Red Wines
2020 Daou Red Blend " a Pessimist"
An typical Paso red blend in many ways, which means rich deep dark fruits, yes a decent dose of oak and alcohol. However this mostly Petite Sirah and the typical 3 stooges to dance together Zinfandel, Grenache and Syrah. Look for cherry, plum for sure, a complex in so many ways yet subtle in others. Look for this wine in the $40 retail.
2021 Elk Cove Pinot Noir, Williamette Valley Estate
100% Pinot from the estate, this 40 year old family wine winery sends to market lovely wines all fairly priced and a consistent quality. This wine is fruit focused, soft floral notes, plum and boysenberry, with leather and vinous characteristics, like a chalky tannin finish. A lovely softness and subtleness are the highpoints of any great Pinot Noir and this wine hits the mark!! This wine should be in the high $30's retail range. What a great example of Oregon capability in the Pinot Noir catagory.
At the High End 2017 Right Bank Red Anderson Conn Valley Vineyards
This 56% Cabernet Franc, 34% Merlot wine from Napa Valley is for me a classic and yes not inexpensive but and a big but very fair considering all the high nose prices sometimes seen in the Valley. They have been producing wines since 1987 and the family is still in charge. All the 90+ ratings you can imagine, complex, red and black fruits, very balanced fruit, earth, wood, acid, the hints of chocolate and spice and this one will age just fine. Look for prices in the $70 for sure or higher retail.