2014 was a difficult vintage with heavy rains requiring careful pruning and cluster thinning. Better weather in August saved the day, carrying through to a relatively late harvest in October. This example shows characteristic Nebbiolo scents of violets together with elegant red fruit and a whiff of cinnamon and clove. It is surprisingly approachable on the palate, showing fine red fruit, though still youthful, aggressive acidity. Should be drinking well with another 3 years aging.
Ripely fruited and worn smooth on the edges, 100-year-old vines express their complexities in this single-vineyard Zinfandel (splashed with nearly a quarter of perfumed Petite Sirah). Ripe, plump plum, perfumed cassis, boysenberry, dried violets, sweet tobacco and heaps of sweet and peppery spice fill this full-bodied red. Tannins are ripe and sueded and finish dry with a dusky bitter chocolate oak-driven tug. Full of body and alcohol; pour alongside braised short ribs with dried fruits.
Fragrant raspberry, floral cherry blossoms, strawberries are seasoned with light spice and supple, fine tannins. The middle is a bit muddled, right up to the pink peppercorn kick on the finish. This young Fleurie, from 3 lieu dit and granite, clay and manganese soils, will age well over the short term. #GoGamayGo.
Pale yellow. Nose of McIntosh apple, gooseberries, celery, a hint of sulphur. On the palate it is medium-bodied and brightly acidic, tasting of citrus and green apple. The “greenness” of the flavours make it a good match for herbed foods such as roast chicken.
A bouquet of toast, apple, pineapple, citrus, spice and banana are all present. It is richer in the mouth than Black Paw, with nutmeg and cream adding complexity. There is very good length and it is ready to drink now, and over the next 4 years.
Beautifully floral with peach aromas and flavours, vibrant, minerally and fresh with great complexity, balance and an uplifted finish. Refreshing and mouth-filling on its own, but a tremendously versatile wine with shellfish, white meat and Asian cuisine.
Offers plenty of lively Sauvignon varietal style with supple generous citrus and green fruit and characteristic grassy herbal notes.