Dry Creek Vineyard, Dry Creek Valley (Sonoma County, California) 2010

This is what my tasting notes say about The Mariner:  “Sweet. Silky. Smooth. Savory. Had it with lasagna. Great match.”  Brief but succinct, right?  The only other observation I might add upon further reflection is that the wine also dazzles with its long bright finish.  And I should also point out that while it was indeed a great match with the lasagna, I’ve found very few hearty-type dishes, from pork chops to burgers to steaks, that aren’t wonderful with Dry Creek’s Meritage.  With every vintage, even the weaker years, it can always be counted on to deliver a consistent food-friendly taste profile.