winemaker's notes: Hand-selected from premium vineyards in Russian River Valley, the 2006 Calcaire exemplifies the crisp, fresh fruit flavors that make cool climate Chardonnay so appealing. This barrel-selection cuvée comes from some of the Russian River Valley's most sought-after Chardonnay vineyards. MORE >>

When the time came, I found myself still buying a couple bottles of one of my favorite Pax Cellars Wine, the Kobler Family Vineyard Russian River Valley Syrah, thinking it would be the last time. Tags: Cellar Selection 2004 3 stars Russian River Valley Sonoma Rumor had it that disagreements with co-owner(?) MORE >>

Brooklyn Oenology Merlot 2005 * I found utterly convincing (dark and dry, sparse fruits, but not to everyone's taste) and a 2007 Holdredge Wines Russian River Valley Pinot Noir ** which displayed good acidity in a worn velvet like texture on the tongue, but very light with mild dry spices and mushroom notes as the wine emerged. MORE >>

Haut Gravet ** and the fifth wheel 2005 La Crema Pinot Noir Russian River Valley * It was interesting to note how these wines had evolved over the past 3-6 days. After the spoiled Mondavi merlot, the La Crema pinot noir * was easy to spot. Charmail **, a 2005 Mondavi Napa Valley Merlot, 2000 Ch. MORE >>

The La Crema Pinot Noir Anderson Valley 2005 ** from the "cool" region of Mendocino ($35) made by winemaker Melissa Stackhouse is by far and away the best wine I have tasted from here in years. Tags: 2 stars USA 2006 3 stars Russian River Valley 2005 Sonoma This is a good find. 2000 cases produced. 1000 cases produced. MORE >>