2007 MAZZOCCO ZINFANDEL

Ever call an old friend who you haven't spoken to in many years, and in the end, enjoy old memories and reconnecting? That what tasting this old zinfandel friend was like. Still full of dark red black cherry and plum fruit, lively and robust, loaded with black pepper and the same old spice I remember from years back. Hailing from the famed Dry Creek Valley in Sonoma County, I hope this old buddy stays around for many more years of drinking pleasure.

2006 COTES ROCHEUSES SAINT EMILION GRAND CRU

A Bordeaux that is a throwback to classic days of old. Rich in blackberry flavors, medium body, with a dusty minerality and subtle earthiness, displaying plush yet soft tannins and acidity. A mix of 60% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Franc and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, this is one food friendly gem that only hits the alcohol scale at 13%. With each hour that it opens up, the bouquet grows stronger and more fragrant. Dig out the Country French cookbooks and savor a meal the way Julia Child educated out tastebud's many years ago.

2006 STONIER PINOT NOIR

Not too often do the words Australia and Pinot Noir capture our wine loving imagination. That veil may be lifted with this Aussie stunner from the Mornington Peninsula in the Victoria growing region. Starting with an aromatic rose petal nose, it's followed by juicy red currant, cherry cola and raspberry fruit that marry well with the licorice and spicy mid-palate. Well balanced throughout, it ends with a sleek smoky tannin finish. Celebrating their 25^th vintage, the grapes come from some of the areas oldest vines. If you are a fan of great Pinot Noir, this is a new treasure not to be missed.

2010 THE GRINDER PINOTAGE

One of the most distinct up front noses of a wine I have ever experienced. The aroma of fresh ground coffee bean and scented mocha permeate the senses yet the flavor of the wine itself makes you do a complete sensory 360 with it's rich blueberry, cherry and plum fruit with a major infusion of dark chocolate. Unlike most South African Pinotage that have a distinct thorny rustic style to them, The Grinder displays a more juicy and jammy character that many will find friendlier on the palate than those of Pinotage past. Move over Starbucks, there's a new kicked up coffee sensation in town.