4 | Wine | Page 5

"Notes of white peach, Linden leaves and slate. Lovely focused acidity, finishing very long with mandarin orange and lots of minerality. Grab the chop sticks, crack a bottle....this will make you happy." - Charles Smith

This statewide blend stands up well against far more expensive Chardonnays. It's rich and crisp in acidity, with tropical fruit, pear and peach flavors, as well as a generous coating of oak and buttercream. Easy to find, with nearly 11,000 cases produced. Best Buy."

"The 2009 Chianti Classico Riserva is striking. Succulent dark cherries, flowers, mint and licorice burst from the glass in this exuberant, sexy Riserva. The tannins are nearly buried by the opulent fruit, but the wine retains great balance, while avoiding any sense of heaviness. The 2009 captures the heat and richness of the year while never abandoning its classic sense of structure. This is a superb wine from Monsanto with plenty of upside potential. Sweet floral notes add an elegant, feminine touch to the finish."

"Medium-bodied, with good acid, sweet berry fruit, some pepper, incense and spice." -Robert Parker

"On the nose there are dark berry notes and spicy notes from oak aging. The wine drinks of juicy blackberry, ripe plums and a touch of blueberry. Generous in fruit flavors, plenty of structure and a velvety finish."

50% Malvasia
50% Sauvignon Blanc

"One of the finest Chateauneufs made by Guigal, the 2007 Chateauneuf du Pape is a blend of 85% Grenache and the rest Syrah and Mourvedre. Full-bodied with lots of kirsch, blackberry, raspberry, camphor and licorice, this is a classic example of both Chateauneuf du Pape and Provencal viticulture. It is aged in both tank and foudre for 3-4 years prior to being released. Drink it over the next 20 years. It is amazing that Guigal can consistently produce a wine of this majesty." -Robert Parker

"The minerally undertow imparts a subtle, smoky note that blends with flavors of dried pineapple, biscuit, salted almond and white peach. A balanced version, with a fine bead and well-honed acidity."

"The 2011 Rosso offers a lush texture, supple tannins and fragrant flavors of zesty berries juicy cherries, and spices. Well-balanced and highly versatile with food, Rosso pairs perfectly with anything from grilled meats to pizza or hearty pasta dishes."