Chardonnay 2011 De La Familia  (six months on oak). Reserva Tannat 2009 (6 – 8 months barrel American). Nose Astringent tannins … A demonstration of the Tannat grape untamed. Pinot Noir 2010 Family Reserve. Tannat Cab Frank Reserva 2008. Tannat 2008 Riserva de la Familia. "Welcome!" Viognier 2011. MORE >>

One is 90% Chardonnay and 10% Sauvignon Blanc and the other is a blend of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. The Chardonnay/SB blend is actually refreshing and delicious with a crisp refreshing finish. Don Prospero Tannat, Carbonic maseration 2011. Don Propsero Tannat Merlot 2011. 60% Tannat, 40% Merlot. MORE >>

Of the whites, it felt like I tasted 100 Pinot Grigio's. Of course the number was not that high, but few were of distinction and I eventually passed on Pinot Grigios. The Laimburg Winery "Selyet" Pinot Nero Riserva 2004 was a standout at a table of reserve Pinots. enjoyed the conversations I had with them. WHAT A TREAT. MORE >>

had the NV Bereche Brut , $14, grower Champagne made of about 60% Pinot Noir and the rest Chardonnay, and a special pour that evening. asked if I could taste the 2005 Vinedo de los Vientos Tannat from Uruguay, $8, kind of in homage to Joe who likes Tannat, and they brought me a nice little pour. So sue me. MORE >>

2007 Haut la Vigne Côtes de Duras - 50-50 chardonnay and semillon. Binner - I liked everything I tasted - pinot gris, riesling, gewurtztraminer, even the pinot noir. No merlot in this one, maybe some tannat. Is that because the natural versions exhibit the true flavors and aromas of carignan, for example? MORE >>