Stock Your Cellar! (Sept. '07)

September 7, 2007

Dry Creek ’05 Sonoma County Fume Blanc
This vintage displays a wonderful bouquet of zesty citrus, grapefruit and lemongrass. On the palate, the lemon-lime flavors and peppery spice notes echo the aromas, creating a sense of depth and balance. The crisp finish incorporates hints of gooseberry and a touch of minerality. A perfect wine for just about any occasion, this Fumé Blanc pairs well with fresh oysters, grilled chicken or fish, or even pasta in a light cream sauce.
“Zesty spice and citrus notes--reminiscent of clove and orange peel--give this a lot of personality, with a zingy jolt of acidity.”The Wine Spectator
Allyson’s Pairing: Cypress Grove Midnight Moon

The White Knight ’06 Clarksburg Viognier
The Clarksburg Viognier is golden straw in color with a blast in the nose of fresh stone fruits; nectarine, orange blossom, and lemon meringue. Concentrated tropical flavors cover your mouth upon first sip; mango, breadfruit, orange pound cake, Tahitian vanilla, lemon curd, and white peach with a long lingering finish.
Allyson’s Pairing: Bucherondin Soignon

Domaine Sorin ’06 Terra Amata
This wine is a blend of 40% Grenache, 40% Cinsault, 10% Mourvedre and 10% Syrah. It is organically produced and then sealed with wax. The color is a light soft pink with orange hints. On the nose there is pear, strawberry and a flash of herbs. Good acidity with fresh orange and strawberry.
Allyson’s Pairing: Florette

Chat-en-Oeuf ’05 Cotes du Ventoux
A luscious wine made from selected parcels of old vine Grenache and Syrah have produced a mouth-filling red packed with rich, juicy and ripe berry fruit flavors. The good balance and a touch of soft tannin give way to a subtle twist of spice on the enjoyable finish.
Allyson’s Pairing: Fiscalini Bandage Wrapped Cheddar

Bodegas Palacio ’05 Castillo Rioja
Founded in 1894, Bodegas Palacio are pioneers of the renewed style of red wine packed with tannins, color and varietal (Tempranillo) character. This full-bodied, spicy Rioja has a strong presence of red fruits, and is a delicious accompaniment for red meat, spicy foods or strong cheese. It is aged in American/French oak for 6 months imparting hints of cinnamon and vanilla.
Allyson’s Pairing: Paprika Rubbed Ibores

Castle Rock ’05 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon
The wine has a clear ruby color and fragrant aromas of cherries, raspberries and dried herbs. Medium-bodied, rich and smooth, this elegant Cabernet has nice dark fruit flavors balanced by moderate tannins that leave the lingering flavor of black cherries.
Allyson’s Pairing: Gorgonzola Dolce