In 2009, Green Groves outdid itself, crafting an extraordinary Russian River Valley Pinot Noir — a wine brimming with red and black fruit flavors, accented by a kiss of sweet caramel. If we were only using one word to describe it, that word would be: sublime.
T. Cassidy sourced grapes for its Chardonnay bottling from some of the state's top vineyards. The 2009 vintage — fruit-forward and almost sweet on the palate — is a wine that lives up to the storied heritage of the Chardonnay varietal.
Iron Rock Cellars has blended this sublime Cab with Merlot and a number of other red varieties in order to round off the "sharp edges," which makes this wine accessible at a younger age. The finished wine is medium-bodied and food-friendly — and ready to enjoy tonight.
The 2009 Braxton Hall "Montage" is an amazing blend of the best white varietals that California has to offer. It combines Chardonnay, Semillon, Gewuztraminer, Sauvignon Blanc and small amounts of other white varieties in a cuvee that deliciously mirrors the California "field blends" of old.
The Shiraz grapes in this wine provide bright berry flavors and the Cabernet lends outstanding structure, the 2009 Wollombi Pass Shiraz is vibrant and smooth — a tasty testament to the vinous wonders being crafted Down Under.
El Tiburon Cellars created a lush and refreshing style with this Sauvignon Blanc, one that allows the fruit flavors of the grapes to shine through. So, in addition to the varietal lemongrass impression, El Tiburon's Sauvignon Blanc also projects flavors of quince, kiwi and pineapple. It's a style that's easy to love.