Three days after we opened it this Cab still had structure and finesse -- truly the mark of a well-made, age-worthy red. Spencer Hoopes (of Hoopes Vineyard, Hoopes Cabernet) assumed ownership of Liparita, the quality has improved to a remarkable degree. Winemaker Jason Fisher - he of stints at Grace Family and Paradigm, among others - has been given the resources and Stags Leap fruit to work his magic. Bing cherry and wild red fruits dominate the palate, and the classic fine-grained, velvety tannins characteristic of this three-mile stretch of Napa Valley hold court of the finish.

The 2007 marks the third vintage of Spencer Hoopes' Chardonnay, as fun label with serious wine.  This year's rich white shows green apple, fig and a light touch of yeasty notes. On the palate the wine delivers fresh, clean flavors of apple and citrus with a hint of cream, and a note of all-spice on the finish.

Winery Notes:  "Has the economy got you down?  Lift your spirits with Recovery Red. After hearing the President's messages of hope for the impending recovery we decided to do what we could do to spur a more immediate recovery - as least as far as liquid assets are concerned.  Inspiration for wording on the back label came from various politicians and financial institutions. We've included multiple grape varieties and economic regions to ensure a broad based recovery.  Food Pairings: Ideal with bull, makes bear more tolerable, highly recommended if eating crow. Full Disclosure: 1) No federal bailout money was used to produce this wine. 2) None of our employees received bonuses in excess of $250,000."  www.spannvineyards.com

Winery Notes:  "This Sauvignon Blanc seamlessly combines lush mouth-filling fruit with refreshing acidity. The aromas highlight bright citrus notes of lemon zest grapefruit and kaffir lime underscored by subtle hints of pear and dried apricot. Echoing the aromatics the palate reveals vibrant citrus layers complemented by more subdued tropical elements of banana coconut and lychee."  www.duckhorn.com

Winery Notes:  "An attack of big black cherry, mocha, roasted nut and mineral earthiness hit the nose followed by discreet notes of vanilla and spice. While the ripe but firm tannins show that this is a big wine, they balance the sweet fruit to give it an overarching elegance true to the blending of several grape varieties. Dark plum skin and coffee lead out on the palate, while many other flavors slowly evolve as this silky red wine crosses and caresses the tongue and finishes with persistence."  www.friasfamilyvineyard.com

Wine Spectator 90 points in 2007:  "A racy style, this is linear and packed with mineral, lemon and apple flavors. There's terrific energy and cut, with a nice mouthwatering finish. Shows wonderful expression of the limestone soils. Drink now through 2012. 350 cases imported."

Robert Parker's The Wine Advocate 90-93 points:  "A blend of 70% Grenache and 30% Syrah, the 2007 Vacqueyras Vieilles Vignes exhibits plenty of fig, plum, and blackberry notes along with a smoky confit of duck-like character, luscious, full-bodied flavors, sweet tannin, adequate acidity, and a fleshy, long finish. Proprietor Alazard has hit all cylinders with this sumptuous beauty that should drink well for 7-8 years."

Wine Spectator 89 points:  "Creamy, with caramel tones in the flavor spectrum, along with apricot, grapefruit and a touch of mineral. The mousse is assertive, helped along by a chalky feel on the finish."