Gary's Wine Club July 2009 Vintner Selection: 2007 Cricklewood Pinot Noir

2007 Cricklewood Pinot Noir
Grape Variety: Pinot Noir
Region: Sonoma County, California
Food pairing: Grilled Maple-Glazed Salmon

From the moment the grapes started rolling in to the winemaking facilities, those in the industry knew that the 2007 vintage was going to be a good one in Sonoma County. Yields were down, but quality was definitively up, so while less wine may be available, what we can get our hands on is exceptionally good. "The good news," said one winery's General Manager, "is that we are extremely pleased with the quality of the 2007 harvest. Berry size was small, smaller than we have seen in more than 10 years, and the fruit developed intense varietal flavors with rich, mouth-filling tannins." It shows in bottlings like this one, the 2007 Cricklewood Pinot Noir. Perfectly ripe cherry-like fruit and a nice balance of acidity and tannins make this a quality Pinot Noir rarely found under $20.

More info: http://www.garyswine.com/fine_wine/california/08908.html

Gary's Wine Club July 2009 Vintner Selection: 2007 Ten Lakes Chardonnay

2007 Ten Lakes Chardonnay
Grape variety: Chardonnay
Region: Sonoma County, California
Food pairing: New England Lobster Roll

For this month's Vintner Club, it's all about Sonoma: and for good reason. While the 2007 vintage has been touted for Cabernet in Napa Valley and for Syrah and Grenache in the Rhone Valley, we're also discovering that the 2007 vintage has been phenominally kind to Sonoma County, particularly where their two leading varietals, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, are concerned.

Ten Lakes Chardonnay has become a go-to wine for us, and has proven itself with repeat customers who love its food-friendly and easy-drinking flavors of crisp apple, peach, and subtle vanilla oak, Lightly chill a bottle to serve along-side New England lobster rolls for a positively All-American picnic.

More info: http://www.garyswine.com/fine_wine/california/04116.html