Steve's Blind Tasting

Antonello Ristorante - Costa Mesa, CA
Tasted Saturday, March 14, 2009 by Paul Lin with 560 views

Flight 1 - Flight 1 (4 Notes)

  • 2005 Kongsgaard Chardonnay 88 Points

    USA, California, Napa Valley

    The initial rush of oak is a turn-off, but beyond that lies fragrant notes of orange blossoms, nectarines, and crushed sea shells. Nice acidity and a mineral-laced alcohol-tinged finish.

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  • 2005 Lewis Cellars Chardonnay Reserve 85 Points

    USA, California, Napa Valley

    Notes of buttered popcorn, hazelnuts, unripe pineapples, and starfruit. A bit muddled on the palate. Finishes with an oily minerality.

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  • 2007 Lewis Cellars Chardonnay Reserve 93 Points

    USA, California, Napa Valley

    Sprightly and airy notes of orange blossoms, tangerines, nectarines, mango, and sea spray. Refreshing on the palate, with amazing purity and elegance. Very impressive and tied for my WOTN. 93-94 points.

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  • 2002 Lewis Cellars Chardonnay Reserve 92 Points

    USA, California, Napa Valley

    Unlike the others, this was not tasted blind and had been opened the day before. Spice-laden notes of nectarines, golden apples, and pie crust. Very nice minerality and acidity. 91-92 points.

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Flight 2 - Flight 2 (3 Notes)

  • 1999 Carlisle Mondeuse 91 Points

    USA, California, Sonoma County, Russian River Valley

    I thought this might have been Sangiovese when I tasted it. Old world in character this wine exhibits earthy notes of dried cherries, anise, leather, and roses. Grippy on the palate with vibrant acidity. As a recently-converted Italophile, LB loved this wine. I enjoyed it too, but thought the tannins would outlive the fruit.

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  • 2004 Carlisle Three Birds 91 Points

    USA, California, Sonoma County

    The nose on this wine reminds me of a bakery with notes of fresh pastry, toast, blueberries, plums, and dark chocolate. Rich and ripe on the palate but balanced by a mouthwatering acidity. 91-92 points.

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  • 2000 Arcadian Pinot Noir Francesca's Cuvée 88 Points

    USA, California, Central Coast, Santa Lucia Highlands

    Notes of cranberries, black cherries, incense, and dried herbs. Very high in acidity.

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Flight 3 - Flight 3 (3 Notes)

Flight 4 - Flight 4 (3 Notes)

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