Tasting Notes, 12/27/13

NCWC 2013 RETROSPECTIVE WINE TASTING EVENT 12/27/13

ARGYLE BRUT 2009
This Oregon sparkling wine truly brings zest to life! The nose of lemon curd, raw honey, and almond biscotti harkens to the uplifting and refreshing palate to follow. With a fine mousse that buoys one up and flavors of pear, custard, and marzipan that dance across your tongue, one cannot resist a grin as the effervescence slowly fades to a clean, minerally, citrus-toned finish. With the second sip, you’re guaranteed to be in an elevated state. Brut makes you better! 90 points Wine Spectator. $19.97

BROKENWOOD SEMILLON 2011
“Honeysuckle, jasmine, fresh pear and honey on the fragrant nose, accented by a touch of chalk dust. Crisp and nervy on the palate, with vibrant lemon-lime and orange pith flavors enlivened by bitter herb notes. Youthfully tight on the finish, which features clean, brisk citrus tones and a late note of quinine.” 94 points James Halliday, 90 points Wine Spectator. $17.97

JOSEPH PHELPS FOG DOG PINOT NOIR 2011
This Sonoma Coast Pinot fills the senses with ripe raspberry, red cherry and plum aromas with touches of fragrant violet, earth and tangerine peel. Youthful, with great energy and racy acidity, this wine is loaded with juicy blackberry, black cherry and black pepper with lingering notes of baking spices. 91 points Bill Tobin. $26.97

SAN FELICE PUGNITELLO 2008
This terrific Super Tuscan features a little-known grape (Pugnitello means “little fist,” which is what the grape clusters resemble). It is a plum- and blackberry-scented red, concentrated and fruity, with accents of menthol, spice and earth. Assertive tannins guard the finish. 92 points Wine Spectator. $39.97

TRINITAS PETITE SIRAH 2010
There’s nothing “petite” about this Old Vine Petite Sirah from Contra Costa County. It’s full-bodied, plummy, spicy, and long-finishing from vines 60+ years old. With just enough structure framing gushing fruit and spice, it’s the kind of wine a hero would drink. 90 points Jim Tobin. $26.97

HIDDEN RIDGE RESERVE CABERNET 2007
Rated as Superb, one of the greats. “This has intensely concentrated flavors of black currant, blueberry preserves, violet, vanilla and buttered toast; it’s as delicious as any Cabernet out there. The structure shows firm tannins and fine acidity, true to its mountainous origins.” 95 points Wine Enthusiast. $69.97