Expert articles and wine tasting videos profiling wines from California, California wine regions, Napa Valley, Sonoma County, & more.
As good as this bottle was, it was not pristine. It was purchased via auction. The cork was a bit raised under the foil. Purple in color, ruby at the rim, Mostly opaque but flat (it should have been shimmering bright). The nose is nice with cassis, milk chocolate, dust and clay. Great plush texture. Firm tannins. On the palate, cassis, blueberries with slight char. Long finish. This bottle seemed a bit past peak and with less energy. That said, it was outstanding and delicious. Well stored bottles will flirt with a 100 point score.
This is from golfer Greg Norman's wines releases under his name, this time from Paso Robles, California. The vineyard is/was part of the Penfold's California vineyards. Purple in color, ruby at the rim, opaque and bright. The nose has black raspberries, sandalwood, dried berries, and black pepper. Nice texture. Light tannins. On the palate, this is past prime but still with something to offer. Black raspberry fruit, dried fruits, slight prune and black pepper. Good finish. Drink up. It would be better with food. Grilled meats would be a good pairing.
This is a blend of 70% Chardonnay, 20% Pinot Noir, 3% Pinot Blanc, along with 7% Aged Reserve Blend. Golden in color, clear and bright with a nice mousse with lots of tiny bubbles. The nose is deep with apples and minerality. Maybe a touch of lemon citrus. Crisp acidity. Full bodied. On the palate, flavors of red apples and slight minerality. Good finish. This is delicious now and should drink well for five to eight years. It will drink well on its own and with about any food. A nice choice with Sushi.
