Last night’s Appreciation Wine Tasting Event featured several favorites for fans of classic California reds and whites, but also offered a few newcomers that were well received.  A partial wine list is included below with tasting notes. 

 Roederer Anderson Valley Brut- Always classy.  This is one of the best values in American sparkling wine.  Plus, you can pair it with almost anything.

Cade 2008 Napa Sauvignon Blanc- The second label to Plumpjack comes through with some solid Napa Sauvignon Blanc.  Good citrus and floral bouquet that leads to melon and whetstone on the palate.  The feel on the palate is a bit richer due to a bit of Semillon (7%) in the mix. 

Chalk Hill 2006 Russian River Valley Chardonnay- This Chardonnay really impressed me with it’s herbal aromas that included heather and rosemary.  Plus the acidity really refreshed the palate.

Ramos Pinto Collector’s Reserve- The only only non-Californian in the lot, and yet, it stands proud.  It should, the Cali vines are mere whippersnappers compared to the gnarled old vines blended into this classic from Portugal.   A really good choice for those who are just discovering the joy of Porto.  Lots of dried and baked fruit flavors here, with some woody tobacco.  Seriously, if you close your eyes and really smell it, you will crave oatmeal raisin cookies.

Justin Obtuse Port 2007-  Some really neat  aromas in this Port-style fortified wine made from Cabernet Sauvignon.  Blackberry cobbler comes to mind when considering the bouquet, but when tasted, it becomes a sort of mulled wine, spice cider, fruitcake wine.  Think prune, fig, and raisin flavors.  Perfect for late night winter gatherings.