In the spring of 2008 I learned that the winemaking prodigy behind Pax Wine Cellars, monsieur Pax Mahle, was leaving the eponymously named venture and striking out on his own, once again. and a 2006 Sonoma Coast Syrah Prices range from $32 to $45, about 30% less than Pax Wine Cellars. MORE >>

The 2008 Monte Bello will (probably) be made from just cabernet sauvignon and merlot for the first time in twenty-five years. Difficult to compare to recent vintages (which have all included at least some cabernet franc or petit verdot) this is less flamboyant than the 2006 and 2007, and will benefit from extended cellaring. MORE >>

Likewise, the last Advanced Tasting Program release of 2008, Ridge Vineyards 2005 Zinfandel Nervo Vineyard ** from Sonoma, gained depth and complexity 30 minutes after opening. An interesting wine nonetheless, and this will only get more interesting with a couple years in the cellar, but not as good for me as the 2006 offerings. MORE >>

stayed in a northern part of Napa known as Calistoga and made my way North West to Sonoma county. Zinfandel is a very common varietal in Sonoma county and I tried 2 Zins at Sausal; the 2004 Family Zinfandel & the 2005 Private reserve Zin. know nobody in Sonoma so I figured the day would take me where it took me. Great stuff! MORE >>

tasted some nice Chardonnays by Foxglove/ Varner Wines , L'Angevin , DuMol and Neiman cellars. Drew Neiman of Neiman Cellars is someone I had not met before, but whom I engaged in conversation as I noticed a wine I was familiar with on his table. But now, my long overdue summary of the wines I was able to try at the Polaner tasting. MORE >>