A few highlights:
Pine Ridge Dijon Clone Chardonnay 2005 (Napa). My WOTN. Crisp beautiful pear, apple, and even a touch ofm peach fruit. Alcohol seemed under control. The oak regime was also balanced-and there was apparantly no malolactic. This wine was a big surprise, because I've always found Pine Ridge reds rather oaky and one dimensional.
Jessup Cellars 2004 Merlot. Mixed opinion on this wine. It's quite tannic and dry. I liked it better the first try, with a nice dry finish, black fruit, and a hint of savoryness. Less so on the second glass. I wonder if the second try was a newly opened bottle, because it seemed less integrated aqnd more oaky.
Hope and Grace 2005 Napa Pinot Noir. This winery, whose tasting room is tucked away behind a glass art shop in Yountville, impressed me in the past. I liked this Pinot, which was definitely on the smoky, earthy, mushroomy side. I'll have to try this one again.
St. Supery Dollarhyde Cabernet 2003. Just didn't like this one very much. Seemed green and a little harsh. I wonder if 2003 green tannins just need more time before drinking?