Tasting Notes For Guest Bartender Steve DeWitt, 9/21/12

GUEST BARTENDER STEVE DeWITT, 9/21/12

PARXET CAVA BRUT CUVEE 21
Steve DeWitt has been holding down that one end of the bar by the window since approximately 1976, so we figured it was only right that he be our first ever Guest Bartender. His first choice is this delightful Spanish Bubbly, which is “sweet, easy, and entirely inviting on the nose. It feels pure and correct on the palate, with apple, white grape, kiwi and lime flavors” and a finish as entertaining as one of Steve’s stories. 90 points Wine Enthusiast. $8.97/bottle.

J VINEYARDS CHARDONNAY 2009
Rumor has it Steve was sired by Bacchus himself, which explains a lot. Though primarily a red drinker, Steve has enough sense to appreciate this “graceful white, with an alluring mix of white peach, nectarine, creamy oak and subtle spice notes” that last almost as long as his high school friendships have. 88 points Wine Spectator. $18.97/bottle.

BELLE GLOS PINOT NOIR LAS ALTURAS 2010
Steve has been known to hit a casino now and then, and this Pinot is a sure bet. It is “deliciously pure, rich and layered, with complex currant, blueberry and wild berry fruit that’s supple, deep and persistent, ending with ripe tannins.” 92 points Wine Spectator. $26.97/bottle.

VITICCIO CHIANTI CLASSICO RISERVA 2007
Man’s man, bon vivant, and world traveler are all descriptions that fit on Steve’s resume. Italy seems to be a favorite destination; its abundance of fabulous wine might have something to do with it. This one was #40 on Wine Spectator’s top 100 for 2010. “Subtle currant, cedar and floral aromas follow through to a dense, full-bodied palate of ripe fruits and silky tannins, with a long finish.” 93 points Wine Spectator. $24.97/bottle.

WATERSTONE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2009
This Cabernet is so good, the price is as hard to believe as Steve’s fish stories. It shows off “aromas of fresh herbs with currants and blueberries as well as mint. It’s full bodied with velvety tannins and a juicy finish. Lots of fruit but not overdone and not over alcoholic. Drink and don’t worry.” This note is perfect, since “drink and don’t worry” is pretty much Steve’s philosophy of life. 93 points J. Suckling. $19.97/btl.

ORIN SWIFT SALDO 2009
Steve will tell a story or two about his golf game as well. Don’t call him on it; just sip some of this and nod politely. Saldo is Spanish for balance, and can also mean “from here and there.” Steve is from Garden Grove, and we’re not sure about his balance, but this wine is dynamite. It’s “dense in structure, but shows finesse, with toasty black cherry and grilled anise aromas that lead to ripe, zesty flavors of blackberry, espresso and fresh pepper.” 88 points Wine Spectator. $24.97/bottle.

JUSTIN ISOSCELES 2009
Looks like Steve’s picked some pretty good wines so far. Wait ‘til you taste this one. It’s a full-bodied, complex, rich, and alluring mix of ripe black currants and berries with vanilla, cinnamon and cocoa highlights. Additional nuances include cherry, licorice, roasted coffee, and tobacco. Firm, plush tannins hold everything together, and the finish is as long as Steve’s… well, he can finish that sentence himself. 95 points Anthony Diaz Blue. $52.97/bottle.