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 >>

Innocent Anden Vineyard Chardonnay Gold color. 2004 Lail "Georgia" Sauvignon Blanc ** A golden oldie. when he said this would cellar for 10 years. Still not the perfect 2004 upon release, but quite an interesting wine. 2003 Kistler Chardonnay McCrea Vineyard ooooh, geez, ahh, this is Salma Hayek in a glass. MORE >>

was in Jerez in October , and one night I had dinner at La Carbona with Peter Liem and Eduardo Ojeda, the cellar master at La Guita and Valdespino. It is a new release called La Bout du Clos, a wine made entirely from that same vineyard in Ambonnay, from the 2004 vintage. Well, of the last few months anyway. And more Sherry. 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 09 might be more of a wine to drink young, and the 2008 seems to be a great candidate for the cellar. Jaime then served a squash risotto which which we paired with the 2004 Inflorescence Brut Blanc de Noirs La Parcelle. La Haute-Lemblé is Chardonnay from a warm south facing vineyard. It retails for about $85. MORE >>