2005 Corté Riva Cabernet Franc - USA, California, North Coast, Napa / Sonoma (7/29/2008)
One of the very few Cali Cab Francs I have had. I enjoyed this a lot. The nose reminded me of a ripe Chinon. Once the wine was in my mouth it was boss. Big tasty sweet fruit. Medium acidity and medium/full body. Lots of oak but it worked well for me. Does not come off as oak juice to me. This is on the cocktail side, especially in its youth but it is done in a way I enjoy. I left a little in the bottle for a few days at which time the richness and hedonistic pleasure was gone. Still enjoyable but more clunky and unbalanced. I am not sure this will get any better. Darn good now. (92 pts.)
2005 Novy Family Wines Syrah Susan's Vineyard - USA, California, Central Coast, Santa Lucia Highlands (7/26/2008)
At first showing a little reduction along with the SLH smoky grapefruit thing. The palate feels heavy while the primary fruit and acid keep it from getting tiresome. Had over 2 days and I will say the last sip was the most compelling. A very tasty slightly funky syrah right now. I would wait 3-4 years, maybe more for this to evolve and shed some of its aggressiveness. Very nice bargain too. (90 pts.)