New for the 2009 vintage: Sea Smoke of Santa Barbara is putting “California Grand Cru” on the label. Needless to say, there is no codified “cru” system of California. The labels previously read “Santa Barbara County California.” The term is pure marketing. ” American wine MORE >>

The collection included sparklers, chardonnay, pinot noir, and a cabernet sauvignon, all named with numbers that had key significance for Jean-Charles. 7, my favorite Pinot Noir from the Sonoma Coast, was named for the moment he had his first taste of wine. For example, the JCB No. MORE >>

Now that I am on the East coast and more Old World focused as a result of my (more Old World) wine studies, it is great to re-discover California wine. Winemakers, John and Helen Falcone, joined Rusack Vineyards in 2001(one of the few husband and wife winemaking teams in California). 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 >>