Davis Bynum Pinot Noir 2004, Russian River Valley, $27 at the winery in 11/06. 14.4% alcohol, 1747 cases
I took a taste and said, “Hey, this is really good!” A dark PN, with the somewhat rustic RRV character, but the characteristic Bynum tannins are well under control, which brings a nice acidity out. It's a bit slow to show in entry, but the character is consistent throughout the sip, and the finish is longer than average, with a lot of earth.
Condes de Albarei Albarino 2008, Rias Baixas, $13.99 at BevMo in 7/10. 12.5% alcohol
Interesting wine. It comes off as salty on the first sip, but that impression disappears, and it's tart, rustic, with a combination of tanginess and melon fruit. Fit well with grouper baked in the wine and finished with sour cream and tomato.
John