THURSDAY BARREL JAM SESSION (REVISITED)

Yesterday, our Tramonte rep/DEPS alum Devon, came by with some very cool wines:

Brut D’Argent Blanc de Blancs NV. Grade=Outstanding. This 100% Chardonnay from the Jura has light effervescence, slight hints of crisp green apple and pear, a bit of mineral and some touches of buttered brioche at the finish. Nice value.

David Girard Couer de Terroir Blanc El Dorado 2007. Grade=Outstanding. A lively, light-to-medium-bodied white blend of Roussanne, Grenache Blanc, Rolle, Marsanne and Viognier, this Cotes-du-Rhone-themed wine shows off some tangerine, lychee and honeysuckle, with a roundness in the middle and a vibrant, zesty finish.

Zellerbach Cabernet Sauvignon California 2008. Grade=Outstanding. I was really impressed with this second-label from McNab Ridge. Demonstrates a lot of juicy black fruits, cedar, mocha and earth notes and in possession of a medium-bodied, fruit-driven character that is a lot of bang for the buck.

David Girard Mourvedre El Dorado 2007. Grade=Amazing. Harkening to something of a Bandol, this monster red is dark and brooding, with loads of blueberry and blackberry notes, some smoky plum and creamy spice, a hint of pepper, and a hearty finish. Kind of a Grizzly Adams style of wine.