Caparone Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon French Camp Vineyard 2004

Single vineyard- "French Camp" in Paso Robles. The wines are picked very ripe, fairly late into the season. Unfined or unfiltered. Black and green olive profile- Smells wild, brambly with a slight hint of barnyard (like an aged Rioja). Very exciting style! Black cherry front with a very light touch silky flavors of anise-seed, red licorice, cedar, vanilla on the finish- yet the wine remains very light and finishes cleanly at the end like a pinot noir. A pretty wine that anyone who likes to experiment with wine will appreciate!

Kumeu River Matés River Chardonnay 2004

Golden-hued with very full-bodied scent that is ripe with apricots, almond and mineral. Long finish that has smooth acidity, but lively. Very good.

Clos Saron Heart of Stone 2004

If you're looking for a 'cult' wine, you have found it, in Clos Saron. In the Sierra Nevada foothills, winemaker Gideon Beinstock, imparts a European sensibility to his wines. Named by their style, not their grape varietal, the blends change with each vintage. All the wines are biodynamic and are aged in old oak. His vines are old (pre-pyhlloxera) unharmed rootstock. They are very complex wines. The Heart of Stone is 96% Syrah and 4% viognier. The nose comes off like port with tarragon and violets and has a HUGE presence. Cherry, raisin and creme brulee -an odd mix- unfold to form a match that is super-delicious. It's opulent and velvety rich. Big, but restrained at the end and very compelling. Unfined, unfiltered, it should have sediment and a slightly cloudy appearance (the one we tasted did). Only 2064 bottles made.

This vineyard is free of: herbicides, insecticides, pesticides, and chemical fertilizers.

Chateau LaRose-Trintaudon 2004

Haut-Medoc Deep brick and ruby colored with a deeply scented nose. The finish falls flat to me, as it did in a previos tasting. Maybe its because its just over-produced?

Chateau Greysac 2004 Medoc

Bordeaux. Northern Medoc 45% merlot and cabernet sauvignon with a bit of cabernet franc. Garnet colored with a nicely fruited body with fresh raspberry and a leathery finish. The body has good structure and is drinking very well.

Ramiat Tempranillo 2004

Black in color and blackberry jam colored when swirled. Nose is spiced with thyme, black cherry, tannins are very forward and there is little sugar, which reminds me of (get this:) Spanish wine. What's missing? The earth, the oak, the love. Not very exciting...