For the 2013 Gracenote Pinot Noir, the grapes were hand-sourced from the Russian River growing area of Sonoma County, which has long been known for its exceptional Pinot Noir growing conditions. Winemaker Reed Renaudin took great care when crafting this perfectly balanced, nicely concentrated and fruitful wine. The flavors are both floral and fruitful and if we had to describe the Gracenote in one word, it would be "inspired".
An exceptional winemaker and a great growing season can lead to a wonderful combination, as it has with the 2013 bottling of the Bodega Mariposa Sauvignon Blanc. It's both refreshing and crisp on the palate, and filled with citrus and light hints of pineapple, everything that you would expect from a delicious California Sauvignon Blanc.
Unlike many Cabs, which are built to age, the Crown Peak bottling was crafted in a style that rewards early drinking. The youthfulness of the wine -- in concert with the blending decisions made in the cellar -- makes the wine very grill-friendly. It's filled with bright fruit flavors, and notes of vanilla, cassis and dried herbs.
Tucked in the middle of the agricultural growing area of Italy's Lombardy region is Provinicia di Pavia, where the growing conditions are ideal for growing Pinot Grigio. The wine is complete with crisp, fresh flavors of white flowers and lemon, followed by melon and green apple on the finish. A perfect companion for chicken Alfredo. Buon Appetito!
In California, numerous Merlot-friendly microclimates can be found up and down the state, and Camden Place Cellars takes advantage of that reality by sourcing Merlot grapes from several regions in crafting its delicious California cuvee. The 2013 vintage is a tasty wine that's a true pleasure to drink. Filled with jammy raspberry and blueberry, you'll also notice notes of cocoa and black olive- a true California Merlot.
Mayfield Cellars sourced grapes from a number of top growers around California, and the vintner took a hands-off approach in the cellar, using previously filled oak barrels in order to keep the emphasis on the grape flavors.Part of the cuvee was aged in flavor-neutral stainless steel tanks.