Core
2002 Hard Core
A Mourvedre-based blend, Hard Core's name says it
all. Big, luscious and sexy with flavors of blackberry,
cherry and an underlying hint of wild game. $$$
www.corewine.com
Derbes
2002 Carneros Chardonnay
A feminine Chardonnay made in the Burgundian style,
Derbes signature wine offers positively dancing acidity
and a lingering impression of white peaches. $$$
www.derbeswines.com
Albertina Wine Cellars
2002 Cabernet Sauvignon
The first release from this blossoming new kid on
the block, Albertina's 2002 shows potential at a nice
price. Although Hungarian oak adds a certain ruggedness
where I would prefer finesse, this first attempt offers
bright cherry flavors and an intriguing dusty quality.
$$
www.albertinawinecellars.com
Agajanian Vineyards
2002 Malvasia Bianca
Known throughout the state as one of CA's older winegrowing
families, Agajanian started making wine of their own
in 2001. One of the most approachable California wines
I've ever tried, their Malvasia Bianca, a lightweight
white, with its aromas and flavors of honeysuckle
and chamomile is perfect as a pre-dinner drink or
a simple dinner wine for almost any
meal. $
www.agajanian.com
Allora Vineyards
2003 Cielo Red Blend
This Napa newbie makes some of the sexiest wines in
the Golden State. With subtle layers, fine grain tannin
and bright cherry acidity, Cielo is one hot little
number. $$$
www.alloravineyards.com
Revana Family Vineyard
Cabernet Sauvignon
A wine with great balance and great texture, Revana
is poised to be Napa's next cult classic. Look for
loads of black licorice in the aromas and the finish
with flavors of currant and blackberry jam. $$$$
www.revanawine.com
Thompkin Cellars
2004 Grenache
This 100% Grenache is a rarity on the American market
but in addition to adding variety to your cellar,
this juicy red offers great, bright fruit flavors
and a food-friendly style. $$$
Vergari Wines
2004 Du Nah Pinot Noir
An absolute classic Russian River Pinot, Vergari's
wine offers bright cherry flavors and a lovely, lingering
caramel finish. $$$
www.vergariwines.com
Spencer Roloson Winery
2003 Viognier
A soft, distinctly Californian style of Viognier,
SR's bottling offers a round mouthful of stone fruit
flavors and hints of licorice. $$$
www.punched.net
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