Many were accompanied by an asterisk, which indicate that they are the best wine from the estate that he has ever tasted as a barrel sample. Of course, tasting is a matter of opinion and others have expressed their views (captured, in part, in our tweet roundup ). He dismissed reports of high alcohol as being mostly “absurd.&#. MORE >>

have already tasted two of the Octavin Home Wine Bar artisan white wines and did review the Sauvignon Blanc from that collection and was looking forward to trying the Zin, but not necessarily writing a review. I've been holding out on the wine reviews until everything gets back to normal after my surgery. Best of all is the price. MORE >>

Its characteristic taste is fresh and distinctive, with just a hint of almond. Getting time to clean out the old wine fridge. Shirley keeps doing her part by challenging me to come up with a pairing for some of her weird dinner experiments. 10 *Disclaimer: I received this wine as a sample from the PR folks representing the brand. MORE >>

have since tasted a Monthaven Chardonnay (California) and this past week the Silver Birch Sauvignon Blanc (New Zealand). Last March I posted a press release on a new collection of artisan wines in an innovative attractive new package. The Chardonnay was not impressive. Light and fruity with little oak was not what I expected from a CA Chard. MORE >>

also got to barrel taste this semi-sweet rosé and was waiting for something a little different out of Shirley's kitchen to give it a try. I love it when Shirley decides to experiment in the kitchen. It either means we end up going out to dinner or I am in for a special treat. Stoney Lonsesome Estates 2008 Reserve. MORE >>