August 2011 Tasting Room Taste Explorers

My second tasting for the Tasting Room Taste Explorers wine club. Really neat way to try before you buy.

• 2008 Twisted Oak Rubens Blend 89 Points

  USA, California, Sierra Foothills, Calaveras County

  Rich golden color. Buttery nose, but not overly oaky. Light acid and no heat. Buttery apple flavors. 46% Roussanne, 31% Marsanne and 13% Grenache Blanc make it a pretty unique blend.

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• 2009 Philo Ridge Pinot Gris Klindt Vineyard 82 Points

  USA, California, North Coast, Anderson Valley

  Very pale yellow appearance. Huge floral nose with some pear. Light to medium acid. Not really much happening with this one.

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• 2009 Bugay Vineyards Zinfandel 84 Points

  USA, California, Sonoma County

  Really great nose (and big)--blueberries for days. Smooth mouthfeel, light tannins. Some oak on the finish. Pretty hollow overall. The nose and finish are all this has going for it.

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• 2007 Acorn Zinfandel Heritage Vines Alegría Vineyards 90 Points

  USA, California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley

  Some heat on the nose with red fruit and white pepper. Really nice mouthfeel and warming, long finish. Red fruit and pepper flavors. Classic Cali Zin.

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• 2008 The Hess Collection Petite Sirah Allomi 91 Points

  USA, California, North Coast, Napa County

  Great nose of blueberries, cherries and vanilla custard. Really full mouthfeel and tons of dark fruit and cassis. Almost port-like finish.

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• 2006 Icaria Creek Petite Sirah 84 Points

  USA, California, Sonoma County, Dry Creek Valley

  A lot of heat on the nose with some dark fruits and pepper. Medium mouthfeel. Pepper dominates the palate. Shortish finish.

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