Jul
19
Bodegas Y Vinedos Alion 1998
Rioja gets most of the attention for the softer-style of age-worthy Tempranillo. Ribera became infected with over-extraction in the 1990’s and 2000’s that undid much of the regions’ potential for
May
24
Reflections on Mid-2000’s Burgundy
The inimitable Pinot Noirs of Burgundy require regular revisiting. The typical comments about Burgundy’s unevenness misconstrue why the region is always among the best in the world for terroir-driven wine.
May
12
Spotlight on Napa Valley: Cliff Lede Poetry Cabernet Sauvignon 2014
Cult wines form an integral aspect of Napa Valley’s identity. They are not about the long history of the valley, its diversity, or its origin in and potential for classicism.
Apr
10
Spotlight on Napa Valley: Larkmead
Of the hundreds of pre-prohibition wineries in Napa Valley, only 5 remained open during the period. Larkmead was one of those wineries. Selling wine for sacramental purposes comprised the above
Mar
19
Spotlight on Napa Valley: Inglenook
The story of Inglenook is, in many ways, the story of Napa Valley. The winery’s journey through eras and ownership is both emblematic of the big changes California wine has
Mar
16
Spotlight on Napa Valley: Spottswoode Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2014
Napa is a challenging place for wine lovers today. The wines are almost inimitably expensive, save Bordeaux. The once storied valley is replete with overripe wines. But, times are changing.
Mar
2
Failla “Savoy Vineyard” Anderson Valley Pinot Noir 2015
Failla is, for my money, one of the most exciting relatively new projects in Napa Valley. Though it was founded in 1998, the winery didn’t come fully into its own
Oct
19
Georges Vernay Terrasses de L’Empire Condrieu 2015
This is the second greatest Condrieu in the world, ceding dominance only to Vernay’s Coteaux de Vernon. Whereas most good Viognier is powerful and oily in texture in order to
Oct
1
Two Great Wines of Sancerre: Domaine Vacheron Chambrates 2013 and Pascal Cotat La Grande Cote 2010
How does wine stay interesting? Forever in motion, the immense bio-chemical complexity of wine means you can continue to learn after years of experience. Do not let preconceived notions define
Sep
9
Domaine Leflaive Puligny-Montrachet 2011
For many the greatest white wine producer in Burgundy and the world, Domaine Leflaive is an icon of biodynamic wine-making and low-impact farming and living. Anne-Claude Leflaive, who sadly died