2011 Colonia las Liebres Bonarda

Dinner tonight was a delicious spinach risotto topped with grilled Italian sausage. Not having any Italian wine in the cellar, I went for something that I was hoping would be pretty rustic. And I wasn't disappointed. I recently purchased the 2011 Colonia las Liebres Bonarda, Mendoza as a part of a mixed case of inexpensive wines; all of which were new to me. Very, very dark in color, the wine has beautiful aromatics of grapey blackberry preserves, bay leaf, leather and a whiff of alcohol. Thick and rich on the palate with considerable black pepper and moderate tannins. 100% stainless steel fermented and aged, so no hint of oak.A very nice wine for about $12. I wouldn't hesitate to buy this again and pair it with anything off the grill.

Originally a French grape known as Douche Noir, it is hardly grown at all in France now. Bonarda is most widely planted in Argentina today where it is second only to Malbec in acres. The grape is also grown in California where it is most commonly referred to as Charbano.

2010 Backsberg Chardonnay

I've had a fair amount of South African Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blancs over the years, but I don't think I've ever had a South African Chardonnay until tonight. For some reason, I expected this to be on the lean/tart apple/unoaked end of the Chardonnay spectrum. But I was pleasantly surprised to find the 2010 Backsberg Chardonnay Western Cape (South Africa) to be a very pleasant, medium-bodied Chardonnay with plenty of creamy apricot aromas and flavors. Nice acidity and balance. Long finish. I don't know how the current vintage (2011) of this drinks, but a year in bottle certainly hasn't hurt it at all. This wine is partially fermented in oak and stainless steel.

And oh, my, was it good with dinner! Pan-roasted chicken breast with braised fennel and brown rice. 

While my company distributes Backsberg wines in Kansas, we do not currently offer this one in our portfolio. It was a Christmas gift from the importer. But after having tasted it, I might have to inquire as to getting it registered in Kansas. Price unknown, but I suspect it would retail  for something less than $15.

2012 Graffigna Elevation Red Blend

Really enjoyed a bottle of 2012 Graffigna Reserve Elevation Red Blend, San Juan (Argentina) tonight with some chukar and pheasant breasts I pounded and cooked as if it were chicken Parmesan. A blend of unspecified percentages of Malbec, Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, Bonardo, and Tannat, the wine is inky-black in color. Black fruit, graphite, black pepper and tobacco aromas. The fruit on the palate is a bit tart, but there's good depth and spice in there. Turns a bit green and stemmy on the finish, but for $11 I can't complain too much.

I'm quite familiar with Graffigna's Malbecs and Pinot Grigios as they were always good sellers when I was working retail a few years ago. But this is a new wine; at least it is to me. Pretty sure this will be a regular next spring and summer when the weather is warmer and red meat is on the grill on a regular basis.

2011 Laudun Cotes-du-Rhone Villages (blanc)

It's been a pretty "meh" week or so as far as wine is concerned. Decent, yet uninspiring bottles of 2010 Caligiore Bonarda, 2011 Joel Gott Alakai red wine and 2010 Ancient Peaks Renegade left me satisfied yet wanting for more. Which wine finally answered the call and responded to the challenge? A white Cotes-du-Rhone? Seriously? Why, yes!

The 2011 Pierre-Henri Morel Laudun Cotes-du-Rhone Villages (blanc) is a simply stunning blend of 70% Grenache Blanc and 30% Bourboulenc. Rather pale in the glass with brassy highlights. The nose is a complex, never-ending melange of lime, white peach, pear skin and fennel. On the palate, there is more green orchard fruit as well as gardenia and candle wax. No surprise that the acidity here is mouth-watering with an impossibly long, minerally finish. What a treat! And all this for about $15. A tremendous value that deserves another visit with something other than a bowl of chicken soup.

Now it wasn't "just" a bowl of chicken soup. It wasn't from a can or made from a box of chicken stock. A few weeks ago I has to dispatch a half-dozen chickens who had outlived their usefulness. They were from our original flock from nearly 3 years ago and had stopped laying eggs for nearly a month. It's never pleasant to part with animals you have been around for a few years and this was no different. But these were farm animals who were no longer pulling their weight so it was time to cull them from the flock. These older hens make a delicious, rich, sticky stock that you'll never get from a can or box. But unfortunately the meat is very tough and still inedible; even after spending the day in a crock pot. So I ended up with a delicious broth made with onion, carrots and celery but no meat. All was fine until I got to the noodles. I learned an important lesson tonight in that you can't put fresh-dried pasta noodles in a crock pot for 30 minutes and expect good results. The noodles turned the entire concoction gluey and starchy and nearly inedible. Next time I will boil the noodles separately and add them to the finished soup.

Duck Pond Pinot Gris, Tolaini "Al Passo"

Last week, my wife's boss, a member at Highland Hideaway in SE Iowa, brought us a number of  pheasants that he shot a few weeks ago. I had the pleasure of going hunting with him there a couple of years ago and if not for the late fall hunting date, I would gladly go again.

My favorite thing to do with pheasants is to breast them out and make a stock with the remaining carcass. I season the breasts, wrap them in bacon and them hot smoke them over charcoal and maple chips for about 30 minutes. They are wonderful served over a bed of red wine risotto whose color and texture has been bolstered by a handful of wilted radicchio.

2012 Duck Pond Pinot Gris, Willamette Valley - Thoroughly enjoyed this one before dinner (and had another glass after dinner). Has that glorious, brassy color that I really appreciate in a good Pinot Gris. Herbaceous aromas and flavors of citrus and sweet green bananas with lively acidity and good minerality. I would drink this over and over again. About $15.

2009 Tolaini Al Passo, Toscana - This full-bodied blend of unspecified amounts of Sangiovese and Merlot shows a completely saturated color and a certain cloudiness that suggests a lack of filtration. The nose is dominated by a plummy herbaceousness from the Merlot but the palate is all about licorice-tinted, funky dustiness from of the Sangiovese. Wonderful acidity and tannins suggest this one could effortlessly age for another 5-7 years. Love the long, herbaceous, tart cherry finish. A faithful companion to the dinner. About $25

2012 Cep Sauvignon Blanc

On my way home from work today I bought a mixed case of wines to enjoy over the next few weeks. I bought them from a local retailer who has been very good to us and I felt like spreading a little love around. My only criteria were the wines had to be in the $15 range and they had to be something I'd never had. I certainly hope the rest of them are better than tonight's bottle.
 

I was initially drawn to the 2012 Cep Hopkins Ranch Sauvignon Blanc, Russian River Valley by the tall Alsace-shaped bottle. I don't think I've ever seen a Sauvignon Blanc bottled in one of these. Light pale color with brassy highlights. On the nose, sweetish lemon-lime notes with a hint of yeast. Smells like a flat Sprite; and I don't mean that as a compliment. The palate is flabby with more sweet-tart lemon-lime flavors. Just a train wreck. I really expected a lot more from this second label of Peay Vineyards. Reminds me of the odd 2009 O'Reilly's Pinot Gris. A bizarre, disappointing $18.

Consumed with leftover traditional Thanksgiving fare including turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, gravy and sweet potato casserole

The Wines of Vignobles Saint-Nabor

The wines of Vignoles Saint-Nabor is a line of wines from the south of France that Amphora recently introduced into Kansas via Marquee Imports. I got a great reception when I took these around to a number of retailer and restaurant accounts in Lawrence today. Naturally, I finished off the leftovers tonight with a hearty spinach and tortellini soup.

 

The 2012 Domaine Saint Nabor Chardonnay, Pays d'Oc shows a pretty, brilliant light golden color. Very focused nose of fresh pear and apple. Pure Chardonnay fruit here with no oak influence. I'm not certain if this wine sees any oak, but if it does, it is neutral oak. More orchard fruit in the mouth with with some pear skin and a hint of fennel. Fantastic acidity and a long, minerally finish. Quite a nice wine for about $15

The 2012 Domaine Saint Nabor Gris de Nabor, Vin de Pays du Gard is my kind of rose. Pale pink in color with tremendous raspberry, mint and dried herb notes on the nose. It's bone dry on the palate, but there's enough fruit there to keep the wine from falling into that dreaded "austere" category. A delicious blend of Tempranillo(!), Grenache and Cinsault. While nice now, I can only imagine this getting better and better when the weather warms up next spring. About $13

A blend of unspecified percentages of Grenache, Syrah, Carignan and Cinsault, the 2012 Chateau Saint Nabor Cotes du Rhone has a completely opaque color. The nose is a very fruit-forward/new world style featuring blueberry cobbler and plum notes. But the palate quickly switches gears and reverts to a very traditional, Old World style Cotes du Rhone with dried raspberry and garrigue flavors. Quite peppery; especially on the finish. Nice tannins and juicy acidity leave you craving another sip. I know there are a lot of solid Cotes du Rhones out there for $16, but I think this one can go toe-to-toe with the best of them.

Lucas & Lewellen Pinot Noir and Merlot

For my 44th birthday and I decided to celebrate with a roasted chicken; one of my favorite comfort food meals. Sides were roasted sweet potatoes and braised Brussels sprouts with bacon, cranberries and pecans. Lucas & Lewellen, one of the wineries I distribute in Kansas recently sent a few samples of wines I don't currently carry but they would like for me to add to the portfolio. From the selection, I figured the Merlot and Pinot Noir would go best with tonight's dinner.

2009 Lucas & Lewellen Pinot Noir, Santa Barbara County - Pretty garnet color with just a hint of cloudiness. In the nose, beautiful aromas of vanilla, tea, black cherry and mulling spices. Maybe even a hint of forest floor in there, too. Still quite warm and vibrant on the palate with flavors of black cherry and mulling spice. Negligible tannins and good acidity indicate it's time to drink this up. Long vanilla finish. Not quite as distinctive as their Goodchild High 9 Vineyard bottling, but still a good value in the mid-teen range.

2009 Lucas & Lewellen Merlot, Santa Barbara County -Deep color shows no sign of age. A solid, medium-bodied style with fig, caramel, toast and blackberry pie notes on the nose and palate. I really like how the winemaker has balanced the richness of this wine with nice tannins while keeping it medium in body. There's lots to like in here, but it isn't overly-extracted or sweet. Just a touch of herbaceousness on the finish. I think there's a better than fair chance that we will be bringing this one to Kansas soon. Also about $16.

2007 Mount Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon

Ahh, Mount Veeder Winery. When I was still cutting my teeth on wine in the early 90s, my father-in-law told my wife and I that Mount Veeder was always a good, go-to Napa Valley Cabernet. I still remember buying a bottle of 1987 from a retailer in Atlanta for a "special dinner" back in the day. I'm pretty sure I had at least a few bottles of each of their vintages throughout the 90s and into the early part of the new millennium. I don't buy it on a regular basis any more, but I couldn't resist when I saw a few bottles of 2007 on closeout for $20 at a St. Louis grocery store last Christmas.

Things have been really hectic around the house for the last two weeks with volleyball, Cub Scouts, cheerleading, entertaining winery reps, high school football and a host of other extracurricular activities. Tonight, we had nothing on the calendar so we took the opportunity to enjoy a rare sit-down family meal with a couple of ridiculously thick ribeyes, braised Brussels sprouts and rice pilaf. I opened the last of my 2007 Mount Veeder Winery Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley. Beautiful, deep garnet color doesn't show any sign of age. The nose is quite rustic with notes of brier, currant, coffee and licorice. The palate is fiercely tannic with super dry cocoa and dusty blackberry flavors. There's a hint of vegetation on the finish, but it is not in any way a detractor. If anything, it just adds a touch of complexity. I've had more than a few vintages of Mount Veeder Cabernets at the the 10-year mark and they only get better and better. I don't think this one is in any danger of going downhill any time soon, but I would drink it over the next few years before the rustic blackberry fruit fades. Frankly, I think the tannins are perfect right now with a well-marbled ribeye steak right off the charcoal grill.

2006 Bodegas Purisma "Trapio" Monastrell

Today started by bringing the suck. I popped part of an old filling out of a tooth yesterday morning so I spent an hour this morning getting it re-filled. Ironically, I broke the old filling flossing. My dentist joking said "yeah, that's how we keep you coming back!" So my tooth was throbbing for most of the afternoon. But that didn't stop me from making a nice dinner for the fam and myself. I battled a driving rainstorm to perfectly grill a flat iron steak and topped it with charmoula sauce. Sides were couscous from a box (yeah, sue me) and oven-roasted asparagus with Parmesan.

The wine I chose was the 2006 Bodegas Purisma Trapio Monastrell, Yecla. What an interesting wine. My first experience with this wine was back in the spring of 2011 when the retail store I was working for offered this as a wine of the month selection. At the time I thought it was backwards and unforgiving. But I saw the promise with a few years of age and the appropriate food. When the owners of the retail store closed up shop a few months ago for another opportunity in Colorado, I jumped on a few of these at a nice discount. And I'm very glad that I did as it has blossomed into a gorgeous wine.

Tonight's bottle boasts a saturated, cloudy garnet color that hasn't faded over the past two years. There's definitely no filtration going on here. The sweet black cherry, worn leather and licorice notes are bolstered by a delicious earthiness, a chalky texture and dry carob flavors. Beautifully balanced throughout with the fruit, tannins and acid all complementing one another. I would imagine this will continue to improve over the next few years.

When I purchased this wine, it was being distributed by one of the larger wholesalers. But it has recently been added to the Amphora portfolio. I'm very happy to be representing this wine in Kansas now and I hope that gives me the opportunity to continue to sample it for the foreseeable future. And yes, 2006 is the current vintage. Retails in the $25 range.

Hybrid wines and sweet potato soup

Felt like making a hearty soup with the chilly, rainy weather we've had of late. My wife found a pretty decent looking recipe in Cooking Light magazine which was basically cooked sweet potatoes and onion pureed with chicken stock and garnished with Parmesan cheese and crispy bacon. Really hit the spot with a black pepper/Parmesan toast.

I had some samples left over from today's sales rounds of some new wines we brought into Kansas about 2 weeks ago. The Hybrid wines are the second label of Peltier Station; a third generation family-run winery dedicated to sustainable farming in the Lodi region. The winery is named for an old train station where table grapes used to be loaded on boxcars and shipped eastward. A tip of the cap to Claire Augustine of Classique Wines, LLC and Claire Uncorked who turned me on to this winery.

2012 Hybrid Chardonnay, Lodi - This unoaked Chardonnay shows a light, clear color in the glass; as expected. Aromas of banana, mango and ripe tropical fruits leap out of the glass. A bit simple, but smells quite delicious. Spry and tangy on the palate with minerality and spritzy acidity. Might be a bit monolithic if you're into top flight Napa and Sonoma Chardonnay, but a very drinkable $10 wine.

2012 Hybrid Pinot Noir, Lodi - Yes, Virginia, there is a Pinot Noir from Lodi. And this one is pretty nice so long as you aren't an oak-a-phobe. Perfectly acceptable clear garnet color with a good dollop of hickory-scented wood/campfire accompanying the juicy raspberry and cherry notes on the nose and palate. No noticeable tannins. Finishes with vanilla bean and surprisingly nice acidity. A lot to like here for $10. Pinot Noir with a splash of Viognier.

2011 Hybrid Cabernet Sauvignon, Lodi - Deep, woodsy nose more reminiscent of forest floor and cured meat than a tooty-fruity $10 California Cabernet. Medium-bodied, Merlot-like palate with some nice dark fruit, vanilla and moderate tannins. Acidity on the finish seems a little artificial, but overall, a very nice value. Drink up.

Disclaimer: As you've probably noticed by now, I distribute this wine in Kansas.

Short Ribs, Maitake Mushrooms, Risotto and Two Wines from Steele

So I'm out making sales calls in Lawrence, KS on Wednesday at this quirky little retailer and a regular customer comes in. The owner excuses himself from our conversation, goes to the back and returns with this large brown paper bag. He places it on the counter in front of the customer and asks the customer to open it. The conversation goes something like this:

Owner: "Go ahead, open it."

Customer: (Face lights up) "Wow, that looks and smells amazing.!"

Owner: "My buddy found it out in the woods today. Interested? Go ahead and take a handful. There's plenty in there. More than I need."

Meanwhile I smell something delicious wafting across the room from a few feet away as I'm waiting for the DEA to bust in with jackboots and M-4's. Is this really happening?

Owner: (Turns to me) "You want some, too?"

What's in the bag? A pound of weed? Nope. Turns out the owner of this store is good friends with the owner of www.morelhunter.com, a professional mushroom hunter and salesman. And the morel hunter had just dropped off a basketball-sized Maitake mushroom (a.k.a. Hen-of-the-Woods) that he had found that morning. Not being one to pass on an opportunity like that, I pulled off a large hunk and took it home thinking of what I could do with it for a dinner over the next night or two.

I ended up working it into tonight's dinner of braised short ribs over a simple risotto and sauteed spinach. I don't recall ever having maitake mushrooms so I did a little internet research on them. Apparently, they fry up quite well. So instead of doing a quick saute and then stirring them into the risotto, I decided to leave them out of the risotto (hoping to keep them from turning mushy) and let them shine on their own. And what a good decision that was. Broken into pieces, these things fry up in butter into a deep, golden brown like a chicken breast. And best of all, they maintain their dense, chewy texture without turning to mush like shiitakes, criminis or portabellas. Just an amazing mushroom experience. Easily trumps any morels or porcinis I've had. I've very grateful to this retailer for this phenomenal experience and I'll be dropping off a bottle of something nice for him to enjoy at his leisure.

I had two partial bottles of red wines from Steele with me at the end of a long day of sampling retailers so I enjoyed the remnants of both with tonight's most delicious dinner. The 2010 Writer's Block Zinfandel, Lake County is from an alternate label started by Jed Steele's son a few years ago. (The label has since been turned back over to Jed.) Deep garnet color with brownish hues. Loads of black pepper, leather and earthy spice on the nose. Seems a bit alcoholic for the stated 13.8%. The palate consists of waves and waves of bittersweet cocoa, roasted coffee bean, black tea, and earthy raspberry flavors. Super long, dusty finish. A real departure from your run-of-the-mill overextracted, tooty-fruity California Zinfandel. I just can't get enough of those dusty, raspberry notes! Tannins suggest this one might reward a few years in the cellar. 92% Zinfandel and 8% Petite Sirah. About $16 full retail and a wine I distribute in Kansas.

The other wine my wife and I enjoyed was the 2010 Outcast Red Wine, Lake County. This decadent wine is a blend of 51% Syrah, 23% Zinfandel, 11% Petite Sirah, 7% Merlot, 5% Malbec and 3% Petite Verdot. Gorgeous ruby color. Deep red and blue fruits on the nose accompanied by hints of licorice and black pepper. Certainly more primary and fruit-forward than the Writer's Block Zinfandel. Seems like the small amounts of Malbec and Petite Verdot become more assertive on the palate with tobacco (Malbec) and graphite (Petite Verdot) on the palate. Constantly evolving, this is one to enjoy over a couple of hours. Nice, long plummy (Merlot?) finish. Delicious and worth every penny of $23. Another wine that I distribute in the State of Kansas.

2012 Andrew Murray "Tous les Jours" Syrah

Alright, let me go ahead and clear the air by saying that as of Monday I distribute this wine in Kansas. Got a pallet of this, and a few other Andrew Murray labels in the warehouse earlier this week. If you consider that a conflict of interest, then feel free to take this blog entry with a grain of salt.

 

The 2012 Andrew Murray Vineyards Tous les Jours Syrah, Santa Ynez Valley is Andrew's "everyday" Syrah sourced from vineyards in the Santa Ynez Valley and Paso Robles. Beautiful, completely saturated purple color with very Northern Rhone-like aromatics of smoked meat, black pepper, wintergreen and ripe blackberry.Tart blackberry and black peppercorn notes on the palate with moderate tannins and mouth-watering acidity that makes you long for the next sip. Drink sooner rather than later. Paired beautifully with a grilled flat iron steak topped with an exotic charmoula sauce. Fantastic value at $16.

2010 Primarius Pinot Noir, Oregon

Okay, okay, I told you I'd start blogging more frequently. And I have. It's not the 4-5 times per week I used to do, but I think I'm up to once a week (or so) now. Tonight's dinner was a simple roasted chicken rubbed down with assorted herbs and spices, roasted potatoes and a low-brow squash casserole. (At least I used squash from the garden.)

And with this delicious chicken, I opened a bottle of 2010 Primarius Pinot Noir, Oregon. Really light in the glass, this wine is borderline rose in color. More on that later. Pretty, earthy strawberry notes on the nose that follow through onto the palate. Hints of hickory smoke, tar and spice. Tart and austere with considerable acidity and a long, unripe strawberry finish. Not a great wine by any measure, but works well with food. Not particularly pleasant on its own after dinner. I was shocked to learn the winemaker blended 3% Syrah in this wine. I can't imagine how light the color and body would be without this addition. Not that I seek validations by mainstream wine press, but I think my impressions were very similar to those of the following reviewer in Wine & Spirits magazine: "Light and peaty, with scents of smoke and wild strawberry, this wine rallies a bit with two days of air, pulled along by its line of acidity. A well-priced red for a chicken panini." About $15.

Austin Hope "Troublemaker" (Blend 4), Paso Robles

Homemade pizza night always calls for a wine that can stand up to a trio of bold pizzas. I had some leftover 2010 Queen of Hearts Sauvignon Blanc, Santa Barbara County to go with the salmon, melted leek and fresh chive pizza. This is a wine I distribute and I really enjoy it for it's light body and lemony acidity. A great value at $12.

I always make a pepperoni pizza for my son who hasn't quite embraced the "fancy" pizza concept yet. But I have to admit to scarfing a piece or two every now and then as well. Sometimes, you just can't ignore the classics! The other pizza I made this evening featured leftover rotisserie chicken, goat cheese, radish slices and baby arugula tossed in a light vinaigrette. I know this sounds like a train wreck, but it really is delicious.

To go with the last two pizzas I opened my last bottle of NV Austin Hope Troublemaker (Blend 4), Paso Robles, a blend of 67% Syrah, 22% Mourvedre, 8% Grenache and 3% Petite Sirah. Super inky-black in the glass, this wine is all about sweet, hedonistic, grapey, primary fruit notes. There's a little dusty earthiness and acidity lurking in the glass to provide just enough balance to the sweet fruit. But make no mistake, this is all about the guilty pleasure known as Paso Robles red wine. No tannins to speak of so drink this up now with something appropriately spicy without deep analysis or pretension. I think this was about $18 before discount.

Disclaimer: I distribute the Queen of Hearts Sauvignon Blanc, but I have no business interest in Hope Family Wines.

2010 Cowan Cellars Pinot Noir and "Moaveni Vineyard" Syrah

To hell with it. I'm going to go ahead and start blogging about the wines I sell here. I'll just make sure that I disclose the information so that there is no conflict of interest. And since I'm technically paying for all of these wines anyway, I don't feel bad tasting and reviewing them here.

A few months ago we brought in a few wines from Cowan Cellars for a restaurant looking for a high-end Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir. The consultant actually asked us to bring the wines from Radio-Coteau into Kansas, but the winemaker there balked at the idea of working with an upstart distributor. So I suggested Cowan to the chef-consultant and he was good with the idea. Everyone involved loved the wines (we pitched the Pinot Noir and Syrah) so we worked them onto the restaurant list. Unfortunately, the restaurant has been in a constant state of turmoil and upheaval since opening. The manager was canned last month and I heard today that the head chef was leaving. The upshot is the restaurant hasn't gone through as much of this limited release wine as we had hoped so I took it around to retailers today trying to gin up some interest.

As is usually the case, I'm left with 1/2 to 2/3 of a bottle at the end of the day so I wind up drinking it with dinner. And tonight's dinner was perfect with the wine. The 2010 Cowan Cellars Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast is as far from a California fruit bomb as you will ever encounter. Burgundian in nature, the color is rather light with expressive damp earth, mushroom, truffle and cherry compote on the nose. The palate reinforces the cherry-scented nose with the subtle addition of vanilla and sweet bay leaf accents. The wine sees no new oak and the alcohol is a very manageable 13.9%. The acidity is perfect with a fatty, farm-raised salmon filet marinated in teriyaki sauce and grilled to a perfect medium-rare. the earthy finish seems to go on forever and ever. Not cheap at $30, but worth every penny.

After my wife and I drained the remaining Pinot with dinner, we dove into the last of the 2010 Cowan Cellars Moaveni Vineyard Syrah, Bennett Valley. If Cowan's Pinot Noir can be described as "Burgundian," his Syrah is pure northern Rhone. Deep cranberry color, but no freakish extraction here. The nose is complex as anything I have ever encountered from a California Syrah with wintergreen, white peppercorn, summer sausage, tar and blackberry all mingling in the nostrils. The palate speaks of cool climate Syrah with preserved meat, blackberry, pepper and moderate tannins. The alcohol on this one is an incredibly restrained 13.2%. I dare you to find another California Syrah sporting a number this low. Once again, impeccably balanced with an impossibly long finish. About $28.

Although I have never met him, I feel like I have known "Florida Jim" Cowan for years now as we have been reading each others tasting notes and exchanging e-mail since the mid-90s via the the old Wine Spectator message boards and the discussion forum at www.WestCoastWine.net. Hopefully, I can talk Jim into bringing his talent to the Kansas City area some day for a wine dinner or in-store tasting.

2009 Baileyana Firepeak Vineyard Chardonnay

Been thinking about getting back into blogging recently. Truth is, I'm pretty much just drinking wines I distribute and/or wines that I've already blogged on in the past so there just hasn't been much reason to hunt and peck on the keyboard. But as I was out making sales today I realized I didn't have anything at home that would pair well with tonight's meal featuring a rich risotto topped with sauteed shrimp. So I bought this at my last stop of the day along with his last two bottles of Samuel Adams Third Voyage Double IPA; my current favorite beer.

The 2009 Baileyana Firepeak Vineyard Chardonnay, Edna Valley has a light golden color and a rich and round, brioche-like nose that suggests a fat, over-oaked Chardonnay awaits in the glass. But the palate is alive with lemony, mineral flavors and electrifying acidity. A touch alcoholic at 14.1%, but not a major distraction. Finishes with a touch of burnt matchstick which provided a nice contrast to the rich and buttery risotto. A perfectly delicious way to spend $20.

2010 La Tarasque Cotes du Rhone

What a crazy 4th of July weekend! Being in the wine sales business, no retailer wants to see a wine rep on such a big beer weekend; particularly following last week's big liquor buy-in. So after a few (rather profitable) calls on Wednesday morning, I came home in time to take the family to a great 4th of July fireworks show Wednesday night at Lake Miola in downtown Paola. We had relatives from Indianapolis arrive on Thursday afternoon to spend the night here on their way to a nice vacation at Pike's Peak in Colorado. Wednesday evening we enjoyed 2009 Dunning Vin De Casa, Paso Robles and NV Austin Hope Troublemaker (Blend 4), Paso Robles with grilled trip-tip and a lime-cilantro butter. Also enjoyed a couple of hoppy local microbrews from Indianapolis, Flat 12 Bier Works Walkabout Pale Ale and Triton Brewing Co. Railsplitter IPA.

Friday and Saturday were spent with my son's Bear den at Camp Theodore Naish where we enjoyed turkey cold cuts on hamburger buns, sloppy joes and semi-warm chicken patty sandwiches as we worked on numerous skills and awards. Came home Saturday evening to find a couple of Italian sausages in the refrigerator as well as a a number of fresh zucchini and yellow squash from the garden. So I whipped up a couple of skewers alternating the aforementioned ingredients and red onion. While the skewers were on the grill, I made pesto with garden-fresh basil and tossed it with spaghetti noodles.

 Not having any Italian wine in the cellar, I reached for a bottle of 2010 La Tarasque Cotes du Rhone. This Grenache-dominated blend is clearly made in the international style with a decadent color and tons of black pepper and dark cocoa in the nose. Quite rich and spicy on the palate with decent raspberry fruit; yet nicely balanced with the fine tannins and acidity. Not terribly complex, but everything one could ask for from a $10 Cotes-du-Rhone.

'08 Nicklaus and '10 Montoya Cabernets + Others

A belated note on a couple of Napa Valley Cabernets enjoyed with my father-in-law last week over a grilled tri-tip. The 2010 Montoya Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley was super dry with fantastic color. Nose was all over the place with tar, tart blackberry, sweet maple and American oak notes. Not a whole lot of fruit on the palate. Massive tannins and a long, dry finish. I suspect those tannins will preserve this wine for a long time, but I question whether or not there is enough fruit for this to age gracefully. I have two more of these in the cellar. About $20

Far better, at least at this stage, was the 2008 Nicklaus Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley. This private label wine (made by Terlato) shows a faded cranberry color with aromas of maple syrup, brown sugar and sweet cherries. Nicely balanced with a hint of bell pepper and sweet cedar flavors on the palate. Long, sweet finish. About $30 on release, but purchased on close-out for $10.

More recent tastes include the 2011 Sean Minor Sauvignon Blanc, California which I found to be more tart, lemony and herbaceous than previous renditions of this wine when it carried a Sonoma County appellation (and a lot more sweet, tropical fruit). That being said, it was very refreshing with a salad tossed with a Dijon-ranch dressing and topped with grilled chicken breast. Still an excellent value at $11.

Less satisfying with the same meal was the 2012 Herencia Altes Garnatxa Blanca D.O. Terra Alta. Not a bad wine, but just too much focus on mineral and sea breeze notes and nearly devoid of fruit. About $10.

Tonight we enjoyed the deeply intense 2011 Tarima Monastrell, D.O. Vinos Alicante with hamburgers off the grill. Opaque, slightly cloudy color gives way to a complex nose of coffee, bittersweet cocoa, mulling spices, pomegranate and licorice. Wonderful chalky, leesy texture on the palate with leathery pomegranate fruit and more licorice. Great balance of tannins and fruit, but I wouldn't bother trying to age this into anything better than it is right here and now. I think this could easily stand up to heartier fare; including venison and lamb. At $10, this reinforces my notion that the world's best wine values hail from Spain.

2008 Gary Farrel Chardonnay, Carneros

Just a brief note on the 2008 Gary Farrell Carneros Selection Chardonnay, Carneros. This is a splendid example of a California Chardonnay with a few years age on it which is drinking beautifully right now. Clear, medium golden color still looks quite youthful. Wonderful aromatics of bruleed pineapple, mango, honey, and toasty, vanilla-oak. Retains plenty of decadent tropical fruit on the palate as well as bright acidity. Pleasantly bitter finish. Fantastic wine that I have to think was caught at its absolute peak. Another steal from my father-in-law's stash. Normally $30, purchased on close-out for $10.

Paired quite nicely with roasted chicken with a traditional southern sausage/cornbread dressing and steamed broccoli.

Tremendous Father's Day Dinner with Wines

Spent a relaxing Father's Day yesterday that began with a sweltering jog and ended with a feast fit for a king. Sandwiched in between was a couple of hours vegging on the couch watching the US Open and the NBA Finals (Go Spurs!). Dinner was a delicious venison stroganoff with wild mushrooms and home made creme fraiche.

 To go with the food, I chose two Pinots with a few years on them. First up was my father-in-law's contribution. The 2008 Ici/La-Bas Les Révélés Elke Vineyard Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley has a faded color, odd since it is a year younger than the other wine on the table. Hi-toned floral notes lift the earthy, barnyardy nose. Not much fruit to celebrate here, but the earthy notes perfectly compliment the food. Unspectacular finish and a touch alcoholic for the stated 13.5%. About $40

I think the far better wine was the 2007 Merry Edwards Meredith Estate Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley. Still featuring a super deep color, The nose is an insane melange of raspberry and freshly muddled mint leaves. Incredibly youthful fruit on the palate with hints of campfire/hickory wood. Rich and buttery, yet perfectly balanced. Tthe fruit preservation here is quite amazing. Juicy acidity. About $75

For dessert, my daughter made a delicious no-bake Key Lime cheesecake. With that, I opened my last bottle of 1996 Weingut Kurt Darting Durkheim Frohnof Scheurebe Trockenbeerenauslese, Pfalz - Color of 20 year old tawny port. Thick and rich with nearly indescribably intense grapefruit and citrus notes on both the nose and palate. Quite sweet, but still plenty of acidity to keep everything perfectly balanced. But I would drink this sooner rather than later as the acid wasn't quite as electrifying as it was 10 years ago. A truly sublime pairing with the dessert.

2011 Brandlin "Bald Mountain Vineyard" Zinfandel

Had an amazing Zinfandel tonight. The best Zinfandel I've had in recent memory and a shoe-in for my Top 10 wine list for 2013. This one was purchased by my father-in-law through his membership in the wine club at Cuvaison. Regularly $38, this is available to club members for the very reasonable price of $28. Served alongside red peppers stuffed with ground venison, aromatics, rice and smoked paprika. The surprising earthiness of the wine made for an absolutely perfect match with the venison. Simply delicious.

The 2011 Brandlin Bald Mountain Vineyard Zinfandel, Napa Valley has a completely saturated color despite the cold, rainy season that resulted in a lot of lighter wines. The nose is wonderfully complex with raspberry, boysenberry, cracked black pepper and a certain earthiness I don't normally associate with this varietal. The palate has a deft balance of sweet raspberry fruit and black pepper with electrifying acidity and nice tannins that should easily preserve this wine for another 5-7 years. (But there's no way it would last that long in my cellar.) Lots of smoky French oak in here, too, but it never overshadows the wonderful fruit. 14.5% alcohol is not out-of-line.

Selection of Wines with Rotisserie Venison

2012 Seven Hills Pinot Gris, Oregon - Pure golden color, no hint of orange. Lots of dry tropical fruit (pineapple, mango) and mineral notes in the nose. On the palate, lots of dry pineapple flavors, a certain mintiness and a very pleasant bitterness that provides balance. Doesn't really stand out in a sea of $12 Pinot Gris, but it's very pleasant and drinkable nonetheless. Consumed as an aperitif while the venison was on the rotisserie.

2007 Domaines Schlumberger Les Princes Abbés Gewurztraminer, Alsace -Deep golden color. Absolutely insane aromatics of honeyed pineapple and peaches. Incredibly thick (and moderately sweet) on the palate with fruit cocktail notes and fantastic acidity. Makes me wish sauteed foie gras with an apricot jam reduction was on the menu tonight. But fantastic as an aperitif. Another ridiculous close-out purchase. $7.99, regularly $29.99.

2004 Voss Vineyards Syrah, Napa Valley - Still holding on remarkably well with a great, dark color and wonderful cherry, licorice and mocha notes on the nose and palate. Fruit, tannins and acidity are all in perfect harmony now. 15.0% alcohol doesn't seem to be intrusive. Wonderful with the rotisseried leg of lamb. There is a link to the winery here, but don't go there expecting to find any information on their Syrah. Sadly, Voss now only makes Sauvignon Blanc. Purchased on clearance for $5.99, regularly $25.99

2004 Maqrues de Griñon Petit Verdot, D.O. Dominio de Valdepusa - I don't know how you feel about the varying degrees of a wine being corked, but for me it's an all or nothing kind of deal. The slightest hint of wet newspaper and I'm looking for a replacement bottle. My father-in-law thought it was a little "off" but still drinkable. I couldn't get past the nose. Not even worth the clearance price of $7.99 (regularly $39.99).

With the Petit Verdot being a bust, we opened the 2006 Ceja Vineyards Merlot, Carneros. I don't recall having anything from this winery, but I was quite impressed with this one. Black cherry, chocolate, wintergreen and just a hint of bell pepper. The nose is quite captivating. Nice body and tannins for Merlot with a long, acidic finish. I wonder what this would have tasted like 3-4 years ago with a little more fruit in the glass. I'd take a pass at the normal price of $29.99, but it was a steal at the $6.99 clearance price. Truth be told, this would be a fine deal at $20.

2011 Chelsea Goldschmidt Merlot, Alexander Valley

I got an e-mail yesterday announcing that Off the Vine, the wine retail store where I worked from 2009-2012 is closing sometime in the next few weeks. The owners have been presented with a wonderful new wine-related business opportunity in Colorado and I wish them nothing but the nest of luck. I know they will love it there. To clear their inventory, they are offering the remaining stock at a generous discount. So I was there when the store opened this morning to pick up a few cases; some known and others unknown.

One of the "unknowns" I got this morning was the 2011 Chelsea Goldschmidt Merlot, Alexander Valley. I opened it tonight with burgers off the grill and couldn't possibly have been more pleased. Wonderfully deep cranberry color could easily pass for a Cabernet. The nose seemingly reveals another aroma with each and every sniff. Plum, sweet cherry, coffee, licorice and toasty oak. Around the 1-hour mark the wine turns decidedly minty. Beautiful balance on the palate as well with coffee bean, charred oak, sweet cherry and considerably more tannin that I expected from a $16 California Merlot. Am I too excited about this wine? I really don't think so. Highly recommended.

2011 Paul Dolan Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc, Mendocino

Continuing along my journey through a case full of inexpensive wines I've never tried, tonight I reached for the 2011 Paul Dolan Sauvignon Blanc, Potter Valley, Mendocino. Transparent color with just the slightest hint of golden hue. Wonderfully floral aromatics with bits of green apple, kiwi and lemon adding complexity. No trace of grassiness, bell pepper, "gooseberry" or anything else that I currently detest in most New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs. This is all about pure California fruit. Quite tart and lemony on the palate with assertive acidity My only quibble with this wine is the somewhat short, watery finish. But for $13, I'm not complaining. Drop dead gorgeous with fish tacos (cabbage, guacamole, chipotle crema) and a glass after dinner was just as refreshing.

2011 Evodia Old Vines Garnacha, Calatayud

Continuing along with my box of inexpensive wines I've never had, tonight's selection was the 2011 Evodia Old Vines Garnacha, Calatayud. This is an absolutely stunning wine and at $8.49 (before discount!) a stunning value. According to the label, this wine comes from 100 year old vines planted at 2400-3000 feet elevation. I'm at a loss for how someone can produce this wine, transport it across the ocean, mark it up 3 times (importer, wholesaler, retailer) and still make money on this at such a ridiculously low price.


Anyway, back to the wine. Textbook Spanish Grenache with sexy blueberry cobbler, mineral, sweet Mediterranean herbs and minty mocha notes on the nose and palate. Tannins are something of an afterthought so drink it up now. Long, herbaceous finish plays well with tonight's dinner of grilled flank steak with charmoula sauce. We also had parsley potatoes (parsley from the garden) and broiled asparagus (asparagus from the garden) with Parmesan cheese.

2011 Eola Hills Pinot Gris, 2012 Rainstorm Pinot Gris

I spent a very somber, yet satisfying morning/afternoon with my son's Cub Scout pack at two Memorial Day ceremonies in Paola. This morning we assembled in a corner of the Paola cemetery reserved for veterans' graves; many dating back to the Civil War and simply marked U.S. Soldier. We were there with representatives of the local VFW chapter, a motorcycle honor guard and even a Civil War reenactor. After a prayer from the VFW chaplain, we listened to stories about local veterans, heard a reading of recently-deceased local veterans and then had a 21-gun salute and "taps" played on the bugle. In the afternoon, a similar ceremony was repeated  at the Veterans' Memorial in downtown Paola.

I wanted to grill or smoke something this evening for dinner and salmon steaks were on sale at the grocery store for $7.99/pound. So I picked 3 thick ones, rubbed them down with a lemon pepper seasoning and hot-smoked them over charcoal and maple chips. I mean, this just begs for Oregon Pinot Gris, right?  18 minutes later, the salmon was succulent and tender with just the right amount of smoke flavor.

While the salmon was smoking, I opened the 2011 Eola Hills Pinot Gris, Oregon. Features classic Pinot Gris color with that hint of brassy golden/orange hue. On the nose it's all about lemons and tart green apples. The tartness continues onto the palate with bright and vibrant green apple flavors and a long, tart finish. Slightly oxidized? A well-made wine, but just not what I was looking for. So I re-corked the rest of the bottle and stuck it in the fridge for another day. Retails for about $14 and not something I'm likely to buy again.

After relegating the Eola Hills to the fridge, I twisted the screw cap on a 2012 Rainstorm Pinot Gris, Oregon. This has a very clear, light golden color that could easily pass for a Sauvignon Blanc; no brassy highlights. Some fragrant pear and mineral notes on the nose, but the super dry, minerally palate is nearly devoid of fruit. The finish is commendably long, but once again, it's just pure mineral. I suppose this was an okay value for $10, but I don't see myself buying this one again, either.

I hate to call the evening's wines a disappointment as neither one was particularly bad. But neither one of them had that "it factor," either like some of my favorite inexpensive Pinot Gris that you can read about here (Wallace Brook, Cline, J Vineyards, Mohua, etc.).

2010 Pierano Estate "The Other," Lodi

Hey, is this thing still on? Anyone out there still reading this blog? I know it's been a while since my last post but I think I'm back. At least I'm back to buying wine. After spending roughly the last five months just drinking wines that I represent in my capacity as co-owner of Amphora Distribution (a small new wine distributor in Kansas), I went out and actually bought a mixed case of someone else's wines. My only criteria were that the wines were all under $15 and that they were all new to me.

Tonight we went to a friend's house for a little pre-Memorial Day cookout. He smoked two pork shoulders and a couple of racks of ribs on his new Traeger pellet smoker. Thinking smoked ribs and Kansas City-style BBQ sauce called for a fruit bomb of sorts, I grabbed the 2010 Pierano Estate Vineyards The Other, Lodi. The wine has a perfectly lovely, clear ruby color; although I was say it stops well short of complete saturation. While the wine is a blend of 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 40% Merlot and 10% Syrah, I would say this wine is all about the soft, medium-bodied, plummy aromas and flavors of Merlot. There's a good bit of oak, a trace of nondescript spice and just enough bay leaf to add complexity and spare the wine from the dreaded monolithic descriptor.



Nothing outstanding here, but it did everything I could ask an $11 bottle of California red to do and it was quite nice with the excellent BBQ. The retailer I purchased this from told me his store loaded up on this wine based on the excellent 2010 Pierano Cabernet that they couldn't keep in stock. (But he also told me that the 2011 Pierano Cabernet is a huge disappointment.) I haven't tried anything else from this winery, but if I find a dusty bottle of 2010 still lurking on some retailer's shelf, I'll be sure to pull the trigger.

2008 Federalist "Visionary" Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley

Holy smokes! Has it really been a month since I've posted anything here? I knew I was being lame and lazy, but I had no idea that it had gotten that bad. I'll really try to do better. But seriously, the vast majority of what I drink these days are wines distributed by Amphora that I bring home after a long day of tasting with retailers and/or restaurants. I don't want to use this site to prop up my own wines and I've had these wines so many times that I don't even bother dissecting them any more. But every once in a while, like tonight, I drink something I don't distribute.

I've recently had the 2008 Federalist Visionary Zinfandel, Alexander Valley twice and I can't say that I'm really impressed. Is it the wine? Or maybe it's because I would have aligned myself with the anti-federalists had I been around in the late 1700s? Anyway, the wine has a rather translucent, cranberry color. When the cork is first pulled, the nose is all about tart raspberry fruit. Swirlitude in a big Riedel Cabernet glass coaxes out lots of coconut-laced American oak and distinct chocolate note. Missing is any hint of pepper or spice, hallmarks I look for in a good Zinfandel. The 14.2% alcohol isn't noticeable and the wine, to its credit, has nicely-balanced acidity and tannins. Finishes rather sweet with raspberry jam and American oak. I think I paid about $25 for this when I was in St. Louis over Christmas. I've since seen it all over Kansas City for about the same price. But I doubt it is anything I would buy again.

2011 J Vineyards Pinot Gris

The 2011 J Vineyards and Winery Pinot Gris, California has one of the most amazingly intense noses I've come across in recent memory. Luscious waves of tangerine, ginger, cantaloupe and white flowers tantalize the nose while honeyed melon and mineral notes tease the palate. There's a hint of residual sugar on the finish, but it does not detract from the wine's overall crisp and clean nature. Would make an excellent summertime sipper. A beautiful wine in the sub-$15 range that paired perfectly with tonight's shrimp/shiitake mushroom/spinach/bowtie pasta toss.

I must confess, I haven't had anything from Jordan/J Vineyards in probably 20 years as I tend to avoid mass-produced/name brand labels when possible. But being a big domestic Pinot Gris fan, I thought I'd take a chance on this one that I saw at a grocery store in St. Louis over Christmas. Nice to see this starting to show up on retailers' shelves in the KC area.

2006 Purisma "Trapio" Monastrell

I first had the 2006 Bodegas la Purisma Trapio Monastrell, Yecla about 6 months ago at a staff tasting for the retailer I used to work for. At the time I remember thinking it was still quite young and in desperate need of some rustic, hearty food. Going on 6 or 7 years now, the wine's color shows no sign of age. The bouquet is an amazing explosion of kirsch liqueur, new saddle leather and crushed fennel seed. Really, one of those wines you could just smell all night long. Tons of sweet cherry, game and licorice caress the palate before being hammered on the finish with ferocious tannin. The whole fruit/tannin/acid balance suggests this wine could effortlessly age another decade. I can't remember the exact price for this one, but I think it retails in the low $20 range. A stunning value.

Dinner tonight was a rich and hearty venison stew over white rice. The gamey notes from the wine were an absolute perfect match with the braised deer meat.

2010 Clayhouse Adobe White

I know I haven't been posting much here lately. I've been quite busy now that the distributorship is up and running. In my first week of peddling wine, I've succeeded in getting our wines placed in 6 or 7 retailers as well as 2 wine bars. I'm particularly proud of the fact that everyone who has ordered wine from me has taken on multiple cases of multiple wines. That tells me that our initial offering of wines from Dunning and Lucas & Lewellen was a sound choice. Not a bad start. But much, much more room for growth.

I've mostly been drinking our own wines as well as one amazing Chenin Blanc that we are bringing on as soon as the paperwork gets finalized. But I did manage to find the time to cook up a good meal of fish tacos and enjoy a delicious bottle of 2010 Clayhouse Adobe White, Central Coast tonight. I've enjoyed numerous bottles of this winery's Clayhouse Red in the past, but this was my first time with this blend of 46% Viognier, 27% Sauvignon Blanc, 16% Grenache Blanc, 9% Other White and 2% Chenin Blanc. The color is bright and clear with brassy highlights. The nose is reminiscent of a Torrontes with its effusive floral and orange blossom scents with highlights of candle wax and thyme. Crisp and tart on the palate with lemon and orange pith notes and a thick, waxy texture. No oak here, but there is a hint of yeasty smokiness from the sur lie aging. Really over-delivers for $12.99 and a true OMG wine pairing with fish tacos with shredded cabbage, homemade guacamole and chipotle crema.

Two Chateauneufs-du-Pape with Venison

2001 Domaine Grand Veneur, Chateauneuf-du-Pape - Color is starting to fade, but still retains an attractive cranberry color. Pretty, Burgundian notes of forest floor, mushroom and sweet cherry with sweet thyme playing a supporting role. On the palate it is light and very dry with cherry and thyme notes and a long, tannic finish. Enjoy now as I think this wine is at or near its peak. 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah and 10% Mourvedre.

2003 Domaine du Grand Tinel Chateauneuf-du-Pape - Cloudy, yet still retains youthful coloration. Lots of dark cherry and chocolate in the nose here. Still quite sweet with cherry and spicy raspberry fruit on the palate. Turns really dry and woody, borderline unpleasant, on the finish. Great nose and palate, but loses points for the finish.

Dinner was pan-seared tournadoes of venison tenderloin with a rustic mushroom pan sauce and smashed Yukon gold potatoes. A delicious way to finish up the father-in-law's visit.

Top 10 Wines from 2012

Here's a list of the ten best wines that I enjoyed last year. Since I don't believe in trying to compare Oregon Pinot Gris head-to-head with California Cabernet Franc or Australian Shiraz, I'm just presenting these in alphabetical order.

2006 Bodega Abel Mendoza Seleccion Personal, Rioja - I typically don't gravitate towards Rioja since most of it is aged in inexpensive American oak barrels that impart a lot of dill and Bourbon notes. But I really liked this wine for its smoke, vanilla and raspberry fruit. This was served with grilled venison backstrap with a red wine/red currant reduction sauce. My father-in-law picked this one up on clearance; regularly $60, marked down to $15.

2008 Austrian Pepper Gruner Veltliner, Niederosterreich - I've had precious few examples of this varietal, but this one really impressed me with its beautiful green apple, candle wax and petroleum notes, waxy texture and electrifying acidity. And yes, there's a subtle hint of black pepper that gets you right on the tip of the tongue. About $15.

2008 Four Vines Heretic Petite Sirah, Paso Robles - Uncanny blackberry jam, cream and French roast coffee leap from the glass. Unctuous, gelatinous texture features loads of dark cocoa and blackberry liqueur. Another great pairing with venison, this time with a blackberry pan sauce. Purchased on sale for $30, regularly $40.

1995 Chateau de la Gardine Cuvee des Generations "Gaston Philippe", AOC Chateauneuf-du-Pape - I had high expectations for this wine, but I had no idea how well it would show against the 1995 and 1998 Chateau Beaucastel. Deep black fruit with a Barolo-like nose of roses, tar and fennel bulb. Absolutely stunning. I think I paid about $75 for this back on release.

2008 Justin Vineyards Justification, Paso Robles. This blend of 65% Cabernet Franc and 35% Merlot out-dueled the delicious 2008 Dunning Cabernet Franc. The sugary, blueberry cobbler nose and tremendous blue and black fruits immediately took me back to one of my all-time favorites, the 1994 Shafer Hillside Select Cabernet Sauvignon. Another bargain bin closeout steal ($20, normally $50) compliments of my father-in-law.

2008 King Estate Domaine Pinot Gris, Oregon - My good friend Alex and his wife brought this one over for a Memorial Day paella party. I believe they purchased this at the winery. With its layers of yeast, mineral and orange-tinted fruit it was easily the best domestic Pinot Gris I have ever had. Pricey at $40, but quite a treat.

2006 Alois Kracher Beerenauslese Cuvee, Burgenland - This is the only wine on the list that I enjoyed at a restaurant last year. This was paired with Mahon cheese, kumquat jelly and housemade black pepper crackers at Atlanta's Miller Union. The wine's sweet apricot and truffle notes were absolute perfection with the buttery, pungent cheese. One of the more memorable desserts I have ever had.

2006 Linne Calodo Nemesis, Paso Robles This blend of 82% Syrah, 14% Mourvedre and 4% Grenache beat out numerous Rhone Rangers from the likes of Dunning, Tablas Creek and Terry Hoage to make the list. Chocolate-covered cherries, fresh-cracked black pepper, camphor and sweet resinous herbs burst from the glass. Uncanny balance. With grilled flank steak and charmoula sauce. About $50

1994 Penfolds Grange Shiraz, South Australia - Fine-grain American oak, mint, eucalyptus and roasted meat with a mouth-coating texture and a finish that can be measured with a sundial. A true "iron fist in a velvet glove." About $150 on release and built to last forever.

2004 Tenuta Sette Ponti Oreno, IGT Tuscany - I drank a lot of middling Italian wines and a couple of big disappointments. But our friends Ron and Suzy really blew me away with this Sangiovese/Cabernet/Merlot blend. Bewildering aroma of blueberry cobbler and fresh rosemary with ferocious tannins. Great pairing with grilled filet and shiitake risotto. Currently sells for about $100.

Wow. Looking back, I can't help but marvel at how many great wines I've been fortunate to enjoy with so many great people last year. My business partner Chris and his wife. My father-in-law. My wife's sister and her husband in Atlanta. My dear friend Alex and his wife, Kerri. My wife's college roommate Suzy and her husband Ron, also in Atlanta. And, of course, my wife. I can only hope that 2013 is as full of great wine and great friendship as last year was. Now, if you'll excuse me, we're having venison tenderloin with a selection of Chateauneufs-du-Pape this evening......