On Episode 15 of One Bottle Each Jeff Kralik and I dive into a couple of bottles from de Négoce, Cameron Hughes latest Wine Project. Watch here as we taste and discuss the wines and the project.
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Cabernet Sauvignon
I recently tasted a selection of wines from Flat Top Hills with Head Winemaker Randy Herron and Consulting Winemaker Angelina Mondavi. We met over Zoom and discussed not only these specific wines, but also the project in general.
Flat Top Hills is named after a piece of property in the Dunnigan Hills that the Mondavi Family has owned for years. They supplement their Estate fruit with select purchases of fruit in other regions such as Alexander Valley, The Sierra Foothills and Dry Creek Valley.
Flat Top Hills is an environmentally friendly producer. Whether it’s Farming practices, Green facilities, or being Socially Equitable, their across the board their practices are consistent. That’s not something always seen in a brand coming to market with value driven wines.
A number of things impressed me about this set of wines. Across the board they’re full of varietal character. These wines are proportionate and they’re dry. Often when it comes to wines in the vast under $20 category, the offerings tend to be fit for palates looking for sweet wines. In speaking to Randy and Angelina it’s clear the goal is to create wines that are a step up in quality from the entry level wines many begin their drinking journey with. And while lots of wine lovers have started their journey with wines that have a little bit of residual sugar in them and moved on to other things eventually, there isn’t always a clear path forward. Having wines that are well made, dry, and well-priced offers a natural place for consumers to graduate to.
Flat Top Hills 2018 Sauvignon Blanc ($14)
The moment I sampled this Sauvignon Blanc my interest was piqued. Citrus notes abound from the first whiff to the last sip. This crisp and refreshing SB is balanced and food friendly.
Flat Top Hills 2018 Chardonnay ($14)
Green apple notes are the dominant characteristic here. Hints of spice are evident too along with wisps of Bartlett Pear. This is terrific entry level Chardonnay to pour for someone who thinks they don’t like Chardonnay.
Flat Top Hills 2019 Rosé ($14)
Composed of Dolcetto, Grenache, and Carignane, this Rosé is a bit darker hued than the “extremely pales Rosé” that lives in my minds eye. Don’t let the color fool you, this is an excellent example of Rosé and one of my two favorites of this lineup. Red fruit drives the aromatics and the flavors here. Red apple, cherry and cranberry are evident along with a touch of vanilla bean. I warn you it’s hard to stop drinking this once you start.
Flat Top Hills 2016 Red Blend ($16)
The under $20 Red Blend category is easily the most afflicted when it comes to sweet wines lacking character or depth. This blend of Merlot, Zinfandel, and Petite Sirah puts the lie to that notion. This wine is dry, balanced and eminently food friendly. Dark fruit, spice and dusty chocolate notes are all evident. If you’re looking for a house red to purchase by the case, this would be a fine choice.
Flat Top Hills 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon ($16)
Blueberry, plum and black cherry notes are evident here from the moment you stick your nose in the glass. Savory herbs, hints of vanilla and a dusting of cocoa are present as well. Crushed cherry notes drive the solid finish.
If you love New World Cabernet Sauvignon, odds are very high that Napa Valley’s Stags Leap District is on your super short list of go to Appellations. Napa is blessed with a handful of distinct areas for growing high end Cab. Even within that small group, Stags Leap stands apart. Tasted side by side with other neighboring AVAs, the Cabernet’s of Stags Leap District are unmistakable.
For a number of years now the Stags Leap District Winegrowers have been assembling the Appellation Collection. It’s a luxury set of one Cabernet Sauvignon from each producer. The 2017 vintage is represented this year by 17 Cabernets in one set. There are a limited number of sets available. They can be purchased exclusively through the Stags Leap District website. The retail price, shipping included is $1999.99.
I’ve been fortunate to visit Stags Leap District many times over the years. I’ve tasted their wines on the regular, and had the opportunity to attend their signature events and spend time with the winemakers and owners. This is a group fiercely proud of their valley, their district, and perhaps most of all their Cabernet Sauvignon. Ample reason exists for their pride; the Cabernet’s of Stags Leap stand up next to any on the world stage turning the comparison not into a competition of quality, but simply one of personal preference.
Over the last handful of years I’ve had a few opportunities to taste the entire Appellation Collection. It was, to say the least, a delicious undertaking. What struck me the most though tasting through is the consistency of quality that exists. Vintages vary of course, but the quality is always there with these wines. This year being a lot different than those before it, I was able to get together over Zoom and taste a quartet of wines from this years collection. The virtual get together and tasting was led by representatives from Silverado Vineyards, Regusci Winery, Clos Du Val, and Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars. I look forward to getting back to Stags Leap District, but in the meantime the virtual tasting was a great way to hear about current events in the district and taste some great wine.
Silverado Vineyards 2017 SOLO Cabernet Sauvignon
Winemaker Jon Emmerich has been leading the charge in the cellar for coming up on 30 years. SOLO is entirely Cabernet Sauvignon and the fruit source is the vines surrounding the winery itself. Dark fruit leads the aromatic charge along with wisps of spice. The palate shows off black cherry and raspberry along with bits of chicory A dusting of baker’s chocolate, mineral notes and a a kiss of toast drive the long finish.
Regusci Winery 2017 “The Elders” Cabernet Sauvignon
In addition to Cabernet Sauvignon (91%), Cabernet Franc (7%), and Merlot (2%) are bended in. Boysenberry and blackberry aromas lead the way. The flavors are also dark and brooding, with power and grace, Dark chocolate, mission fig and baker’s spices are in abundance on the long finish.
Clos Du Val 2017 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon Hirondele Vineyard
This offering is entirely Cabernet Sauvignon and all of the fruit comes from four specific blocks. Black plum and spice aromas lead the charge. The palate has black raspberry, blueberry and a continuing thread of spiciness. Chicory and toasty oak notes are part of the long, textured finish.
Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars 2017 FAY Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon
This is predominately Cabernet Sauvignon with a dollop (1.5%) of Cabernet Franc blended in. The aromas and flavors here lean more to red fruits. Fresh strawberries, cherries and plum are of note. Bits of of pie crust and subtle savory herbs are present too. Wisps of darker fruit peek out on the long finish in addition to a gentle kiss of chicory.
These four wines are a terrific snapshot into Stags Leap District. Head over to the website and grab yourself a set before they’re gone. Last I heard there were only a couple dozen left!
I recently tasted a couple of Cabernet’s from Scattered Peaks with Winemaker Joel Aiken over Zoom. Though we’d never met, in any form prior, Joel’s reputation as a Stalwart Napa Valley Winemaker precedes him. He spent close to 30 years making wine for a little outfit known as BV. You’re likely familiar with a number of their iconic wines such as Tapestry and Private Reserve Georges de Latour. These days he works on several projects including his own label and he makes the wine for Scattered Peaks. They’re part of the Purple Wine Company which has a number of brands. Scattered Peaks is their Luxury Cabernet Sauvignon Brand. So as you can imagine, it makes complete sense to hire someone with Joel’s wine-making skill-set, not to mention his gravitas as a major league Napa Cab guy to make these wines.
Scattered Peaks 2017 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($40)
The fruit for this wine came from Pope Valley (50%), Gordon Valley (29%), and Rutherford (21%). 11,000 cases were produced and it’s entirely Cabernet Sauvignon. The Purple Wine Company purchases a lot of fruit each year and that buying power allows them to make a pretty remarkable Cabernet Sauvignon for $40. Red and black fruits are joined by savory herbs from the nose to the toes. Black cherry, red raspberry, and a fine core of spices are all present. A gentle kiss of toast and baker’s chocolate are evident on the finish. This Cabernet is incredibly approachable now with a softness that makes it hard to resist. It does however have the bones to improve for a few years and drink well for at least ten. That’s certainly an impressive achievement in its price tier.
Scattered Peaks 2017 “Small Lot” Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon $125)
Their Small Lot Cabernet is true to its name with a mere 450 cases produced. It too is 100% Cabernet with all of the fruit coming from two spots; Morisoli Vineyard in Rutherford and Sage Ridge Vineyard just south of Howell Mountain. “Small Lot” Cab is hugely aromatic with black cherry and savory herbs leading the way. Black raspberry, blueberry, and oodles of spice drive the palate. The finish is long and persistent enough to be impressive. Tannins are firm but yielding. If you’re drinking this now, I‘d decant it for at least a couple of hours so it’ll express its charms more readily. Otherwise. I’d lay it down for 8-10 years and drink it in the 5 or so that follow.
I went back to both of these wines when they had been open for just more than 24 hours. The “Small Lot” was far more ready to show off all it had than it was the day prior. And the Napa Cab was also a bit more beguiling and certainly holding its own. These are both rock solid in terms of being fine expression of Napa Cabernet. The lineage impresses too, with more than terrific fruit sources and a winemaker whose pedigree is beyond reproach. Scattered Peaks, I recommend giving them a shot if you dig Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon.
Watch clips of Joel speaking about these Cabernet’s and a lot more below:
Someone has to be the best right? Loaded question I know. But I’m here to tell you that Smith-Madrone, located on Spring Mountain, is Napa Valley’s Best Winery.
Grilling Season is here! And while you may not have quite as many people at this year’s Cook Out as you did in 2019, or that you’ll hopefully have in 2021, that’s no reason to skimp on the beverages. In fact, one might argue it’s a great excuse to double down on drinks. Here are some wines as well as an Irish Whiskey and a Liqueur that will help make your grilling season far more palatable and tasty. Expect a lot more picks to pair with grilled food in the months ahead. Memorial Day Weekend is just the unofficial kick off for this season.
Valdo Floral Rosé Brut NV ($16)
Composed of Nerello Mascalese (75%) from Sicily at about 1,000 feet above sea level and Glera (25,%) from the Veneto, it was produced using the Charmat method. A bouquet of wild, red berries drive the aromatics. Ripe strawberry flavors mingle with sour red raspberry. Add a dollop of creme fraiche and spice to close things out and you've got a delightful and uber food friendly wine for a budget friendly price. Fun packaging to boot.
Luca Bosio Vineyards 2018 Langhe Arneis (DOC) ($20)
It’s composed entirely of Arneis from the Luca Bosio Estate. Stone and tropical fruits tell the story here. Peach, apricot, papaya and pineapple flavors and aromas all come together in a delightful wine. There’s a slightly honeyed quality on the finish that really helps the wine distinguish itself. Luca Bosio Arneis is a terrific choice to welcome guests to a party or pair with lighter foods.
Qupé 2018 Central Coast Syrah ($20)
In addition to Syrah there’s some Grenache, Tempranillo, and Mourvèdre blended in here. This is a clean Syrah loaded with dark fruit, spice and bits of dusty cocoa. If you give it some air it’ll really express its charms. Pair it with anything that you pull off the grill. There’s a lot of happy in this bottle for $20,
Raeburn Winery 2018 Russian River Valley Chardonnay ($22)
Russian River Valley stands among the small handful of best places in California to grow one of the world’s most widely debated grapes. People get passionate about Chardonnay styles. Too much oak? Not enough oak? Here’s an example that screams purity of fruit with the oak making its presence just known enough to provide a counterpoint. Think of it like a great cut of steak with just enough salt and pepper. Certainly, orchard fruit drives the train here with Anjou pear and Gala apple in abundance. Just a bit of papaya pokes its head in to say hi. The finish shows off spice and a hint of creaminess. This is a fine example of Russian River Valley Chardonnay at a no brainier price.
Victor Hugo Winery 2018 Estate Viognier ($24)
Just 326 cases were produced of this Estate Viognier from family owned and run producer Victor Hugo. It’s entirely composed of Viognier. It’s beautifully aromatic without being over the top like some New World examples. The Victor Hugo Viognier is stuffed with stone fruit flavors tinged with bits of tropical fruit and spice. A hint of creaminess emerges on the finish. And wonderful texture and mouthfeel and this is an all around fantastic Viognier.
Mettler Family Vineyards 2017 Lodi Cabernet Sauvignon ($25)
The Mettler’s have been farming in Lodi for 100 years. Cabernet Sauvignon stands at the heart of what they grow. Make no mistake this Cabernet is distinctly Lodi and an impressive example of Cab for $25. It’s loaded with dark fruits such as blackberry and plum. Savory herbs, dark chocolate notes and a complement of spices. The Finish is velvety and acid rich. No two ways about it, this is a lot of Cabernet for the price.
Disaronno Velvet Liqueur ($30)
This new entry from Disaronno has the classic flavors of Hazelnut you expect in a creamy, silky package. I love the texture, mouth feel and of course the flavors here. It’s sweet without being cloying and the hazelnut flavors are just intense enough and quite real. Simply drink it over ice, pour it in coffee or try my recipe for “Italian Chocolate Milk” below.
Grace O’Malley Blended Irish Whiskey ($37)
This is a knockout blended Irish Whiskey for the price. Aging occurred in French oak, Ex-Bourbon, and Ex-Rum casks. It’s aromatic and flavorful for sure. But most impressive is how smooth and silky it is. Vanilla and toffee notes are in evidence alongside date and bits of dried papaya. A hint of mesquite honey and just the slightest hint of heat on the finish is a lovely coda. It’s going to be a great cocktail component, but I’m impressed with how tasty it is sipped neat. That’s not often the case in Whiskey in this price tier. Try it with the recipe below.
Acumen 2015 Mountainside Cabernet Sauvignon ($60)
Mountainside Cabernet from Acumen also has Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Petit Verdot, and Malbec blended in. It’s a proportionately powerful and refined example of Cabernet that leans towards red fruit characteristics. Cherry and red plum are joined by bits of leather. Chicory and sweet dark chocolate are also in evidence along with black pepper spice and savory herbs. This finish is long, pleasing and acid rich. You don’t always get much in Napa Cab in this price range, here’s an example where you get lots of value relative to price.
Italian Chocolate Milk
2 Ounces Disaronno Velvet Liqueur
1 Ounce Coffee Liqueur
Chocolate Milk
Maraschino Cherries
Put 4 or so ice cubes in a Collins Glass. Pour in Disaronno Velvet and Coffee Liqueur. Fill glass which chocolate Milk and Stir. Garnish with Maraschino cherries.
Irish Whiskey Sour
2 Ounces Grace O’Malley Blended Irish Whiskey
1 Tablespoon Meyer Lemon Syrup
Fresh Cherries
Pour Whiskey, Meyer Lemon Syrup, Ice in a shaker and mix vigorously for 10 seconds. Pour into a rocks glass and garnish with fresh cherries.
Check out the video where I talk more about my picks and taste a couple of them.
Normal will return, at some point. Perhaps slower than we all want, and not all at once, but it’s going to happen. When it does, look out! Many of us are going to bust out of our shelters and drive, fly, train or hitchhike somewhere we love. One of the places I’m chomping at the bit to return to is Dry Creek Valley
few things tie this group of wines together. First and most importantly they’re delicious. They’re all appropriate for Spring. Regardless of their price point they represent excellent or better value. And finally with just a couple of exceptions, most of them are widely available on store shelves. All of them can certainly be ordered online, which is where many of us are purchasing our wine these days.
One of the things I'm always on the hunt for are wines suitable for everyday drinking that over deliver quality and drink ability based on their price point. While there are certainly quite a few American standbys in this category but there are simply more wines at $20 and under made outside the U.S. that fit the bill. It's also not as often that a new offering of substance in that category with U.S. origins is released. But Nine Hats from Columbia Valley in Washington has crafted such a wine. The brand was started in 2007 and the name refers to the fact that nine internationally regarded winemakers are involved with producing the Nine Hats wines.
Nine Hats 2015 Columbia Valley Red Wine ($20)
This offering is a blend of Syrah (50%), Cabernet Sauvignon (41%), Merlot (7%), and Malbec (2%). The fruit was sourced from 4 sub AVA’s within greater Columbia Valley. A bit more than 5,000 cases were produced. From the first whiff to the last sip it’s obvious this is a wine of substance and structure. Red fruit, spices and gentle wisps of toast emerge from the nose. Cherry and red raspberry flavors dominate the palate along with hints of cinnamon and allspice. Earth, chicory and dark chocolate nibs are evident on the above average finish. Firm acid and gripping tannins provide structure. There’s sophistication to this wine that belies its modest price point. Most important is the fact that it’s delicious, food friendly and well-priced for everyday consumption.
One of the key factors that distinguish New Zealand as a major player in the wine world is diversity. If you travel through the numerous regions, as I did earlier this year, you’ll find myriad examples of unique soil types, elevations, and climactic conditions. Thus each of these regions helps a different collection of grapes thrive. And in the cases where there is overlap in grape types the distinct conditions still lead to diverse results. Villa Maria is a microcosm of that; by growing and sourcing fruit throughout New Zealand, their portfolio showcases the assortment of grapes and wine styles that New Zealand is absolutely nailing, often at bargain prices too. I recently participated in a virtual tasting with Villa Maria and Snooth; here are my thoughts on the handful of wines we sampled.
Villa Maria 2016 Private Bin Sauvignon Blanc ($13)
Sauvignon Blanc is New Zealand’s most famous export, and for good reason, several regions are perfect for growing it. This offering from Villa Maria is a classic example of Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc. It has a big nose, good fruit, racy acid, and lots of mineral notes on the finish. At the price it’s a steal of a deal.
Villa Maria 2016 Private Bin Bay Rosé ($14)
The Villa Maria Rosé has a darker hue than average. It’s filled with cheery red fruit, bits of orange rind, white pepper and hints of vanilla. This Rosé is juicy, tasty and it’ll pair with an astounding array of foods. In short it’s an excellent warm weather wine.
Villa Maria 2016 Private Bin Bubbly Sauvignon Blanc ($15)
The Villa Maria Bubbly Sauvignon Blanc is light, refreshing and a perfect summer welcome wine. It’s a wine you don’t have to think much about, yet it has reasonable depth. For the price you could even use it as a cocktail or Sangria base. This is a fun and tasty wine that will make crowds of people happy.
Villa Maria 2014 Cellar Selection Merlot-Cabernet ($20)
This cohesive blend is a case of the whole being greater than the sum of the parts. Each variety (Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec) come together to form a well woven wine. Red berry fruit and bits of thyme are evident on the nose. Black raspberry and cherry dominate the palate along with spice notes. The long finish shows off dried blackberry and bits of chicory.
Villa Maria 2015 Cellar Selection Pinot Noir ($26)
Pinot Noir is Mew Zealand’s second most famous export. While it grows in other regions, the two most famous are Central Otago and Marlborough. Cellar Selection Pinot has a proportionate richness with black cherry, plum and tons of spice.
Villa Maria 2015 Taylor’s Pass Chardonnay ($45)
This Chardonnay is a real knockout from the first whiff to the last sip. Apricot, peach, and golden delicious apple aromas burst from the nose. Green apple, roasted nuts and a drove of minerals are evident on the palate. The long finish shows off crème fraiche and bits of toasty oak. This Chardonnay will benefit from a couple of years of bottle age.
Raymond Vineyards in Napa Valley has undergone a renaissance since being purchased by Jean-Charles Boisset in 2009. The winery was founded in 1970; but the Raymond Family has a history in the valley that goes back much further than that. 2014 marked the 40th anniversary of the family’s first harvest. So this year they’ve released a special Reserve 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon adorned with a red velvet label to commemorate that anniversary.
Raymond Vineyards 2014 Reserve Selection 40th Anniversary Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon ($40)
In addition to Cabernet Sauvignon (92%), small amounts of Petit Verdot (4%), Petite Sirah (2%), and Malbec (2%) were blended in. Most of the fruit was chosen from estate vineyards in St. Helena and Rutherford; additional grapes came from a handful of local growers. Barrel aging was accomplished over 19 months in entirely French oak; 30% were new. Red raspberry and violet aromas are laced with bits of vanilla bean on the nose. The palate is stuffed with an explosion of black and red cherry flavors. Earth, baker’s chocolate, and crushed cherries are all layered on the long, velvety finish along with intermingling bits of spice. Firm tannins and acid provide excellent structure. This Cabernet Sauvignon is certainly enjoyable now but it’ll improve with some bottle age. I’d lay it down for 5-6 years and drink it in the 6-7 years after that.
Obviously there’s a ton of Cabernet Sauvignon being produced in Napa Valley. Styles, price points and more vary wildly, to say the least. For $40 this offering from Raymond Vineyards provides lots of drinking pleasure and a more than reasonable level of complexity. You can even lay it down for a while if you want.
J. Lohr has long been one of the standard bearer wineries of Paso Robles. Their portfolio includes wines that are readily available and priced for everyday consumption, more premium selections such as reserves as well as some single vineyard bottles. In short a it's diverse set of offerings that gives consumers a multitude of options.
On New Year’s Day, founder Jerry Lohr turned 80 years old. To celebrate this milestone they released their most ambitious expression of Cabernet Sauvignon yet, “Signature.” Paso Robles most aspiring producers have been edging the quality level forward for a number of years now and what wouldn’t have been possible there some years back is achievable today. Their stated goal with this wine is not only to mark Jerry’s 80th, but also to release a Cabernet Sauvignon that can compete with the best in the world. To do so they harnessed every bit of knowledge they’ve gleaned since the Winery’s inception.
J. Lohr 2013 Paso Robles Signature Cabernet Sauvignon ($100)
In addition to Cabernet Sauvignon (79%), “Signature” contains small amounts of Merlot (18%), and Petit Verdot (3%). The Cabernet came from Beck vineyard which sits at an elevation of 1,800 feet. Barrel aging took place over 19 months in new French oak. 966 six-bottle cases were produced. Black raspberry and wisps of toast are evident on the nose. The palate is dominated by a veritable avalanche of intense, but wholly proportionate, dark fruit flavors. Black cherry, raspberry, and blackberry are of particular note. A host of spices such as black pepper, cinnamon and nutmeg are evident as well. Roasted espresso, chicory and bits of sweet dark chocolate are evident on the prodigiously long and intensely layered finish. Firm tannins and racy acid provide great framework. This Cabernet is delicious today, particularly with full flavored foods. Patience will be rewarded however. It’ll evolve nicely over the next decade and drink well for 8-10 years beyond that.
This super luxury wine from J. Lohr meets all of its goals. “Signature” is a perfect way to commemorate Jerry Lohr’s 80th Birthday. The level of excellence in this bottle really drops the gauntlet of quality and shows what can be accomplished in Paso Robles with Cabernet Sauvignon. It compares favorably to some of the very best Cabernet based wines that California has to offer. That said it’s a distinctly Paso Robles wine. What I personally like most about “signature” is the combination of power and elegance that’s evident from the first whiff to the very last sips. If you love great California Cabernet Sauvignon, put "Signature" on your short list as a must try.
The Holidays aren’t almost here, they’re here, NOW! And if you’re like most people there are a handful of loved ones that you still need to buy a gift for. The good news is there’s still time to get them a nice bottle of wine. Just because it’s last minute, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t put thought into it.
It’s been roughly 20 years’ time since South Africa became part of the Global Wine Community once again. In those two decades the quality of wines has increased and there have been great strides in the South African Wine Industry. Among the many other things that have changed, the number of Women winemakers has increased. And while the increase in diversity alone is cause for celebration that’s just a sliver of what’s happening.
It’s the time of year when we’re all shopping for Holiday Gifts. I’m a big believer that for most people Wine makes a great gift. If you have someone on your list that’s really into one category or another get them something slightly outside their normal drinking zone and help them expand their palate. Here are a dozen delicious ideas. If you need spirits, head over to my gift Guide for The Daily Meal to read about my spirits suggestions.