November 30, 2018
This red blend is mostly Zinfandel from Lodi with compliments of Merlot and Lagrein (a grape you see mostly from its Northern Italy homeland). Smell and taste summertime, fresh-picked red berries along with dabs of black tea, dried mushrooms, black pepper and tobacco (unlit nice cigar). Medium acidity and medium/light tannins. Aged briefly in French oak used previously for 3 years, i.e. neutral. This hits the mark of a drink-anytime red blend a la a killer Southern Rhone. Great price for a well-made, unique wine. More Information Ron Magnavita-Phillips, winemaker/do it all proprietor, is based in Napa Valley, and his […]
November 27, 2018
Here’s a tasty, dry, no-oak Sauvignon Blanc-alternative white wine to check out. From the hills east of Lodi where Spanish varietals, like Albariño, have established a strong foothold. Smell and taste lemon verbena, grapefruit, fresh sliced peaches and a whisper of chalk dust. Medium acidity. Orange wedges and citrus blossoms on the finish. Have with whitefish ceviche or French Fries & mayo. More Information Ragbag Wines is a new label owned and made by Steven Mirassou, owner/maker of Steven Kent Winery in Livermore Valley. This Albariño is indicative of the Ragbag mission: tasty, pure and pretty weekday wines, well-priced and meant […]
August 6, 2018
Napa winery Localism ventures out to Lodi (“Silvaspoons Vineyard,” although this is not stated on the label) for their Torrontes, a wine grape most associated with Argentina. The Localism Torrontes sports awesome aromas of citrus blossoms, grated fresh ginger, lemon cucumbers and honeysuckle. Light and easy-going in the mouth. Bright acidity, very light bodied (I’d like a little more body) and very refreshing. Delicious with sashimi, green salads and spa treatments. More Information This is Mom & Pop Winery through and through. Ryan and Nicole Knoth do it all. Ryan is the winemaker (his moonlighting job and he makes high-end […]