Tasting Notes

This is “THE” Rising Star (Cabernet) of the year!

Posted on by Frank Melis

Situated between some of the most sought after vineyards in the Napa Valley like Spottswoode, Revana, Vineyard 29, Ovid, Realm & Dana Estate, etc.  You can only expect amazing wine from this appellation.   The vineyard site was originally planted 5 decades ago, and the Young (Inglewood) Family purchased the estate about 10 years ago.  This (2009) is the first commercial vintage, and you are in for a real treat!  The label (a spare iconic walker) symbolizes the delicacy and precision of the balance central to everything the Young family does in the vineyard, wine and their lives.

Young Inglewood 2009 Cabernet “Estate”
Retail 95.00 – GGWC 89.99 FREE SHIPPING on 4 or more
Use discount shipping code “YING09CS” during check out

Youthful in appearance, the finished wine shows a beautiful nose of blue and red fruits, warm spices and an indulgent cocoa powder character offered by the small percentage of Cabernet Franc included.  The palate presents layers of the red, blue and black fruits, tea leaves and minerals. Warm spice and a round mouthfeel come from the new oak barrels selected by Young Inglewood to showcase the fruit’s character and mid-palate. The balance of tannin, acidity and good length indicate structure in the wine and the scaffolding for aging. Enjoy now or lay down for 8-12 years.

Click here or on the links above to order!

Tasting Notes

“The” Zin surprise of the year

Posted on by Frank Melis

We rarely do blind Zinfandel tastings, but we have to do it once in a while.  So my group rounded up a bunch of worthy opponents and we battled it out between many younger and older vine Zins.  The list included:

  • Ridge “Pagani Ranch” (93 Pts Parker)
  • Acorn “Allegria” (92 WS)
  • Hartford “Dina” (93 Pts Parker)
  • Bedrock “Monte Rosso” (94 WS/93 Pts Parker)
  • Tofanelli “Estate” (93+ Pts Parker)
  • Saxum “Paderewski” (95 Pts WS)
  • Turley “Fredricks” (95 Pts Parker)
  • Turley “Dogtown” (94 Pts Parker)
  • Epoch (93 Pts Parker/ 92 WS)
  • Martinelli Giuseppe & Luisa (93 WS)
  • Biale “Monte Rosso (92 WS)
  • Biale “Black Chicken (92 WS)
  • Wilson “Sydney”

We had 17 people tasting, Wilson received 10 first places, Tofanelli 4 first places and Saxum 3 first places.

Wilson Winery

When Diane and Ken Wilson first visited the Sonoma County they fell in love with the patchwork of oaks, vineyards and expansive vistas. Diane and Ken are devoted to things they value most—family and friends—and are committed to the stewardship and sustainable farming of the Dry Creek, Alexander and Russian River Valleys.  Diane, a native Californian, cherishes her high-energy lifestyle that includes raising children, making wine at Wilson Winery and taking an active role in the community.  Ken, born and raised in Ontario, Canada, is robust and passionate about his vineyards.  The Wilsons have three children—Sydney, Victoria (Tori) and Sawyer (all designated vineyards)

Wilson 2010 ZinfandelWilson 2010 Zinfandel “Sydney”, Dry Creek
Retail 36.00 – GGWC 32.99 – FREE SHIPPING on six or more.
Use discount shipping code “WIL10ZINSYD” during check out

Balanced aromas of spicy dark berries mingle with oak notes contributing hints of toasty vanilla and chocolate. The lush entry presents palate-coating ripe blackberry and a dusting of spicy pepper, cherry and dark chocolate. The flavors seamlessly merge and expand into a long, luxurious finish. Although it can be enjoyed solo, this Zin pairs well with Italian or Mediterranean cuisine, and can hold its own against a thick, juicy steak.  Only 600 cases produced!  This wine recently won gold medals at the largest International Wine Competition, where it beat out 400 Zin entries, plus it won best of show beating out Cabs, Pinots, Merlots, Zins in the $30 to $60 category!

Click here or on the links above to order!

Tasting Notes

Mountain grown gem (126 cases)

Posted on by Frank Melis

Mike DrashMike Drash grew up in Memphis, TN on a farm.  After graduating from (a small) college in Memphis he moved to Florida where he found his love for food and wine.  With the encouragement of a friend he moved to California and landed a job at a Russian River Valley winery as a cellar rat.  After lots of trials and learning from the best he was named assistant winemaker at Far Niente.  In 2003 he became the winemaker at Luna where a worked with John Kongsgaard and learned and embraced minimalist winemaking techniques.  In 2009 he started his own label (named after his daughter) and the rest, as they say, is history.

Talullah 2009 Cabernet SauvignonTallulah 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon MD1
Retail 85.00 – GGWC 79.99
BUY SIX or more for only 69.99 and get FREE SHIPPING
Use discount shipping code “TAL09MD1” during check out

Hailing from the base of Howell Mountain, this Grand Cru vineyard is one of the finest vineyard sources in Napa.  On a severely sloping vineyard facing due west this big, rich, bold wine shows of its brilliance with gorgeous depth and finesse.  The hue is dark and intense.  On the nose you are greeted by dark black stone fruit with a whiff of dust, chocolate, anise and good dose of balanced spiciness.  On the palate, this bold youngster shows its true character when you encounter the well-balanced fruit and acid ratios and a richly textured body.  The wine is long and intense.  This is NOT a Dunn-like wine, but I would suggest decanting it and letting it breathe for an hour of two.  Hurry up, as only 126 cases of this gem were crafted!

Click here or on the links above to order!

Tasting Notes

Superb quality & well-priced Napa Cabernet

Posted on by Frank Melis

Balius Wines

At its core, Balius Wines was created to provide examples of great wines that don’t have to cost a lot of money. This inaugural releases show that they are on track.  Balius Story — Achilles and his two immortal horses, Balius and Xanthos, were legendary and heroic figures on the battlefields of ancient Greece.The warrior and his fearless horses were often depicted with black paint on clay wine vessels, or amphorae, as a celebration of their heroic triumphs. The Balius label is a nod to the fabled heroes represented by the black figure pottery of ancient Greece, and the Balius wines are reflections of the world-renowned appellations throughout California.

Balius 2010 Cabernet SauvignonBalius 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Rutherford, Napa Valley
Retail 40.00 – GGWC 36.99 – FREE SHIPPING on six or more
Use discount shipping code “BAL10RCS” during check out

This well-priced Napa Valley Cabernet offers a deep purple color.  On the nose you’ll encounter ripe and opulent aromoas of black currants, black cherries, and dark chocolate. On the palate you are greeted by lush flavors of blackberries, black plum and mocha. This crowd-pleasing wine is rich and well balanced, finishing long and polished. Showcasing its “Rutherford dust” beautifully.  Sadly only 250 cases were made.

Click here or on the link above to order!

Other

FREE WINE DAY! – Plus Free Shipping (This is NOT an April Fools Joke)

Posted on by Frank Melis

Bodega Rancho 2011 VioginierBrothers Derek and Kurt Beitler grew up in the wine business, and in 2007 started Bodega Rancho, which focuses on cool climate, single vineyard Syrah and Viognier. These are exceptional wines from a pair of talented wine artisans.

Bodega Rancho 2011 Viognier, Santa Lucia Highlands
Buy 11 bottles get the 12th one FREE  + FREE SHIPPING
Retail 38.00 – GGWC 34.99 – FREE SHIPPING on 12 or more
Use discount shipping code “BR11VIO” during check out

Pale yellow gold color. Nose of tropical fruits, pear, mango, and lychee. Rich, round mouthfeel. Pink grapefruit, tangy citrus, white peach, and stone fruit flavors pair with crisp acidity and minerality to create a wine that is easy to drink and pairs with a wide variety of foods.

Put 11 bottles in your shopping cart, you’ll receive 12 plus FREE SHIPPING, TODAY ONLY!

Click here or on the link above to order!

Other

Superb Mountain Grown Cabernet

Posted on by Frank Melis

Scribe Winery

The history of Scribe starts in 1858, just ten years after California joined the Union, when Emil Dressel, son of a famous Champagne producer came to California in search of his fortune.  Fast forward through phyloxera, WW I & II, the150 year old property was in disrepair.  The “Scribe” folks are returning it to a thriving ecosystem.  The 100+ year old Mission Hacienda, once home to the Dressels, is being restored as a tasting room and event center.  The Mariani brothers have access to some of the most amazing fruit sources as well, and are crafting first rates wines from their various vineyards.

Scribe Cabernet SauvignonScribe 2009 Cabernet “Outpost East” Atlas Peak, Napa Valley
Retail $70.00  – GGWC 64.99  – FREE SHIPPING on six or more
Use discount shipping code “SCRIBE09” during check out

The 2009 Cabernet is a blend of 95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2% Merlot, 2% Cabernet Franc and 1% Petit Verdot. The wine is aged for 18 months in high-end French oak barrels and a good 2 year in bottle before being released! You’ll have to decant this puppy and let it breathe for a good hour or two (or cellar it for a few years). I was very impressed with this youngster – both the wine and winemaker are youngsters! On the nose this wine showcases intense aromas of sweet cherries, a touch of vanilla and a whiff on minerality. On the palate this full-bodied wine serves up generous amounts of mouth-filling flavors – black currant, cocoa, black plums with a touch of toasty vanilla and anise on the finish. The wine finishes gracefully and long, with a good 45 second finish.

Click here or on the links above to order!

Other

Loring Chardonnay surprises in blind tasting

Posted on by Frank Melis

Loring WinesThis might have been one of the best blind Chardonnay tasting line-up I have organized in years. My group of 15 brought some gems for the battle of the whites. The line-up included:

  • Pahlmeyer (94 Parker $75)
  • Lewis Cellars (94 WS $55),
  • Calera Mt. Harlan (94 Parker, $50)
  • Diatom “Hamon” (92 WS, $50)
  • Tor “Hudson” (93 Parker, $54)
  • Marchand (93+ Parker, $70)
  • Peter Michael “Belle Cote” (94 Parker, $120)
  • Failla (94 WS, $45)
  • DuMOL “Clare” (94 Pts, $70)
  • Talley “Rosemary” (94 Parker, $ 60)
  • Flametree (94 Parker, $55)
  • Loring Rosella.

The winner: Loring 2011 “Rosella” Chardonnay

Brian Loring is a rocket scientist turned winemaker, and he told me that he does not regret the move one day! He told me years ago, that one day (he was 40) he was called “pops” by the younger generation and that was his queue to leave and follow this true passion – winemaking!  He had been a home winemaker for years, and it was an easy transition.  The rest is history, as well as some great scores from the various publications!

Loring 2011 "Rosella" ChardonnayLoring 2011 “Rosella” Chardonnay
Retail 53.00 – GGWC 49.99 – FREE SHIPPING on SIX or more
Use discount shipping code “LOR11ROS” during check out

The Rosella vineyard has become one of the most sought after sources for great Pinot and Chardonnay.  I can say that Brian Loring hit a home-run with this bottling.   On the nose you are greeted by nectarine and citrus.  The wine is forward from the start.  Gorgeously, and meticulously engineered this wine unfolds with each sip, unveiling another layer after layer. You’ll encounter minerality and lush fruit, all in sync, nicely balanced. Pure, and ripe fruit yet not that tropical character that others seem to embrace, it shows striking flavors similar to the chalky soils of Chablis.  This might be one of the best whites Brian has crafted yet to date!

Click here or on the link above to order!

Tasting Notes

Banshee wines on a Roll!

Posted on by Frank Melis

Banshee WinesThree friends. A missed turn. An intimate tasting with Robert Parker. Copious amounts of Champagne. A bird statue in a window.  This is the genesis of Banshee.  Since then they’ve come a long way in short time but the goal hasn’t changed: to craft distinctive wine that over-delivers in every possible way.  They want to give the world wines with real joie de vivre.  Banshee owns no vineyards of its own (yet!) but works in lock-step with high-end vineyard owners and wineries to produce wines of depth, purity and balance.  They spend ridiculous amounts of time working on finalizing each blend, and then try to convince people that “It’s a tough job but someone’s gotta do it.”

Banshee 2010 Mordecai Red
Retail 26.99 – GGWC 24.99 – FREE SHIPPING on 12 or more
 Use discount shipping code “BANSHEE” during check out.
OK to mix and match with other Banshee wines.

The 2010 Banshee Mordecai Red has a whopping thirteen varietals! The only other wine with 13 varietals is Chateuneuf du Pape, with 9 Red and 4 white. The 2010 blend consists of: Cabernet, Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Petit Verdot, Petite Sirah, Grenache, Montepulciano, Mourvedre, Zinfandel, Pinot Noir and Carignane (whew I ran out of breath here). One could call this bouillabaisse, but all joking aside, this is an awesome great value priced wine. The result is a worthy follow up to the success of their inaugural blend. This vintage, a Napa Cabernet parcel stepped up to take the lead role but it is fascinating  to  see  how  the  other  varieties express themselves. The Syrah adds a little spiciness, the Grenache bright red fruit, and the Cabernet Franc an intriguing nose. Each piece adds something distinct and essential to the wine.   We like to think of this as a marriage between Bordeaux and Rhone, consummated in California.

Banshee 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
Retail 42.00 – GGWC 39.99 – FREE SHIPPING on 6 or more
 Use discount shipping code “BANSHEE” during check out.
OK to mix and match with other Banshee wines.

The blend of the 2009 vintage is 87% Cabernet, 8% Merlot and 5% Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot & Malbec – all sourced throughout the Napa Valley including the Ink Grade Vineyard atop Howell Mountain, the low yielding Stagecoach Vineyard in Pritchard Hill, and Coombsville on the valley floor. The wine was aged for 20 months in a mix of new (90%) and one year old French oak barrels. The resulting wine once again manages to find itself dancing comfortably between gregarious crowd-pleaser and poet philosopher. It begins with a pretty floral, lavender and sweet cherry nose. This leads into a middle weight classic palette of black currents, cherry and tobacco. This is all underpinned by a well-integrated set of tannins. A touch of acidity buoys the whole. While it is perfectly accessible now it will age effortlessly on its impeccable balance for another decade.

Banshee 2011 Pinot Noir, Sonoma County
Retail 26.99 – GGWC 24.99 – FREE SHIPPING on 12 or more
 Use discount shipping code “BANSHEE” during check out.
OK to mix and match with other Banshee wines.

This elegant wine meets the eye with a medium ruby hue and offers up subtle hints of cherry and forest floor on the nose. On the palate one finds again a mix of Ranier and black cherries, mountain strawberries, rosehip tea and plum. There are some savory notes following through the finish that give the wine a clean line from front to back.

Banshee 2011 Mordecai Blanc
Retail 26.99 – GGWC 24.99 – FREE SHIPPING on 12 or more
 Use discount shipping code “BANSHEE” during check out.
OK to mix and match with other Banshee wines.

Hailing from the coolest climates of northern California, where minerals and acidity reign supreme, the 2011 Mordecai White marries the classic Northern Italian varietals of Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Tocai Friulano, with a cool climate parcels of Chenin Blanc and Viognier. The wine possesses beautiful aromatics with floral and honeysuckle accents, followed by nectarine, apricot and pear nuances. A streak of minerality and citrus darts through stone fruit flavors right to the finish, tying the whole package together with verve and cut.  The wine is a blend of  40% Chardonnay- Sonoma Coast, 19% Sauvignon Blanc- Lake County, 11% Viognier- Sonoma County, 10% Chenin Blanc- Clarksburg and  9% Tocai Friuliano- Mendocino

Click here or on the links above to order!

Other

Exquisite Value Pinot Noir

Posted on by Frank Melis

Baker Lane Winery

Baker Lane is not a flashy winery, it is a simple farm-like vineyard with an emphasis on observation management, holistic integration (bio-dynamic principles).  The land should speak for itself, is the motto here.  Being at the viticulture climatic edge, has shown itself to be at the very heart of the quality of the Baker Lane.  At Baker Lane, they strive to get the best out the vineyard – as they say, wine is made in the vineyard and not in the winery.

Baker Lane Pinot NoirBaker Lane 2011 Sonoma Coast Cuvee Pinot Noir
Retail 34.00 – GGWC 29.99 – FREE SHIPPING on 12 or more
Use discount shipping code “BAKER11SCC” during check out

A 50/50 blend of the Hurst and Ramondo Vineyards, this 2011 Pinot Noir is a “gorgeous” bargain and very attractive from start to finish.  On the nose crushed flowers and red cherries aromas great you, followed on the palate by layers of fleshy red fruit, flowers and a touch of spice.  Complex and well-balanced this wine finishes as it started, gorgeous with long sexy legs.

Click here or on the link above to order!

Tasting Notes

Impressive Petite Sirah & Zin at bargain prices

Posted on by Frank Melis

Horse and Plow

Horse and Plow is a small husband and wife run winery in Santa Rosa that focuses on making handcrafted wines exclusively from organic and bio-dynamic grapes. Chris Condos (winemaker/partner) started his career at Pine Ridge in 1995. He is also the day-to-day winemaker for Kathryn Kennedy winery. His wife, Suzanne Hagins started her career at Comte Armand in Pommard and made wine at David Bruce and Golden Eye. They both get down and dirty behind the “Horse and Plow” label.

Horse & Plow 2010 Petit SirahHorse & Plow 2010, Petite Sirah “Testa Vineyard”
Retail 32.00 – GGWC 28.99 – FREE SHIPPING on 12
Use discount shipping code “HP10PSZN” during check out
(can mix and match with Zinfandel)

Only 50 cases produced of this mind-boggling old vine Petite Sirah (planted in 1912).  Gorgeous, dense purple hue with an even more amazing bouquet of black and blue stone liqueur and aromatic flowers.  On the palate this full bodied gem is rich, extracted and lush with amazing intensity and depth.  The finish is long and equally complex. This is a value/quality wine for the books!

Horse & Plow 2010 ZinfandelHorse & Plow 2010 Zinfandel “Grist Vineyard” Dry Creek
Retail 33.00 – GGWC 29.99 – FREE SHIPPING on 12
Use discount shipping code “HP10PSZN” during check out
(can mix and match with Petite Sirah)

Only 200 cases produced of this 40 year old vine Zinfandel. The color is dark and intense.  Striking aromas of red and black currant with a whiff of tobacco jump out of the glass.  The wine is loaded with luscious, well-balanced fruit with an amazing depth.  The wine goes onto into a very long and layered finish.

Click here or on the links above to order!

Tasting Notes

Blind Tasting Cabernet Stunner by Aaron Pott

Posted on by Frank Melis

Jericho Canyon Vineyards

My tasting group assembled some amazing 2009 Cabernets and Bordeaux blends, and the result was even more stunning.  Our line-up included:

  • Alpha Omega “To-Kalon” $140 (94 Parker)
  • Dominus $175 (94 WS)
  • Cimarossa “Rian” $ 85 (95+ Parker)
  • Anderson Conn Valley “Black Label” $125 (96 Parker)
  • Phelps “Insignia” $200 (93 WS)
  • Hall “Bergfeld” $99 (94 Parker)
  • Diamond Creek “Volcanic Hill” $175 (96 Parker)
  • Dunn Howell Mountain $109 (96+ Parker)
  • Buoncristiani $90 (94 Parker)
  • Barrett & Barrett $250 (95+ Parker)
  • Dancing Hares $150.00 (94 Parker/ 93 WS)
  • Caymus ”Special Select” $130 (93 WS)
  • Shafer One Point Five $75 (94 Parker)
  • Opus One $225 (93 WS)
  • Jericho Canyon.

Our group, 18 strong, gave Jericho Canyon 11 first, 6 second and 1 third place votes with an average price of $74.50, which is 50% over its actual cost!

Jericho Canyon Vineyards is located on the Northeast end of the Napa Valley surrounded by Mount St. Helena and the Palisades, on a site where grapes were planted pre-prohibition.  The entire production of this estate hovers around 1500 cases, thus qualifying for “boutique” status.  When you have Aaron Pott as your winemaker, one can only expect to find top notch wines.  The estate is planted to the five Bordeaux varietals and some Syrah, with the majority being Cabernet Sauvignon.

Jericho CanyonJericho Canyon 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon  “Jericho Block”
Retail 65.00 – GGWC 59.99 – FREE SHIPPING on SIX or more
Use discount shipping code “JERICHO09BL” during check out

A distinct blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon and 13% Merlot all sourced from the lower elevation of the estate.  This wine jumps out of the glass with ripe black fruits, blackberry liqueur and espresso bean with captivating aromas of spice and black stone fruit.  Full and rich in body and lush on the palate this wine goes on forever ending with fine, integrated tannins.  This is one for the books!  Only 400 cases produced.

Click here or on the links above to order!

Tasting Notes

Saxum Assistant’s Breathtaking Release

Posted on by Frank Melis

Ledge Wines

The Adams Ranch is in the Willow Creek region on the west side of Paso Robles and rests on a plateau with the Santa Lucia Mountains as a backdrop, with a steep drop to Vineyard Drive in the foreground. The vineyard is almost entirely Syrah, with some Grenache and Mourvedre peppered in. The vines are own rooted and reared in the home nursery after pruning each year. Once established, the vines are dry farmed, field-blended and co-fermented using only native yeasts and are aged in neutral oak barrels.  Mark Adams has been the longtime assistant and right-hand man at the Saxum winery, where he also crafts his own wines!

Mark Adams, WinemakerLedge “Adams Ranch” 2010 Syrah
Retail 65.00 – GGWC 59.99 – FREE SHIPPING on SIX or more
Use discount shipping code “LEDGE10” during check out.

This wine (90% Syrah, 5% each Grenache and Mourvedre) tickled more than my fancy.  I was blown away by amazing quality of this 150 case production!  The wine offers and amazing deep, dark ruby hue with lively dark stone berry notes jumping out of the glass with a touch of dust and spice.  Well-integrated and complex wine loaded with a lush palate of black berries and black raspberries and a touch of pepper and bacon fat.  The wine rolls over the palate with ease and finishes with a gorgeous and long finish.  Only 150 cases produced!

Click here or on the links above to order!

Tasting Notes

Powerhouse Cabernet by Lewis Cellars’ winemaker

Posted on by Frank Melis

Darms Lane Wines

Darms Lane is a family owned winery located in the Oak Knoll district of the Napa Valley.  The 14 acre vineyard was established in 1983 as a Chardonnay estate.  In 2002 it was grafted over to Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Petit Verdot and Cabernet Franc.  The first release was the 2005 vintage.  Only 500 cases are produced each year.  Their wines are crafted by Brian Mox who was the winemaker at Laird, Etude and recently at Lewis Cellars.

Darms Lane 2009 Cabernet SauvignonDarms Lane 2009 “Bon Passe”  Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
Retail 65.00 – GGWC 59.99 – FREE SHIPPING on SIX or more
Use discount shipping code “DARMS09” during check out

Dark hue, the 2009 “Bon Passe” Cabernet exudes intense black stone notes and touches of violets on the nose. The full-bodied palate is rich and well-layered with black stone fruit, plum and black currants with hints of toffee and chocolate flavors. This elegant, yet mouth filling Cabernet showcases silky tannins and finishes with elegance and lengthy wild blackberry notes. This wine has the flavors and suppleness to be enjoyed on its own while maintaining an elegance that will complement many foods.

Click here or on the link above to order!

Other

Crowd pleasing Pinot Noir (93 Robert Parker)

Posted on by Frank Melis

Walter Hansel Winery

Steve HanselWalter Hansel winery has been synonymous with good quality and well-priced wines for years.  Real crowd-pleasing wines for those who don’t want to break the bank and still want to get a good quality glass of wine.  The 2010 North Slope might be one of Steve Hansel’s best efforts to date.  Even with a 93 from Parker (which I think was 1 or 2 points shy from where it should be) this wine will impress both beginner and advanced oenophile.

Walter Hansel 2010 North Slope Pinot NoirWalter Hansel 2010 North Slope Pinot Noir
Retail 43.00 – GGWC 40.99 – FREE SHIPPING on SIX or more
Use discount shipping code “WH10NSPN” during checkout

Out of the starting blocks this wine’s fragrance is breathtaking.  Gobs of spicy black cherry, plums and a whiff of mineral earthiness jump out of the glass.  On the palate, this crowd pleaser is dense and weighty, yet extremely well-balanced and polished with gorgeous deep black fruit, hints of spice, orange zest and a touch of earthy.   The finish is long and equally balanced with the right touch of acid, fruit and spiciness.

Robert Parker 93 Points: “The 2010 Pinot Noir North Slope is a gorgeous wine laced with freshly cut flowers, spices, red berries and minerals. Saline notes are woven throughout, giving the wine its lift and vibrancy. The North Slope boasts gorgeous inner perfume and fabulous overall length. It will be interesting to see where this goes over the coming years. The future appears to be very bright. Anticipated maturity: 2014-2022”

Click here or on the link above to order!

Tasting Notes

A “To-Kalon, Herb Lamb, Dr. Crane” Cabernet at only $59

Posted on by Frank Melis

Karl Lawrence Wines

Karl Lawrence (Michael Trujillo) has been crafting wines in Napa for 30 years now, and his own label since the early 1990’s.  Sourced from some of the most sought after vineyards in Napa, he really outdid himself with this latest release.  Sourced from the Herb Lamb (Colgin, etal), To-Kalon, Dr. Crane, Morisoli and Henry Brothers (Howell Mountain) this 97% Cabernet and 3% Cabernet Franc blend was hand-harvested and carefully blended to achieve the best balance and perfection.

Karl Lawrence 2009 CabernetKarl Lawrence 2009 Cabernet Napa Valley
Retail 65.00 – GGWC 61.99 – FREE SHIPPING on SIX or more
Use shipping code KL09CS upon check out

Rich, vibrant, dark fruit aromas of beautifully matured fruit soar forward with loads of black currant and black cherry along with spicy hints of tobacco and chocolate.  The abundant flavors that jump out of the glass are plentiful and irresistibly rousing with all the same rich generous flavors sensed in the aroma.  Wonderful balance and complexity with great acidity define this wine as one of the best Karl Lawrence Cabernets ever!  Enjoy now, but this wine will cellar well for years to come!

Click here or on the link above to order!

Tasting Notes

Best VALUE Chardonnay in years

Posted on by Frank Melis

This is a new addition to the Walter Hansel portfolio. Previously this section of the Estate Vineyard was planted to Pinot Noir. Steve Hansel didn’t like the development of the Pinot from this flat area of the vineyard near Guerneville Road. He budded it over to the “Hanzell” clone (Musque) of Chardonnay. This is the first vintage of this wine produced. The Hanzell clone is known for its exotic fruits and texture, and this wine is no different.

Walter Hansel 2010 Chardonnay “Meadows” Russian River Valley
Retail 30.00 – GGWC 27.50 – FREE SHIPPING on 12 or more
Use discount shipping code “WH10MEAD” during check out

This was a real crowd pleasure that went over well in a recent tasting I conducted.  It is loaded with rich tropical fruits, pineapple, apricots, mango and backed by a nice touch of vanilla and a creamy, rich mouth feel. The finish is balanced and fresh with nice acidity and lingers with creamy apricots, apples, and white flowers.  Only 600 cases produced of this little gem.

Click here or on the link above to order!

Tasting Notes

Astonishing Syrah (94 Points)

Posted on by Frank Melis

Jeff Cohn got his start at a Maryland winery of all places, not Napa not the Rhone Valley. He moved to California in 1993 as he really got the “wine bug”  and he wanted to learn from the best.  While getting his Master’s Degree in Agriculture Chemistry, with an emphasis on Enology he developed a love for Chateauneuf-du-Pape.  He started a job at Rosenblum, where he soon was promoted to day-to-day winemaker.  While at Rosenblum he started JC Cellars in 1996 with a mere 75 case Zinfandel production.  The rest, as they say, is history.  In 2006 Jeff parted ways with Rosenblum to focus exclusively on his own label, with great success I would say.

JC Cellars 2007 "Rockpile"JC CELLARS 2007 “Rockpile” Syrah, Rockpile Sonoma
Retail 62.00 – GGWC 54.99 – FREE SHIPPING on SIX or more
Use discount shipping code “JC07ROCKSYR” during check out

This is a wine that coats your palate!  The nose is gorgeous with dark black stone fruit and chocolate aromas and a touch of wet stone.  The Rockpile appellation is key to this varietal flavors as the terroir is very unique.  Full in body, lush and flavorful this mouthfilling wine shows complexity from start to finish.  Flavors of blackberry, coffee, chocolate and hints of bacon fat coat the palate of this well-structured wine.  Even with some age, I would say, decant for 1 hour before serving.  Has a good 10+ years of cellar time left!  A true experience in not just Syrah, but Rockpile Syrah, from beginning to end.

Wine Spectator 94 Points: “Offers wonderful purity of flavors, with a mix of rich blackberry, wild berry and boysenberry fruit that’s intense, focused, supple and structured, gaining complex mineral, anise, sage and cedar flavors. Long on the finish. Drink now through 2017. 458 cases made. –JL”

Click here or on the link above to order!

Tasting Notes

Hundred Acre’s “stunning” younger brother

Posted on by Frank Melis

Stormy Weather

When your brother is Jason Woodbridge, owner of Hundred Acre, it requires digging deep in the barrel of wine ideas to outsmart him and make wine in the same league, or better.  Jayson & Cameron both collaborated on this new venture and I walked away happily impressed with the quality of the final product – way less expensive than the Hundred Acre wines, and any bit as good.

Stormy Weather 2007 Cabernet SauvignonStormy Weather 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley
Retail 110.00 – GGWC 99.99 – FREE SHIPPING on 4 or more
Use discount shipping code “STORMCS07” during check out

Sourced from two prime sources on Howell and Sugarloaf Mountain this wine impresses right on impact.  I had a bottle open for 3 days and it got better every day, every sip!  2007 was the ideal, winemaker’s vintage, everything went right from start to finish! The wine’s aromas vaulted out of the glass.  I encountered black currant, chocolate and touch of mineral and pencil lead on the nose.  On the palate, this full-bodied Cab shows of a tremendous complexity and balance.  Hints of mocha are intertwined with striking black currant fruit that end in a long, flavorful finish.

Click here or on the link above to order!

Events

Our First In-Store Tasting Feb 23rd!

Posted on by Frank Melis
Remodeling is complete and the paint is dry. Our inaugural in-store tasting will take place on February 23. We are looking forward to be pouring wines from Poe, Mark Herald, Hilliard Bruce (Paul Lato winemaker), Carne Humana and Boheme.We will follow this event with an exclusive tasting with Stewart Winery on March 2nd.

Call, email, or click on the links below to RSVP!

Feb 23: http://ggwctastingfebruary23.eventbrite.com
Mar 2: http://stewarttasting-eorg.eventbrite.com

Stay tuned for a schedule of upcoming tastings and make sure to sign up on our FACEBOOK and TWITTER pages for updates and SPECIALS!

 

 

In-Store Tasting Schedule

Feb 23 Grand Opening – Poe, Mark Herald, Hilliard Bruce (Paul Lato winemaker), Carne Humana and Boheme
Mar 2 Stewart Winery – Cabernet, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir
Mar 9 Banshee Winery – Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Mordecai Red
Mar 16 Jericho Canyon, Cabernet, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay
Mar 23 Picayune
Mar 30 Green & Red Winery – Zinfandel
Apr 6 TBA
Apr 13 TBA
Apr 20 Linked Winery – Cabernet Sauvignon
Apr 27 TBA
May 4 Gain Bay/Buccio – Cabernet, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir
Tasting Notes

Corison 2009 Cabernet 94 Points

Posted on by Frank Melis

Corison Wines

Cathy Corison discovered her passion for wine while pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Biology at Pomona College. Inspired by the notion that wine is “alive at every level,” she went on to receive a Master’s in Enology from U.C. Davis in the mid 1970’s. Many years of winemaking for others, including Chappellet Vineyard, Staglin Family Vineyard, and Long Meadow Ranch, honed her skills and left her eager to express her own winemaking voice. In 1987 she made the first vintage of Corison Cabernet. “There was a wine inside me that needed to be made”, she says.

Corison 2009 Cabernet SauvignonCorison 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley
Retail 75.00 – GGWC 64.99 with FREE SHIPPING on SIX or more
Use discount shipping code “CORICS09” during check out

A mild, relatively cool growing season followed by a moderate September and cold October made for an uncommonly long ripening season. Resulting flavors are wildly complex with juicy fruit flavors ranging from black cherries and blueberries through plums all the way to cassis and blackberries. Cedar, anise, baking spice and chocolate top notes add layers of interest. Appealing floral notes of violets, lavender and rose petals are already gracing the aromas and a lovely dusty minerality signals a very special vintage.

Robert Parker 94 Points: ”Cathy Corison’s 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon Corison is surprisingly deep, powerful and tannic. An exotic melange of dark cherries, plums, grilled herbs wraps around the palate. The 2009 is endowed with serious depth and tons of pure, unbridled energy. Mocha, espresso, menthol, and sweet spices all inform the warm, resonant finish. Readers will need to be patient with the 2009. Anticipated maturity: 2017-2029.”

Click here or on the link above to order!