Bogle Essential Red California 2016
Brilliant, deep ruby color. The aromatics are very intense offering scents of blackberry and plum with supporting notes of cassis, raspberry, and star anise. The palate echoes the nose delivering a red and black fruits-driven core with flavors of black fruits, dried herbs, and five spice. The finish is long and lingering with supple tannins and sweet oak accents. Full-bodied and nicely balanced with a opulent texture. Made with a blend of Zinfandel, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petite Sirah. $11 – 4 Stars – 91 points
Bogle phantom Red Blend California 2015
Brilliant, deep ruby color. The aromatics are very intense offering scents of black currant and blackberry with supporting notes of black plum, black tea, and cigar box. The palate confirms the nose delivering a black fruit-driven core with flavors of black fruits, baking spices, and sweet/tart pomegranate. The finish is long and lingering with supple tannins and vibrant mineral accents. Full-bodied and nicely balanced with a supple texture. Made with a blend of 44% Petite Sirah, 44% Zinfandel, 10% Merlot, and 2% Cabernet Sauvignon. $19 – 4 Stars – 90 points
Bogle phantom Chardonnay Clarksburg 2017
Brilliant, medium golden color. The aromatics are very intense offering scents of tropical fruit, wild flowers, and honeysuckle with supporting notes of passion fruit and vanilla. The palate confirms the nose delivering a tropical fruits-driven core with flavors of lemon curd, butterscotch, honey, and toasted oak. The finish is long and lingering. Medium to full-bodied and nicely balanced with a silky, opulent texture. $18 – 4 Stars – 91 points
Samson Cassis Washington NV
Brilliant, dark violet color. The aromatics are very intense offering scents of black currant and blackberry with supporting notes of black tea, cassis, and slate. The palate confirms the nose delivering a red and black fruits-driven core with flavors of ripe black fruits, tart berries, and cranberry. The finish is long and lingering with silky tannins. Full-bodied and perfectly balanced with a opulent texture. $17 – 4 Stars – 92 points
Samson Framboise Washington NV
Brilliant, deep ruby color. The aromatics are very intense offering scents of raspberry and strawberry with supporting notes of rose petals, pomegranate, and sweet lavender. The palate confirms the nose delivering a red and black fruits-driven core with flavors of concentrated crushed berries and raspberry. The finish is long and lingering with soft tannins. Full-bodied and perfectly balanced with a viscous texture. $17 – 4 Stars – 91 points
Sonoma-Cutrer Rosé of Pinot Noir Russian River Valley 2018
Brilliant, medium salmon color. The nose is moderately intense offering scents of strawberry and red cherry with supporting notes of raspberry, pomegranate, and hibiscus flower. The palate echoes the nose delivering a red fruit-driven core with flavors of peach, orange peel, and cranberry. The finish is dry. Medium-bodied and perfectly balanced with a vibrant texture. Made with 100% Pinot Noir. $23 – 4.5 Stars – 94 points
Boccantino Susumaniello IGP Salento 2016
Brilliant, deep ruby/purple color. The aromatics are very intense offering scents of red cherry and raspberry with supporting notes of pomegranate, mineral, and lavender. The palate confirms the nose delivering a red and black fruits-driven core with flavors of ripe red and black fruits. The finish is long and lingering with supple tannins. Medium to full-bodied and nicely balanced with a voluptuous texture. A beautiful and charming wine made entirely of Susumaniello. $14 – 4 Stars – 92 points
Loacker Corte Pavone Brunello di Montalcino DOCG 2009
Brilliant, deep scarlet color. The aromatics are very intense offering scents of blackberry, mineral, and leather with supporting notes of cured meat and cocoa. The palate confirms the nose delivering a red and black fruits-driven core with flavors of black fruits, five spice, and red cherry. The finish is long and lingering with aggressive tannins. Medium to full-bodied and nicely balanced with a meaty texture. This Brunello is drinking well now through 2022. $60 – 4 Stars – 90 points
Barbanera Nero di Troia IGP Puglia 2017
Brilliant, dark ruby/purple color. The aromatics are very intense offering scents of black currant, cassis, violet, and mineral with supporting notes of cigar box and lavender. The palate confirms the nose delivering a black fruit-driven core with flavors of black fruits and five spice. The finish is long and lingering with chewy tannins. Medium to full-bodied and perfectly balanced with a meaty texture. This lovely southern wine is hedonistically rich with fruit and spice. $15 – 4 Stars – 92 points
Uvario La Loggia Rosso IGP Toscano 2016
Brilliant, dark ruby color. The aromatics are very intense offering scents of boysenberry and raspberry with supporting notes of dried herbs, hibiscus flower, and forest floor. The palate confirms the nose delivering a red and black fruits-driven core with flavors of mineral and black plum. The finish is long and lingering with silky tannins. Medium to full-bodied and nicely balanced with a meaty texture. $17.99 – 4 Stars – 90 points
