County

Easton Zinfandel, 2015:  A full bodied and spicey Zinfandel.  This wine is really good value. (AHD), $

Scott Harvey, 2017 Zinfandel: A medium bodied Zinfandel that is smooth and pleasing.  A good budget selection for under $20.00. (I), $$

Scott Harvey, Zinfandel, J & J Reserve, 2015: This is a big Zinfandel and will maintain its composition into the next day. (I), $$

Terre Rouge/Easton Vineyards

This winery is in the Sierre Foothills/Amador County, they are one of the premiere producers of Cotes de Rhone style wines.  The grapes are grown in high altitude elevations which requires aging the wines for 5 years or more.  When finally released, they are ready to drink or cellar for years to come.

Terre Rouge, Enigma, 2013: (49%) Marsanne, (26%) Viognier, (24%) Roussanne, (1%), Grenache Blanc, this wine is creamy, with peach, apple, honey, and a hint of coconut. A nice white blend. (AHD), $$

Enjoy with seafood or a seafood pasta dish.

Terre Rouge, Garrigue, 2013: A pleasant Rhone style wine of Grenache and Syrah, representing good value. Serve this wine for casual gatherings or everyday consumption. (AHD), $

Terre Rouge, Grenache Blanc, Hawk Creek Vineyards, 2009: Golden in color and mouth filling, this wine has depth, and you can exchange it for a red with your food. (AHD), $ 

Terre Rouge, Mourvedre, 2013: Terre Rouge can take a difficult grape and produce a rich and spicey wine.  They did again! (AHD), $$

Terre Rouge, Roussane, 2013, Monarch Mine Vineyards: With a nice golden color and honey taste, this wine expands into a rich, dry, and elegant white. (AHD), $$

Terre Rouge, Syrah, 2015: This one of the easiest Syrah we have drunk; the wine goes down so fast, before you know it the bottle is empty. (AHD), $ 

Terre Rouge, Viognier Fiddletown 2017: This wine is round and chewy, aromatic with stone fruit nuances.  A wonderful wine with appetizers, seafood, or Asian foods.  (AHD), $

Terre Rouge/Easton Wines-Small Lots and Allocated

Easton Wines, Zinfandel Old Vine Rinaldi Vinyard Fiddletown 2014: The grapes are from 150-year-old vines. An elegant wine with delicate nuances. (AHD), $$$$ 

Terre Rouge, Syrah, DTR Ranch Fiddletown, 2007: This is the best of Syrah, with pepper, spice, and bacon, nuances, produces a meaty wine with deep minerality. (AHD), $$$$

Easton Wines, Syrah, High Slopes, Sierra Foothills, 2014: This wine is produced from grapes grown at an of 3200 elevation and over 150 years old.  The result is the very best of Syrah flavors. A masterpiece Cotes de Rhone. (AHD), $$$$

Terra D’Oro, Barbera,2019: It is exciting to find a Barbera gown in the United States that offers good value delivers dark tree and raspberry flavors. (GL), $$

El Dorado

Skinner El Dorado Syrah, 2019:  A sustainable vineyard that uses all solar power and recycled steel. The winery preserves animal habitats and uses goats to clear brush.

The vineyard is in a mountain region which has granite soil and a climate that is dry and temperate.  The Syrah that is produced is smooth and elegant. 93 points.  (AHD), $$

Vinum Cellars, “The Scrapper”, 2016, Cabernet Franc:  The discoveries keep coming in from the Sierra Foothills.  A silky and smooth, single vineyard wine at an elevation of 1600 feet, producing an outstanding Cabernet Franc for under $30 dollars. This is a full-bodied wine that needs breathing for an hour in a decanter. Scores up to 90 points.  Cabernet Franc lovers will not be disappointed. (EE), $$  

South Central Coast

Edna Valley

Wonderwall Chardonnay: A good Chardonnay, easy to drink and has just the right balance of citrus notes. (i-L), $$ 

An easy wine to enjoy with appetizers, chicken, pizza, seafood.

Wonderwall Pinot Noir:  This wine is a light bodied Pinot Noir. The wine is reticent but still has a fresh ripe fruit element. Because the wine is aged in oak, there is a display of oaky elements. (I-L), $$

Tolosa No-Oak Chardonnay: A non-oaky Chardonnay and at a great price. (AHD), $

Paso Robles

Austin Hope, 2020 Paso Robles, Cabernet Sauvignon: Everything you would expect from a big Cabernet Sauvignon produced in Paso Robles. Let the wine breathe for one hour. It gives you nothing but pure elegance and soft tannins which will delight you until the bottle is gone. (GL), $$$$

Daou “Bodyguard”:  For the fans of Petit Verdot and Petite Syrah, the combination of these the two grapes produces a full-bodied wine. (RBC), $$

Donati 2019 “Sisters Forever” Unoaked Chardonnay: A delightful white wine for a hot summer day on the deck. A bargain. (VTG.), $ 

Days Gone By, Saint K, Syrah: A big Syrah produced by Chris Kiranbay, who studied and trained under Herman Story. (i-L), $$ 

Hearty dishes.

Herman Story-Nuts & Bolts, Syrah: A rich and intense full-bodied Syrah. (i-L) (NO), $$$

1. Lohr Hilltop Cabernet Sauvignon, 2018: (93%) Cabernet Sauvignon, (5%) Petit Verdot, (2%) Malbec. A full-bodied Cabernet with Black Cherry accents. (Vtg.), $$ 

ONX Field Day 2017: (63%) Sauvignon Blanc, (28%) Grenache Blanc, (9%) Viognier.  A pleasing white wine for the outdoors with appetizers. (AHD), $

Paring Red Blend Cabernet/Merlot by Jonata of Paso Robles: (50%) Cabernet, (20%) Merlot, (20%) Cabernet Franc, (10%) Petit Verdot, this is a very pleasant and brilliantly balanced red wine. (See the winery fact sheet.) (GL), $$

Penfolds Bin 600 Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz 2018: Based out of Paso Robles, the grapes for this wine are sourced from AVAs in California.  With (78%) Cabernet Sauvignon and (22%) Shiraz, Penfolds has created a full-bodied wine.  The strength of the Cabernet grapes and tantalizing spiciness of the Shiraz grapes seems to deliver the right balance. Point scores on this wine range from 91 to 95. (A), $$$

Wow, I love this wine with a big steak!

Robert Hall Viognier: Not too fruity or sweet, this wine is reasonably priced. (RBC), $ 

The Arborist, Vina Robles, 2019: (45%) Syrah, (40%) Petite Syrah, (10%) Grenache, (5%) Tannat.  A very approachable blend, with a lovely garnet color, the wine has a smooth delivery.  This wine also scores 93 points. (AHD), $ 

The Insider, Cabernet Sauvignon, 2019, Vinum Cellars: The grape for the Insider comes from four subdistricts of Paso Robles AVA.  They are Adelaida, Templeton Gap, Creston, and Santa Margarita Ranch.  This is a full-bodied Cabernet and needs an hour to decant. This wine has high scores. (See our fact sheet) (GL), $

Adelaida District

Alta Colina Vineyard, Rococo, 2917 Viognier: This winery produces small lots, and the Viognier is fresh and vibrant, with lots of tree fruit, and a nice balance of acidity. (AHD), $$

El Pomar and Genesco Districts

Vina Robles, 2019, Cabernet Robles: The vintner says the vineyard grapes that produce this Cabernet benefits from the Templeton Gap breezes from the Pacific Ocean; the terrior which includes high terrain, southern exposure, and granulated limestone produces exceptional grapes. The wine is aged up to 18 months at different intervals in French, American, and Hungarian oak barrels. With a 14.5% ALC, the wine should age nicely. 

We tasted this during our South-Central Coast AVA video, and everyone loved this Cabernet. Wine Enthusiast has given this wine 94 points.  Two big approvals, which makes this wine a bargain and. (AHD), $$

Santa Margarita

Ancient Peaks, Renegade,2017: Wild dark berries, earthy, and rugged describes this wine, which is a blend of Syrah and Petite Verdot. We liked it! (GL), $$

Sanata Barbara County

Au bon Climat Santa Maria Valley, Pinot Noir, “La Bauge Au dessus”, 2016: This Pinot Noir is more of a Burgundian style wine, structured and richer. (I), $$ 

Au Bon Climat Santa Barbara Pinot Noir, 2018: A lighter Pinot Noir with a lovely strawberry and cranberry color. Nice.  (I), $$ 

Stolpman Vineyards Papa Maria Red Blend, 2021: (80%) Syrah, (20%) Petite Verdot. Stolpman is known for their Rhone style wine making.  For a Syrah and Petite Verdot combination, you will find this wine unusually smooth. It has a delightful dark berry flavor and pepper that comes through.  This wine also scored 94 points by Wine Enthusiast, so you are really going to enjoy the price point on this one. (Vtg.), $$ 

Santa Maria Valley 

Lumen Chardonnay, 2020, Chardonnay: This is a single vineyard Chardonnay with a production of only 230 cases.  Fermentation is in stainless steel and French oak.  The wine is crisp and fresh with wonderful flavors of melon. The wine has a very pleasant minerality which the vintner says is due to the ancient sandy soils. (AHD), $$

Oregon

Applegate and Rouge Valley 

Quady North

Quady North Pistoleta White: A white blend of Viognier, Roussanne, and Marsanne with a touch of Grenache and Vermentino. This wine is bursting with fresh fruit flavors. Fabulous! (I), $$

Quady North Sam’s Syrah:  The goal of the Quady North Winery is to produce wine that resemble those from the Rhone Valley in France, which they have achieved with this one. (I),) $$    

Willamette Valley

Cardwell Hill Cellars Monet Blocks Pinot Noir.  The wine begins with an aromatic fragrance and stimulates your sense of smell; meanwhile the flavors expand in the back of your mouth to finish the experience. A robust Pinot Noir. (A), $$

Enjoy with charcuterie, meat, poultry.

Cristom, Willamette Valley, Pinot Noir, Mr. Jefferson Cuvee: This wine is light and perfumed with aromas of cherry and finishes with a delicate sweetness. (V), $$

Enjoy with chicken, salmon, and turkey.

ILLahe Vineyards

Illahe Viognier:  Very nice acidity and a supple dryness with a touch of sweetness. (AHD), $

Enjoy this with appetizers, salads, and seafood.

Illahe Pinot Noir Estate 2017:  A good entry level Pinot Noir, nicely balanced, soft tannins and reasonably priced. (AHD), $$

Illahe Bon Sauvage Estate Pinot Noir 2016: A Burgundian style Pinot Noir, with smooth tannins and an elegant finish. (AHD), $$

Ilahe Percheron Estate Pinot Noir 2015:  The Percheron is a big Burgundian style Pinot Noir, resulting in a more robust berry taste and which maintains a long finish. (AHD), $$

Patricia Green, Pinot Noir Reserve, Willamette Valley, Oregon:  This Pinot Noir scores 90 to 93 points. The wine is complex but well balanced at the same time and opens beautifully. (V), $$  

Cooper Hill Pinot Noir, 2020: This pinot noir is considered great value.  Critics have scored this wine 90 to 93 points. The wine opens beautifully into an earthy medium-bodied pinot noir and delivers a smooth finish with soft tannins. (WB), $$ 

Chehalem Mountains

1. Christopher Pinot Noir, Basalte: This is a small winery consisting of 40 acres, owned by Ernst Loosen, the producer of the famous Riesling from Germany, Dr. Loosen.  The goal of this winery was to combine old world and new world techniques to produce quality Pinot Noirs resulting in western and Burgundian style. The Basalte Pinot Noir is a nice representation. (I), $$

Eola Hills

Eola Hills Pinot Noir, 2019: This is a full-bodied Pinot Noir with lots of black cherry and raspberry; extremely smooth and satisfying. The price point is very good for a quality Pinot Noir out of Willamette Valley. (Vtg.), $

Yamhill-Carlton

Anne Amie, Pinot Noir, Two Estates, 2017: A young wine produced from old vines. This wine displays a rich quality with a smooth finish. The Wine Spectator suggests, “this wine best consumed through 2024”. (W), $$

Anne Amie Pinot Noir, Wine Maker’s Selection, 2018: A nice light Pinot Noir, a delightful wine to enjoy with light appetizers and seafood. (W), $$

Solena, Grand Cuvee, 2019, Pinot Noir: The Wine displays a lovely ruby red color, nice cherry, and raspberry flavors, with a spiciness that smooths out and ends with very pleasant tannins. Overall, the result is excellent value pinot noir from Willamette Valley. (RBC), $$   

Washington

Columbia Valley

Andrew Will Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Valley, State of Washington: A 92-point Cabernet, full bodied and with a firm finish: the winery description is available. (V), $$

Barter and Trade, Columbia Valley, Cabernet Sauvignon: A solid Cabernet. Good Value. (i-L), $

Barter and Trade, Columbia Valley, Merlot: A solid Merlot. Good value. (i-L), $

Charles Smith Boom Boom Syrah: An easy drinking Syrah, reasonably priced that would have a wide appeal to serve at a party with a variety of food. (GL), $ 

Dunham Cellars, 2015, Cabernet Sauvignon XXI:  This a rich and smooth wine with a long finish. Very enjoyable. (Vtg), $$$

Dunham Cellars, 2016 Trutina, Columbia Valley, State of Washington: (45%) Cabernet Sauvignon, (40%) Merlot, (12%) Malbec and (3%) Cabernet Franc. With a deep ruby red color that pours into your wine glass and a cool note that hits your palate with the first sip, the wine finishes with nice robustness. This is a wine that you can drink immediately. (Vtg), $$

Dusted Valley, Stained Tooth Syrah: With its deep purple color, pepper notes and soft tannins, this Syrah is throughout an agreeable wine. (GL), $$$

Greenwing Cabernet Sauvignon, 2020: (78%) Cabernet Sauvignon, (17%) Merlot, (5%) Syrah. Dark berries and light fruit dominate this Cabernet Sauvignon.  It’s lively and earthy. This is a very interesting wine from the Duckhorn and Canvasback group. (GL), $$ 

Januik Red, 2016:  Januik is being added as another affordable easy to drink red wine from the State of Washington. (V), $

Maryhill Wine Makers Red, 2017: A combination of Cabernet, Merlot, Syrah, and Cabernet Franc, that opens nicely, and has smooth tannins.  Good Value. (I), $

Mullan Road Cellars, 2018: We tasted this wine on the advice of our sales representative.  Mullan Road Cellars are produced by the makers of Cakebread, Seven Hills Vineyard, and Stillwater Creek Vineyard. The grapes for this Cabernet are from the Royal Slope AVA, in Columbia Valley, Washington.  We were surprised by the finesse and elegance this Cabernet exhibited.  The price point is right on target. A keeper! (A), $$$

Pedestal, Columbia Valley, Washington, Merlot, 2015, Long Shadows Vintners Collection:  This big and bold wine needs at least an hour of decanting; you can shorten the process by pouring the wine first through an aerator.  This should shorten the breathing time by a half hour.

Besides the Merlot grape, the vintner, Michael Rolland, has added Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot.

Michael Rolland is recognized as a world class wine maker. (GL), $$$$

Quilceda Creek, 2018, Cabernet Sauvignon: This winery is known around the world for producing outstanding Cabernet Sauvignon.  With a rich heritage of   Russian royalty, who immigrated to the United States after the Russian revolution, this winery can boast a consistent 100-point rating. Treat yourself if you come across this wine and feel like splurging.  Good luck! (A), $$$$$

Rayan Patrick, Rock Island Red: Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot, Syrah.  A nice full bodied red wine with an edge. This wine is reasonably priced. (Vtg.), $

Substance, Charles Smith, Cabernet Sauvignon:  Capital Grill Steak House offers this wine by the glass on their drink menu. This is a solid Washington State Cabernet and represents good value. (I), $

The Pundit. 2020: This is a big Syrah and a joint venture between Chateau Ste. Michelle and Michel Gassier of the Rhone Valley.  We loved this Syrah and needed to decant it for an hour. (GL), $$

Horse Heaven Hills

Alexandria Nicole, 2016, Quarry Butte, Estate Grown Red Wine, Destiny Ridge Vinyards, Horse Heaven Hills: (54%) Cabernet Sauvignon, (14%) Merlot, (12%) Cabernet Franc, (10%) Syrah, (5%) Malbec, (5%) Petit Verdot.  The Cabernet, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc blend together very nicely; the other varietals, the Syrah, Malbec, and Petit Verdot, add just the right amount of spiciness. (W), ($$)

Alexandria Nicole, 2016, Shepherds Mark, Destiny Ridge Vineyards, Horse Heaven Hills:  This Rhone style blend of Viognier, Marsanne, Roussane, is a wonderful wine that is dry, with subtle tropical fruit notes and a weighty finish that should please anyone’s palate. (W), $$

Alexandria Nicole Viognier, 2019: Bright, rich, and creamy with nice pear notes.  A good wine to serve with seafood and spicey chicken dishes. (W), $$

Enjoy this wine with rich Chicken and Fish Dishes.

Dead Canyon Ranch,2017, Cabernet Sauvignon: A solid Cabernet Sauvignon and good value. Drink this as your daily go to wine or serve at events. (AHD), $

Dead Canyon Ranch, 2017, Red Wine Blend: (50%) Syrah, (20%), Cabernet Sauvignon, (17%) Merlot, (8%) Malbec, (3%) Petit Verdot, (2%) Mourvede, an affordable wine that is great for everyday consumption or serving at events. (AHD), $

Rattlesnake Hills

Hyatt Vineyards

Hyatt Vineyards is in Yakima Valley and located in the prestigious wine region of Rattlesnake Hills, in the State of Washington. Their Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Riesling are easy to drink and affordable. (i-L), $ 

Red Mountain

Col Solare Red Blend:  This wine has ratings from 90 to 94 points. The grapes are Cabernet, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Syrah. The retail price can range from $60.00 to $75.00 dollars a bottle. (F), $$$$

Force Majeure, Parvata, Red Mountain, 2016: (69%), Mourvedre, (21%) Syrah, (10%) Grenache. This is a dark rich red Rhone style wine that has lots of depth and structure. We have printed off a description from Timeless Wines that describes the Pavata, the winery and Red Mountain region in the State of Washington.

This is an outstanding wine to enjoy with lamb. (EE), $$$$ 

Gorman Wines

Gorman Wines, The Devil You Know, Red Mountain, Columbia Valley, State of Washington: Cabernet Sauvignon (53%), Merlot (42%), Petite Sirah (5%). This is a good solid blend-bold and structured. (I), $$

Gorman Wines, Old Scratch Cabernet Sauvignon, Red Mountain, Columbia Valley, State of Washington:  A particularly good Cabernet that is easy to drink and a smooth finish. (I), $$

Hedges Winery/Red Mountain

Goedhart Family, Red Mountain, Syrah, Bel’Villa Vineyard, 2013: This wine is part of the Washington State Hedges family of wines. A delicious Syrah. (V), $$

Hedges Cabernet Sauvignon, 2015: Dark garnet in color, the wine includes the grape varietals, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Franc, and Pettit Verdot. An excellent Cabernet Sauvignon. (V), $$ 

Hedges Red Mountain: (59%) Cabernet, (28%) Merlot, (5%) Cabernet Franc, (2%) Petit Verdot, and (2%) Syrah. A medium bodied wine, but with a unique rich finish. (V), $$   

Enjoy this wine with meat dishes.

Yakima Valley

1. Leighton Syrah/Olson Brothers Vineyard, Yakima Valley, Columbia, Washington: You can pick your number from 92 to 97 points from the major wine critics. This wine receives only accolades.   The praises are well deserved, the wine exhibits depth and complex structure and a show case for the Syrah grape. This wine will benefit by decanting and breathing for an hour. (I), $$ 

K Viognier, Yakima Valley, 2016: A well balanced white wine with tropical citrus flavors. (I), $$

1. Vintner’s, SIXTO, Uncovered, Chardonnay: This wine is a blend of Chardonnay grapes from three old vine vineyards located in Washington State. You will immediately pick up granny smith apples on the nose, followed by a spiciness of caramel-butterscotch on the palate.  An unusual Chardonnay with interesting characteristics. (I), $$  

Lone Birch Chardonnay: An affordable and delicious Chardonnay; just the right amount of oak and butter. (E), $ 

Two Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon, 2020:  A very unusual Cabernet Sauvignon.  In this wine you get blackberry and pepper right away.  Everyone sampled the wine at the tasting enjoyed it very much.  This wine is different from a lot of Cabs out there.  (AHD), $$

Wahluke Slope

Bookwalter Vineyards

Bookwalters Merlot Readers, 2018: Wine critics consider this wine to be a great value.  This wine has scores of 90 to 93 points.  The wine pours with a dark red color and berry flavors on the nose, which adds a nice spiciness with soft tannins and a long finish. (WB), $$

Bookwalter Notebook Chardonnay, 2018: This is a blended Chardonnay with Semillon, muscadelle, and Sauvignon Blanc.  The slight taste of butter and fresh fruit makes this chardonnay a delight to drink. (WB), $$

Bookwalter Notebook Red Blend: A blend of cabernet sauvignon, Syrah, and merlot. This is an easy to drink wine which contains all your black fruit flavors. (WB), $ 

Luke Vineyards

Luke Cabernet Sauvignon, 2081: A substantial Cabernet.  The wine is full-bodied and delivers a finesse at the ending which distinguishes it from other Washington Cabernets we have tasted.  Maybe we need to taste more Washington State Cabernets. (RBC), $$ 

Luke Chardonnay, Ancient Lakes, 2019: The winemaker describes this wine as “layered with notes of crème Brulé, vanilla, mango, banana peel, and baked pie crust”. We don’t really know about banana peel, but we got the rest and loved the wine. This is another of great value from Luke Vineyards. (RBC), $

Luke Syrah, 2019: A full-bodied red wine, great color with lots of intensity and depth.  This wine is unbelievable with spaghetti in a meat sauce.  Plan on decanting this wine for an hour before serving. (RBC), $$

Luke, The Companion, Red Blend, 2019: (60%) Cabernet Sauvignon, (20%) Merlot, (20%) Syrah. An easy to drink red blend. The berry flavor and spiciness are well balanced. This wine is very well priced. (RBC), $

Walla Walla Valley

Gramercy Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, 2017: Full-bodied and will not disappoint.  (AHD), $$$$

Gramercy Cellars, Forgotten Syrah: This a dark and heavy Syrah. (AHD), $$$$

Gramercy Cellars, Walla Walla, Syrah: Fans of Syrah and Gramercy Cellars who like a lighter Syrah will want to pick this one up.

Gramercy Cellars, Inigo Montoya Tempranillo, 2012: Fans of Tempranillo will enjoy this wine that reminiscent of a good Burgundian wine. (AHD), ($$)

Gramercy Cellars, Lower East, 2016: Fans of Gramercy Cellars red wines will enjoy this reasonably priced Cabernet Sauvignon.  (AHD), ($$)

Gramercy Cellars, Viognier, 2018: A fun wine; rich with tree fruit and tropical flavors, a touch of minerality, and complex ending with a great finish. (AHD), ($$)   

Gramercy Cellars, The Third Man, 2012: (57%) Grenache, (30%) Syrah, (5%) Mourvedre: This is a rich and full-bodied wine, peppery, with lots of spice, and dark fruit. (AHD), $$

Seven Hills Winery

If you run across their entry level Merlot ($$) and Sauvignon Blanc, ($) you’re safe to purchase any one of those wines.  They are affordable and enjoyable. (RNDC)

Uruguay

Urugay has four major wine AVA’s, Canelones, Duranzo, Maldonado, and Montevideo.

Maldonado

The Garzon Winery

Sustainable organic farming practices.

Garzon Albarino Reserva, 2020: This is a dry Albarino that is tropical and balanced. A nice change from the Spanish and California Alberinos. This wine scored 91 to 94 points. (RBC), $ 

Garzon Cabernet Franc, 2020: Garzon reds produce a strong purple color. Their Cabernet Franc is surprising, of good quality, and has nice mineral notes and spices. The price is very reasonable. (RBC), $

Garzon Marselan, 2019: Marselan is a grape that is part Cabernet Sauvignon and Garnacha, which originated in France. The Garzon Marselan wine has a deep purple color, is rich and smooth, after breathing for a couple of hours. (RBC), $

Garzon Sauvignon Blanc Reserva, 2019: This is a sophisticated Sauvignon Blanc, a refreshing break from New Zealand and California. (RBC), $ 

Garzon Tannat Reserva 2020: This wine is a very pleasant red.  The Tannat grape can be very strong and is used a lot for blending. Decant this wine for a half hour, and you will be drinking a smooth medium-bodied red wine. (RBC), $

Enjoy these wines with appetizers, Mediterranean cuisine, and steaks.

Great Event Wines, $-$$

Bloem Chenin Blanc-Viognier, South Africa, (i-L)

Cantaloro Bianco, (I)

Chateau Simian Atout Rouge, Chateauneuf-du-Pape. (i-L)

Dead Canyon Ranch Horse Heaven Hills, Red Blend, (AHD)

Double Canyon Horse Heaven Hills Cabernet Sauvignon (AHD)

Deloach Chardonnay, Russian River Valley, 2015, (GL)  

Dry Creek Vineyards, Zinfandel, (GL)

FlorDe Campo, Pinot Noir, Santa Barbara, California, (GL) 

Hyatt Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Riesling, (I-L)

Gundlach Bundschu Mountain Cuvee, (RBC) 

JP Chenet, France, Sparking Wine, (EE)

LA Capranera, (V)

Louis Latour, Bourgogne, Pinot Noir, 2017, (V)

Maryhill Wine Makers Red, (I)

Michael-David Chardonnay, (I) 

Mohua Sauvignon Blanc, (AHD) 

NISA Rueda Verdejo, Old Vine, 2016, (V) 

Noah River Chardonnay, (EE)

Substance, Charles Smith, Cabernet Sauvignon, Washington, (I) 

Torre Raone Rosso, 2011, (AHD)

Wairau River Sauvignon Blanc, (GL) 

Waterbrook Chardonnay, (I)

Yalumba Bush Vine Grenache, Barrossa Valley, (GL)