Kicking off the New Year with new California releases

Happy New Year! It’s January 7 – but, still. I hope everyone had a safe and joyous holiday season, and your 2024 is off to a great start. If you’re not doing a dry January, or if you just want to keep up with new wines while taking some time off this month, I have a few wines this week to kick off 2024 on the right foot.

I’m focusing on some new releases from California today, and on wines that deliver quality along with a lot of value. Early January can be a time to tighten up the belts and pay down those travel or holiday bills. So, the wines this week are very reasonably priced, which makes exploring a new-to-you producer a lot easier.

Juggernaut is a California project that immediately grabs your eyes with their intricate animal artwork on the labels. But these are no “critter wine” – there’s serious juice in here. For $20, their Pinot and Cab deliver about as much complexity and depth as humanly possible.

Barra of Mendocino has been such a reliable producer for me, annually putting out classic varietal wines that speak truly of their place. I’ve spent a lot of time in Mendocino over the years, and it’s rugged coast, mountains, and deep forests will always call to me. Sipping one of Barra’s wines is a great way to transport myself back there. The three wines featured here offer a good window into this producer’s style and reliability.

I also have a tradition of opening a bottle of rosé on the first proper snowstorm of the winter. Living in the Mid-Atlantic region, that day has not come yet. We just got hit with inches of cold rain instead. I’m hoping snow is on the way in a few weeks, and when it finally arrives, I think this rosé from Napa’s Hoopes Vineyard is an excellent choice.

These wines were received as samples and tasted sighted.

2021 Hoopes Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon Rosé - USA, California, Napa Valley

SRP: $38
Ripe watermelon color. The aromas pop with tangy strawberries, watermelon, raspberries, with saline, basil, yellow flowers, hay – really vibrant and inviting. The palate is racy and taut with a crunchy mouthfeel but plenty of textural depth and juicy fruit (watermelon, honeydew, strawberries). I get all sorts of cool notes: chalk dust, floral perfume, limestone, basil, white pepper. Lovely freshness and minerality, which lingers on the finish. Lovely Napa Rose here. 80% Cab, with some Malbec, Syrah, Petit Verdot, and Merlot. (91 points)

2021 Juggernaut Wine Company Pinot Noir - USA, California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley
SRP: $20
Bright ruby color. So fresh and crunchy on the nose with raspberries, red apples, strawberries, along with rhubarb, rose petals, clay soil, and some herbal tea tones. The palate is tangy and zippy with nice depth and dusty tannins, buttressed by fresh acidity. The flavors of tangy strawberries and raspberries mix well with nuances of earth, dried roses and violets, white pepper, and hints of cola and rhubarb pie. Lots of fun, fresh, quite complex, and balanced. (90 points)

2021 Juggernaut Wine Company Hillside Cabernet - USA, California
SRP: $20
Light purple color. The nose exudes smoky earth, tar, and grilled steak along with notes of plum sauce, blackberry jam, mocha, and some tar and dried violets. The palate shows ripe tannins and medium acidity with flavors of saucy cherries and plums, blackberry jam, plum cake. The fruit is mixed with tones of spiced black tea, mesquite, tar, and mocha. Spicy, juicy, lots of fun. (89 points)

2022 The Federalist Wines Pinot Noir - USA, California, Central Coast
SRP: $21
Vibrant ruby color. The nose shows saucy, jammy fruit (black cherries, raspberry, wild blueberries) along with rhubarb, mocha, some toffee, violets. The palate shows smooth tannins and medium acidity, setting the stage for the flavors of plum sauce and black cherry and raspberry jams. Notes of sage, earth, tobacco, and mint add complexity, with some sweet oak on the finish. This is a fun, fresh, crowd-pleasing, value-driven Pinot. (87 points)

2021 Barra of Mendocino Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve - USA, California, North Coast, Mendocino County
SRP: $28
Ripe purple color. The aromas show a deep, saucy, warm appeal, with black cherries and currant jam, along with smoky earth, charcoal, dried sage and thyme, and notes of tobacco and clove. The palate shows a ripe and saucy appeal, with suave but structured tannins, and pleasantly refreshing acidity that keeps it together. Plums, red and black currants, roasted figs, the fruit is tangy, deep, and delicious, accented by coffee grounds, dark chocolate shavings, chewing tobacco, rocky earth, and a vein of graphite and minerals running through it all. Super fun, and really well done. (90 points)

2020 Barra of Mendocino Zinfandel Reserve -

USA, California, North Coast, Mendocino
SRP: $26
Vibrant purple color. Ripe and jammy aromas of black cherries, wild blueberries, raspberries, mixed with spicy green herbs, tobacco leaf, black tea, spiced coffee, hints of dark chocolate. The palate is full but plush with smooth tannins, fresh acidity, and a host of complex, tangy fruits (cherries, raspberries, currants). Notes of spiced black tea, violets and roses, with tobacco and oregano vibes. Super fun and fan-friendly, but the balance, vibrancy, and complexity are impressive. (91 points)

2020 Barra of Mendocino Petite Sirah Reserve - USA, California, North Coast, Mendocino
SRP: $28
Deep purple color. The aromas have this dark, compact feel, but air coaxes out a lot of nuance – roasted figs and plum sauce fruit blends well with roasted red pepper, barbecue sauce, black pepper, leather, and anise. The palate kicks off with fresh acidity that carries through the entire experience, and the tannins provide a nice amount of grip. Currant paste, roasted figs, and tangy plums, the fruit is mixed expertly with tones of pepper, smoky earth, tar, coffee grounds, and clove. Dark and spicy, but expressive and fresh. A perfect wine for a cold winter night and braised meat. (91 points)

Wine Reviews: New Releases from California

This week I have a big bundle of new releases from all over California.

Amici Cellars has been around for years, and I’ve found them to be a source of consistent, moderately-priced staples like Russian River Pinot and Napa Sauvignon Blanc. Their sister label Olema focuses on value-driven wines, and they’re quite good for the price.

Sonoma’s Jordan Winery comes through again with their Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon, while Napa stalwart Shafer comes out swinging with their 2017 Red Shoulder Ranch Chardonnay.

I also tasted a handful of wines from Morgan, which began back in 1982. Sourcing fruit from the Santa Lucia Highlands and Monterey, these wines offer lots of juicy fruit but show elegance and freshness as well. And they really deliver for the price. A few wines from FEL, Mi Sueno and Luck Rock Wine Co. round out this report.

These wines were received as trade samples and tasted sighted.

White wines

2018 Lucky Rock Wine Co. Sauvignon Blanc County Cuvée - California

SRP: $17
Medium straw color. Aromatically popping with lemon, ruby red grapefruit, kiwi, and notes of lemongrass, magnolia and mint. Medium-bodied, fresh and zippy on the palate but some nice creaminess. A fresh fruit salad of green melon, ruby red grapefruit, peaches and lime, accented with notes of mint, wildflowers and clover. The fruit and floral/herbal tones are balanced together very nicely. A lot of personality and depth, especially for the price. Blended from Lake and Napa County fruit aged French oak. (88 points)

2017 Morgan Sauvignon Blanc - California, Central Coast, Monterey
SRP: $18
Pale lemon color. Nose pops with lemons, limes, grapefruit and guava, along with lemongrass and mint. A nice bit of creaminess on the palate, but this is super bright and brisk with lemon, guava, melon, peaches, along with cut flower stems, white pepper, honeysuckle and clover. Fresh, zippy, fun stuff, quite complex for the price. All Musqué clone, this wine is aged five months in 10% new French oak. (87 points)

2018 Amici Cellars Sauvignon Blanc - California, Napa Valley
SRP: $25
Pale straw color. The nose displays lemon curd, white peaches, mango, along with clover flower, honeysuckle and lemon verbena. Peachy, fun, fruity with lemon and mango, backed by zesty acidity. The fruit is accented with notes of lemon verbena, clover, honeysuckle, and I get some mineral and chalk dust elements. Finishes with spicy floral and honeyed tones. Includes 4% Semillon, 12% of the wine is barrel-fermented. (89 points)

2018 FEL Pinot Gris - California, Mendocino County, Anderson Valley
SRP: $25
Rich yellow color. The nose is super peachy with limes and yellow apples, lots of flowers and green herbs. The palate is framed with zippy acidity, medium body, some creamy texture, with lemon, lime, peach fruit. Lots of flowers, white tea, chalk, stony tones, adding all sorts of complexity. It has this mineral, lifted quality that reminds me of Alto Adige, but it has this juiciness that is pure California. A really delicious and interesting Pinot Gris. (90 points)

2017 Morgan Chardonnay Metallico - California, Central Coast, Monterey 
SRP: $22
Light yellow color. Aromas of peaches, lemon-lime, notes of verbena, white pepper, it’s very bright, floral and spicy. Bright acidity frames the palate nicely, this is very crisp and bright but has some nice depth of texture. Lemons, limes, peaches, topped in hay, white pepper, honeycomb and white tea. Notes of seashells and wild herbs add complexity. Fresh, fun, lean and brisk style, which is really refreshing. All stainless steel, no maloactic fermentation, 13.5% alcohol. (87 points)

2017 Morgan Chardonnay Highland - California, Central Coast, Santa Lucia Highlands
SRP: $28

Medium yellow color. The nose shows sea spray, crushed shells, peanut shells, hay and white flowers on top of lemon crème and yellow apples. The palate boasts crisp, nervy acidity with lively, lip-smacking acidity and creamy texture. Apples, lemon curd and apricot mix nicely with salted nuts, honeycomb, white flowers. There’s a salty, crushed seashell, mountain stream essence that is so good. Balanced, lively, flavorful, so good for the money. Aged eight months in about 30% new French oak, 75% maloactic fermentation. (91 points)

2017 Amici Cellars Chardonnay Olema - California, Sonoma County
SRP: $16
Light gold color. Aromas of apricot, white peach, glazed pear, with some nougat and honeycomb elements. Medium-bodied, juicy but bright, with pleasant creaminess and moderating acidity. Glazed pears, apricot, lemon curd, and the fruit mixes with notes of sea salt, honeyed tea, almond brittle. There is a lot of vibrancy and deliciousness in here for a wine of the price. (87 points)

2016 Amici Cellars Chardonnay - California, Sonoma County, Sonoma Coast
SRP: $25
Bright yellow color. All sorts of color and variety of apples on the nose, along with ginger, cinnamon, vanilla, nougat, some salty, oceanic notes. Plump and texturally rich but shows some restraint; it’s creamy but zesty, with bruised apple, orange marmalade and lemon pie. Notes of sea salt, crushed shells, almond skin, floral potpourri and ginger. Lots of texture and richness but it’s balanced very well. Very good Sonoma Chardonnay for the price. (89 points)

2017 Jordan Vineyard & Winery Chardonnay - California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley
SRP: $34
Golden yellow color. Aromas of rich yellow apples, apricot and orange marmalade, notes of salted almonds and peanuts, hay, ocean spray. A plush texture on the palate, but a lot of fresh acidity. Lemon, yellow apple, apricot, along with notes of sea salt, almond, peanut brittle, honey. All sorts of fresh, floral, salty complexities in here. Rich but balanced, a lovely Russian River Chard, especially given the moderate price. 13.6% alcohol, aged six months in 100% new French oak. (90 points)

2017 Shafer Chardonnay Red Shoulder Ranch - California, Napa, Carneros

SRP: $52

Rich gold color. Bold aromas of pineapple, honey, vanilla, almond cake, walnuts, all sorts of rich and exotic flavors but it’s fresh and vibrant too with lemon crème, apricot and glazed pears. Full-bodied on the palate (14.9% alcohol) with plenty of textural depth (honeyed, waxy elements), yet the underlying crispness and vibrancy is unmistakable. Yellow plums, bruised apples, lemon crème, mixed with walnuts, salted almonds, honey and hay. There are underlying elements of mineral notes, crushed shells, it adds all sorts of complexity. Wow. Bold yet balanced, such an expressive and complex Chardonnay. Aged 14 months in 75% new French oak and 25% stainless steel. (93 points)

Red wines

2017 Amici Cellars Pinot Noir Olema - California, Sonoma County

SRP: $20
Medium ruby color. Nose boasts juicy raspberries, jammy cherries and plums, with cola, cedar, red licorice candies. Plump and juicy on the palate, a medium-bodied frame with light tannins and medium acidity. Cherries, raspberries and plums, this is fun and fruit-focused, with notes of spiced tea, cola, cedar. It’s not too rich or baked, and while super fruity, it stays food-friendly and fresh. A solid California Pinot for $20, which ain’t easy to come by. (87 points)

2017 Amici Cellars Pinot Noir - California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley
SRP: $40
Deep ruby color. The nose shows spiced cranberry sauce, raspberries and strawberries, along with a nice mix of rhubarb, pepper, cola and cedar. Medium/full-bodied with soft tannins and some medium acidity. Juicy cherries, raspberries, strawberry jam, with flavors of cola, rhubarb, rose potpourri, menthol and cinnamon. Accessible and fun but this has some solid depth. Highly delicious. Stainless steel fermented aged in French oak 13 months. (88 points)

2017 FEL Pinot Noir - California, Mendocino County, Anderson Valley
SRP: $38
Bright ruby color. Bold but inviting aromatic display of rose petals, violets, white pepper and clove on top of juicy raspberries and red plums. Bold but suave on the palate with velvety tannins, vibrant acidity, and lots of raspberries, red and black cherries. Fresh and bright but a lot of spicy, herbal tones (clove, pepper), and already showing some mushroom and broth and earthy tones. Juicy but elegant, this should show even more earthy, savory goodness in a few years. Loving this style. Aged 16 months in 36% new French oak. (91 points)

2017 Morgan Pinot Noir Twelve Clones - California, Central Coast, Santa Lucia Highlands
SRP: $35
Deep ruby color. Nose shows juicy cherries, raspberries, red plums, and a nice mix of herbal tea, tobacco, spicy pepper, rose petals. Full-bodied but fresh on the palate with smooth tannins, medium acidity and a velvety, attractive texture. Plums, cherries and strawberry jam, laced with an interesting mix of roasted red peppers, tobacco, cola, candied apple, savory broth notes. Very cool stuff with a dynamic combination of flavors. Aged 10 months in 40% new French oak. (89 points)

2017 Morgan Cotes du Crow's - California, Central Coast, Monterey
SRP: $20
Light purple color. Bright nose of cherries, raspberries, plums, with a lot of smoky-herbal notes, leather and violets. Full but suave on the palate with a velvety feel and refreshing acidity. Tangy plums and black cherries mixed with spiced tea, cocoa, earth, violets, clove. Juicy, fun and barbecue-friendly but complex, earthy and vibrant, too. 56% Grenache, 37% Syrah, 7% Tempranillo, aged 10 months in 10% new French oak. (88 points)

2017 Morgan Syrah G17 - California, Central Coast, Santa Lucia Highlands
SRP: $25
Deep purple color. The nose pops with tangy black cherries and dark plus, loaded with black pepper, leather, cocoa, scorched earth and graphite. Full but fresh on the palate with dusty tannins and bright acidity. Dark cherries and plums mix nicely with flavors of peppercorns, leather, cocoa, earth, and underlying notes of minerals and loamy soil. Lovely, accessible stuff, but it could also improve for a few years. Really solid value here. Includes 5% Grenache, 5% Tempranillo, aged 10 months in 25% new French oak. (90 points)

2015 Jordan Vineyard & Winery Cabernet Sauvignon - California, Sonoma County, Alexander Valley
SRP: $57
Medium purple color. Aromas of black cherries, plums, cassis, with roasted herbs and tobacco, and I get some coffee, menthol and mint chocolate chip notes as well. Smoothed out tannins on the palate but still nicely built, fresh acidity frames the wine well. Tangy black currants, plums and black cherries, the fruit is pure and lively, and backed up by complex notes of anise, mint, eucalyptus, earthy, tobacco and sweet vanilla. Smooth yet still young, this is coming together nicely but has many years of development ahead. Includes 15% Merlot, 6% Petit Verdot; 2% Malbec, aged 13 months in 47% new French oak. (91 points)

2015 Mi Sueño Cabernet Sauvignon - California, Napa Valley
SRP: $75
Dark purple color. Nose boasts jammy black cherries and cassis, topped in sweet vanilla coffee, anise and cocoa powder. Full and chewy but velvety with medium/low acidity on the palate, and lots of black cherries and blackberries, juicy and full fruit. Notes of cocoa, clove, coffee, vanilla and cedar. Rich and velvety and delicious but nice depth and complexity, too, with a spicy, minty finish. Should improve over the next few years. 100% Cabernet Sauvignon (mostly from Coombsville vineyards) aged 22 months in 65% new French oak. (88 points)

This post first appeared on the daily wine blog Terroirist. 

New Releases from California

Welcome back for another roundup of new releases from California!

I’ve been getting a lot of new wines from California, and this report has a good amount of the staples: Chardonnay, Pinot, Cabernet, Zinfandel. There are a couple value-driven wines that deliver, and some exciting new releases from Sonoma’s Anaba and Lake County’s Hawk & Horse.

These wines were received as trade samples and tasted sighted.

White wines

2017 Edna Valley Vineyard Chardonnay - California, Central Coast
SRP: $16
Nose gushes with pineapple, lemon curd, baked apple, with vanilla and honey butter. Plump and creamy texture, medium acidity, lots of yellow apple, pineapple and lemon crème. Flavors of rich toasted marshmallow, vanilla crème cookies, honey, also some fresh floral tones. Fun, accessible stuff. (85 points)

2017 Carmel Road Chardonnay Unoaked - California, Central Coast, Monterey
SRP: $22
Bright nose of peaches, green melon, lemon, white flowers and honeysuckle. Fresh and bright on the palate, this is pleasantly vibrant on a medium-bodied frame. Lemon, white peach and apricot fruit, accented with flowers, honey and chalk notes. A lively and bright style of Chardonnay at a good price. All stainless steel, 13.5% alcohol. (87 points)

2016 The Hess Collection Chardonnay Panthera - California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley
SRP: $45
Aromas of apricot, lemon curd, orange marmalade, with ginger, honeycomb and vanilla. Texturally, this is plump and full yet shows medium acidity, and the balance is on point. Yellow apples, apricot and orange marmalade, with honey, ginger, vanilla and cinnamon crumb cake. Yet there’s this aspect of saline and minerals that makes it pop. Aged 15 months in 35% new French oak, 14.3% alcohol. (88 points)

2016 Anaba Chardonnay Dutton Ranch - California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley
SRP: $42

Deep yet pretty scents of apricot and yellow apple, cinnamon and nutmeg, sea salt and flowers, the aromas are bold yet they make me salivate. Pristine and fresh on the palate with crisp acidity and smooth texture. Apricot, yellow apples, orange marmalade, and I get complex notes of chalk, sea salt, yellow flowers, ginger, white tea. Wow, this is really pretty stuff. Aged 17 months in 27% new French oak, 90% maloactic fermentation. (92 points)

Red wines

2016 Carmel Road Pinot Noir - California, Central Coast, Monterey
SRP: $25
Warm strawberry and cherry compote on the nose with rose petals, cola, rhubarb and white pepper. Medium-bodied palate, light tannins, medium acidity, this is a juicy and fresh style, full of pleasant red cherry, raspberry, strawberry jam. Secondary notes of clove, cola and rhubarb add some complexity. A juicy and fun style but the freshness keeps it food-friendly and so easy to drink. Aged 9 months in French oak, 13% new. (87 points)

2016 Anaba Pinot Noir - California, Sonoma County, Sonoma Coast
SRP: $42
Nose boasts bright cherries, raspberries and strawberries, along with vibrant red flowers, dandelion, white pepper, rhubarb and spiced tea. Medium+ body, velvety tannins, bright acidity, the balance is quite nice. Raspberries and red cherries are topped in roses, herbal tea, white pepper, sage and raspberry leaf. Not light (lots of juicy fruit) but it has a vibrant feel and freshness to it. Drink now or hold for a few years. Aged 20 months in 35% new French oak. (90 points)

2016 J Vineyards & Winery Pinot Noir - California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley
SRP $40
Bright but deep aromas of black and red cherries, raspberries and strawberries, along with roses, rhubarb, clove and spiced tea. The palate is ripe but vibrant, full but suave, with light tannins and fresh acidity. Flavors of red plums, cherries, raspberries and strawberries, plenty of ripe fruit but it is complemented by notes of cola, clove, rhubarb, potpourri, black tea, earth. Rich but nuanced, delicious but complex. (90 points)

2016 Gehricke Zinfandel - California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley
SRP: $30
Aromas of blackberries, plums and raspberries, all tossed together in a simmer pot with violets, rhubarb, cedar and vanilla. On the palate, it’s full-bodied (15.1%) with soft tannins and enough acidity to keep it lively. Raspberries, plums, black cherries, the fruit works well with cola, cedar, birch and sweet vanilla nots. Aged 17 months in French oak. Fun, chewy, barbecue-friendly stuff. (88 points)

2016 The Hess Collection Lion Tamer - California, Napa Valley
SRP: $45
Smells of sweet plums, black cherry jam, juicy and plump with violets, cocoa, vanilla and coffee. Full-bodied but smooth with soft tannins and medium-low acidity. Sweet clumps of plum, black cherry and blackberry. Laced with vanilla, toasted marshmallow, dark chocolate and cedar, with some earthy hints. Full, hedonistic and fun. 40% Malbec with Zinfandel, Ptite Sirah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Mourvedr and Merlot. Aged 22 months in 40% new French oak. (87 points)

2016 Lucas & Lewellen Cabernet Sauvignon Valley View Vineyard - California, Central Coast, Santa Barbara County
SRP: $25
Nose shows lots of plums and sweet black cherries, topped in roasted coffee, grilled herbs, pepper and cocoa. Rich and velvety style with smooth tannins and medium acidity, which adds freshness. Generous helpings of plums, black cherries and currants, and add in some clove, rosemary, pepper, and vanilla and coffee, which harmonizes well with the warm fruit. A highly drinkable Cab now, but it shows depth, and has a lot to offer for a California Cabernet at this price point. Includes a combined 25% Petit Verdot, Malbec, Merlot and Cabernet Franc, aged 21 months in 40% new French oak. (88 points)

2016 Three Finger Jack Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon East Side Ridge - California, Central Valley, Lodi
SRP: $22

Rich, deep aromas of plums, blackberry, mixed with coffee, violets, clove, a warm and inviting nose. Full-bodied (15%), this is a full-on style with a rich, chewy feel, medium tannins, some moderating acidity, but it’s actually all balanced together quite well. There’s a nice combo of rich black cherries, plums and blackberries, and complex notes of scorched earth, clove, smoky cedar, violets, a littler earthy-mineral notes, too. Highly delicious but also quite complex, and far more interesting than a lot of California Cabernets in this price range. (88 points)

2014 Hawk and Horse Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon - California, North Coast, Red Hills Lake County
SRP: $75
Gorgeous aromatics, like waves of blackberries, red and black currants, along with violets, black pepper, red pepper flakes, complex earthy and coffee notes. Full-bodied, this Cab sports velvety tannins and bright acidity, and it’s balanced very nicely. Tart black cherries, juicy dark plums and blackberries, this wine is laced with complex notes of pencil shavings, pepper, leather, scorched earth. Accented well with dark chocolate and espresso notes. I’d love to see what this does in five years. Impressive Lake County Cabernet. Aged 23 months in 90% new French oak. (90 points) 

2013 Hawk and Horse Vineyards Latigo - California, North Coast, Lake County
SRP: $50/375ml
Aromas of warm berry compote, along with pepper, earth, charcoal, lavender and clove. The palate is balanced nicely with velvety tannins, bright acidity, balanced sweetness. Juicy black cherries, roasted figs and dates, mixed well with elements of clove, anise, violets, sweet caramel. There’s also this lingering minerality, too. What a beautiful fortified dessert wine, this really surprised me. All Cabernet (from estate vineyards planted at about 2,200 feet), aged 29 months in new French oak, fortified with oak-aged brandy. 17.9% alcohol, 13% residual sugar. (91 points)

<85 points

N.V. Dark Horse Limited Brut Rosé - California
SRP $13
Nose shows strawberry candies, raspberries, red apple peel, with sliced cucumber and white pepper. Medium/light-bodied with crisp acidity and faint bubbles. Reed apple peels, white cherries, with spicy, herbal tones. Light, fun, simple.

This post first appeared on the daily wine blog Terroirist. 

Siduri Excels with Newly-Released 2015 Pinot Noirs

I’ve been a big fan of Siduri Pinot Noirs for many years. I’ve visited several times, collected the wines, and turned on several friends to them.

But this is the first time I’ve received samples to review. And that’s probably because in 2015, Adam and Diana Lee sold their Siduri label to the California wine powerhouse, Jackson Family Wines. The sale came as a shock to me. After the same company had purchased Copain (another one of my favorite Sonoma-based producers), I began to feel a bit nostalgic, like the wines I loved were changing.

But that doesn’t seem to be the case at all. Copain still rocks, and as the newly-released 2015s show, so does Siduri. It seems Jackson Family was looking for several high-end California gems to add to their portfolio, and they chose wisely. In an email to their wine club members announcing the sale, Adam and Diana wrote: “The goals we hold remain the same, but we believe that our ability to reach them has exponentially increased.” If their 2015s are any indicator, I’m encouraged about the future of Siduri’s wines.

These single-vineyard designate wines are delicious across the board, but the vineyard-specific nuances makes tasting them side-by-side an exciting and interesting experience. With increased access to vineyard sources scattered around various Northern and Central California appellations (and some in Oregon), Siduri is a great way to explore the different expressions of some stellar vineyards. The wines aren’t cheap ($50 a pop), but they over-deliver for that price. The wines always brings juicy cherry fruit to the table, but they also show nuance, freshness and liveliness, with lots of complex spicy, earthy, and floral complexity.

These wines were received as trade samples and tasted sighted.

2015 Siduri Pinot Noir John Sebastiano- California, Central Coast, Sta. Rita Hills
SRP: $50

Aromas of cherries, pomegranate, raspberry, red apple peel, complex combination of rose petal, floral tea, elegant yet the nose pops. Medium/full-bodied with a chewy texture, suave tannins and vibrant acidity. Black cherries, raspberries, red apple, cranberry jam, the fruit is complex and pure. Complexities of roses, rhubarb, black tea, light roast coffee. Everything is woven together in a fresh but juicy package. Lovely now but could do interesting things in the next five years. 11 months in 30% new French oak. (94 points)

2015 Siduri Pinot Noir Parsons' Vineyard- California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley
SRP: $50
Nose shows bright cherries, pomegranate, cola, lots of spicy/herbal notes like clove, mint, rhubarb and raspberry leaf. Medium/full-bodied with lively acidity and dusty tannins, the balance and freshness are wonderful. Cranberries, sweet cherries, raspberry jam, the fruit is fresh and tangy but loaded with flavors. Notes of cola, rhubarb, mint, coffee. Flavorful but bright, this drinks wonderfully now but could show even more in three or four years. 15 months in 40% new French oak. (92 points)

2015 Siduri Pinot Noir Rosella's Vineyard- California, Central Coast, Santa Lucia Highlands
SRP: $55
Gushing aromas but the fruit is tart as well (cherries, red plums, raspberries), along with cola, rose hips, cedar, and interesting elements of black tea and mushroom. Zesty acidity frames the palate, velvety feel, shows dusty tannins. The fruit tastes crisp and chilled, with raspberries, strawberries. Complex blend of cola, chestnut, coffee, rose petals, along with lasting notes of wet leaves and mushrooms. Tastes so good right out of the bottle, but the savory elements will develop more with time. 15 months in 50% new French oak. (93 points)

2015 Siduri Pinot Noir Muirfield Vineyard- Oregon, Willamette Valley, Chehalem Mountains
SRP: $50
Crisp, chilled red berries on the nose (raspberry, strawberry) along with rhubarb, rose petals, mushrooms, spiced herbal tea — lovely to sniff. On the palate, tangy acidity and structured but easy-going tannins, and the red currant, red apple peel and raspberry fruit is tart but juicy. Complex elements of rhubarb, black pepper, dusty earth. Savory but bright, vibrant but textured and complex. 15 months in 30% new French oak. (92 points)

This post first appeared on the daily wine blog Terroirist.

Wine Reviews: New Releases from California

This post first appeared on the daily wine blog Terroirist.

It’s time for a round-up of new releases from California. I gathered together some of the samples I’d received over the winter and early spring and collected them into this catch-all report.

I recommend a lot of small production, hard-to-find wines from California (because those are the greatest), but it can be harder to find larger production, widely available wines from California that deliver deliciousness and some excitement. The Q Wines are available in retail stores nationwide from WX brands, and they really deliver in their price points and availability.

The Eighty-Four Wines are the result of a project between Elias Fernandez and Doug Shafter, named after the year in which they began making wine together. And we have a Chard and a Pinot from Alder Fels. Lastly, throw in some Cabs and blends from Napa producers Silverado Vineyards, Rombauer, and Shafer. Most of those wines need time but are great examples of the beautiful reds coming out of Napa from the 2013 and 2014 vintages.

2015 Q Collection Pinot Noir - California, Sonoma Coast
SRP: $18
Light ruby color. Nose: tart strawberries, raspberry leaf, red apple, some smoky, green herb notes. Medium-bodied on a fresh frame with light tannins and bright acidity. Red apples, strawberries, wild raspberries, the fruit is crisp but juicy, and tastes of a higher quality than the price point might suggest. A bit lean, and some shortness on the finish, but it shows some interesting cigar box, rhubarb and white pepper notes. (87 points)

2015 Q Collection Chardonnay - California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley
SRP: $18
Medium yellow color. Aromas of dandelion, tulips, juicy bruised pear, some toasted almond and peanut shell, hints of honeycomb. Juicy and pleasantly plump texture on the palate but moderate acidity keeps it refreshing. Lemon curd, yellow apples and pear, mixed in nicely with notes of honeyed white tea, butterscotch, some hints of white flowers and chalk. Tasty and crowd-pleasing without being heavy, and it stays quite fresh. Solid buy. (87 points)

2014 Q Collection Cabernet Sauvignon - California, Napa Valley
SRP: $19
Juicy purple color. Aromas of jammy currants and black cherries, light roast coffee, cola, eucalyptus, hints of roasted chestnut and violet. Full-bodied but juicy with soft tannins and moderate acidity. Fleshy black currant and blackberry jam with some violets, cola and eucalyptus. Fun, approachable, great early drinker but this tastes “real” and far less baked or sweet than a lot of sub-$20 California Cabernets. Another good buy from this brand. (87 points)

2015 Adler Fels Chardonnay The Eagle Rock - California
SRP: $20
Bright gold color. Fresh but richly tropical aromas of papaya, kiwi and white peach with white and yellow flowers and honey notes. Full and creamy yet pleasantly fresh on the palate, with yellow apples, papaya and peach fruite. Notes of almond, barley, honey and floral perfume. Forward and packed with flavor but a bit of needed freshness, too. Half the fruit comes from the Russian River, half from Monterey. (87 points)

2014 Adler Fels Pinot Noir The Eagle Rock - California, Central Coast, Santa Barbara County
SRP: $28
Deep ruby color. Bright and juicy aromas of raspberry and strawberry jams, candied red cherries, cola and rose petals. Medium+ bodied with soft, easy tannins and moderately fresh acidity. Flavors of juicy strawberries and jammy raspberries play well with cola, sweet roses, rhubarb pie, vanilla. A fun, slightly candied style, but a tasty, plush Pinot for early drinking. Most of the fruit comes from Santa Rita Hills, about a quarter from Russian River. (87 points)

2016 Eighty Four Wines Albariño - California, Napa, Carneros
SRP: $28
Light gold color. An aromatic burst of wet grass, lilies, dandelions and spring rain on top of some lemon and green melons. Precise, lip-smacking acidity on the palate, but some rich texture as well. Lemon meringue, nectarine and green melon fruit, which are matched with notes of straw, sea salt, white pepper, flower stems, a long sense of mountain stream minerality in this wine. Incredibly fresh, surprisingly complex, unsurprisingly delicious. The more Napa Albariño I taste, the more I fall in love with it, and this is a great example. (90 points)

2013 Eighty Four Wines Malbec - California, Napa Valley
SRP: $42
Rich purple color. A boisterous, plum-laded nose along with blackberries, tobacco, mint, chestnut, graphite and coffee grounds. Full-bodied with moderate-grip to the tannins, a full and velvety wine but it boasts some vibrant acidity. Red and black cherries and currants, the fruit is ripe but crunchy, and mixed with potting soil, coffee, mint, violets, graphite and eucalyptus. Rich and expressive but structured nicely for some cellaring, too. 100% Malbec aged 20 months in ¾ new French oak. (90 points)

2013 Fortress Cabernet Sauvignon Knights Reserve - California, Sonoma County, Knights Valley
SRP: $40
Rich purple color. Smells like black cherries, roasted currant, sweet figs, along with dark roast coffee and vanilla. Full and juicy on the palate with medium/soft edges and moderate acidity. Juicy currant and black cherry fruit mixes with vanilla, sweet herbs, charcoal pit, earth and smoke. Fun stuff to rink over the next few years. Includes 8% Malbec, 3% Petite Verdot and 1% Merlot, aged 28 months in 35% new oak. (88 points)

2014 Rombauer Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon - California, Napa Valley
SRP: $55
Light purple color. Deep red and black currants, yet fresh and juicy, also loaded with eucalyptus, menthol, cola, coffee and violets. Full-bodied, velvety but grippy tannins, medium/low acidity. Juicy black cherries and currants, laced with espresso, dark chocolate shavings, mint, eucalyptus, sweet clove. Very pretty, well-structured for near-term aging or a good decant, but surprisingly approachable. Includes 11% Petit Verdot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 5% Merlot, aged 17 months in 70% new French oak. (89 points)

2013 Silverado Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon GEO - California, Napa Valley
SRP: $75
Dark purple color. On the nose, it gushes with dark but vibrant plums and black currant, a deep floral and earth element mixes with clove, coffee and mole sauce – lots going on. Full-bodied, mouth-filling, sturdy tannins but medium acidity helps keep it fresh. Currants, blackberries, gorgeous fruit, velvety but fresh; the fruit is laced with iron, dark chocolate, coffee. Seriously structured, but seriously beautiful, with time to spare in the cellar. 88% Cabernet with 12% Petit Verdot, all from Mt. George Vineyard, aged 17 months in 38% new French and American oak. (92 points)

2013 Silverado Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon Solo - California, Napa Valley, Stags Leap District
SRP: $125
Such dark purple color. Gorgeous deep currants and blackberries, with roasted herbs, smashed rocks, iron, violets, some tobacco and clove, such aromatic complexity to unpack. Full and sturdy on the palate but some freshness despite the density. Gorgeous, deep fruit (plums, currants, blackberry), mixed with smoke, roasted chestnut, smashed rocks, minerals, some vanilla coffee and coconut but mixed in well. Long time ahead. All Cabernet from the Silverado Vineyard, aged 18 months in about half new French oak. (93 points)

2014 Shafer Cabernet Sauvignon One Point Five - California, Napa Valley, Stags Leap District
SRP: $90
Opaque purple color. The nose is deep, complex and constantly evolving with a core of blackberry and dark currant fruit, smashed rocks, rich loamy soil, anise, tobacco and violets – lots to unpack. Fully loaded on the palate, a viscous wine with medium-low acidity and a powerful tannic grip. A young but gorgeous wine texturally, and concentrated blackberry and cassis. The fruit’s matched with flavors of anise, charred earth, cocoa powder, espresso and graphite. A sleek and enticing presence despite its youthful density. Best to let it sit for a few years, I think, but this should hold up for many more. Includes a combined 5% Merlot, Malbec, Petit Verdot, aged 10 months in all new French oak barrels. (93 points)

Robert Turner Wines - Garage Wine Grows Up

This post first appeared in the daily wine blog Terroirist.


Robert Turner Wines were new to me until I tasted these four, but this small producer is behind some really tasty vino.

In 1997, proprietor Bob Turner began buying grapes from Napa and Sonoma and crafting wines a la garagiste — by making the wines in his San Francisco garage. Bob, a dentist-turned-winemaker who studied at UC Davis, outgrew his modest cellar, so in 2005 the operation expanded into Stoney Springs Winery, north of St. Helena, and Robert Turner Wines officially began.

It's still a small affair (about 500 cases per vintage), and the portfolio is relatively focused. Nothing crazy: a Grenache rose, a Chardonnay and Pinot Noir from Dutton Ranch in the Russian River Valley, and a Cabernet Franc from a site near the winery. Fellow dentist-turned-winemaker Dave Earnest (who also worked as a pilot) has been assistant winemaker since 2014.

I thought the Cab Franc was the most exciting, but the whole lineup is solid. These wines were received as trade samples and tasted sighted.

2015 Robert Turner Grenache Mosaic Rosé - California, Central Valley, Yolo County

SRP: $21

Light strawberry color. Bright apples and crunchy white cherries with rose petals and some green garden and herbs. A zesty appeal for sure, this has tart white cherries, grapefruit pith and watermelon  — vibrant and crisp but some honeyed texture and tropical flower notes keep it juicy. White pepper, nettle and oregano notes. Tasty stuff from Yolo a site near Davis. (87 points)

2013 Robert Turner Chardonnay Dutton Ranch - California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley

SRP: $36

Light gold color. Smells of buttered bread, almonds and honeycomb on top of juicy green and yellow apples and pears. Full-bodied but lively acidity and a velvety, slightly waxy mouthfeel. Almonds, honeycomb and cinnamon play nicely off of tart green apples, apricots and bruised pears. Delicious mix of fruit and the richness is balanced by freshness and notes of flower shop and chalk. (90 points)

2013 Robert Turner Pinot Noir Dutton Ranch - California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley

SRP: $44

Medium ruby color. Nose of tart cherries, raspberry jam, sage and sweet pipe tobacco notes and a warm clay and earthy note. Tart red fruit on the palate but some fresh, farmer’s market style jam raspberries in here (some rhubarb pie and crunchy strawberries). A fleshy medium-plus-bodied wine but it’s lip-smacking throughout. Good tannic backbone but so crunchy and fresh from the acidity. Earthy, rhubarb, white pepper, roses, yet some warm tea and roasted nut notes. Delicious but could definitely use some time to open up or a few in the cellar. (90 points)

2013 Robert Turner Cabernet Franc Stoney Springs Vineyard - California, Napa Valley

SRP: $48

Deep ruby color. Smoky black cherries, tart black currants, along with rose petals and mint and pepper and earth. The aromas open up wonderfully with air. Full-bodied with moderately structured tannins and the fruit shows density but a refreshing tartness. Black cherry and currant mix with rose petals, spicy tobacco, pepper and dark chocolate. This is a very young Cab Franc, but it’s structured and balanced so well that it can be consumed young or cellared for at least 5 years. (90 points) 

Ernest Vineyards: Artful Sonoma Pinot & Chardonnay

This post first appeared on the daily wine blog Terroirist. 

I’m a huge fan of Sonoma Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, and now I have another exciting producer to follow. 

Ernest Vineyards focuses on single vineyard-designated Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. The brand was established in 2012 by husband-wife team Todd Gottula and Erin Brooks, who work with Sonoma growers and their winemaking team to produce wines from sites throughout the Green River, the larger Russian River AVA and the West Sonoma Coast. The wines are produced at a custom crush facility called Punchdown Cellars, but Erin and Todd have plans to launch their own facility, called Grand Cru, in the summer of 2017.

I loved both of the Chardonnays, but the Pinot Noirs are even better. Picked at 22 brix, the wines sport a low 12.5% alcohol. But even though these are lighter-bodied wines, they are by no means lacking in structure or flavor. For those Pinot-lovers who tend toward the zesty, red-fruited, earthy style, Ernest wines are worth checking out. They do use a good amount of new French oak (about 30-40%), but that seems to be the perfect amount for my palate — accentuating and harmonizing the wine but not stealing the show.

“Todd and Erin pride themselves on making Burgundian-style wines with bright acid, low alcohol, and balanced flavor,” their website proclaims. A bold statement, but the wines back it up. I thought all four of these wines were delicious, crisp, complex and flawlessly executed. Ernest Vineyards is one to watch if you appreciate that “new California wine” kind of style.

These wines were received as trade samples and tasted sighted.



2014 Ernest Vineyards Chardonnay The Bombardier - California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley
SRP: $42
Pale yellow color. Aromas: steely, white flowers, nettle, lemon pith, with richer elements of honeycomb, apricot and orange marmalade. On the palate: pleasant but balanced creaminess, vibrant acidity, a medium-bodied frame (13.5% alcohol). Apricot, orange, kiwi, sliced green apples, all of it topped with chalk, floral perfume, mixed nuts and hay. Complex and flavorful but it stays zesty and driven by minerals. Lots to unpack with this wine. 10 months in 40% new French oak. From the Green Valley Ranch Vineyard. (90 points)

2014 Ernest Vineyards Chardonnay The Farmer - California, Sonoma County, Green Valley of Russian River Valley
SRP: $45
Pale yellow color. Bright and vibrant aromas with flowers, crushed chalk, some honey, white tea, on top of apricots and orange peels. Waxy but elegant texture on the palate with bright, crisp acidity (13% alcohol). Orange, apricot, yellow apples and kiwi fruit, very pretty, rich flavors but this is so bright, vibrant, elegant. Woven in well are the slight toast and nutshell elements from the oak, but they accentuate rather than dominate the natural flavors. 10 months in 35% new French oak. From Black Emerald Vineyard and some fruit from Green Valley Ranch. (91 points)





2014 Ernest Vineyards Pinot Noir The Artist - California, Sonoma County, Sonoma Coast
SRP: $55
Light ruby color. Aromas of bright cherries and wild raspberries, this is a highly floral wine, like red and white roses, add in some spiced tea, white pepper and rhubarb, and there is a whole lot to sniff in this beauty. Medium-dusty tannins on the palate, medium-bodied, absolutely lip-smacking acidity, this has laser-like focus but shows enough grip to keep things serious. Bright red fruit is doused in roses, black tea, clove. Hints of cherry wood and light roast coffee. Long and seamless. Gorgeous now but I’d love to revisit this in two or three years. Aged 10 months in 40% new French oak. From the Bush Vineyard. Wow. (92 points)

2014 Ernest Vineyards Pinot Noir The Settler - California, Sonoma County, Sonoma Coast
SRP: $58
Light ruby color. Such pretty aromatics: fresh strawberries, red currants, wild raspberries, topped in rhubarb, roses, some deeper violet and cinnamon-spice notes. This is tart and zippy on the palate, a medium-bodied wine with dusty but structured tannins. A vibrant and crisp appeal to this wine, with red cherries, raspberries, the fruit is tart and crunchy yet shows some velvetiness. Mineral and earth undertones, hints of coffee and cedar but this is a minimalist style Pinot, and it sports a long, crisp finish. So much to love about this beautiful wine. Aged 10 months in 40% new French oak, from the Cleary Ranch Vineyard in the West Sonoma Coast. (93 points)

Wine Reviews: California White Wines

This post first appeared on the daily wine blog Terroirist.

Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, blends, this report features a bunch of California white wines from all over the state. The Dragonette Cellars Duvarita Vineyard 2014 was shockingly good, while Sonoma Chardonnay purveyor La Pitchoune continues to impress me with their 2013s. Toss in some newly-released Sauvignon Blancs and a few blends, and you've got a nice selection of late summer sippers.

These wines were received as trade samples and tasted single blind.

2014 Dragonette Cellars Chardonnay Duvarita Vineyard - California, Central Coast, Santa Barbara County

SRP: $60

Medium gold color. Aromas of lemon curd, oranges, caramel apple, along with a kick of minerals, chalk and shells — this is quite exciting to sniff. Medium-full-bodied, I love the mouthfeel: plump and creamy yet balanced by vibrant acidity. Lemon meringue meets baked apple and peach tart. I love the complexity of honey, bread crumbs, graham cracker, a lively mineral kick. Rich but elegant and harmonious, this scores high in the deliciousness ranking. This wine comes out slugging, but it’s precision is so impressive. Wow, folks. Aged 12 months in 12% new French oak. From a clearly fascinating site in sandy soils west of the Sta. Rita Hills appellation. (92 points)

2014 Frank Family Vineyards Chardonnay - California, Napa, Carneros

SRP: $35

Light gold color. A juicy, more tropical appeal on the nose, like papaya and pineapple mixed in with bruised apple and honeybutter. Lovely creamy texture on the palate, some medium acidity keeps it moving forward, but this is a velvety almost oily mouthfeel. Bruised apple, apricot jam, orange marmalade, those flavors are topped in almond, candle wax, clover honey and cinnamon sticks. Despite these rich flavors, the wine maintains vivacity and brightness, especially on the finish, where a kick of acidity and minerals leaves the palate wanting more. (89 points)

2014 Shafer Chardonnay Red Shoulder Ranch - California, Napa, Carneros

SRP: $52

Medium gold color. Gorgeous nose of yellow flowers, apple slices, orange peel, dried apricot, honey and some mountain stream rocks. Chunky texture on the palate, almost chewy (14.9% alcohol) but the acidity helps balance it out. Straight-up delicious, too: yellow apple, peaches, oranges and pineapples, topped in chopped nuts, honeycomb and almond skin. A nice kick of rocks and minerals bounces off the oak-influenced elements. Almost dense at this point but it opens up a lot, and will surely continue to do so in the cellar. No maloactic fermentation, this is aged 14 months in 3/4 new French oak. The grapes come from a single vineyard in Carneros. (91 points)

2015 Matanzas Creek Winery Chardonnay Sonoma County - California, Sonoma County

SRP: $26

Medium gold color. Smells of juicy pears, yellow apple and apricot jam with some nutty and butterscotch elements as well. Plump texture on the palate, this is a richly creamy wine but some slight acidity keeps it from feeling too heavy. Juicy apricot and bruised apple fruit mixes with nougat, peanut shell and butterscotch elements. Not too toasty or rich, but plenty of those big, delicious Chardonnay elements in this wine. Fermented in about 40% new French oak with full maloactic fermentation. (86 points)

2014 J Vineyards & Winery Chardonnay Estate - California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley

SRP: $28

Light gold color. Bright floral notes mix with all colors of apples, and some aromas of hazelnut and almond. Juicy and round on the palate but cool acidity keeps it lively. Plump pears, baked apples and apricots mix with honeyed tea, cinnamon spice and caramel popcorn. Rich in texture and flavor but this is refreshing as well as delicious. Barrel-fermented and aged nine months in 25% new French oak. (87 points)

2014 Frei Brothers Chardonnay Reserve - California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley

SRP: $20

Gold color. Smells of bruised apples, toasted almond, honey — you get the idea of the style. Plump and creamy on the palate, some light acidity helps. This wine is full of apricot, yellow apples, topped with nougat, cinnamon, hazelnut and butterscotch. A typical style, but it tastes good. (85 points)

2013 La Pitchoune Chardonnay Pratt Vineyard - California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley

SRP: $68

Light gold color. Smells like golden apples, juicy pears, mixed with honeysuckle, cinnamon, almond and crushed chalk. Full and creamy, a rich and lush feel, but the acidity keeps it firing. Plump yellow fruit (plum, appple, pear) and loaded with non-fruit complexity: honey, almond, nutmeg and clove. But these flavors are matched with chalk, wildflowers and sea spray. A delicious big boy of a Chardonnay, but it's paradoxically surgical. I’d love to re-taste in a few years. Aged 16 months in 1/3 new French oak. (91 points)

2013 La Pitchoune Chardonnay Chenoweth Vineyard - California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley

SRP: $88

Pretty golden color. I love the salty, nettle and white floral components to the nose, which liven up the rich apple and yellow plum fruit. Full-bodied, but this wine hides its weight well via the crisp acidity. Juicy yellow apple and plum, apricot and orange, mix in some honeycomb, croissant, salted butter. There’s a vibrant sense of sea shell and minerality in this wine, and the finish is long, creamy but crisp. Beautiful stuff — this is what my palate craves in Sonoma Chardonnay. I’d love to retaste in two or three years. Aged 16 months in 50% new French oak. (92 points)

2014 Gundlach Bundschu Chardonnay Estate Vineyard - California, Sonoma County, Sonoma Coast

SRP: $27

Light gold color. Very floral and bright on the nose with peaches and lychee, backed up by notes of cucumber and rosewater. Creamy texture, vibrant acidity, the fruit is very tropical (guava, pineapple, passion fruit), backed up by sweet honey, brown sugar and nougat. Sweet floral perfume pervades the finish. No maloactic fermentation, this spends 10 months in 20% new French oak. (87 points)

2013 Agnitio Wines Chardonnay Sun Chase Vineyard - California, Sonoma County, Sonoma Coast

SRP: $50

Light gold color. Smells of yellow apples and apricots covered in nougat, honey, lilies and clean laundry. Plump and creamy texture on the palate, acidity keeps it moderately fresh. Apricots and spiced apple sauce flavors mix with honey, chopped almonds and white tea. A rich style but it's not heavy, and I get this lively mineral presence in the wine that keeps it interesting. This wine sees 1/4 maloactic fermentation and time in 25% new French oak. (88 points)

2015 Matanzas Creek Winery Sauvignon Blanc - California, Sonoma County

SRP: $22

Medium yellow color. Rich aromatics of guava, pineapple and limes, topped with lemongrass and sliced jalapenos. Medium-bodied, creamy, slightly waxy texture on the palate with medium acidity. Chunky pineapple and mango fruit blends nicely with citrus zest, grapefruit, salted lime and an integrated mix of lemon grass, white pepper and chalk. Solid stuff for the price. Includes 7% Semillon. (87 points)

2014 Murrieta's Well The Whip - California, San Francisco Bay, Livermore Valley

SRP: $24

Pale lemon color. Smells insanely floral and soapy, like perfume, honeysuckle and laundry powder on top of oranges and lychee. Medium-bodied with a slightly waxy mouthfeel and some moderate acidity. The oranges, white peaches and pineapple fruit is juicy and topped with candle wax, floral perfume, laundry soap and sugar cane and orange blossom. Really interesting flavors, here, but if you dislike floral notes or avoid this wine. A kitchen sink blend of Semillon, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Orange Muscat, Muscat Canelli and Viognier. (85 points)

2015 Tom Gore Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc - California

SRP: $13

Medium straw color. Nose of grapefruit and lime topped with white and green peppers, some honeysuckle as well. Medium-bodied with medium but refreshing acidity. The grapefruit and tangerines are ripe but tangy and blended in with elements of pepper, lemongrass and honeysuckle. Not too complex but very pleasant and refreshing. (85 points)

2014 Grgich Hills Fumé Blanc Dry Sauvignon Blanc - California, Napa Valley

SRP: $31

Medium straw color. Aromas of juicy white peach, green apple mixed with elements of almond and green beans, honeysuckle and crushed chalk. Medium-plus-bodied with a creamy texture but bright acidity keeps it crisp and clean. Honeysuckle, lemongrass, chalk and minerals accent the green apple, sliced peaches and honeydew melon. Juicy fruit is mixed with quite complex elements of almond, honey, white tea, chalk and minerals. Tasty but racy stuff — another solid vintage of this wine. About 80% of this comes from the Musque clone, which accentuates these fresh floral elements. Aged six months in old French oak, which rounds out the wine but doesn’t impart oaky flavors. Nicely done, per usual. (88 points)

2015 Chronic Cellars Eunice X Chronic Cellars - California, Central Coast

SRP: $15

Light yellow color. Honey, almonds and yellow flower aromas on top of apricot and yellow apple. On the palate, this shows a creamy, waxy texture but some solid acid keeps it quite balanced. Apricots, yellow plums, bruised apple, the fruit is backed up with some floral, white tea and honeycomb elements. Straight-up fun, but some nice balance and diversity of flavors. A blend of75% Chardonnay, 14% Viognier, 8% Roussanne and 3% Marsanne. (86 points)