Is it really summer? You would have a hard time determining that by comparing this years weather to the last few years, but now is the time we like to give a few summer wine recommendations.
Winexpression was sent a few wines from the Rutherford Wine Company, who own the Rutherford Ranch Winery (Napa Valley), Round Hill, Scott Family Estate (Arroyo Seco) and Lander-Jenkins Vineyards labels. The Rutherford Ranch winery had it’s start in 2000 and is built on the original site of the Round Hill Winery. The original grape vine’s and tasting room were completely redone by the Zaninovich family who purchased the property from the retiring Van Asperen’s, but the olive grove and “unpretentious charm” of the winery were left in tact. The result? An umbrella of wines all made using sustainable viticulture practices that are an excellent value.
Dominican Oaks 2007 Napa Valley Chardonnay
Production: 2,230 – 12/750ml cases
Alcohol: 13.5%
Aging: Fermented and aged in a combination of French and American oak barrels and temperature controlled stainless tanks.
Blend: 100% Chardonnay
Suggested Retail: $15.00
Notes: A fantastic bargain. Butter and vanilla aromas carry onto the medium bodied palate and intensify over the 30 second finish.
90-92 pts (A-)
Rutherford Ranch 2008 Chardonnay
35% Malolactic Fermentation
Suggested retail: $15.00
The aroma of Lemon peel, apple, and peach all greet your nose on this golden hued wine. Light on the palate with nice balance. A soft finish with a buttery/apple flavor.
88pts (B+)
Lander-Jenkins 2008 Chardonnay
Production: About 3,000 cases
Suggested retail: $12.00
Notes: A lovely wine with whiffs of toasty oak with a light bodied mouth feel and a good finish. A well balanced wine that leans toward citrus flavors on the palate.
88-90 pts (B+/A-)
Scott Family Estate 2007 Arroyo Seco Chardonnay Dijon Clone
Alcohol: 13.5%
Suggested retail: $25.00
Notes: Lemon peel and other citrus notes lead this in the right direction with a creamy texture and subtle hint of mineral and oak in your mouth. The acid is balanced and the finish leaves you wanting another sip.
90 pts (A-)
Round Hill 2007 California Pinot Grigio
Blend: 90% Pinot Grigio, 5% Chenin Blanc and 5% Muscat Canelli
Aging: Cold fermentation in stainless steel
Alcohol: 12.5%
Retail: $10.00
Notes: Aromas of stone fruit and citrus. Very nicely textured on the palate with good acidity. A nice finish that is crisp and swift.
90pts (A-)
Here are a few red wines of note:
Rutherford Ranch 2006 Merlot
Aging 15 months in French and American oak.
Blend 91% Merlot, 5% Zinfandel, 3% Cabernet Sauvignon and 1% Syrah
Suggested retail: $17
Notes: Nice aroma of black cherry, blueberry and vanilla. Medium bodied with a velvety yet structured finish.
88 pts (B+)
Dominican Oaks 2006 Napa Valley Merlot
Production: 5,200 – 12/750ml cases
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
Notes: 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 its own. Excellent value.
92-94pts (A-/A)
Lander-Jenkins 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon
Production: About 3,000 cases
Retail: $12.00
Notes: A delicious wine with a fragrance of blueberry, and flavor of caramel on the palate. This is a medium bodied wine with soft tannins that lends itself to being an easy drinker. Smooth and fruity, an outstanding value.
90-92 pts (A-)
Website [rutherfordranch.com]