Franciscan Estate
Magnificat Napa Valley Meritage 2014
I've stayed away from most Constellation brand wines for a while now. Franciscan, in particular, was one of their properties which I've always felt they were missing the mark on as it just wasn't living up to their potential, imho. But, I was pleasantly surprised by their current releases on a recent trip up. So, tonight, I had the 2014 vintage with a NY steak & roasted asparagus. The wine was very fruit forward & had good tannins. I still think Franciscan could do better, overall, but definite improvement from, say, 10 yrs ago. — 8 years ago
Navarro Vineyards
Mendocino Zinfandel
Had the 2013 tonight along with a seared NY steak & roasted potatoes. Good wine but it didn't quite hold up to the steak, unfortunately. Bummer — 8 years ago
Mount Veeder Winery
Reserve Mt. Vedeer Cabernet Sauvignon Blend
Omg. Opened this waaaay too early. Obviously, still very young with lots of oak. I'd say try again in another 10 years & see how it's doing then. Couldn't get a good feel for it. — 7 years ago
Mount Veeder Winery
Elevation 1550 Mt. Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon 2014
Very earthy cab which can definitely benefit from decanting. Had this with some apple-cider braised short ribs with cremini mushrooms & a side of mashed potatoes. Very complimentary pairing! — 8 years ago
Navarro Vineyards
Mendocino Grenache 2013
Had the 2013 vintage which has some good acidity with some fair tannins. Not something to hold onto long-term. Decant for a couple of hours & enjoy! — 8 years ago
Firestone Vineyard
Proximity Twenty Six Santa Ynez Valley Petit Verdot Blend
A nice, recent find. I'm usually not too much of a fan of Bordeaux blends from SB County but the 2013 vintage of this is nice. I don't think it has the holding power (read acidity or tannins) to last much longer before reaching its peak but what's there now is still pretty bold & fruit-forward. Had it with some slow-cooked pot roast & it paired quite nicely. — 8 years ago
Jimmy Miramontes
A lot gamier than I originally remember it. Had it with steak au poivre & some grilled veggies & wasn't digging it too much. I opened it about 4 hours before serving & it probably helped but the gaminess is strong with this one. Also got some tobacco/cigar notes. Very interesting combination. Maybe with some duck confit or a bbq blue cheese burger it would've been a better match. — 7 years ago