Category: Wine Articles

2012 Samsara, Pinot Noir, Sta. Rita Hills. Chad Melville’s Samsara wines are all super examples of artisan winemaking and are just plain super, if you’ve not had any, you should…

2012 Julien Labet, Metis, Poulsard-Pinot-Trousseau, Jura Red, France. This pale and delicate red from the Jura is an intriguing blend of Poulsard, Pinot Noir and Trousseau, made by Julien Labet…

2012 Eva Fricke, Riesling, Kiedrich Trocken, Rheingau, Germany. Another gem from Eva Fricke is the energy filled Kiedricher Trocken, this was my first experience with this wine or area in…

2009 Daniel Gehrs, Syrah, Central Coast. A stroll down Grand Ave in Los Olivos should include a visit to long time central coast winemaker Daniel Gehrs, he’s been crafting small…

2011 Kalyra, Syrah, Santa Ynez Valley. Walking down State Street in Santa Barbara, I came across a couple of wineries down near the beach and Stearn’s Wharf, and I decided…

2010 Tatomer, Riesling, Vandenberg, Santa Barbara County. Certainly one of the best dry California Rieslings available, the Tatomer is a lovely and stylish effort with plenty of distinct character and…

2010 Meo-Camuzet, Marsannay AC, Red Burgundy, France. This marvelous Pinot Noir from Marsannay and crafted by Meo-Camuzet Frere & Soeurs is cool and crisp with the best of the vintage…

2011 Pisoni Estate, Pinot Noir, Santa Lucia Highlands. This massively appealing Pinot Noir from the Pisoni family is hugely entertaining and pure, but easier to enjoy young than most recent…

2012 Puzelat-Bonhomme, Pineau d’ Aunis “La Tesniere” Loire Valley, France. Puzelat’s rare and natural Pineau d’ Aunis is wild and unique red from the Loire Valley, Pineau d’ Aunis is…

2011 Alfredo Maestro, Tinto Castrillo del Duero, Spain. This is fast becoming one of my favorite Ribera del Duero wines, from the talented Alfredo Maestro, a producer than doesn’t label…