|
holiday season dinners . ($ 24.99 )
( 94 ) Herman Story " Casual Encounters " 2017 ( CA ). Beautiful blend from the America ' s top Rhone varietal region — Paso Robles . This rich , powerful meritage of syrah , mourvedre , grenache , carignan and tannat fills your mouth with dark currant , dry blackberry , chewy tannins and a touch of aromatic pepper . Fully mature with great balance . The equal of many northern Rhone ' s ( Cote Rotie , Croze-Hermitage ) for less than half the price . ($ 45.99 )
( 94 ) Lloyd Chardonnay 2022 ( CA ). Rich , succulent fruits burst from this Carneros chardonnay . Hints of lemon curd and stone fruit play off the subtle honeysuckle , clove and vanilla . Refreshing acidity due to the cooler climate in the region gives
|
this wine the backbone to stand up to any meal or party . ($ 49.99 )
( 94 ) Violet Hill Santa Barbara Pinot Noir 2021 ( CA ). Medium-bodied , with aromas of dark cherry , mocha and floral , that are echoed on the silky palate , with a bright finish . ($ 22.99 )
( 94 ) Sean Minor Four Bears Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 ( CA ). Ruby in color and displays aromas of cassis , black cherry , mocha and violets . Ripe flavors of blackberries and raspberries hit the mid-palate of this Paso Robles wine with a medium-long finish . ($ 16.99 )
( 93 ) Petites Secondes Chardonnay 2019 ( OR ). Produced by the Drouhin family . The oak aging is evident from the first sip on this Willamette Valley chardonnay . Aside from the warm
|
oak and cedar notes , there are hints of juicy pear and crisp green apple that give the finish of this wine a zesty feeling that enlivens the palate . ($ 32.99 )
( 93 ) Elizabeth Spenser Sauvignon Blanc Special Cuvee 2021 ( CA ). Husband and wife team of Elizabeth Pressler and Spenser Graham established the winning template for their style of wine . Using the best regions of the North Coast AVA , each lot is vinified separately to maintain its unique characteristics . Stainless-steel fermentation preserves the purity of the fruit . Exceptionally smooth , light acidity and good minerality highlight the lychee , citrus and apricot notes . Very versatile food wine that would work with appetizers or an easy alternative to chardonnays . Exceptional value for the money . ($ 24.99 )
|
( 93 ) Deloach Pinot Noir Heritage Reserve 2021 ( CA ). Retired San Francisco fireman Cecil Deloach helped put Sonoma on the map in the mid 70s . The Heritage Reserve series offers great value with exceptional wines . Sourced from key cool climate sights in northern and central California , including the famed Russian River AVA . Beautiful berry flavors , rich color extraction , a kiss of spice and great body . Perfect first pinot for the holiday ham dinner . ($ 14.99 )
WINE PANEL If you are a beverage professional with a specialty in wine who is interested in participating in the panel , please contact Managing Editor Kyle Swartz at kswartz @ epgacceleration . com .
|
www . cheersonline . com |
Winter 2023 • Cheers 19 |