Whether you have fallen for the varieties of Bordeaux, can’t get enough of Cali-Rhone, or love trying unique blends, our wines of the week have got you covered. Hailing from boutique wineries in Paso Robles and San Francisco, they all offer a wonderful expression of fruit that only California wines can.
Le Vigne 2012 Nikiara Red Wine
Grape(s): Cabernet Sauvignon 52%, Cabernet Franc 29%, Malbec 9%, Merlot 5%, & Petit Verdot 5%
Region: Paso Robles, Ca
Price: 40-45
Tasting Notes:
A bouquet of blackberries, cherries, vanilla, and sweet spice greets the senses. The palate delivers flavors of boysenberry, blackberry, and cherry, alongside accents of cola and orange spice tea. An elegant wine with plush tannins, open a bottle the next time you make meatloaf. 450 cases were made.
Rating: 90
Law Estate 2012 “Beyond Category” Red Blend
Grape(s): 44% Syrah, 19% Grenache, 18% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Mourvèdre, & 9% Petite Sirah
Region: Paso Robles, Ca
Price: 65-70
Tasting Notes:
Aromas of plums, cherries, and blackberries combine with traces of herbs, lavender, and dark chocolate on the nose. A sip reveals flavors of black cherry, plum, and cassis that unfold into floral, mineral, and cocoa hints. A rich, layered wine with supple tannins, it would pair nicely with a tender brisket.
Rating: 90
Law Estate 2012 “Intrepid” Red Blend
Grape(s): 95% Syrah & 5% Grenache
Region: Paso Robles, Ca
Price: 65-70
Tasting Notes:
Fragrances of blackberries, blueberries, currants, and barrel spice rise up from a glass. The palate offers flavors of boysenberry, blueberry, and currant as well as whispers of minerals and spicy oak. Ample dark fruit and minerally highlights make this wine well suited to enjoy with lamb.
Rating: 89
Vie 2012 “L’Imaginaire” Grenache
Grape(s): 100% Grenache
Region: Santa Barbara County, Ca
Price: 35-40
Tasting Notes:
Aromatics of blackberries, boysenberries, and plums mingle with hints of spice, cedar, and rose petals on the nose. Flavors of bramble fruit, black cherry, and plum combine with suggestions of pepper, smoke, and minerals on the palate. Dark fruit and silky tannins make this wine a fine match for your favorite gourmet pizza. 100 cases were made.
Rating: 89
Vie 2012 “Les Amours” Syrah
Grape(s): 100% Syrah
Region: Santa Barbara County, Ca
Price: 40-45
Tasting Notes:
Notes of blueberries, plums, smoked meat, and spice can be discovered on the nose. The palate showcases flavors of blueberry, blackberry, and plum that flow into notes of smoky spice, game, and floral earth. A hearty red with welcoming tannins, open a bottle with lamb chops. Only 75 cases produced.
Rating: 91