2006 Rochioli Russian River Chardonnay. While the "heat" on this Chard was slightly intrusive (14.5% abv), this glowing golden Chardonnay offered such beautiful crystalline pear and apple fruit. The oak was a complement to the fruit, not dominant. Outstanding example of a variety I often dislike. Thanks, Sister! 17+/20 despite the alcoholic heat.
2000 Bonny Doon Le Cigare Volante. Quite a fun whiff of earthy brett? when first opened and decanted. Clear garnet color. Grenache, Mouvedre, Syrah, and a bit of Carriagne. Still singing-definitely the red fruit from the grenache, with a strong strawberry tone. Some licorice on the palate as well. . Maybe not as complex as the 2002 or the 1999 earlier, but I just simply enjoy drinking this wine. Still, Robin may be correct in that a good Cotes du Rhone or CdR Villages may provide as good drinking at better QPR. I like the fun hippy vibe of this winery. 15.5/20
2001 Artesa Reserve Merlot. What was I thinking? I don't remember this wine being this bad at all. I guess 30 months in new oak should have been a warning, but I LIKED this wine at the winery tasting. I need to be more careful! Dark black-red in color. Berry fruit on the nose, with no real savory notes or other secondary development. No real herbal notes, either. Vanilla, Vanilla, Vanilla, Vanilla on both the nose and the palate. Not integrated at all, despite the 6-1/2 years in bottle. Bleh Bleh Bleh. How did I make such a big and expensive mistake?
BUT: This is my opinion only. A lot of people like this style of wine. I have tasting acquaintences who happily admit to being "oak sluts." My brother was quite enthusiastic about this wine, stating that THIS is the kind of Merlot he can drink happily.
10/20. I'll bring the other Artesa bottle I own (the 2000 Reserve Cab) to a party where other Oak lovers can enjoy and I don't have to drink it.
Or, maybe I can just wait three years and see if it integrates better at the ten year point.