February 2013 “Best of the Best” Wines
In my last post, I profiled our favorites among the 22 wineries we visited earlier this month. This wine tasting round-up was equally as challenging to create because there were 125 to consider! I was not able to take extensive notes on each glass, but I did a daily retrospective to pick out those that were drinking best and whittled my list to 27.
One of the benefits of visiting Napa Valley in February is that many wineries typically release new vintages in the winter. Several were pouring 2005 and 2009+ Cabernets and it was lovely to be able to compare the two after a bit of time in the bottle. If there’s one thing I took away from this trip, it’s that I’m a sucker for 100% Cabernet Sauvignon.
On this visit, we really tried for at least a 50/50 split of new and old favorite wineries to allow for more exploration and discovery. I’ve noted that when I do find something I like, I tend to drink a lot of it – so, I’m looking forward to adding several new finds to my repertoire. Cheers!
February 2013 “Best of the Best” Wines
Whites
- ZD Reserve Chardonnay, Carneros (2010) – We drank this alongside the standard Chardonnay and liked the character and body the
reserve added. - Elizabeth Spencer ExS Block 7 Chardonnay (2009) – We liked this so much that we grabbed a bottle to take to dinner to pair with oysters.
- Shafer Red Shoulder Ranch Chardonnay (2010)
- Laird Cold Creek Ranch Chardonnay (2009) – If you like Rombauer’s style, this Chardonnay also will appeal to you. It’s nearly as robust, but with a more approachable oaky, buttery style.
- Joseph Phelps Spring Valley Vineyard Viognier (2011) – Viognier has always been a favorite varietal of mine.
- Kelly Fleming Sauvignon Blanc (2011) – I really can’t say enough about this winery. The bottom line is, if you haven’t been there yet, you need to get there. Or, at least try their wines!
- Laird Cold Creek Ranch Pinot Grigio (2011) – From this whites list, I could say that this Pinot Grigio is perhaps in my top two. I remember trying this before and loving it just as much. Maybe it’s the fact that it’s not a very common varietal in Napa Valley and I appreciate something “different,” but it’s also made very well. Continue reading Napa Valley Wine Tasting Round-Up
