2009 STARRY NIGHT MOONHEAD RED

Known primarily for their fine Zinfandel's, the people at Starry Night have a huge hit on their hands and it all came about by mistake. When one of their cellar workers pumped Petite Sirah into a Zinfandel tank in error, they just had to wait to see what happened once it had fermented. The result was one of the best wines this producer has ever made. Loaded with dark stone fruit, it's got all the pepper and spice and all the things nice that make your palate jump for joy. I'll guarantee you, this is one mistake you shouldn't pass up.

 

2009 STELLA GREY RED

It's not too often a wine comes along, especially from Napa Valley, that tastes like a fortune yet doesn't tug at the purse strings. For under $20, you get this delicious blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petite Verdot and Syrah, that is rich and plush. The blackberry and plum fruit make this full bodied red shine brightly, and from sip to finish, shows to be very sleek, polished and highly stylish. Could use a few years in the cellar but I wouldn't wait to try it first, then stock up for a beauty that will deliver the goods for years to come.

 

2009 SEAGLASS PINOT NOIR

I'm always in search of a good value Pinot Noir that isn't thin and weak or tastes like alcohol infused Kool-Aid. This winery may be small in size but they have released one big Pinot for the money. The nose has a vibrant perfumed aroma while the cherry and strawberry fruit are bright and fresh. It's crisp acidity and hefty body serve up one flavorful and tasty treat for a fraction of what others in this quality range may charge. A well rounded Pinot that will pair well with any chicken, duck or fish dish of your choice.

 

1995 SORDO BAROLO

To our surprise, sitting tucked away and hidden from view in our cellar, we uncovered two cases of a ten year old treasure that is now seeing the light of day on our shelf. Full and chewy plum, blackberry and raspberry fruit integrate beautifully with the woody vanilla, tobacco, tea leaf and silky tannins. This is one serious wine that is still somewhat of a baby, which can be enjoyed now or years down the road. We've kept it at it's original release price and with only 2 cases to be had, lovers of fine Italian vino will feel they've died and gone to red wine heaven.