WTN: Some nice Napa Whites and a killer Pinot

2007 Havens Albarino. What a lovely crisp summer white. Plentiful acidity, very mineral, hint of peachy/citrusy fruit. No obvious heat, but 13.8% is up there. The Syrahs were also showing very well today-very meaty and earthy with good acid. Plus, Otto the Bulldog rocks!

2007 Elizabeth Spencer Sauvignon Blanc (Mendocino County). Still showing very well. More grapefruity and intense than some previous tastes. One of my favorite California SBs, frankly.

2007 Robert Sinskey Abraxis Blend (Gewurtz, Riesling, PG, more???) This is a killer white blend. Not cheap ($38), but so minerally that it is almost salty Some good citrus fruit as well, Delicious.

2005 Robert Sinskey Vineyard Three Amigos Pinot Noir. Ah! Another winery that is NOT producing cherry cola cough syrup at 15.5% abv and calling it "Pinot Noir." I enjoyed all three I tried, but this vineyard designate wine really fits my palate-that lovely sour cherry character, great acidity, wonderful earthy backbon. Outstanding Pinot Noir. (13.5% abv nominal)

2007 Robert Sinskey Abraxis Blend (Gewurtz, Riesling, PG, more???) This is a killer white blend. Not cheap ($38)

Do you think it is a reasonable value at that price, Brian?

2007 Robert Sinskey Abraxis Blend (Gewurtz, Riesling, PG, more???) This is a killer white blend. Not cheap ($38)

Do you think it is a reasonable value at that price, Brian?

Hmmmm. Good question. On the one hand, I liked it enough that I bought one bottle On the other hand, my experience with white wines is very limited. I have little experience with Alsatien wines, for example (which is what they claim to be going for).

I like it much, much better than many "big" California Chardonnays that cost as much or more. Heck, if I remember right, the Rombauer butter-bomb Chardonnay is about the same price. So...yes...especially in the context of California boutique wines.