He immediately developed about 100 acres into vineyards; the first vintage was 2001. The winery produces four pinot noirs and two chardonnays; all bear the term “California Grand Cru” for the 2009 vintage. New for the 2009 vintage: Sea Smoke of Santa Barbara is putting “California Grand Cru” on the label. MORE >>

This one was probably a blend of wines from 2003, 2002, and 2001, and was aged on the lees for five years. 1999, 2000) Ta rlant Champagne La Vigne d'Antan Extra Brut Non-Grefée Chardonnay, $65, $60, 1999 imported by JD Headrick Selections, 2000 Imported by Jandell Selections. I hung out with Peter Liem for a lot of the past two weeks. MORE >>

have since tasted a Monthaven Chardonnay (California) and this past week the Silver Birch Sauvignon Blanc (New Zealand). The Chardonnay was not impressive. Last March I posted a press release on a new collection of artisan wines in an innovative attractive new package. Definitely a good party wine. MORE >>

They also produce a barrel fermented Chardonnay and a single vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon named after the winery's founder, Don Melchor. It's been a few years since I tasted Carmenere. If I remember right, it was a take it or leave it, nothing special, too many other fine wines, don't shop for wine. The first was disappointing. MORE >>

The 2001 Daniel-Etienne Defaix Chablis 1er Cru Côte de Léchet , about $50, Imported by Rosenthal Wine Merchant, showed an entirely different character from the other wines, very oxidative. We had a bunch of people over for dinner this weekend for Chablis night. Okay, that's not exactly what we did. But close. Lovely wine. MORE >>