With delicious lamb!
2009 Everett Ridge Petit Sirah Dry Creek Valley. This started out as a lovely, sleek, and LITHE, yes LITHE Petit Sirah. Characteristic blueberry notes on the palate, but not heavy or cloying in any way. Nice acid balance. As the wine opened in the decanter and our glasses, it became even better. Black pepper notes began appearing, along with a pronounced and appealing earthiness. This may have been one of the better Petits I have sampled, and proves that this rustic grape can make a complex and even beguiling wine!
2007 Laurel Glen Cabernet Sauvignon. This 7 year old Sonoma Mountain Cab is one of the most primary Laurel Glens I have tried. Amazingly juicy and pure fruit, but perhaps a touch simple at this point in its evolution? I enjoyed it quite a bit, but I think I will hold my second bottle for a few years. For contrast, the 2011 made by the new winemaker was showing much earthier and more Bordeauxesque, befitting the cold year, perhaps?
2012 Da Vero Cannonau (Grenache). Wow. This was a lovely savory take on Sardegnan Grenache. If you are looking for massive fruit, not here. But I found beguiling the earthy black fruit in this wine!
2012 Da Vero (Dry Creek) Primitivo. Classic "Zin" brambleberry but in the delicious earthy house style. Evan, the newly promoted winemaker, is showing a deft touch here! Their wines simply seem to be getting stronger as they establish themselves and dial in the farming and winemaking. Plus, they are passionate about natural winemaking and put on hellacious parties!
And, their olive oil is amazing as well!