2009 Schramsberg Blanc de Blancs, North Coast
This 100% Chardonnay sparkler has a bright lemony-citrus quality, joined by notes of yeast, cream and some toast. It’s quite tart on the palate, while the finish is juicy, sweet-tart and clean. With food (think: fresh shellfish), this Blanc de… Read more
2009 Schramsberg Brut Rosé, North Coast
Fresh, fruity and full on the palate, there’s a lot to love about this 70/30 blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Light salmon in color, a frothy head emerges when the wine is poured, giving way to a persistent medium bead. Gobs of red fruit… Read more
2010 Tudal Family Winery Cabernet Sauvignon, 50-50 Napa-Sonoma
Although the Napa and Sonoma Valleys lie next to one another, there is a (Mayacamas) mountain range of difference in the aroma and flavor profiles of Cabernet Sauvignon grown in each area. This Cabernet — with significant dollops of Petite Sirah,… Read more
2010 Line 39 Petite Sirah, North Coast
Nearly translucent purple-plum color. Aromas of oakspice and cocoa enrobe moderately perfumed dark fruits. Medium-full in body, the fruit carries through to the furry tannin finish. Char some red meat and enjoy. MSRP: $10 (June 2012) Wine Lines… Read more
2011 Hess Select Sauvignon Blanc, North Coast
Light straw color. Aromas of grapefruit, lime, banana and fleshy tropical fruit. Clean and crisp in the mouth, with a sense of slate and minerality. Medium in body, it rounds out at the finish. MSRP: $11 (June 2012) Wine Lines rating:… Read more
2009 Hess Select Cabernet Sauvignon, North Coast
Moderate sharp, nearly briary dark fruit in the nose softens up once in the mouth, fleshing out a bit before finishing with a note of earth and powdered chocolate. Enjoy this straightforward red with burgers on the barbecue, and don’t forget the… Read more
2009 The Dreaming Tree Cabernet Sauvignon, North Coast
“The Dreaming Tree” is the name of a Dave Matthews Band song, and now it’s a wine brand as well, crafted by Sonoma County winemaking legend Steve Reeder, whose resumé includes stints with Chateau St. Jean, Simi and Kendall-Jackson. In joining… Read more
2009 Silver Palm Cabernet Sauvignon, North Coast
“Juicy” isn’t a word one normally associates with Cabernet Sauvignon, but this one is — at least, in this stage of its development. There’s a hint of oak in the nose and ample fruit flavor. Drink it now while you allow other Cabs to… Read more
2005 Schramsberg Brut Blanc de Blancs, North Coast
Some things just get better with time. This Blanc de Blancs is hitting its peak right now, showing a great interplay of toasty oak, lemon chiffon, and green apple flavors and aromas. The mousse is quite fine and persistent. This would definitely… Read more
2003 Quail Creek Pinot Noir, North Coast
A lighter style, with clove and cinnamon woodspice wrapped around bright red cherry licorice fruit. Silky and easy to quaff. MSRP: $9.99 (May 2005) Wine Lines rating: 86 Group:… Read more
