“…A NEW FRIEND TURNED ME ON TO AN OLD FAVORITE…”

(Editor’s Note: As an homage of sorts to one of my favorite bloggers, Katie from Gonzo Gastronomy, I copped a lyric from an Alice In Chains song called ”Junkhead” for my blog title. Not stealing your thunder, Katie, just reveling ‘neath it.)

Last week, good friend and Vintner Select wine guru Gary Boswell came by with Mark Neville from Robert Sinskey Vineyards (of Carneros). These wines have been around for a long time, yet with the sudden vogue of organically and biodynamically grown grapes, there has been a bit of a reemergence for Sinskey.

Robert Sinskey Abraxas Scintilla Sonoma Vineyard 2009. Grade=Outstanding. A beautiful white blend of Pinot Gris, Riesling, Gewurtztraminer and Pinot Blanc, this Alsatian-themed white wine shows off pretty perfume notes of white flowers and cherry blossoms, with hints of white peaches, clementines, Key limes and wet stone. Crisp and clean on the finish.

Robert Sinskey Pinot Noir Los Carneros 2007. Grade=Outstanding+. Stunning example of how Carneros gets Pinot Noir right with its lovely red raspberries, cherries and red plums, with hints of orange zest, cinnamon stick and nutmeg. Finishes earthy and lush with well-balanced acidity.

Robert Sinskey POV Napa Valley 2006. Grade=Amazing. Showing its Chateau Cheval Blanc influences, this red blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon is luscious and rich with its plum, red and black currant, violet, rose petal and chocolate. Has some braised fennel, white pepper and baked earth character as well.

Robert Sinskey Marcien Los Carneros-Napa Valley 2005. Grade=Amazing. Akin to Pomerol, this rich, dense and multilayered with chocolate-covered cherries, tobacco smoke, blackberries, dark plums and black olives with a stroll through the spice box and freshly-ground espresso beans. Simply gorgeous.