Dane Stark, owner and winemaker at Page Mill winery, had his critics when he moved his operation from the Santa Cruz Mountains to the Livermore Valley back in 2004. But from early on, Dane was sold on the quality of the valley’s fruit. Today, nearly all the wine produced at Page Mill comes from Livermore grapes, and Dane has certainly proved his faith to be well founded. Our tasting panel recently sampled a few of his currant releases, and they were all excellent.

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Grape:Sauvignon Blanc

Winery: Page Mill

Region: Livermore Valley

Year: 2011

Price: 15-20

Review:

Aromas of honeydew and light citrus fruit combine with suggestions of a grass and white pepper on the nose. A sip unfurls flavors of melon and sweet grapefruit along with a few herbaceous notes and a hint of spice. A lovely, rich white, with some nice layers, fans of slightly creamy Sauvignon Blancs will enjoy this bottle.

Rating: 90

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Grape: Syrah

Winery: Page Mill

Region: Livermore Valley

Year: 2007

Price: 15-20

Review:

A bouquet of red berries, strawberry jam, and a hint of vanilla rises up from a glass. The palate delivers flavors of cherry, strawberry, and plum accented by hints of dark-chocolate, cedar, and rose petals. A lush, very approachable Syrah, fans of layered, easygoing reds will enjoy this wine.

Rating: 91

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Grape: Cabernet Franc

Winery: Page Mill

Region: Livermore Valley

Year: 2009

Price: 25-30

Review:

Blackberry and cherry aromas along with a touch of earth rise up from a glass. The palate delivers dark berry fruit and bright earthy, floral notes. A lighter red that still has good structure, it’s ideal to enjoy with portabella burgers now or cellared for a few years.

Rating: 90