SOME SMALL-PRODUCTION BEAUTIES

Our Vanguard rep Jeff came by with his boss, Neiman Cellars winemaker Drew Neiman (who happens to own Vanguard). Jeff and Drew had Drew’s two new releases from his Bridesmaid line (that he makes with Pam Starr of Crocker & Starr), as well as some of their French imports.

Domaine de Pajot Cotes de Gascogne “Les Quatre Cepages” 2008. Grade=Outstanding. Equal quarters Sauvignon Blanc, Ugni Blanc, Gros Manseng and Petit Manseng, this crisp, lively white wine is loaded with juicy lemon, guava, kiwi, mineral and fresh herbs. Perfect aperitif or Spring time white wine.

Bridesmaid White Napa Valley 2008. Grade=Outstanding. Delectable blend of 98% Sauvignon Blanc and 2% Semillon, this white wine highlights some gorgeous lemon, guava, fresh cut hay, dried herbs and mineral for a Bordeaux-styled white that is sure to please.

Guintrandy Comte de Grignan VDP 2008. Grade=Outstanding. 50% Syrah and 50% Grenache, this medium-bodied red possesses jammy red fruits, expressive notes of pepper, tobacco and roasted meats, and a juicy, vibrant finish.

Guintrandy Cotes-du-Rhone-Villages Visan VV 2007. Grade=Outstanding. Incredible medium-bodied red that drinks like a Chateauneuf du Pape, yet with a fraction of the price. Robust tannins frame juicy, spicy red and blue fruit flavors, black pepper, olive, truffle, mocha and tobacco. A great introduction to Rhone red.

Bridesmaid Red Napa Valley 2006. Grade=Amazing. Stunning blend of Cab, Cab Franc and Merlot, this powerful red is dense and rich, with layers of jammy black and red berry fruit flavors, chocolate, cedar, tobacco and spice box. It’s simply gorgeous wine.