It’s hard to believe that I first met former Bad Company bassist turned chef/wine producer Paul Cullen over ten years ago (“Ten. YEARS. MAN!!!!!!”). Back in 2012, Cullen was establishing his performer/chef second career, which is now successful enough that he’s able to host events for hungry and thirsty food-and-wine (and music) lovers in his…
Wine Reviews: Mini Round-Up for July 3, 2023
2011 Holman Ranch Vineyards Estate Grown Heather’s Hill Pinot Noir (Carmel Valley): In fine, meaty, and bright fighting-fit form. $37 A-
2020 Smith & Hook Proprietary Red Blend (Central Coast): In your face, but in an entertaining way. $22 B+
2018 Bannister Riesling (Cole Ranch): While not varietally all that recognizable, this is a delight—fresh, floral, and full of quince goodness. $30 A-
2022 Cattleya ‘Alma de Cattleya’ Sauvignon Blanc (Sonoma County): This is clearly the work of a winemaking wizard. Tropical, zesty, pithy, and also, at turns, even supple. $25 A-
2014 Northstar Winery Columbia Valley Merlot (Washington): Still managing to be both buxom and elegant. $25 B+
The Eternals, Part 2 (Graham’s Vintage Ports, 1977 – 1924)
Welcome to port part two of my recap of W & J Graham’s 200th anniversary vintage Port retrospective tasting held in NYC’s Manhatta back in March 2023. You might want to check out Part One (covering several of Graham’s VPs from 2020 to 1983) if you haven’t already to get up to speed. Ok, people,…
Wine Reviews: Mini Round-Up for June 26, 2023
2019 Tenuta Carretta Bric Quercia Barbera d’Alba Superiore (Piedmont): The B at its biggest, sexiest, and most voluptuous. $21 B+
NV French Blue Brut Rose (Cremant De Bordeaux): Red plum, skin and all, in a fun and refreshing—if uncomplicated—presentation. $25 B
2018 Chateau de Fontenille Rose (Bordeaux): Candied watermelon, flinty notes, and tang for days. $15 B
2019 Maxime Graillot Domaine des Lises Equis Saint-Joseph (Rhone): An immensely versatile red that nails the freshness, black-and-white pepper action. $40 A-