I don’t know about you, but one of my thrills in life is finding a great wine at a reasonable price that I can recommend to friends or just hoard for myself. I was pleasantly surprised when a few press samples from Rutherford Wine Company arrived and all of them turned out to be pleasing to both the palate and the budget. The following are my notes on 2 of the wines they sent, with the 4 more reviews coming soon.

Dominican Oaks 2006 Napa Valley Merlot

Production:  5,200 – 12/750ml cases
Total acid/PH: .58 / 3.68
Alcohol:  13.5%
Aging:  15 months in French and American oak
Blend:  91% Merlot, 5% Zinfandel, 3% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Syrah
Suggested Retail:  $17.00
Score: 94 pts (A)
Notes: An Excellent Value – This well rounded Merlot offers loads of blackberry flavors, vanilla, and a very nice mid-palate.  Softly textured with a nice finish.  Perfect with food or on it’s own.

Round Hill 2007 Pinot Grigio, Family owned, Sustainably grown
Production: 2,500 Cases
Acid/pH: 0.67 / 3.35
Alcohol:  12.5%
Release Date:  October 2008
Blend:  90% Pinot Grigio, 5% Chenin Blanc and 5% Muscat Canelli
Suggested Retail:  $10.00
Score: 90 pts (A-)
Notes: Aroma’s of fruit and citrus, very nicely textured on the palate with good acidity.  A very crisp, nice finish.