4 | Wine | California, Unrated

"On top we've got Zinfandel, a saucy tease that brings blackberry and raspberry jam to the relationship. Merlot, with its generous mouth feel and red fruits, fits perfectly in the middle. The rich flavors and firm tannins of Cabernet Sauvignon make it the ideal."

"A medium-bodied, fruity red that enjoys savory aromas of black cherries, raspberries, spice, and smoky oak. The core reveals layered flavors of red and black cherries, along with cranberries and a spicy note of cardamom from oak aging. Rich in texture with a lingering finish, this versatile wine is delicious on its own or paired with a juicy cheeseburger, grilled salmon."

"This brilliantly clear, pale-straw-colored Sauvignon Blanc leads with fresh and appealing aromas of Meyer lemon, lime zest, stone fruit, grapefruit, tart apple, and hints of flowers followed by a lively palate which reprises the lemon, lime, and grapefruit themes of the nose. This refreshing, bright, and crisp wine has a long finish, and ends with a lingering impression of citrus and wet stone."

"Complex and vibrant aromas of red plum, anise, cherry, violets, and tobacco accentuated by notes of black currant, dried herbs, toasted oak, and cocoa. Elegant and supple texture on the palate make the frame for generous flavors of sweet plum and dark cherry, with notes of vanilla and mocha. Silky tannins and well-integrated structure tie together and linger in the finish."

"Simi 2009 Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon follows up on its deep, dark garnet color with lifted, pretty aromas of clove, cinnamon, hints of cedar, mint chocolate, and toasty oak notes that beautifully frame dark fruit. Compelling flavors of cassis, blackberry, and plum along with black pepper, cedar, and clove keep this dark and somewhat brooding wine from being too serious. This medium-to full-bodied Alexander Valley Cabernet will bring out the best in roasted mushroom and wild nettle pesto pizza, or charcoal-grilled beef carpaccio with asiago-onion salad."

"Bold dark fruit flavors and spicy notes of Zinfandel and complemented nicely by the soft mouthfeel of Merlot and layered with the smooth blueberry notes of Syrah."

"Beautifully integrated tropical flavors such as pineapple, mango, and papaya with citrus notes that explode in your mouth. These flavors delicately intertwine with aromas of vanilla and honey to create depth and balance throughout. A hint of toasted oak rounds out the long, lingering finish."