1 | Wine | Page 359

"This is a sleeper of the vintage. This sexy, beautiful wine has the same potency as the 2010, which is surprising given the difference in alcohol strengths in these two vintages. Soft, round and opulent, this sexy 2008 reveals lots of white chocolate, espresso roast, Christmas fruitcake, black currant and cherry characteristics in its flamboyant bouquet. Round, medium to full-bodied and lush, it can be enjoyed now and over the next decade."

"Aromas of fresh peaches leap from the glass along with hints of ginger and lilac. Once sipped, a shower of foamy bubbles dances soulfully on the tip of your tongue and then bursts into a medley of crisp citrus fruit."

"Beautiful, dark and brilliant burgundy red from the center of the rim. Aromatics of wet stones, black cherries, ripe raspberries, cassis, tobacco and forest floor notes jump from the glass. Note of iris, cinnamon, spice and huckleberries. In the mouth, the attack opens with red fruit flavors and minerals which transform into darker fruit flavors as the wine moves along the palate. Firm ripe tannins and a rich texture characterize the long finish with lingering flavors of red fruits and wet stones."

"Richly spiced, with a skein of ground clove, ginger and cardamom winding through flavors of dried apricot and apple, currant candy, passion fruit and lemon zest. Beautiful texture and balance here, followed by a long and mouthwatering, mineral-tinged finish."

"It displays classic Rioja aromas of cedar, leather, mineral, a hint of balsamic, and assorted black fruits. Layered on the palate but slightly austere at present, it has the structure to evolve for another 4-6 years at which point it is likely to have filled out thus meriting a higher rating."

"The 2008 exhibits a dense purple color along with sweet kirsch, unsmoked cigar tobacco, toasty oak and black currant characteristics. The wine hits the palate with a resounding opulence, full-bodied richness, moderate, sweet, well-integrated tannins and a long, heady finish."

"The 2010 Verdejo sports an alluring perfume of nutmeg, spring flowers, stone fruits, and pink grapefruit. Vibrant, well-proportioned, and forward in the glass, this tasty effort will deliver pleasure for another 3 years."

"Mount Eden’s 2010 Chardonnay Wolff Vineyard wraps around the palate with hints of almonds, honey, fennel and dried pears. The Wolff Vineyard, from a site in Edna Valley, is made in a slightly more forward style than the rest of the Domaine/Mount Eden Chardonnays. Slightly burnished notes add complexity on the finish."