Winter Wine Highlights

Happy New Year! Cheers to one and all, and here’s to wishing everyone a happy and healthy 2016. Now that holiday madness has subsided, let’s catch up on some items that you may have missed. Here are a few winter wine favorites.

2012 Cadence Red Camerata Cara Mia Vineyard Red Mountain ($56)

“Vibrant, focused and aristocratic, centering on generous plum, currant, blackberry and floral aromas and flavors that play out against well-modulated, crisp tannins. Shows presence and excellent length. Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. Best from 2017 through 2025. 225 cases made.” –Wine Spectator, 95 points.

2012 Colene Clemens Margo Pinot Noir Chehalem Mountains ($34)

Winemaker Steve Goff was the assistant at Beaux Frères for many vintages; now he makes wine for Colene Clemens, one of the hottest new Oregon wineries. “Lithe and expressive, shading black cherry fruit with glints of mint, loamy earth and walnut. Fine tannins underline a long, dancing finish. Best from 2016 through 2022. Top 100: 2015, Rank: 45.” –Wine Spectator, 93 points.

2006 La Fleur de Bouard Lalande de Pomerol Bordeaux ($34)

“At present, this estate is the reference point for high quality wines from Lalande de Pomerol. A blend of 80% Merlot, 15% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. Sensationally rich, with abundant quantities of blue and black fruits, spring flowers, graphite, licorice and hints of espresso roast as well as toasty oak, it is supple enough to be drunk now, or cellared for a decade.” - Robert M. Parker, Jr., 91 points.