When the Dark Horse wines were in the planning stages a few short years ago, inside the brain trust at E. & J. Gallo Winery...
Lamole di Lamole, Chianti Classico DOCG (Tuscany, Italy) 2012
Fresh and pure, this is a tremendous example of top-notch Chianti Classico for less than $20 a bottle. Beautifully...
Liberty School, Central Coast (California) Merlot 2014
With a big dollop of plum and dark berry fruit on the front of the palate and a hint of wood smoke, this is a simple but...
Oasis in the Desert
My summer break took me on a two-week journey through the picturesque Southwestern United States. The tour launched from San...
Donnafugata, Sicilia DOC (Italy) Nero d’Avola 2015
This plump, juicy Nero d'Avola comes from one of Sicily's most consistent producers, Donnafugata. It shows soft fruit notes of...
Tenuta Sassoregale, Maremma Toscana DOC (Italy) Sangiovese 2013
The Maremma has been a growing force within Tuscany for quite some time and wines like this are the reason. With excellent...
Patz & Hall, Carneros (Napa Valley) Pinot Noir 2014
Patz & Hall's 2014 Hyde Vineyard pinot exhibits impressive depth, with layered aromas of cherry and strawberry, notes...
Giesen, Marlborough (New Zealand) Pinot Noir 2013
Shows impressive richness for a pinot from such a cool, even downright cold, climate. With a nose of dried cherries and...
The Summer ‘Value’ Wine Refresher
Thirsty wine enthusiasts need not worry about busting the budget to beat the heat this summer. Splendid wines at...
The Mystery of Wine Prices
A headline in a local fish wrap recently caught my eye: "Why wine costs what it does." Ah, the mystery of wine....
Piccini, Chianti DOCG (Tuscany, Italy) 2015
Piccini's 2015 Chianti is classic, showing tart black cherry fruit and dusty tannins with mouth-puckering acidity that...
Clayhouse, Paso Robles (California) Petite Sirah 2013
Clayhouse remains a relatively obscure California treasure, though it is well-known and respected in the Central Coast....