Buttery, rich vanilla, tangerine, mango, and banana on the finish. Has some gorgeous acidic minerality as well. 3.5 stars out of 5. Sweetness=3 out of 10 (dry to sweet). $30
... Read More »Impressive/Gift
Reviews of impressive wines for gifts.
2004 Ridge Zinfandel Lytton Springs (California)
Two words: fucking beautiful. Same character as the Geyserville, but more acid/tannin balance, more elegant, more flowery, and more forthcoming with flavor. Let it sit in your glass for 15 minutes and it gives even more. 5 stars out of 5. Sweetness=2 out of 10 (dry to sweet). $30
... Read More »Ridge Cellars 2004 Zinfandel Paso Robles
Elegant, sultry and juicy — the kind of wine you’d want to start sexual relations with. Port-like in flavor, with roasted cherry followed by pronounced raisins and dried plums. Drink daily, if you can afford it. 4 stars out of 5. Sweetness=4 out of 10 (dry to sweet). $28
... Read More »Spellbound 2002 Petite Syrah California
Sultry, yet fun with bright cherry, flowers and ripe fruit that dances all over the mouth. Definitely has some stereotypical petite syrah beefiness to it, but the tannins are tame. A fantastic everyday drinking wine. 4 stars out of 5. Sweetness=2 out of 10 (dry to sweet). $15
... Read More »Hedges Family Estate 2004 CMS Red Blend Columbia Valley (Washington)
CMS stands for Cabernet, Merlot and Syrah. This one has bright, fun raspberry and cherry with some spicy black pepper. Great value. 4 stars out of 5. Sweetness=1 out of 10 (dry to sweet). $12
... Read More »Cougar Crest 2003 Syrah Walla Walla Valley (Washington)
This wine has an aroma you want to live in — floral, juicy and full of raspberry, cherry and blackberry. But it’s also gutsy, with enough acidity and tannin to make the flavor last forever. 4.5 stars out of 5. Sweetness=3 out of 10 (dry to sweet). $32
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