Napa
817. Quintessa, Rutherford Napa Valley, 2011
As elegant as its packaging. Napa, yes, but in harmony and refined. Retasted in October, it was the same. Deep ruby, with a narrow, …
773. Shafer, Red Shoulder Ranch Chardonnay Napa Valley Carneros, 2011
This is, simply put, classic Napa Chardonnay – everything turned up to 11. Deep, deep gold. Powerfully buttery, new oak aromatics. Vanilla and very …
Napa: exceptional Cabernets, and exaggerated too
Napa Valley, the Big Daddy of California wines, is today world-famous for Big Cabs and Bold Chardonnays, landmark wineries and the Napa Valley Wine …
California wine: the Golden State shines brightly
California wine is synonymous with US wine. For many it is US wine. Fortunately, the fine Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs of Oregon, the Bordeaux …
443. Jayson, Chardonnay Napa Valley, 2005
Pretty expensive for what it is, but then again, I guess that Napa Chardonnay is exactly that – expensive. More or less in the …
383. Cakebread Cellars, Syrah Carneros Napa Valley, 2005
We had a very enjoyable visit to the Cakebread Cellars, after I emailed in advance, asking to meet a winemaker if possible, and sure …
372. Saintsbury, Carneros Chardonnay, 2004
If I hadn’t already put some space aside for this one, I wouldn’t have bothered once it became clear that the label was going …
342. Sterling Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve Napa Valley, 1999
Cracked another bottle of this to see its evolution, and to welcome Lucy, my 1-month flatmate! I’d say that this is coming pretty close …
288. Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, Artemis Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley, 2003
On reflection, a bit of a ‘tasters’ wine rather than a ‘drinkers’, perhaps, as its weight made the second glass a bit hard work. …
267. Mount Veeder Winery, Cabernet Sauvignon Napa Valley, 1997
Was really pleased to see this on sale in Berry Bros’ Dublin shop, having enjoyed the ’96 so much, and having heard that ’97 …