2009 Ceja Vineyards Brut Sparkling Wine Napa Valley Carneros

Happy New Year! Apparently Ceja Vineyards is my go to sparkler for saying goodbye old and welcome new because another bottle was enjoyed saying hello 2013. I think you may have me hooked Amelia or the fact this was a great wine club selection and I had to buy more. My final bottle and a perfect night to open.

The wine is made from 2 of my favorite grapes 60% Chardonnay and 40% Pinot Noir. Bubbles should be enjoyed anytime not just for celebrations. Offer this wine as a starter with your guests with light cheese and fruit platters. You will be popular trust me on this.

The nose has loads of lemon citrus, fresh apple a touch of vanilla along with spiced ginger. A crips nose tickler along with pleasing aromatics. I believe this sparkler became better with age.

The mouth is refreshing with apple, pear and a kiss of lemon on the finish. This wine is why I love sparklers! The only way this would taste better is if Amelia and Dalia were sipping with us.

If you're in Sonoma stop by the tasting room at 22989 Burndale Rd Sonoma on the same property as their sister business Carneros Brewing Company. If you would like these wines shipped to you direct click here Wine Club and sign up today.

May 2015 be prosperous, healthy and full of great wine.

Cheers
Dan

2013 Rodney Strong Estate Vineyards Sonoma Coast Chardonnay and Pinot Noir

*Sample Received*

50 years ago the vision began and what is known as Rodney Strong Vineyards when Mr. Strong settled in Sonoma County. The passion to make exceptional wine is a key driving force among every winemaker. I am amazed with the notion many walk away from a career to start producing wine and the success they achieve.I raise a glass to you all.  In 2013 RS Vineyards was named Wine Enthusiast Winery Of The Year.Cheers to RS Vineyards Tom Klein, head winemaker Rick Sayre and the entire staff.

Tonight's wines come from the Sonoma Coast Appellation known for its cool climate and higher than average rainfall. The vineyards are above the fog line allowing the sun to fully ripen the fruit to ensure quality wines.

Up first the 2013 Pinot Noir. The nose is full of bright cherry, strawberry and hints of cranberry jam. Fresh cut pine needles with a hint of cloves. The mouth is very nice with tart cranberry and juicy strawberry and a little bing cherry. The finish is long and juicy. Classic Sonoma Coast character!

 Second wine was the 2013 Chardonnay. The nose is greeted with tropical pineapple, sweet pear and ripe apple. I love the vanilla creme aroma when the wine first pours along with a hint of baking spice. The mouth has loads of juicy apple and pear with a hint of lemon zest. A touch of pineapple and toasty vanilla round out the wine and enhance the long finish. This was a holiday favorite and I could drink it everyday. Well I could drink both of them everyday.

Stop by for a visit and taste at 11455 Old Redwood Highway Healdsburg from 10-5 daily. Schedule a tour or have a picnic in the relaxing atmosphere. Great times and great wines.

Cheers
Dan

2012 Fields Family Wines Old Vine Zinfandel The Century Block Lodi

*Sample Received*

Fields Family Wines are small lot handcrafted gems which showcase the vineyards character. The relationship between winegrower and winemaker makes for the production of high quality wines with little intervention to the wine making process. Russ Fields owner has maintained the property as California Certified Organic Farming Certification.

The nose exhibits intense blackberry and dark cherry with hints of clove, fresh chopped herbs and white pepper. Inviting aromatics definitely perfectly harvested grapes.

The mouth is full of ripe juicy cherry, raspberry and blackberry with a touch of spice on the finish. Soft, silky elegant Zinfandel. The wine paired nicely with my pulled bbq pork sandwiches. Well done Fields Family Wines and great price point under $25.

Stop by the tasting room at 3803 E Woodbridge Rd Acampo CA open 11-5 Thursday to Monday. Enjoy a tour, picnic and even barrel tastings (which is a must if you want to see how wine evolves).

Cheers
Dan

2013 Seta Nera Trebbiano D'Abruzzo Italian White Wine "Quik Sip"

The jury may be out on the red but the white wine from Seta Nera was a house favorite and below $15 per bottle at Lot 18. Tasty little beauty and you'll be singing Amore'.

The nose was full of tropical melon and crisp granny smith apple with hints of lime. The citrus explodes with each swirl from the glass.

The mouth is crisp and refreshing with the honeydew melon, fresh lime and juicy apple. Our evening conversation wine which went quickly.

Sign up for free and take advantage of all the great deals from Lot 18 by clicking the Free Sign Up link and start saving and sipping today. Remember $10 off your first order.

Cheers
Dan

2013 Seta Nera Montepulciano D'Abruzzo Italian Red "Quick Sip"

A Lot 18 purchase for under $15, I was a little unsure about the wine. Maybe it's more rustic than I am used to or the pairing wasn't quite right. Improved after it was open a few minutes.

The nose was dominated by plum with hints of raspberry and cherry. Earthy notes, vanilla bean and a dash of cocoa. Bold on the nose.

The mouth saw the plum and cherry with a little vanilla and cinnamon. I sipped while cooking and then paired with spaghetti and the sauce and wine seemed to clash. The wine was much better on its own. Jury is still out on this one.

Sign up for Lot 18's free membership by clicking the Free Sign Up and receive $10 off your first purchase. Great deals.

Cheers
Dan