Tasting Notes Friday 6/27/14

SPECIAL “TOP SHELF” TASTING WITH GUEST BARTENDER CRAIG BEUKELMAN, 6/27/14

ROEDERER ESTATE BRUT ROSE
“Sleek and rich, with floral strawberry and sugar cookie aromas and elegant, layered citrus, tart cherry and mineral flavors that linger toward a vibrant, lightly spicy finish.” 92 points Wine Spectator. $23.97

ALTO MONCAYO VERATON 2011
“A fabulous nose of spring flowers, ground pepper, blackberries and black cherry liqueur is followed by a full-bodied, super-intense wine made from incredibly low yields, and aged 17 months in a combination of French and American oak before being bottled unfiltered. This superb wine easily competes with wines priced two to three times higher. It should drink well for a decade.” 92 points Wine Advocate. $23.97

SAGGI RED WINE 2011
This Washington blend is comprised of 43% Sangiovese, 42% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Syrah. Spending 18 months in 100% French oak, it is Washington’s take on a Super Tuscan, and a good one at that. It offers generous aromas and flavors of strawberry, red currant and anise with refined tannins and incredible balance. Vibrant dark berry fruit and hints of baker’s chocolate compliment a pleasant floral element on the mid-palate that continues across a lingering finish. $42.97

PEDESTAL RED WINE 2011
“Expressive aromas of wild berry and black currant combine with elegant oak spice to reveal a wine with dense texture and refined structure. Hints of espresso and chocolate on entry are complimented by an earthy spiciness that persists throughout a lengthy finish. A balanced wine with vibrant, beautifully integrated flavors.” 92 points Jim Tobin. $55.97

SMITH MADRONE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2009
Smith-Madrone tends to fly under the radar for Napa Valley Cabernet, but discerning palates understand its place in the pantheon. Vintages aren’t always kind to this mountain fruit, but in 2009, the conditions were just right to produce a wine of immaculate structure. It has firm tannins and brisk acidity, with blackberry and cassis flavors. As delicious as it is now, this will have no problem aging 10-15 years. 94 points Wine Enthusiast. $41.97

GROTH RESERVE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2009
“From the winery’s estate vineyard, on the eastern side of the Oakville appellation, this Cab is incredibly lush and delicious. It dazzles with rich blackberry, cherry pie, currant and cassis liqueur flavors, perfectly accented by sweet, smoky oak. It’s soft in tannins, yet ageworthy.” 93 points Wine Enthusiast. $89.97