Tasting Notes For Friday 8/17/12

NCWC PALI WINE TASTING 8/17/12

PALI CHARM ACRES CHARDONNAY 2010
In 2005 Tim Perr and Scott Knight pooled their resources and their passions to found a winery dedicated to producing small lots of artisan Pinot Noir. They also make a few other delicious varietals, and this Sonoma Coast Chardonnay is one of them! The aromas recall “honeydew melon, lime, green apple and peach. The palate is concentrated and rich, with flavors of pineapple, apricot and lemon, underscored by mineral notes.” 88 points Jim. $16.97.

PALI RIVIERA PINOT NOIR 2010
Now we get to Pinot, and they sure know how to find great sources of it! Their Riviera comes from the Sonoma Coast and “features a bright bouquet of plum, fresh raspberries, wild blackberries, coriander, lavender, iron and cinnamon. The palate is rich and full with black fruits intertwined with fresh raspberry, black pepper and wet stone that resonate in an expansive finish of sweet red currant and dark chocolate.” 88 points Wine Spectator. $16.97.

PALI BLUFFS PINOT NOIR 2010
Tim and Scott’s “Bluffs” Pinot hails from that slice of Pinot heaven known as the Russian River Valley. “The nose shows classic Russian River Valley aromas of black cherry and berry, along with a hint of damp forest floor that is so unique to Pinot Noir. Flavors of cherry, blueberry and raspberry compote explode on the juicy, hedonistic palate, along with notes of iron and earth that keep these rich flavors in balance. These vibrant flavors and spices carry through on the finish, with dark fruit flavors dominating.” 89 points Wine Spectator. $19.97.

PALI HUNTINGTON PINOT NOIR 2010
Moving south, we come to their Santa Barbara Pinot. “Aromas of fresh cherries, mocha, cinnamon, and red currants greet the nose, with a hint of violets. The palate is expressive and concentrated, with an intriguing mix of black cherry, raspberry and plum accompanied by undertones of cola and anise. The finish is rich and round, with lingering spice.” 90 points Wine Spectator. $18.97.

PALI SHEA VINEYARD PINOT NOIR 2008
And now we hop up to Oregon’s Willamette Valley, which is yet another source of great Pinot. This one “opens with aromas of cherry liqueur, black licorice, rust, chanterelle mushrooms, truffles, cinnamon, and leather. Rich, penetrating tannins scaffold a plate densely layered with crushed stone, juicy black fruits and dried cherries. The finish goes on and on with leather, coffee, and candied fruit.” 91 points Stephen Tanzer. $39.97.

TOWER 15 “THE SWELL” 2009
The Tower 15 wines are inspired by lifeguard tower 15 in Pacific Palisades, where Tim and Scott grew up. The fruit, though, comes from Paso Robles. “The Swell” is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Verdot that goes great with grilling, parties, or just hanging out! Loads of ripe cherry and vanilla spice on the nose are instantly echoed on the palate, with creamy oakiness prevalent throughout the delightful finish. 87 points Jim Tobin. $18.97.