San Felipe

Wente Vineyards

Morning Fog Livermore Valley Chardonnay 2016

This yellow-gold wine rings the “old-style Cali” bell in all the right ways. A nose of apricots, mangoes and apples is helped along with the smell of buttered popcorn. Oak treats the palate as well, draping over the tropical fruit like a sunshade. The acidity is zesty, yet the mouthfeel tends toward creaminess due to the wine sitting on the lees for five months. The oak is a definite part of the wine, but the effect is softened enough so that it's a pleasure, not a pain. — 7 years ago

jesus, Scorewine and 5 others liked this

Ridge Vineyards

Estate Monte Bello Vineyard Merlot 2010

Paired well with a lamb, eggplant purée, fava beans, piquolo pepper. Would also pair with a medium rare magret duck or other game. — 10 years ago

Murrieta's Well

The Spur Livermore Valley Red Blend 2015

Dark and rich earth flavors. Very well balanced with good finish. It’s from Livermore not Australia! — 4 years ago

Shay, Tom and 8 others liked this

Bodegas Bernabeleva

Camino de Navaherreros San Martín de Valdeiglesias Garnacha

Bubbly amber apricot smooth cidery but not super tart — 7 years ago

Bonny Doon Vineyard

A Proper Claret Santa Cruz County Cabernet Sauvignon Blend

Peppery, acid, lighter on the fruit. This would pair really well with chili or a similar dish — 7 years ago

Sharon and Shawn liked this

Cline Cellars

Ancient Vines Contra Costa County Zinfandel 2012

Sweet, fruity, mild spices that sustain. Holds its own — 13 years ago

Mount Eden Vineyards

Santa Cruz Mountains Chardonnay 2013

Still young for my tastes but checking in on a go-to producer. Killer with King Crab Salad sandwiches 🥪

This bottle was a bit slow out the gate and needed some air to reveal the magic inside. This bottle was a pick up from Corti Bros when passing through Sacramento via Tahoe.
Finesse, and beautifully prolific white wine structure all the way throughout.

Santa Cruz Mts represent!
— 5 years ago

Sean liked this

Graffigna

Reserve Centenario San Juan Malbec 2014

Full body with a peppery after taste — 10 years ago