2008 Wilson Winery Zinfandel. Style note: a big, rich, full bodied California Zinfandel with a rustic balance and sense of place and demand of terroir recognition. 2007 Star Lane Vineyard Merlot. This week I've tasted some excellent wines! 2006 Wilson Cabernet Sauvignon. USA, California, Sonoma County, Dry Creek Valley). MORE >>

The Thomas Farm Rack of Lamb was presented with the Cupcake Malbec and Cupcake Red Velvet (a blend of Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, and Merlot). The Merlot was also very delicious with this dish, refined and delicate with a subtle chocolate and berry expression. "So this Prosecco actually tastes like a cupcake!" MORE >>

Behind the bar one of the owners, Joe Rabasco recommends the Costa Del Sol Napa 2005 blend of Sangiovese, Zinfandel and Merlot produced by Bennesere Vineyards. Every morning I’ve been passing by a storefront in New York’s West Village that for months had its windows papered to block a view to the inside. That’s a good start. MORE >>

BTW, they are Zinfandel, Syrah, Pitite Sirah and Carmenere. Think my taste buds are back. I've been having a few problems with red wines since finishing some prescribed meds a few weeks ago. No matter what was tried I was getting a very musty taste. The Zins are coming along better than expected and Syrah is rapidly becoming one of my faves. MORE >>

Just finished watching the movie "Avatar" while sipping on my first Riesling of the summer. Finger Lakes Riesling of course. This month is Riesling month in New York and this will be the first of many I'll enjoy over the next 30 days. The 2008 Red Tail Ridge semi-dry Riesling was suggested by my sister-in-law. This is now one of her favorites. MORE >>