Cold in these parts, with snow coming down the need to nestle brings an excuse - like we need any - to cook and drink.
Anthill Farms, Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast, 'Peters Vineyard', 2008
Pale strawberry colored red. Red fruited nose, particularly of strawberry and raspberry, along with light cherry and lilly flower. This wine is light in feel, but holds a pocket of strength hiding behind the soft flavors. There's some iron/beet in the background, along with a touch of spice. Slightly occluded color. Could use a couple more years, but very pretty right now. Not quite sure how these Mugnier California copycats age yet. A bit simple, but delicious. 13.4% A-
Bruno Giacosa, Barbera d'Alba, 'Falletto di Seralunga d'Albe', 2004
Some lightening around the rim. Plummy, canned tomato nose. This is taking on an old feel already, as if the primary fruit has passed. Taiwanese plum syrup concentrate on the palate, light and simplish for what is a $35+ wine. Nice, but the tariff is steep for what is essentially pizza red. B+
Andre Clouet, Champagne, N/V
Tale of 2 Champagnes, the Brut and Rose, both very nice for the price, with the edge going to the rose.
Peter Dipoli, Alto Adige, Merlot, 'Fihl', 2004
Do you know Phil? I've met my acquaintance and the time was well spent with the herbally side of merlot, wit hred plums and leafy tobacco, solid acidity and a pleasantly (but not obnoxious) tart finish. Decent, esp at sub-$20. B+/A-
Donnhoff, Schlosbockelheimer Felsenberg-S, 2006
Simple and pleasing, with the requisite calcium and linden wash, light and simple in the mouth like a creamy lime custard. Drinking well now and for another 8 years or so, but...with improvement? B+/A-