Mark started out working for Wente in 1979. Thus, over the years, he’s come to know the Livermore Valley quite intimately. That knowledge base has served him very well in his role as winemaker for McGrail and Picazo. The two wineries regularly produce some of the highest quality wines the Livermore Valley has to offer.

 

McGrail Family Vineyards 2009 James Vincent Cabernet Sauvignon

Grape(s): 100% Cabernet Sauvignon

Region: Livermore Valley

Price: 60-65

Review:

Aromas of blackberries, cherries, and cassis are in harmony with notes of dark chocolate and all-spice on the nose. A sip unfurls flavors of black cherry, blackberry, and plum accented by suggestions of sweet spice, chocolate, and oak. A rich, layered wine with supple tannins, it’s a Cab that showcases the quality of Livermore Valley Cab.

Rating: 93

McGrail Family Vineyards 2009 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon

Grape(s): 100% Cabernet Sauvignon

Region: Livermore Valley

Price: 35-40

Review:

A bouquet of blackberries, cassis, butterscotch, and sweet spice greets the senses. Flavors of blackberry, currants, and black cherry mingle with notes of caramel, clove, and toasty oak on the palate. A rich Cab with supple tannins and concentrated flavors, it drinks well now but will age very nicely too.

Rating: 90

Picazo 2007 Estate Merlot

Grape(s): 100% Merlot

Region: Livermore Valley

Price: 75-80

Review:

Aromatics of blackberries, blueberries, and cassis mingle with notes of vanilla and spice. Blackberry, cherry, and blueberry flavors emerge on the palate along with suggestions of sweet spice and dusty earth. A nicely structured Merlot, fans of dark, supple reds will enjoy this bottle.

Rating: 91