I'm leaving Chile(till later) and heading over to California to try a few more Zin's. Tags: California red wine Sonoma County Zinfandel I'm starting to surprise myself with what I am finding with Zinfandel and also a bit disappointed that I wasted so many years with such a limited selection or narrow palate. Not that I am old?? MORE >>

was happy to have the chance to check in with Syrah by organizing a small tasting at a private residence last week. The Carlei , Heathcote Shiraz, Green Vineyards 2003 from Victoria opened our tasting. Next we were off to Mendocino County, California with the multi-vineyard Tous Ensemble 2007 from Copain (about $20). alcohol. MORE >>

The second, I enjoyed with my daughter's roasted organic free range chicken and some fabulous roasted potato fingerlings. This has been one fantastic year of enlightenment for me when it comes to all things wine. Believe I may do a year end article on the subject. Dornfelder is a cross between Helfensteiner and Heroldrebe grapes. MORE >>

And, on a related note, what Michelle Obama has done with the organic garden at the White House is terrific. 2009 Peter Michael Chardonnay Ma Belle-Fille ( about $80 ) USA, California, Sonoma County, Knights Valley. 2007 Iron Horse Vineyards Russian Cuvée ( about $30 ) USA, California, Sonoma County, Green Valley. Find it. MORE >>

Sometimes when you least expect it, you open what may becomes your new favorite bottle of wine. Tonight I opened one of my remaining bottles of Finger Lakes wine purchased at my last tour in December. An Atwater Estate Vineyards , Cabernet-Merlot 2007. blend of 53% Cabernet Sauvignon and 47% Merlot. Can't do much better than that. Alcohol: 13.0% MORE >>