|
by Amy Reiley
They represent the new faces on the California wine scene. Some will be the wines that have critics all a-buzz in the coming years while others simply represent great deals for their under-the-radar and oh-so-competitive pricing. In either case, dig in to these beauties and you’ll soon be saying, “I drank them when…” |
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
$ under 15USD
$$ 15-25USD
$$$ 25-50USD
$$$$ over 50USD
