{"id":5478,"date":"2020-08-03T17:41:31","date_gmt":"2020-08-03T20:41:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/domainebousquet.com\/?p=5478"},"modified":"2020-08-03T17:41:31","modified_gmt":"2020-08-03T20:41:31","slug":"this-issues-reviews","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/domainebousquet.com\/en\/this-issues-reviews\/","title":{"rendered":"THIS ISSUE’S REVIEWS"},"content":{"rendered":"

ARGENTINA<\/p>\n

Mendoza:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Red:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Domaine Bousquet, Tupungato (Mendoza, Argentina) Malbec \u201cNatural Origins\u201d NV<\/strong>\u00a0($20, WISD LLC):\u00a0\u00a0Here\u2019s a wine that is not only a pleasure to drink, but a pleasure that keeps on giving thanks to packaging (a 3-liter box) that keeps things fresh for a month.\u00a0 If you break it down, the $20 price works out to five dollars per bottle, delivered in a four-bottle-sized box that draws down an internal bladder in such a way that the wine doesn\u2019t get oxygen exposure all the way to the end.\u00a0 Of course, all that is immaterial if the product inside isn\u2019t worthy.\u00a0 This one is, with expected Malbec character complemented by white pepper and meaty notes, and a savory, balanced finish.\u00a0 It\u2019s camping trip ready \u2013 or in these times, Lazy-Boy side table ready.
\n<\/span>88\u00a0Rich Cook<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

CHILE<\/p>\n

Ros\u00e9:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Casas Del Bosque, Casablanca Valley (Chile) Pinot Noir Ros\u00e9 2019<\/strong>\u00a0($13):\u00a0\u00a0I\u2019ve been tasting a lot of Ros\u00e9s recently, and I have to admit many of them seem less than optimal \u2014 they tended to be too sweet or just plain insipid.\u00a0 Prices have been all over the map, from $9 to $35, with little connection between price and quality.\u00a0 This Ros\u00e9 from Chile, however, was not only affordable but was also downright delicious.\u00a0 A pretty pale salmon-pink in color, with engaging aromatics, this wine has enough structure, enough delicate strawberry dominated fruit, and enough acidity on the finish to be refreshing on its own and\/or as good companion to food.\u00a0 I\u2019ve enjoyed Casas del Bosque recently with a range of different foods, from BLT sandwich to shrimp tacos.
\n<\/span>90\u00a0Marguerite Thomas<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

FRANCE<\/p>\n

Beaujolais:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Red:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Jean-Ernest Descombes (Georges Duboeuf Domaines), Morgon AOC (Beaujolais, France) 2018<\/strong>\u00a0($24, Quintessential Wines):\u00a0\u00a0One of the most reliable and complex of all the cru Beaujolais, this example from Jean-Ernest Descombes runs true to form.\u00a0 A note of violets on the nose pulls you into the glass seductively, where it delivers sweet red fruits, a juicy texture and soft, supple tannins that make for easy summer sipping.
\n<\/span>90\u00a0Robert Whitley<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

GREECE<\/p>\n

White:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Gai\u2019a Estate, Santorini (Cyclades, Greece) Assyrtiko \u201cThalassitis\u201d 2018<\/strong>\u00a0($35, Craft + Estate \/ Winebow):\u00a0\u00a0Gai\u2019a (pronounced Yay-ya) Estate\u2019s 2018 Assyrtiko Santorini \u201cThalassitis\u201d has sea salt and lemon zest aromas that immediately transport you to the beaches of Santorini.\u00a0 The wine is seriously thirst-quenching, with the perfect amount of juiciness and crisp acidity that are needed to foil these hot summer days.\u00a0 It has the distinct minerality you\u2019d expect from a volcanic island with a briny edge.\u00a0 The delicate lemon, lime, and honeysuckle flavors give it a bright and lingering finish.
\n<\/span>94\u00a0Miranda Franco<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

ITALY<\/p>\n

Piedmont:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Red:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Marchesi Incisa Della Rocchetta, Barbera d\u2019Asti DOCG (Piedmont, Italy) \u201cValmorena\u201d 2018<\/strong>\u00a0($18, Serendipity Wines LLC):\u00a0\u00a0Barbera d\u2019Asti is one of my go-to wines because of its versatility and affordability.\u00a0 It\u2019s medium \/ light bodied with juicy cherry, raspberry, blackberry fruit laced with a touch of anise and vanilla.\u00a0 The scrumptious fruit is balanced with the grape\u2019s trademark snappy acidity and smooth, ripe tannins.\u00a0 It Is comfortable with many flavors at the table, pairing very well with a burger, fried chicken, barbeque pork, pizza, or a grilled tuna steak.\u00a0 A quick chill it for 15 to 20 minutes before serving enhances its refreshment factor.\u00a0 By way of background, the Incisa family has been in the Monferrato area of Piedmont since the 11th century.\u00a0 In the nineteenth century, the Marchese Leopoldo Incisa made significant contributions to research and knowledge in the fields of enology and grape varieties.\u00a0 In the 1930s Mario Incisa della Rocchetta, moved from Piemonte to Bolgheri in Tuscany and created the legendary \u2018Super Tuscan\u201d wine, Sassicaia.\u00a0 In the 1990s the Marchesa Barbara Incisa della Rocchetta moved the wine operations from the family estate to La Corte Chiusa.\u00a0 Today her son and daughter, Filiberto and Francesca, run the winery operations.
\n<\/span>94\u00a0Rebecca Murphy<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Tenuta Garetto, Grignolino d\u2019Asti DOC (Piedmont, Italy) 2018<\/strong>\u00a0($19, Enotec Imports):\u00a0\u00a0If you love super-ripe, whopping wines like Aussie Shiraz or Argentine Malbec, you should just keep walking past this wine.\u00a0 However, if you love light, fresh wines like Pinot Noir but need a change of pace, take a walk on the wild side\u2026straight to this Grignolino.\u00a0 It is no deeper in color than a simple Bourgogne Rouge that never saw the inside of a barrel, yet appearances can be deceiving, as this has significant acidity and tannin, but also plenty of flavor to counterbalance those structural elements.\u00a0 That balance isn\u2019t evident immediately, as the wine seems just a bit awkward and tart when first opened, but with aeration, it achieves an inner harmony that becomes ever more impressive over the course of an entire evening.\u00a0 The fruit recalls pie cherries and red raspberries, and would be a perfect partner on a warm summer night for staple foods such as salmon or roast chicken.
\n<\/span>91\u00a0Michael Franz<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Tenuta Garetto, Nizza DOCG (Piedmont, Italy) \u201cFav\u00e0\u201d 2016<\/strong>\u00a0($40, Enotec Imports):\u00a0\u00a0Nizza is a Barbera-only appellation that was established as a free-standing DOCG in 2014, when it was granted its own identity after being subsumed formerly within Barbera d\u2019Asti.\u00a0 This wine makes a remarkably convincing case for the granting of DOCG status, which frankly is a process in Italy that sometimes seems driven more by politics than sheer vinous merit.\u00a0 This release is impressively dark and concentrated, with full ripeness and prodigious palate impact, yet also the refreshing tang of energetic acidity that can make Barbera uniquely fun to drink\u2014and exceptionally versatile with food.\u00a0 It is worth emphasizing that a worldwide trend toward fuller ripeness and bigger wines began afflicting Barbera in Piedmont during the 1990s, resulting in far too many renditions were made by wrestling against the variety\u2019s high-acid nature, \u201cdomesticating\u201d it into something conforming more closely to international fashion.\u00a0 Recently and thankfully, here\u2019s been some backlash against that trend, and today you can find fresh, zesty Barberas or big, ripe ones.\u00a0 However, finding big, powerful renditions that are also tangy and exciting is still a challenge, but here\u2019s a wine from a great vintage in Piedmont that hits the bulls eye.\u00a0 If my score is off, it is definitely off on the low side.
\n<\/span>93\u00a0Michael Franz<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Montalbera, Ruch\u00e9 di Castagnole Monferrato (Piedmont, Italy) \u201cLaccento\u00bb 2018<\/strong>\u00a0($27, Lyra Fine Wine Imports):\u00a0\u00a0Throughout the Piedmont, or all of Italy for that matter, one can discover grape varieties that yield wines of great distinction, even though they are hardly recognized at all outside their local area.\u00a0 The Monferrato Hills are a wide-ranging area to the northeast of Barolo and Barbaresco.\u00a0 The area produces diverse wines from Barbera, Moscato, Grignolino, Dolcetto, Freisa and other grapes.\u00a0 One of those others is the Ruch\u00e9, which is planted around Castagnole Monferrato.\u00a0 Montalbera is a top producer here, and the \u201cLaccento\u201d bottling is one of their best.\u00a0 Ruch\u00e9 at its best yields a pale-colored wine with surprising depth and complexity.\u00a0 Comparisons can be drawn to Nebbiolo, Nerello and other Italian varieties, but Ruch\u00e9 has its own style.\u00a0 The 2018 Montalbera Laccento Ruch\u00e9 has a lovely bouquet of raspberries, cranberries, dried roses, tea leaves, leather and spices.\u00a0 Its pale color belies its rich and multilayered flavors.\u00a0 Dried cherry, raspberry and cranberry fruits are enhanced by subtleties of potpourri, autumn leaves, herbs and spices.\u00a0 The remarkable combination of delicately layered flavors with a creamy texture is evidence of the potential of the Ruch\u00e9 grape.\u00a0 This is top-class red that can compare with similarly-priced wines from any region or grape.
\n<\/span>94\u00a0Wayne Belding<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Tuscany:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Red:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Capezzana, Barco Reale di Carmignano DOC (Tuscany, Italy) 2015<\/strong>\u00a0($17):\u00a0\u00a0This succulent wine is made from a blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet and Canaiolo grapes.\u00a0 I have been a fan of Capezzzana wines in general for a very long time without ever being disappointed, and this Barco Reale de Carmignano continues to inspire my enthusiastic appreciation of the estate.\u00a0\u00a0 With its wild aromatic blast of dusty berries, cherries, fresh earth and a touch of smoke this bold red wine could not be a more perfect choice to pair with a good steak (trust me, I am speaking from very recent experience).
\n<\/span>93\u00a0Marguerite Thomas<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Querciabella, Chianti Classico DOCG (Tuscany, Italy) 2016<\/strong>\u00a0($30, Maisons, Marques and Domaines):\u00a0\u00a0This is a great example of the sanguine, savory character that Sangiovese can achieve when handled by a great producer and derived from a great vintage.\u00a0 Cherry, cocoa powder, cedar, sage, meat and tea aromas and flavors present themselves in fully integrated fashion and finish together in this food friendly package.\u00a0\u00a0 It will run the table from start to finish.
\n<\/span>93\u00a0Rich Cook<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Colle Santa Mustiola di Fabio Cenni, Toscana IGT (Tuscany, Italy) Sangiovese Poggio ai Chiari 2011<\/strong>\u00a0($80, Selezioni Varietali):\u00a0\u00a0This is my first encounter with this producer, but it certainly will not be my last given the quality of this wine.\u00a0 Their importer tells me Cenni\u2019s focus is Sangiovese, with their 12 acres planted entirely with 28 clones of that variety.\u00a0 Poggio ai Chiari, their flagship wine, is impressive from the first fragrant whiff.\u00a0 Stylish and refined, it transmits a lovely austerity without being hard. Paradoxically, it is both delicate and powerful, but not heavy.\u00a0 Hints of cherries come through and mingle with mineral-like flavors.\u00a0 Uplifting acidity keeps it fresh and lively and balances its chiseled profile.\u00a0 An engaging hint of bitterness in the finish increases its appeal.\u00a0 Cenni clearly knows something about Sangiovese.
\n<\/span>94\u00a0Michael Apstein<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Boscarelli, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano DOCG (Tuscany, Italy) Il Nocio 2016<\/strong>\u00a0($159, Empson USA):<\/p>\n

\u00a0The 2016 Il Nocio is an extraordinary wine. Boscarelli is one of the top producers \u2014 some would say THE top producer \u2014 of Vino Nobile di Montepulciano.\u00a0 Il Nocio, from the vineyard of the same name, is their top wine.\u00a0 The 2016 is exceptional, but I repeat myself. Crystalline and pure, it delivers hints of cherries and plenty of minerality.\u00a0 Though not a fruity wine, it is plush, but not soft. Indeed, there\u2019s a beauty in its austerity.\u00a0 Then, all of a sudden, it\u2019s no longer austere, but mouth-filling.\u00a0 A long and elegant wine, the 2016 Il Nocio reveals more with each sip after time in the glass.\u00a0 Its super suave texture is deceptive because it\u2019s lovely to drink now, but the 2016 Il Nocio is a wine to age. Their website notes, \u201cThe aging potential of our Nocio is measured in decades. . .\u201d\u00a0\u00a0 From my experience, the 2004 Il Nocio was just starting to show maturity in 2013, at a decade of age, and the 1996 was magnificent at 17 years of age at that same 2013 tasting.\u00a0 So, I\u2019d put the 2016 in a deep corner of your cellar.
\n<\/span><\/div>\n
<\/div>\n

96\u00a0Michael Apstein<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

SOUTH AFRICA<\/p>\n

Red:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Glenelly, Stellenbosch (South Africa) \u201cLady May\u201d 2012<\/strong>\u00a0($55, Cape Classics):\u00a0\u00a0I had the pleasure of visiting this estate in the vintage that this wine comes from, and the aromas and flavors bring a fond memory to mind.\u00a0 The winery flagship, it carries old world Bordeaux character with signature South African minerality, and this late release brings us a wine that is just before peak, and will enjoy a few good years there before starting an elegant fade.\u00a0 At this price, it\u2019s a real treat.\u00a0 While you wait for travel restrictions to be lifted, take a little trip south.\u00a0 Contains 89% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Petit Verdot and 1% Cabernet Franc.
\n<\/span>94\u00a0Rich Cook<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

White:<\/strong><\/p>\n

MAN Family Wines, Coastal Region (Western Cape, South Africa) Chenin Blanc Free-Run Steen 2019<\/strong>\u00a0($9, Vineyard Brands):\u00a0\u00a0South Africa has more Chenin Blanc acreage than any other country.\u00a0 The MAN Chenin Blanc affirms that South Africa can be a source of affordable and delicious Chenin.\u00a0 Drawn from dry-farmed bush vines in the Agter-Paarl area, the 2019 bottling continues a string of successes for this wine.\u00a0 This vintage is refreshing and forward, with scents of fresh flowers, pear, green apple, lemon and tropical fruits.\u00a0 The flavors are pure, juicy and lively, with lemon, pear and green apple fruits underlain by delectable floral and spice tones.\u00a0 This is a wonderful reflection of South Africa\u2019s vinous treasure — the Chenin Blanc.\u00a0 The MAN Chenin Blanc ranks among the best white wine values in the world.\u00a0 It\u2019s a perfect summer sipper.
\n<\/span>90\u00a0Wayne Belding<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

SPAIN<\/p>\n

Catalonia:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Sparkling:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Anna de Codorniu, Cava DO (Catalonia, Spain) Brut Ros\u00e9 NV<\/strong>\u00a0($13):\u00a0\u00a0In the galaxy of impressive sparkling wines, this beauty from Codorniu stands out not only for value but also for its utterly pure fruit aromas and its compelling deliciousness.\u00a0 Fresh ripe strawberry and cherry flavors, an attractive mousse and the soft, seductive mouthfeel will be hard to beat at this price.
\n<\/span>90\u00a0Robert Whitley<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Ribera del Duero:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Red:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Arrocal, Ribera del Duero DO (Castilla y Le\u00f3n, Spain) Tempranillo \u201cSelecci\u00f3n\u201d 2017<\/strong>\u00a0($40, Grapes of Spain \/ Aurelio Cabestrero):\u00a0\u00a0Arrocal is among my favorite bodegas in Ribera del Duero, which is in turn among my favorite regions in the world \u2014 and arguably Spain\u2019s best source for pure but powerful Tempranillo.\u00a0 The great thing about the bodega is that the proprietors manage to make a line of five reds (plus a lovely Ros\u00e9) that are all quite differentiated in style and character, despite the fact that all are made from the same grape and from vineyards that are located near one another.\u00a0 One might wonder how this can be accomplished, and the answer seems to be very careful growing, picking, winemaking and aging, as the different bottlings are all remarkably consistent in style across vintages, despite their distinctness from one another.\u00a0 This Reserva is \u2014 as usual \u2014 a deeply satisfying wine of richness and power, but with no rough edges despite having been aged in 50% new oak.\u00a0 Very deep color provides an accurate tip-off of what\u2019s to come, and the bouquet is marked more by beautifully ripened fruit than wood, though notes of spice and light toast are very appealing.\u00a0 The fruit profile is certainly ripe and the \u201cfeel\u201d is rich, yet there\u2019s also real freshness here, thanks to Ribera del Duero\u2019s forgivingly cool nights.\u00a0 These wines age slowly and beautifully (try the 2014 \u201cSelecci\u00f3n\u201d if you can find it, which I purchased recently and is absolutely gorgeous and still improving), though they are also delicious immediately upon release.\u00a0 What more could you ask for?
\n<\/span>93\u00a0Michael Franz<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Arrocal, Ribera del Duero DO (Castilla y Le\u00f3n, Spain) \u201c\u00c0ngel de Arrocal\u201d 2017<\/strong>\u00a0($55, Grapes of Spain \/ Aurelio Cabestrero):\u00a0\u00a0Sourced from the Finca de Clara vineyard planted 84 years ago, this wine provides an object lesson in what venerable Tempranillo vines from Ribera del Duero can achieve when they are deftly tended and their fruit is skillfully crafted.\u00a0 That fruit was treated to 100% new French oak, so it was certainly lavished with expensive treatment.\u00a0 However, what really merits mention in terms of wood is how little it shows at this early point in the wine\u2019s aging trajectory, rather than how prominent it seems.\u00a0 I don\u2019t know the toast level of the barrels, but the sensory signature is more spicy and toasty than smoky, and regardless of the toast level, it is a testament to the quality of the fruit that it has already soaked up so much more of the wood than one would expect to sense from a glass, based on the percentage of new barrels.\u00a0 That fruit is ripe and rich, but \u201cpurity\u201d is the first descriptor that comes to mind, and that too is remarkable in view of all that new oak.\u00a0 Black cherry is the main fruit note, but blackberry is also suggested with a thin line of red fruit showing as well.\u00a0 This is already delicious, but I have no doubt that it will develop in positive directions for many more years\u2026as in, 20 or so.\u00a0 As an aside, the 2011 (which was a relatively hot year like 2015) is just gorgeous and still obviously on the upswing, which I note as a point of comparison but also a recommendation in case you can find a bottle to buy.\u00a0 Considering the excellent quality of this wine, the expense involved in its production process and the age of the vines involved, this is a great value at its price.
\n<\/span>93\u00a0Michael Franz<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Rioja:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Ros\u00e9:<\/strong><\/p>\n

R. Lopez de Heredia, Rioja DOC Gran Reserva (Spain) \u201cVi\u00f1a Tondonia\u201d Ros\u00e9 2009<\/strong>\u00a0($125, Think Global Wines):\u00a0\u00a0This is not your typical ros\u00e9.\u00a0 For starters, it is over ten years old, which is worth emphasizing and spends four years in an oak barrel.\u00a0 Notably, it is not released every year.\u00a0 This unique wine made me fall in love (and become slightly obsessed) with the wines of Lopez de Heredia.\u00a0 I had the pleasure of trying this wine in a different vintage a few years ago, and continue to seek it out in any vintage I can find. Admittedly, it\u2019s not always easy to get your hands on, but it\u2019s entirely worth the effort.\u00a0 It is distinctive with the strong character of an aged wine, offering flavors of orange peel, tarragon, dried cherry, and almond.\u00a0 It\u2019s unusually complex for any wine, let alone a ros\u00e9, compelling you to pour another glass.\u00a0 Blended from Garnacha 60%, Tempranillo 30% and Viura 10%, it still holds a good amount of acidity, showing some promise to age for a few more years — if you can hold on to it for that long.
\n<\/span>96\u00a0Miranda Franco<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

UNITED STATES<\/p>\n

California:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Red:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Flora Springs, Napa Valley (California) Merlot Family Estate 2017<\/strong>\u00a0($38):\u00a0\u00a0Napa Valley Merlot from a top-notch producer continues to be one of the greatest values in a land where value is in short supply.\u00a0 This beauty from Flora Springs shows impressive depth, with layers of blueberry, cherry and blackberry fruit, a hint of graphite and just the right touch of oak spice.\u00a0 Drink now or cellar.
\n<\/span>93\u00a0Robert Whitley<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Tongue Dancer, Sonoma Coast (Sonoma County, California) Pinot Noir Pratt and Putnam Vineyards 2018<\/strong>\u00a0($49):\u00a0\u00a0Winemaker\/proprietor James MacPhail strikes again, this time with an impressive Pinot Noir from the Sonoma Coast\u2019s Pratt and Putnam vineyards.\u00a0 Richly textured and complex, this vintage shows bright raspberry and cherry notes with a subtle touch of wood spice and firm but nicely integrated tannins.
\n<\/span>92\u00a0Robert Whitley<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

J. Lohr, St. Helena, Napa Valley (California) Cabernet Sauvignon Carol\u2019s Vineyard 2016<\/strong>\u00a0($60):\u00a0\u00a0Carol\u2019s Vineyard is Jerry Lohr\u2019s one wine adventure outside of Paso Robles, and one that\u2019s always worth a look.\u00a0 Mr. Lohr knows something about site selection, and St. Helena\u2019s rise to prominence is driven by wines like this one, where blackberry and cherry fruit shine through gentle winemaking.\u00a0 This vintage is quite ripe, but it\u2019s well balanced by judicious oak selection that adds a spiced toastiness and helps the finish linger.\u00a0 It\u2019s waiting for a well marbled steak to make a perfect pairing.
\n<\/span>93\u00a0Rich Cook<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Ros\u00e9:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Steele, Lake County (California) Cabernet Franc Ros\u00e9 2019<\/strong>\u00a0($18):\u00a0\u00a0Steele satisfies your thirst with another fine vintage of this offering, one that delivers Cabernet Franc character in a pink package of watermelon, guava and strawberry, with a little basil note on the nose and in the mouth that adds depth and provides a varietal signature.\u00a0 Hurry on this small production delight \u2013 it will go fast!
\n<\/span>90\u00a0Rich Cook<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Tongue Dancer, Sonoma Coast (Sonoma County, California) Ros\u00e9 of Pinot Noir 2019<\/strong>\u00a0($22):\u00a0\u00a0Winemaker\/proprietor James MacPhail is meticulous to the point that he inoculated this wine with yeast from the Bandol region of France, legendary for its crisp and delicious Ros\u00e9 wines.\u00a0 To that bit of inside information add the fact that it is made using the saigne technique (bleeding off the juice from wine otherwise meant to be made as table wine) with grapes from some of the most coveted Pinot Noir vineyards in California.\u00a0 You get the idea.\u00a0 Magic in a bottle, courtesy of one of California\u2019s most respected winemakers.
\n<\/span>94\u00a0Robert Whitley<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Anaba Wines, Sonoma County (California) Grenache Ros\u00e9 2019<\/strong>\u00a0($30):\u00a0\u00a0Pale onion skin in color, this dry Ros\u00e9 from Sonoma County is a surprise on the palate, showing impressive complexity and crisp acidity that refreshes and whets the appetite for another sip.\u00a0 Notes of citrus, stone fruits and tart apple linger on the finish.
\n<\/span>92\u00a0Robert Whitley<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

White:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Chateau Souverain, California (United States) Chardonnay 2017<\/strong>\u00a0($14):\u00a0\u00a0This iconic California producer has been turning out fine and approachable wines since 1944, and the quality never disappoints as this tasty, lightly toasty Chardonnay demonstrates.\u00a0 Lightly creamy on the palate, it offers rich flavors further enhanced by a hint of vanilla and a generous, clean finish.
\n<\/span>90\u00a0Marguerite Thomas<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Flora Springs, Napa Valley (California) \u00abSoliloquy\u00bb 2019<\/strong>\u00a0($50):\u00a0\u00a0The evolution of Soliloquy is now complete.\u00a0 What was for many years one of the Napa Valley\u2019s finest Sauvignon Blancs is now one of the valley\u2019s finest white wine blends.\u00a0 Oh, it still says Sauvignon Blanc (delicious white peach) on the palate, but the now eclectic blend also includes Chardonnay and the aromatic Italian white grape Malvasia.\u00a0 The result is a white with layered complexity, notes of floral and apple, and a judicious splash of wood spice.\u00a0 And the balance is brilliant.
\n<\/span>96\u00a0Robert Whitley<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Fess Parker Winery, Santa Barbara County (California) Chardonnay 2018<\/strong>\u00a0($19):\u00a0\u00a0Here\u2019s a simple score sheet for Fess Parker Chardonnay: Aromatic appeal?\u00a0 Check.\u00a0 Inviting flavors highlighted by apple, lemon zest, citrus, vanilla and light oak spice?\u00a0 Check.\u00a0 Reasonably priced for a quality wine such as this?\u00a0 Check.\u00a0 Grab some of this attractive white wine and see for yourself.
\n<\/span>90\u00a0Marguerite Thomas<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Ernest Vineyards, Sonoma Coast (Sonoma County, California) Chardonnay Cleary Ranch Vineyard \u201cThe Farmer\u201d 2016<\/strong>\u00a0($46):\u00a0\u00a0The portrait on the label is of Ernest Gottula, grandfather of founder of Todd Gottula who with his wife, Erin Brooks, in 2012.\u00a0 They work with 12 different growers, mainly in cool-climate areas who farm a total of 26 acres of vines.\u00a0 They have a great appreciation of Burgundian-style wines and aim to make wines high in acid, low in alcohol and moderate use of oak.\u00a0 They nailed it with this wine. Tasting it blind I thought it might be from Burgundy, due to its subtle green apple, citrus, fruit, a touch of vanilla and chalky mineral notes.\u00a0 Lean, tight and crisp in the mouth, its flavors linger on the tongue and the in the memory.\u00a0 It is a seriously structured and enjoyable wine that will be a charming collaborator with baked halibut or pan-seared scallops.\u00a0 The Cleary Ranch Vineyard is a six-acre site in the in the west Sonoma Coast area, and is the coolest of the vineyards that Gottula and Brooks lease and farm.
\n<\/span>97\u00a0Rebecca Murphy<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Oregon:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Ros\u00e9:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Argyle, Willamette Valley (Oregon) Pinot Noir Ros\u00e9 2019<\/strong>\u00a0($20):\u00a0\u00a0A good Ros\u00e9 carries more than just refreshment \u2013 it carries complexity and depth of flavor as well, and this fine bottling does just that.\u00a0 With Champagne-like acidity, the Pinot Noir shines with strawberry and cherry fruit joined by notes of lemon and spice, all finishing together with a freshening pop.\u00a0 One of several great Pinot Noir Ros\u00e9s from this vintage.\u00a0 It\u2019s making me wonder why I\u2019ve never had one from Burgundy.
\n<\/span>92\u00a0Rich Cook<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n

Washington:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Red:<\/strong><\/p>\n

Rasa Vineyards, Columbia Valley (Washington) Petit Verdot Dionysus Vineyard \u201cLiving in the Limelight\u201d 2016<\/strong>\u00a0($60):\u00a0\u00a0Rasa Vineyards has an outstanding selection of terroir-driven wines.\u00a0 The \u201cLiving in the Limelight\u201d Petit Verdot may not be one of their flagship wines, but it should not be ignored.\u00a0 \u201cLiving in the Limelight\u201d is an ode to the often-overlooked Petite Verdot grape.\u00a0 This wine demonstrates that Petit Verdot is not merely a minor blending grape.\u00a0 This blend of 95% Petit Verdot, 2.5% Cabernet Sauvignon, 2.5% Cabernet Franc gushes with blackcurrant, black plum, and blackberry with a dash of black pepper and clove.\u00a0 Smooth, and complete.\u00a0 Enjoy it now or in years to come.
\n<\/span>93\u00a0Miranda Franco<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0Jul 28, 2020<\/i><\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

ARGENTINA Mendoza: Red: Domaine Bousquet, Tupungato (Mendoza, Argentina) Malbec \u201cNatural Origins\u201d NV\u00a0($20, WISD LLC):\u00a0\u00a0Here\u2019s a wine that is not only a pleasure to drink, but a pleasure that keeps on giving thanks to packaging (a 3-liter box) that keeps things fresh for a month.\u00a0 If you break it down, the $20 price works out to […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":5363,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[3],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-5478","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-blog-en"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/domainebousquet.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5478","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/domainebousquet.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/domainebousquet.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/domainebousquet.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/domainebousquet.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5478"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/domainebousquet.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5478\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/domainebousquet.com\/en\/wp-json\/"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/domainebousquet.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5478"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/domainebousquet.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5478"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/domainebousquet.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5478"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}