Volume 34, Issue 4: February 2010
PINOT NOIR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY This issues finds cool-area Pinot Noirs from western Sonoma County, the balanced and rich wines from the Westside Road area of the Russian River Valley and a number of mannerly bottlings from the Santa Lucia Highlands that belie that area's reputation for pushy wines. SAUVIGNON BLANC SUBSCRIBERS ONLY Winemakers offer interpretations of Sauvignon Blanc that run from bracingly acidic and weedy to full-bodied and melony, and this issue finds well-made wines of almost every stripe. Zinfandel Retrospective: 1995 to 1998 SUBSCRIBERS ONLY There has been a concern that higher ripeness levels would diminish Zinfandel's aging capabilities. We look at the middle-aged wines from four vintages in search of the truth. Best Buys SUBSCRIBERS ONLY This edition of Best Buys uncovers offerings of Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Pinot Gris that offer palate-pleasing character at wallet-pleasing prices.				SUBSCRIBERS ONLY CONNOISSEURS' FORUMS with edtiors Charles Olken and Stephen Eliot. 2007 Morgan Winery Pinot Noir Garys' Vineyard Santa Lucia Highlands Its stated alcohol is a smidge lower than its Double L mate, and its balance is impeccable, but this deeply stuffed wine nevertheless reflects the concentration that is very much part and parcel of the vineyard potential. The wine's solid black cherry fruit is joined by nuances of dried lavender, roasted vanilla beans and a whiff of toasty oak. Chewy and fleshy at the front of the palate, the wine is firm, balanced and equipped with a fair bit of grip at the back. It asks a bit of patience to smooth out and is sure to reward it. $48.00 Score: 92