Michigan may not be the first place that pops into your head when wine comes to mind, but it ought to be on your list of wine trail to explore. According to the Michigan Grape and Wine Industry Council (www.michiganwines.com) there are 73 wineries producing more than a million gallons of wine annually in this cold climate wine mecca from Vinifera, Hybrid and Native American grapes. This is significant growth, up from just 10 wineries in 1980 and 42 wineries in 2005. Most of the grapes are grown within 25 miles of Lake Michigan. In 2009, Michigan wines won coveted Gold medals at thirteen highly acclaimed wine competitions around the country. Among the top grape varieties grown in Michigan are Riesling, Chardonnay, Vidal Blanc, Pinot Noir, Pinot Gris and Cabernet Franc.  It was here I actually discovered one of the best examples of Pinot Gris I have ever tasted; yes that’s right, made in northwestern Michigan. Earlier this month at the 2010 Michigan Wine Competition it scored a Gold Medal and Best of Class award.  Read on about this well made wine and my other favorites:

Black Star Farms 2009 Arcturos Pinot Gris: Gorgeous floral aromas waft from the glass and lead to crisp apple and summer melon flavors with a touch of fresh herbs blossoming on the palate. This 100% Pinot Gris from the 7 Hills Vineyard (Old Mission Peninsula appellation) showcases beautiful purity of fruit with brisk acidity balancing the juicy fruit. Gold Medal and Best of Class, Dry White category.

Black Star Farms 2009 Arcturos Riesling: Another Gold Medal and Best of Class award for Black Star Farms, this time in the Semi-Dry White wine category.  This Riesling opens with delightful aromas of citrus and a fragrant bouquet of spring flowers and stays focused on the palate with succulent white peach and nectarine flavors wrapped around a firm core of acidity; a nice touch of minerality adds complexity.

Forty-Five North Vineyard & Winery captured Gold and Best of Class in the Rose category for their 2009 Blanc de Pinot Noir. The beauty of this mouthwatering Rose begins with the brilliant rosey pink hue, and it bursts open with fresh strawberry and red raspberry flavors weaving harmoniously on the palate; well balanced with the perfect touch of sweetness. Think biting into a fresh picked sun ripened strawberry; juicy and lifted on the palate, balanced and refreshing with a good level of acidity.

Bowers Harbor Vineyards 2007 Cabernet Franc, Erica Vineyard: From the Old Mission Peninsula AVA, this stunning Cab Franc is a fine example of how well Cab Franc can be crafted in Michigan (it’s one of my favorite red varieties here). Earthy wild berry and dark cherry aromas fill the nose and expand on the palate with tantalizing layers of bittersweet chocolate, freshly ground spices, a touch of tobacco and subtle oak notes – full and complex with a long, lingering finish. GOLD medal and Best of Class, Dry Red category.

Uncle John’s Fruit House Winery Franc N Cherry: If fruit is your panacea you’ve got to add this to your list of must try libations. It really takes your taste buds for a ride with the tangy cherry flavors. Crafted from Cabernet Franc and Cherry; this lively juicy wine is playful (its frolicsome label gives you a first hint of that), but also has a bit of underlying serious earthy notes. Imagine biting into a freshly baked sour cherry pie followed by a walk in the forest. Gold Medal and Best of Class, Fruit Wine Category.

Cherry Creek Cellars took home a Double Gold in the Semi-Dry Red category for the 2008 Raceway Red. A juicy blend of Cab Franc, Chambourcin and Chancellor, this nicely made wine really sings. Forward cherry and spice aromas open the door to the purity of fresh berry and cherry flavors that shine brightly on the palate. Its sweetness is obvious but not over the top, and the soft, round mouth feel is offset with enough acidity to keep it vibrant and balanced.

Burgdorf’s Winery 2007 Morado: Crafted from the Native American Concord grape (Vitis Labrusca), this Gold Medal winning wine is vibrant from the welcoming brimming with fruit aromas to the pure juicy fruit at the core.  The essence of Concord comes alive.  Those that steer away from dry or tannic wines will find a joyful palate pleaser with this true to its varietal roots Concord wine.

Tabor Hill Cab Franc Port took home the Gold in the Fortified Grape category.  Inviting aromas of dark berry a hint of nuttiness rise from the glass and lead to a viscous mouthful of decadence; tantalizing chocolate covered berries laced with caramel.  Rich, delicious and velvety smooth through the persistent, memorable finish – what a way to cap off a delightful evening!

Don’t miss the boat on Michigan wines. Wine trails abound from the southwestern AVA’s of Lake Michigan Shore and Fenville to the northwestern AVA’s of Old Mission Peninsula and Leelanau Peninsula.  Discover firsthand the purity and crispness of these wines crafted from cold climate grapes, and the passion of the producers behind them.

The 2010 Mid-American Wine Competition at the Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) in Iowa this month provided a joyful journey off the beaten wine path.  From native American and hybrid grapes that some consumers may have never heard of, winemakers are crafting wines that range from intriguing and pleasantly quaffable to downright lovely.  Wines for this competition must come solely from producers in Mid-American states including Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee and Wisconsin.    Here is a glimpse of some of my favorite award winning wines:

Stone Hill Winery 2009 Vignoles; Branson, Missouri:  Awarded Best White Wine of the competition, this elegant Vignoles showcases tantalizing fruity aromas leading to a lush mouthful of fresh pineapple and pear flavors that enliven the palate.  The vibrant acidity complements the generous fruit beautifully.  This wine is artfully balanced and the lingering finish is lip smackingly delicious!

Beans Creek Winery NV Chardonel; Manchester, Tennessee:   Chardonel is a hybrid cross of chardonnay and seyval.  This tasty example opens with inviting floral aromas captivating the nose, and expands gracefully on the palate with tree ripened apple and pear flavors.  A dash of caramel weaving throughout adds a nice touch of sweetness; an easy to quaff Gold Medal winner.

Wollersheim Winery 2009 Dry Riesling; Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin:  Minerality awakens the senses and broadens on the palate alongside layers of pineapple, crisp pear, crushed stone, a splash of citrus and delicate floral notes.   This lovely Gold Medal winner is a great wine to pair with Sole Piccata or any white fish or shellfish.  

Augusta Winery 2009 Seyval Blanc; Augusta, Missouri:   The fragrant aromas on this Gold awarded wine (a French American hybrid grape) steer the way to a pretty punch of fruit at first sip.  Honeydew and mouthwatering summer melon flavors carry through deliciously on the palate. A light and refreshing pleaser that remains fresh and clean through the finish.

James Arthur Vineyards 2009 Brianna; Raymond, Nebraska:  This Brianna (a winter hardy hybrid) with exotic, foxy aromatics is well worthy of the Gold.  The enticing flavors enthrall the palate with a beautiful expression of tropical fruit accented by a touch of spice.  Focused and lively through the finish, it simply dances on the palate.

James Arthur Vineyards 2009 “2 Brothers” LaCrosse; Raymond, Nebraska:  Lacrosse is a hybrid that also does well in winter climates (a cross between Seyval and another Minnesota hybrid).  This Gold awarded wine is delightfully fruity and lifted on the palate with sweet and tart tones intermingling tastefully from start to finish.  Bright fruit with a hint of citrus, this wine sits pretty on the palate with a smooth texture and pleasing aftertaste.

Summerset Winery NV Frontenac; Indianola, Iowa:  This Gold award winning (a red wine cross of French-American hybrid  Landot 4511 and native American Vitis riparia) captured the Best Dry Red Wine award of the competition. This fine example of Frontenac supports the notion that DRY RED wines can and are being made in Mid-America.   This handsomely structured red wine opens with alluring aromas of black cherries and red berries that expand and blast juicy fruit and spicy flavors splendidly across the palate.  Lively and balanced with a hint of oak on the lingering finish.

Prairie Berry Winery NV Calamity Jane; Hill City, South Dakota:  A Gold Medal winner that claimed the Best Off Dry Red Wine Award is crafted from the Native American Concord grape (a variety of Vitis labrusca).   Inviting fruity aromatics leap from the glass and really grab your attention.  This is a rich, round, juicy example of Concord wine that is zesty and full of liveliness with an impressive purity of fresh grape and berry fruit, and finishes with plenty of length. 

Oliver Winery Harvest Flavors Watermelon; Bloomington, Indiana:  This brilliantly hued mead (honey wine) captured Gold and delighted the judges with its appealing juicy watermelon aromas that stay focused and bright on the palate.  Think of the sweet, fleshy core of a fresh watermelon.    This wine joyfully screams summertime; I can picture it in the rainy winter months when I’m yearning for a taste of summer.

Prairie Moon Winery 2007 Winter Moon Vidal Blanc Ice Wine; Ames, Iowa:  This beauty took home Gold along with the Dick Peterson Trophy Award.  Intoxicating aromas of fresh sauted apple slices dotted with brown sugar and a drizzle of honey completely captivate the nose.   Powerfully built with decadent layers of baked apples, creamy butter, honey and spice that coat the palate heavenly.  The rich, viscous elixir has just the right touch of acidity to keep it balanced and bright through the memorably finish; wow – a wonderful dessert in a glass!

When your travels take you to the middle of the USA, don’t hesitate to stop and visit these wineries, and discover a number of others that can also be found in the Mid-American states; I think you will be delightfully surprised.

Cos d’Estournel 1982, St Estephe, Bordeaux, France:  Drinking beautifully and still has plenty of life ahead.  Rich, dark black plum fruit, a delicate floral note and a touch of tobacco greet the nose and flow onto the palate with subtle oak, graphite, minerality, cigar box and orange peel essence.   Complex with refined tannins and a long-lasting aftertaste.  A classic St Estephe.

Mazzocco Winery 2007 Maple Reserve Zinfandel Dry Creek Valley, CA:  Blackberry jam and spice rise from the glass and lead to delightful flavors of candy apple and dense concentrated berries with a generous dash of white pepper on the palate; instant gratification!  Juicy and well put together with a dazzling finish. 

Lumos 2006 Temperance Hill Pinot Noir Willamette Valley, OR:  Expressive aromas of dark cherry and black currant captivate the nose and the dense, bold fruit remains firmly focused on the palate.  Round, lush and well balanced with baking spices, fresh peppercorns and vanilla adding complexity.   A gutsy, full bodied, delicious Pinot Noir.

Pudding River Wine Cellars 2007  Willamette Valley Chardonnay, Willamette Valley, OR:   Aromas of buttered toast and poached apples really draw you into the glass.  Flirtatious and appealing with a soft entry that opens up exquisitely to luscious sun ripened tree fruit and crunchy, caramelized creme brulee topping that is offset perfectly by lively acidity.

Hartford 2007 Arrendell Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley, CA    Think aromas of freshly baked cherry pie right out of the oven.  From 35-year-old vines, this richly layered, alluring Pinot Noir boasts concentrated ripe Ranier cherries and wild raspberries accented by fragrant herbs and homemade pie spices.  Lush with tremendous depth and silky tannins; simply exquisite from first sip through the memorable, lingering finish.

Sequum Winery 2006 Four Soil Melange Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, CA:  This 100% Cabernet Sauvignon may be a find that hasn’t yet crossed your lips, but seek it out; one taste and you’ll be hooked!   Rich and balanced with layers and layers of cassis, tobacco, earthy nuances, spice and well placed oak notes, this Cab is polished and beautifully structured with Napa terroir shining through;  pure artistry in a glass.

Tomero 2008 Torrontes, Valle de Cafayete, Salta, Argentina:  Gorgeous example of Torrontes; a fresh bunch of jasmine and spring flowers captures the nose, blossoming on the palate with spiced green apple, lychee, a dash of fresh herbs and grapefruit.  Brisk acidity and mineral notes complete the refreshing package.

Sierra Madre Vineyard 2008 Pinot Noir, Block 216 Santa Maria Valley:  This small production PN (8 barrels) is stunning with its ethereal characteristics.  The aromatics are classic Pinot Noir - earthy, cherry, spicy notes with a touch of oak, and consistent flavors continue unfolding dramatically in the mouth.  Just the right level of acidity lifts it brightly on the palate.  Well crafted and complex yet subtle and graceful, unforgettable! 

Sierra Madre Vineyard 2007 Pinot Noir, Santa Maria Valley:  Tantalizing forest floor and cherry notes on the nose expand mellifluously on the palate with highlights of cherry cola, licorice, savory spice and a kick of acidity creating a balanced, elegant wine.  Sumptuous from entry through lingering finish.

Brousseau Vineyard 2006 Chardonnay, Chalone:  Butterscotch aromas so enthrall the nose, you will linger here without even thinking about it!  The buttered toast notes meld nicely with tropical fruit and fresh caramel apple flavors on the palate, creating an artistic showpiece in the mouth.  A hint of oak caps off the memorable finish.

Eberle 2008 Cotes de Robles Blanc:  This striking blend of Rousanne, Viognier and Grenache Blanc really hits the mark.  Floral aromas lead to a mouthful of bright, juicy pear and crisp green apple fruit blending harmoniously with minerality, citrus and spice.  Wonderful as an aperitif, and a perfect food pairing wine, too (try with crab cakes or lemon sole).

Eberle 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon/Syrah:  The decadent spice-infused dark berry aromatics flow richly to the mid palate without being overripe, and continue gaining momentum with a touch of meatiness, provocative splice accents and velvety tannins.  Pair with skirt steak or ribs, or a juicy burger off the grill.

La Cave de Mon Lis 2007 Chardonnay, Santa Lucia Highlands:  Concentrated dense fruit and a kiss of oak rise from the glass, displaying typicity of SLH terroir.  Tropical pineapple and apples sprinkled with spice dance across the palate with a backbone of acidity that holds firmly throughout.  Oak shines proudly but unobtrusively in the background and the aftertaste is heavenly.

A recent enjoyable trip to Napa Valley (with wine savvy relatives from Ohio in tow) confirmed once again the quality and consistency of wines that are crafted by winemakers in this premium wine producing region.   Amidst winter rain drenched vineyards and cozy tasting rooms, a host of impressive wines were unveiled:

Joseph Phelps 2006 Insignia:  This 95% Cab Sauv, 5% Petite Verdot blend has an inky dark purple hue with expressive aromas of cassis and tobacco that are ever-so engaging.   This rich blend builds on the palate with opulent, dense dark berry and cassis flavors that are cloaked magnificently in mocha, anise and tobacco notes, and shows off a velvety texture and long finish   Complex with beautifully integrated tannins that suggest long ageability. 

Joseph Phelps 2005 Bacchus Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon:  The nose is a bit restrained at the moment, but the dark berry and cassis flavors spring forward on first sip and create an elegantly structured and complex elixir full of dense, dark berry fruit, rich cocoa, pleasing minerality and a subtle hint of oak on mid palate.  Well crafted with plenty of firm tannins to go the distance.

Joseph Phelps 2006 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon:  Cassis and toasty oak greet the nose and continue on the palate with layers of red and black berry, tobacco, sweet oak and smoke notes and a hint of black licorice, too.  Nicely balanced with silky smooth tannins and a satisfying finish.

Freestone 2006 Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir:  Opens with immense florality and cherry on the nose that simply scream Pinot Noir.  Juicy Bing cherry, white pepper, Asian tea spice and smoky notes mesh together gloriously on the palate.  This is a full bodied, elegantly composed wine.

Freestone 2006 Ovation Chardonnay:   Aromatic poached pears and butter notes rise from the glass and meld deliciously on the palate alongside almond paste and toasty oak notes.   Full bodied, rich yet clean and fresh with its bright acidity, this chardonnay strikes a beautiful balance and a lingering finish.

Patz & Hall 2007 Zio Tony Ranch Russian River Valley Chardonnay:  Stunning aromas of butterscotch and pleasing oak capture your attention and broaden on the palate with crisp green apple, sun drenched peach, candied citrus flavors and a dash of pie spice.   Round and viscous mouth feel with layers that unwind handsomely through the long finish. 

Patz & Hall 2007 Hudson Vineyard Carneros Chardonnay:    Enticing aromas of freshly churned butter, subtle oak and minerality lead to a rich, plush mouth filling wine with Asian pear, ripe apple and lemon zest weaving together seamlessly.   Stunning acidity holds up the rich fruit layers strikingly, and the finish is bright and persistent.

Patz & Hall 2007 Jenkins Ranch Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir:   Aromas of spicy cherry compote fill the nose and the cinnamon, clove and allspice notes hold enticingly through the palate alongside succulent red and black raspberries, fresh cherries and a generous level of acidity.  Silky and ethereal with a magnificent flavor profile from the beginning through the memorable aftertaste.

Patz & Hall 2007 Freestone Hill Russian River Valley Pinot Noir:  Cherry cola and anise aromas lead to a burst of juicy tart cherry at the core, and layers of mushroom, anise and exotic spice notes add complexity and simply explode in the mouth.   Bright and lifted on the palate, this PN is well constructed and irresistible.

Patz & Hall 2007 Burnside Vineyard Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir:   Here is a deeply hued Pinot Noir with floral and wild cherry on the nose that lead to a full bodied, complex wine on the palate.  Provocative earthy, forest floor and anise notes accent wild berry and dried cherry flavors that take center stage on mid palate.    Well structured with good depth of flavors and stays nicely focused through the everlasting finish. 

Honig Vineyard & Winery 2008 Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc:   Lush tropical fruit aromas promise a juicy mouthful and this Sauv. Blanc delivers!   Grapefruit and lime peel notes meld harmoniously with the ripe tropical mango flavors on the palate; the vibrant acidity enlivens the juicy fruit.   What a perfect spring and summer sipper!

Honig 2006 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon:  Take a big whiff and capture the generous dark berry, herbs and allspice in the nose.   Blackberry and plum laced with spice fill the palate nicely with a dollop of vanilla and coconut weaving throughout.  This Cab Sauv is nicely balanced with soft tannins, and finishes delightfully. 

Honig 2005 Bartolucci Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon:    Inviting  plummy notes rise from the glass and open up to dense black cherry, luscious plum and black raspberry flavors enhanced by licorice, herbs and earth notes.  Complex and tightly woven, this is a powerful Cabernet Sauvignon that should last for several years.

Rosenblum 2008 Viognier, Kathy’s Cuvee, Lodi: A bowlful of succulent fresh peaches and vanilla overtones on the nose are joined on the palate with sun ripened pineapple and juicy apricot; lush with good depth and elegance.   The beautiful acidity balances the ripe fruit, and a subtle hint of sweetness in the aftertaste lingers pleasingly.

Rock Wall 2008 Monte Rosso Zinfandel:  This Zinfandel rocks!  Fresh, juicy ripe berries jump from the glass and never let go.  Delectably rich in red and black fruits, jammy without being overripe, with nice spice accents.  Boasts a beautiful structure and texture, deft balance, and finishes long and lip-smackingly delicious.

St Francis 2007 Behler Chardonnay, Sonoma County:   Inviting aromas of French Oak and tropical fruit pave a captivating path to the round, mouth-coating, buttery notes that interplay with the ripe tropical fruit on mid palate.  Round and full with a backbone of acidity offsetting the opulent fruit.

St Francis 2005 Behler Merlot:  St Francis really nails this varietal – and this is another beautiful example.  Chock full of mocha and cocoa wrapped around a core of delicious blackberry and blueberry fruit, this Merlot is balanced with a silky texture and a long-lasting finish that leaves you begging for more.

St Francis 2004 King’s Ridge Cabernet Sauvignon:  From grapes grown high above sea level in the Sonoma County coastal region, here is a cabernet with plenty of grip, balance and charm.   After 30 months in French Oak and 2 more years of aging in the bottle, the dense dark berry and cassis lift effortlessly from the glass and blend harmoniously with anise spice, subtle oak notes and beautifully integrated tannins.  Full bodied and built to last.

St Francis 2006 Bacchi Vineyard Zinfandel, Russian River Valley:  Inviting eucalyptus and mint leave aromas dominate the nose and persist through the finish.  Gobs of blackberry and black cherry fruit take center stage on the palate with notes of candied berry adding a delightful accent.  Rich and mouth filling with a clean, satisfying finish.

Mayo Family Winery 2007 Los Chamizal Vineyard Old Vine Zinfandel, Sonoma Valley:  Bursting with fruit from the plumy, berry aromas to the bright, juicy fruit laced with vanilla on mid palate, there’s plenty of depth to sink your teeth into here.    This Zin showcases a beautiful purity of fruit that stays focused and fresh from lively start to memorable finish.

Mayo Family Winery 2007 Ricci Vineyard Zinfandel, Russian River Valley:  Aromas of dark wild berry and raspberry open up on the nose, and lead to a luscious palate full of juicy blackberry and raspberry fruit alongside cinnamon spice and sweet candy apple coating notes.    Decadent and firmly built; this Zin would pair nicely with barbequed ribs or pulled pork.

Mayo Family Winery 2006 Page/Nord Vineyard “Lillyann’s” Block” Syrah, Napa Valley:  Enticing plumy, meaty notes on the nose really grab your attention.  This classic Syrah expands broadly on the palate with dark berries and plums layered with pepper, Asian spice and a hint of earthiness blending harmoniously with well integrated tannins.  Intensely structured and age worthy, if you can manage to wait!

A remarkable lot of top notch pinot noir tickled my palate early in the New Year:

2008 Testarossa Winery, Santa Maria Valley, Sierra Madre Vineyard: Enticing aromas of cherry, berry and vanilla draw you into the glass and remain focused and flavorful with layers of earth, exotic spice and subtle oak. Silky tannins and a persistent add to its charm.

2007 Roar, Santa Lucia Highlands, Garys’ Vineyard: Bright, concentrated perfectly ripe cherry fruit rises from the glass; spice notes and good acidity balances the juicy fruit beautifully; finishes with a sweet oak finale.

2007 Kosta Browne, Sonoma Coast: Dense aromatic bowl of fresh cherries fill the nose, and layers of tar, earth, forest floor and dark berries add provocative flavors on the palate; complex and well structured with smooth, firm tannins.

2007 Patz & Hall, Carneros, Hyde Vineyard: Pretty cherry and berry aromatics persist and mesh attractively with cola and a hint of tobacco and earth on mid palate, balanced and elegant with velvety tannins.

2008 Dahlia Reserve, Monterey County: Dark fruit and oak notes rise from the glass and broaden on the palate alongside dried cherry and shades of raspberry-filled cookie flavors adding interest; nicely structured.

2007 Dutton Goldfield, Marin County, Devil’s Gulch: Earthy forest floor aromas integrate seamlessly into cherry fruit and mushroom notes, delightfully integrated oak and firm tannins complete the luscious package.

2007 Navarro Vineyards, Anderson Valley, Deep End Blend: Pretty berry and cherry fruit on the nose, with spice and tart cranberry notes opening up on mid palate. Delicate and well balanced with a fresh, clean and lasting finish.

2007 Beaux Frères, Ribbon Ridge, The Beaux Frères Vineyard: Earthy, dried cherry aromas followed by cherry cola and spicy notes taking center stage on the palate. Elegant structure with essence of forest floor and wild cherries remaining focused throughout.

2007 Failla Wines, Sonoma Coast, Hirsch Vineyard: Mushroom and earth notes jump from the glass with cherry and herbal essence adding complexity on the palate. Earthy wild cherry qualities remain through the finish; well crafted.

2006 Calera, Mt. Harlan, Ryan Vineyard: Rich dark cherry fruit dominate the aroma. On the palate a lush mouthful of earth and brown spices with dense, concentrated cherries broadens generously; finishes with pleasing smoky notes.

2007 Peay Estate, Sonoma Coast, Scallop Shelf: A hint of judicious Brett on the nose followed by rich, fresh cherry compote flavors and a delightful dose of earthiness on mid palate. Finishes with a dash of root beer and nicely integrated oak.

2007 De Ponte Cellars, Dundee Hills, Baldwin Reserve: Baked cookies sprinkled with cinnamon open up on the nose, wild berries and cherries laced with cocoa join in on the palate; balanced and easy to quaff.

Here we are at the end of 2009, and in my glass this holiday month were some nice surprises and handsomely aged gems to tout about, including:

2004 Patz & Hall Hyde Vineyard Pinot Noir, Carneros:  A gorgeous melding of raspberry, cherry and earthy tones which capture the terroir of Carneros perfectly.   The nose captivates with enticing cherry and spice aromas, followed by exotic spices and hints of coffee bean that thread through the delicious fruit on mid palate, extremely elegant, well balanced and polished.

Domenico 2005 Miscela Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley:  Miscela (Italian for “blend”) is a delightfully well crafted, approachable wine made from the five primary Bordeaux varieties (85% Cabernet Sauvignon 6% Merlot, 4.5% Petite Verdot, 3% Cabernet Franc and 1% Malbec).  It opens with pleasing aromas of ripe berries infused with coconut, that lead to a succulent mouthful of dark berries and cassis laced with pipe spices and a subtle hint of oak.

Lavender Ridge 2003 Carignan, Sierra Foothills:  Fifteen years old and this beauty still shows impeccable balance with juicy fruit and zippy acidity.  Red and black berry fruits and dried currants with notes of liqueur drenched fruit cake dominate the palate, with a dash of spice on the lasting finish.

Dehlinger 1998 Cabernet Sauvignon, Russian River Valley:   A bouquet of berries with a touch of dusty earthiness fill the nose, and time has not diminished the provocative dark fruit at the core.   Soft and smooth with the berry and currant flavors framed by notes of mushroom, truffle and well integrated oak. 

Silver Oak 1996 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon:   Rich fruit wafts from the glass, screaming Napa Valley fruit!  Dark berry and cassis with a generous sprinkling of brown spice on the nose persist through the richly textured, velvety palate.  Silky tannins with toasty oak sitting pretty in the background.

Paraduxx 2005 Napa Valley:  This stylish blend of Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cab Franc aged in American and French Oak displays lush fruity aromas, and from the very first sip a burst of  juicy blackberries, blueberries and plums intoxicate the palate and intertwine delectably with chocolate, a trace of coconut and subtle hints of toast; yummy finish, too.

Santerra 1985 Cabernet Sauvignon:  Crafted from 71% Sonoma fruit and 29% Napa fruit, this Cab has held nicely through the years.  With an ever-so-slight amber meniscus, the nose offers sweet dried fruit and cigar box notes that remain pleasing and focused through the smoothly textured palate to the clean, satisfying finish.

Lavender Ridge 2008 Grenache, Sierra Foothills:   A brilliant hue captures the eye and expressive raspberry aromas with savory, toasty accents wow the nose. At first sip bright, fresh raspberries and cranberries unfold with underlying crushed pink peppercorn notes, and stay focused and juicy through the palate to the silky, pleasing finish. A perfect wine for your Thanksgiving table!

Lavender Ridge 2007 Petite Sirah, Sierra Foothills:  A dark purple elixir that enthralls the senses with its aromas of dark concentrated blackberry and smoke tinged oak notes commanding full attention.  One it hits your palate, you’re immersed into a powerhouse of a wine. This Petite Sirah is full bodied and tightly woven with brambly boysenberry and huckleberry fruit, tart black plums and sweet spice at the core.  The dense fruit and good level of acidity handsomely balance the firmly structured tannins.

Adelsheim 2007 Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley:  Enticing earthy, wild cherry aromas transition to the palate elegantly and keep you wanting more.  Well balanced with a silky texture and good depth of flavors.  Layers of earth, mushroom, dried cherry and allspice unravel delicately and deliciously, and the finish persists forever. 

Flora Springs 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley:  Dark berry and violets fill the nose and lead to a rich mouthful of cherry, berry and cassis marrying well with a nice dose of tobacco.  Beautifully structured tannins and nice oak integration suggest good ageability; but quite approachable now.

Dehlinger 2001 Octagon Pinot Noir, Russian River Valley:  Enticing earthy truffle accented aromas draw you in; and the essence of forest floor, dried cherry and herbs are appealingly layered on the palate.  The subdued fruit, subtle oak and elegant structure lend a Burgundian flair to this stunning RRV Pinot Noir.

Roessler 2006 Savoy Vineyard Pinot Noir, Anderson Valley:   A stylish, nicely balanced Pinot Noir that opens with wild cherries and a pleasing earthiness and expands on the palate with layers of spice, vanilla accents, wild berry and cherry flavors that all meld delectably through the memorable finish.

Barterra 2005 Merlot, Russian River Valley:  Bright juicy fruit, toasty oak and vanilla bean aromas fill the nose and lead to a palate chock full of fresh blueberries, sweet red cherries and pie crust notes.   Nicely structured with silky tannins and a finish that is long and smooth.

Barterra 2006 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon, Alexander Valley:  Attractive oak notes and peppercorn spice rise from the glass and remain focused on the palate with cassis, dark berry and supple leather melding together harmoniously.  Full bodied with a rich texture and firm tannins.  Approachable now, and should develop beautifully in the bottle for years to come. 

Barterra 2006 Blanc de Noir, Carneros – Napa:  Gorgeous yeasty aromatics draw you in and fresh strawberry, citrus and juicy apple flavors with a hint of ginger unfold refreshingly on the palate.    This impressive well-crafted sparkling wine with its good spine of acidity is impeccably balanced and keeps you captivated through the dazzling finish. 

Arcadian 2006 Fiddlestix Vineyard Pinot Noir, Santa Rita Hills:   Alluring earthy, anise filled aromas showcase the dense fruit, heady spice, dark cherry and truffle notes that explode lusciously upon entry.  Smoky oak and tobacco accents kick in mid palate and linger on the finish.  Here’s rich, decadent Pinot Noir with plenty of depth and complexity.