Spring 2008 Wine Social - May 23, 2008

Tasting Menu

 

      Appellation                               Wine Selection                                                         Description

Napa Valley

Castle Rock Winery

Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve 2006

Only 2800 cases were made. Fermented and aged 18 months in French Oak barrels. Full-bodied with deep garnet color. Hints of cedar, molasses and dark cherry. Perfect to drink now and through 2011.

 

Swanson Vineyards & Winery

Pinot Grigio 2006

Appealing fruit aromas. Soft, spicy almond flavors with a tangy citrus finish. A great match for Hors d’Oeuvres.

Sonoma County

Louis M. Martini

Cabernet Sauvignon 2005

The Martini Family have been winemakers for three generations. This Cabernet showcases fresh ripe flavors of black cherry, crrant and spice. It pairs well with beef, lamb, pasta marinara and rich cheeses. (87 points from Robert Parker)

 

Chateau St. Jean

Fume Blanc 2006

This is a blend of sauvignon blanc and Semillon grapes. Five months aging in French and American Oak. Pear, peach, nectarine and apricot flavors are vibrant and fresh. Lovely juicy acidity and floral notes move to a long finish. Wine Spectator rates this wine @ 89 points and a "smart buy."

Russian River

Toad Hollow Vineyards

Merlot Reserve 2005

This winery is owned by Robin Williams’ recently deceased brother. A full-bodied-Merlot busting with black cherries and blackberries on the palate, ending with smooth silky finish.

 

Bennet Family - Chardonnay

2005 Russian River Reserve

Intense, concentrated with subtle hints of oak. A flavorful mix of pear, apple, hazelnut and fig. It picks up a touch of earthy citrus on the finish.

Paso Robles

Robert Hall Winery

Merlot 2005

The grapes are hand-harvested, then barrel-aged in underground caverns for 14 months. This prodices a wine with ripe black cherry and cedar flavors and a mouth-filling taste of cherries. A powerful Merlot.

 

J. Lohr 7 Oaks

Cabernet Sauvignon

Medium bodied, deep red color. This Cabernet shows aromas if cherry, blueberry, violets and vanilla. With over 3,000 acres, quality control us ensued, making this one of California’s most popular mid-priced Cabs.

Santa Barbara

Cambria - Pinot Noir 2005

"Julia’s Vineyard" Estate Bottled

Named fir the owner’s daughter, this compelling Pinot displays a silky, beautiful wine, with flavors of cherry, strawberry, vanilla and cinnamon. Always a crown pleaser.

 

Tangley Oaks

Chardonnay 2005

This is a premier area for California Chardonnays, producing fruit of top quality and character. It delivers fresh pear aromas, followed by baked apple flavors with hints of lemon, nutmeg and vanilla. Matches well with roasted chicken, pork loin or veal.