2012 J Vineyards Pinot Gris, California
Utilizing special blocks of Pinot Gris from around California, the J bottling has quickly established itself as the best-selling high-end Pinot Gris in America — and this vintage will not disappoint. Brilliant light straw color. Perfumed aromas of… Read more
2012 Storm Winery Sauvignon Blanc, Santa Ynez Valley
Strongly scented and effusive, this miniscule-batch Sauvignon Blanc offers up a spring bouquet of orchids, pear tart and tropical mixed fruit. Almost more pleasing to smell than sip, it’s well balanced and exceedingly drinkable on a hot California… Read more
2011 Kendall-Jackson ‘Vintner’s Reserve’ Chardonnay, California
For more than three decades, Kendall-Jackson has been the clear leader in producing high-quality, moderately priced Chardonnay that is readily available in most retail outlets and fine dining venues. The 2011 vintage of its “Vintner’s Reserve”… Read more
2011 Kendall-Jackson ‘Avant’ Chardonnay, California
Medium straw color. Light aromas of lemon oil, green apple and citrus blossom lead to rounded lemon and apple flavors in the mouth. Deft use of neutral oak barrels on some lots and partial malolactic fermentation give the wine a round mouthfeel…. Read more
2001 McKenzie-Mueller Merlot, Los Carneros, Napa Valley
This was brought by a friend to a recent dinner party, and what a treat it was. 12 years of aging have worked wonders for this now brickish wine, which still bleeds full berry flavors and keeps on producing more and more deliciousness as it opens… Read more
NV Camelot Cabernet Sauvignon, California
Translucent neon ruby color. A bouquet of smoked herbs leads to sharp berry and high-toned bell pepper impressions. Light in the mouth and simple, the flavor trails away at the finish. Pair this wine with a roast beef sandwich, or try it with a… Read more
NV Camelot Merlot, California
Nearly transparent neon ruby color. Sweet aromas of dusty cherry and milk chocolate play off of darker berry fruits and a bright note of herbs. The wine has a light palate presence, with moderate tannins. An easy-drinking red at a great everyday… Read more
NV Camelot Pinot Noir, California
Neon pink cherry color. Aromas of cherries found in canned fruit cocktail, along with strawberry candy. The wine picks up a silty earthiness in the mouth. Sweet and simple — like a cartoon version of Pinot Noir. For a wine newbie, this is a good… Read more
NV Camelot Chardonnay, California
Straw color. Surprisingly fresh aromas of peach and citrus, with a dollop of cream. Smooth and creamy in the mouth, with enough juicy acidity to balance the sweetness. All in all, a clean, pleasing white at a bargain price. MSRP: $7 (January… Read more
2009 Whiplash ‘Redemption,’ California
From Reata Winery, this red blend (65% Syrah, 25% Barbera and 10% Zinfandel) is a translucent neon ruby color. The first waft from the glass shows candied red fruits, mint/menthol and sweet tar. Light on the palate, with no sense of heat or tannic… Read more
