The Gourmez

Alexander & Fitch 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley, CA This red was really dense on first sip, with lots of chocolate, spice, and fruit. Those are all things that are good. The nose had the same qualities, except there was a light element of menthol as well. It was tart but in that great, jam-like [...]

Ravenswood Zen of Zin 2007 Sonoma County, CA The nose of this old vine Zinfandel is really nice and earthy. I could sit and smell it for a while. Of course, I wouldn’t get much drinking done then, would I? It is thin-bodied for a zinfandel. Tastes oaky, with rich plum and leather. There are [...]

Screw Kappa Napa (S/K/N) Sauvignon Blanc 2007 Napa Valley, CA First, I just have to say that I love the brand name Screw Kappa Napa. It’s so much fun to say and seems wittier than it is, really, kind of like my nom de plume. Plus, the label has a pretty raised pattern that you [...]

Les Caves Joseph Bordeaux Rouge 2007 France This Bordeaux smells peppery and tingles my nose. It is dry and tart, with a berry flavor of deep, dark cherries. There’s an extra layer to it that’s like molasses but not sweet  . . . rum notes? The wine is very drinkable, especially the more you drink [...]

Rootstock Syrah 2007 North Coast, CA Smell: Oak, touch of cinnamon, dash of plum. Taste: A well-rounded wine with minimal fruit, though there is that bit of plum. There’s also a mellow presence of spices with cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and some light vanilla. This wine is fine and dandy but nothing special.