New Wine Releases February 2015

CALIFORNIA

Arroyo Grande Valley

Laetitia
2012 Laetitia Single Vineyard Les Galets Pinot Noir; $60
15/20 — The deep reddish purple color hints at the aromas of blackberry, boysenberry and vanilla soon to meet your nose. Flavors of dark berries and plum are balanced well by the blended tannins and acidity.

Napa Valley

Artezin
Zinfandel; $25
13.5/20 — A palate bursting with flavors of cranberries and strawberries, as well as allspice, clove and pepper, makes this Zinfandel a great match for grilled meats, sausages and hearty cheeses.

Hourglass
Blueline Estate Cabernet Sauvignon 2012; $165
18/20 — Petal scents followed by delightful aromas of pomegranate, red fruits and toasty wood smoke dance on the nose. The classically structured tannins shape the core of the wine, providing a glimpse into its amazing aging potential.

Paso Robles

Eberle
2012 Mill Road Vineyard Viognier; $23
14/20 — A great match for those looking for the right wine to pair with their sushi or sashimi, the 2012 Mill Road Vineyard Viognier perfumes the nose with citrus blossoms and apricots. The palate is clean with vibrant flavors of pear, peach and almond.

J. Lohr Vineyards & Wines
2012 J. Lohr Gesture Mouvèdre; $30
14/20 — Unique aromas of tobacco and beeswax open up to an inviting plum nose. A grainy and texture makes the spicy palate all the more enjoyable.

Russian River Valley

Fritz
Vintage 2012 Russian River Valley Chardonnay; $25
14.5/20 — The pale golden color alludes to the the flavors of apricot, almonds and dried fruits which dance on the palate. Aromas of melon and limestone make for an enticing and well-blanced wine.

MacMurray Estate Vineyards
2012 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir; $28
14/20 — Essences of lavender and boysenberry envelop the nose and lead into dark cherry and pomegranate flavors. The silky mouthful is complemented nicely by subtle notes of oak.

Sonoma

Benzinger Family Winery
2012 Cabernet Sauvignon; $20
13.5/20 — Aromas of black cherry, chocolate, cinnamon and vanilla make for an exuberant nose. Structured tannins play well with a palate that boasts flavors of wood spice, berries and mocha.

Dutton Goldfield
2012 McDougall Vineyard Pinot Noir; $58
16/20 — A great companion to hearty beef dishes and grilled sausages, the 2012 McDougall Vineyard Pinot Noir has a palate packed with cherry and toffee notes. The nose shows off the structure of the wines with notes of licorice and black cherry.

Kendall-Jackson
2012 Grand Reserve Merlot; $26
14.5/20 —The lengthy finish is preceded by a palate featuring red currant and cherry flavors. A smooth wine with notes of chocolate and chalky, yet refined, tannins.

Wind Gap Wines
2012 Syrah ; $40
14/20 — Flavors of summer fruits are framed by floral notes and pepper. This vivacious vino from the Sonoma Coast is savory, supple and an altogether superb Syrah to bring to a social occasion.

ARGENTINA

Uco Valley

Antucura
Chérie Sparkling NV; $16
14/20 — Aromas of yeast, toast and white flowers captivate the nose. The palate is fresh and intense with an acidity that makes it a great match for appertizers and seafood.

ITALY

Tuscany

Fattoria I Veroni
Chianti Rufina DOCG; $14
14/20 — Aromas of red berries and other ripe red fruits harmonizes with a palate that is medium-bodied, dry and boasts balanced tannins. Stews, poultry and other game make for a great companion to this Tuscan red.

Tenuta Sette Cieli
2011 Yantra; $19
14/20 — The 2011 Yantra has a fruitiness and freshness that delights both the nose and palate. Displays of soft and ripe tannins, a rich mouthfeel and a strong finish make it a great wine for a night in.

PORTUGAL

Alentejo

Quinta da Plansel
Marquês de Montemor Colheita Seleccionada Touriga Franca; $18
14/20 — Winemaker Dorina Lindemann ages this wine for 15 months in French Oak. Produced in an area of the world known for its renowned pig farming, the Marquês de Montemor Colheita is a perfect pair for pork dishes.

SPAIN

Tenerife

Tajinaste
Tinto Tradicional Valle de la Orotava; $19
14.5/20 — Pleasant aromas of blueberries, cherries and plums compliment this dark cherry-colored traditional wine. The palate matches well with the nose and is smooth and strong with its stable structure.

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