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Feb-Mar 2001
92 Domaines Schlumberger 1998, Alsace, Pinot Gris Princes Abbés
Pinot Gris from Alsace is not like Pinot Gris from anywhere else. It’s aromatic, complex and herbal, with ripe mango and peach from. This one is off-dry, rich and intense, and has a long dried fruit and herbs finish. A great wine for sipping all by itself, or serve with light fare that won’t distract from the wine’s interest.
88 Sokol Blosser, Oregon Evolution, White Wine
An off-dry, spritzy blend of nine different varieties, though which nine the label does not state. It tastes like the greatest influences are Muscat and Pinot Gris. Good aperitif and good with shellfish. Serve well-chilled.
87 Beringer 1997, Knights Valley, Alluvium , White Wine
Rich and dry, this is a blend of Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, Chardonnay and Viognier. It has significant oak character (vanilla and toast), as well as a nuttiness from aging on the yeast lees. Creamy textured, intense and long, it demands full-flavored foods to soften its edges.
86 Hogue 1999, Columbia Valley, Semillon
Hogue’s Semillon stands well on its own merits. It’s figgy and flowery, medium-bodied and dry, with tart acidity.
85 Cecchi 1999, Vernaccia de San Gimignano
Light, dry, crisp and citrusy, with a pleasant nutty background. A good wine for seafood or risotto.
84 Ste. Chapelle, American, Spumante
Sweet, frothy, with a flavor like bubblegum. It will bring a smile to even the most stuffy wine snob. Well-balanced. Suitable as an aperitif or with the cheese course
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Oct-Nov 2000
88 Valley of the Moon,1998 Sonoma County, Pinot Blanc
Big rich sour apple, toast and caramel flavors, full body, tart, spicy, with a persistent finish.
88 Beringer Vineyards 1997, Knights Valley Alluvium Blanc
A white wine blend that is rich and oaky, with Chardonnay weight and velvety mouthfeel. Tremendously fruity, yet with the crisp acidity of Sauvignon Blanc, .it rides the edge between dry and off-dry. Ripe tropical fruit character, warm finish, powerful. Pair with equally flavorful foods.
87 Chateau Ste. Michelle 1998 Cold Creek Vineyard, Columbia Valley, Dr. Loosen, Eroica Riesling
Rieslings are a rather rare commodity in the U.S. This Washington Riesling is crisp and spritzy, with good varietal definition in its apple and honey fruit. Just off-dry, it would be a fine match for poultry or pork.
Aug-Sept 2000
88 Mirassou 1998, Monterey County, Pinot Blanc
Exceptional Pinot Blanc with rich pear, vanilla and light toast flavors, crisp acidity, soft texture and full body. The acidity makes it a natural for shell-fish or pork dishes.
88 Valley of the Moon 1998, Sonoma County, Pinot Blanc
Big rich sour apple, toast and caramel flavors, full body, tart, spicy, persistent finish. |
