Recent tastes

[Florida Jim]

1990 Oakford Vineyards, Cabernet Sauvignon:

After about three days in the decanter, it started to smell better. But it never lost its green bell pepper edge on the palate and despite some good stuff going on and nice complexity, the green was simply overwhelming.

1997 Thomas, Pinot Noir:

Thinner than expected (and since this is always an elegant wine, that’s saying something) and starting to dry out on the palate. But it has good character and holds my interest. Drink now.

1995 Ridge, Pagani Ranch Zinfandel:

Actually 82% Zinfandel., 13% Mataro, 3% Alicante and 2% Petite Sirah; late picked.

A remarkably concentrated wine with some very nice flavors tending to the exotic and then overwhelmed by oak. What a disgrace; sensational juice absent the lumber.

2000 Zenato, Valpolicellla Superiore Ripassa:

Substantial in the mouth with an Amarone sweetness and a dry finish. But at only 13% alcohol, this is “baby” Amarone in every sense. Delicious and a fine value.

1995 Mt. Langi Ghiran, Langi Shiraz:

I am always amazed at the difference in this grape grown in Victoria as opposed to the Barosso; this had crisp cranberry fruit with a slight hint of earth and spice, little wood and none that obscures the vinous elements of the wine, focused and compact, excellent density, lovely balance. Too bad it’s my last bottle; this will live quite awhile and, I think, develop nicely.

Best, Jim