The Sarah Jane English Newsletter:  42nd Edition
August 8, 2001

TOP PICKS FOR THE MONTH
(prices vary store to store)

Mixed Varietals:

• Star Pacific Mourvedre $20
• J. Lohr Valdeguie $11
• Chateau Ste. Michelle Cold Creek Vineyard Chardonnay $25
• Alexander Valley Vineyards Chardonnay $15
• Cinnabar Reserve Chardonnay $35
• Fetzer Five Rivers Ranch 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon $13 (new winery release)
• Forest Glen 1999 Forest Fire White Merlot $8

Varietal: Sauvignon Blanc and Fume Blanc (same varietal)

• Beringer Sauvignon Blanc, Napa $12
• Chateau Ste. Michelle, Columbia Valley $14
• Fess Parker Sauvignon Blanc, Santa Barbara $11
• Robert Mondavi Sauvignon Blanc, SLD, Napa $18
• Joseph Phelps Sauvignon Blanc, Napa $15
• Chalk Hill Sauvignon Blanc, Sonoma $29
• Ferrari-Carano Fume Blanc, Sonoma $18
• Mayacamas Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc, Napa $18
• Brancott Vineyards Reserve Sauvignon Blanc, New Zealand $17

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NEWS

CLOS DU VAL Wine Co. Ltd, has a new CEO-- David Campbell, previously CEO of Premium Port Wines, and has appointed Brooke Correll as Director of Marketing.

BERINGER MASTER SERIES ON FOOD & WINE has announced new programs.    The next event is August 10-15, 201.  For information, David Mitchel, director of operations: www.Master.Series@BeringerBlass.com

DELICATO VINEYARDS has been named "Best USA Wine Producer" announced at Vin Expo in Bordeaux, by a panel of professional wine judges.

BROWN-MILLER COMMUNICATIONS won top national honors and the nation's most prestigious public relations award, the Silver Anvil Award of Excellence.

HAMBRECHT VINEYARDS AND WINERIES is converting the 500-acres of BELVEDERE  VINEYARDS and WINERY to organic and sustainable agriculture.  Keep tuned.

BEAULIEU VINEYARD has repeated as "Best of the Competition" at Los Angeles County Fair Wines of the Americas Judging for the second year.  BEAULIEU 1997 Tapestry placed first in a record-setting field of nearly 3000 entries, getting more than twice as many first place votes from the 63 judges than the next two runners-up.

ST. FRANCIS VINEYARDS and WINERY has debuted its new visitors center which features an exploration of Sonoma wine, food and lifestyle to transform the traditional tasting room experience.

MAISON MARQUES & DOMAINES  has announced that Christian Mouiex, president of Etablissements Jean-Pierre Mouiex, producer of world-renowned wines, has expanded its business with MMD, the U.S. marketing company, following a joint purchase of the Bordeaux negociant, Descaves made by Champagne Louis Roederer and Jean-Francois Mouiex, brother of Christian and president of Etablissements Duclot, Bordeaux, France.

STONESTREET hired Mike Reynolds as general manager.

CHATEAU HAUT BRION announced that Robert of Luxembourg--great-grandson of Clarence Dillon who purchased Haut-Brion in 1935--has been named managing director.  Mr. Jean Delmas will continue as assistant managing director.

BRANCOTT VINEYARDS Winemaker Andy Frost has been named White Winemaker of the Year by International Wine Challenge in London.

KENDALL JACKSON WINE ESTATES announced several awards: the prestigious Golden Winery trophy went to Kendall-Jackson for fielding the greatest number of award-winning wines;  the Fair's Lifetime Achievement Award went to K-J founder Jess Jackson, and the Kendall-Jackson Series Camelot Vineyard, 1999 Chardonnay collected a Double Gold medal and tied for honors as California's best Chardonnay.  K-J entered 44 wines and won 25 medals.

BUENA VISTA, California's historic Sonoma County winery, has been purchased by Allied Domecq.

THOMAS FOGARTY WINERY AND VINEYARDS 2000 Gewurztraminer won "Tom Stockley Award for Best of Show White" and a Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco International Wine Competition.

KENWOOD VINEYARDS 1997 Massara Merlot was named the "World's Best Merlot" at the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) announced at Vinexpo in Bordeaux.  It won in a field of 165 Merlots.

BOLLA Wines of Italy won gold and silver medals at the 25th Challenge International du Vin 2001, Blaye-Bourg.  Judges blind tasted over 5,000 wine samples and Bolla was awarded: Gold--Bolla 1997 Amarone della Valpolicella; Gold--Bolla 2000 Chardonnay di Puglia; Silver--Bolla 1996 Creso.

DELICATO Shiraz won top honors at California State Fair: "Best of California" and "Best of Class."

KING ESTATE anticipates another phenomenal vintage in 2001.

LAKE SONOMA WINERY 1998 Saini Farms Old Vine Zinfandel won gold for the   at the Les Olympiades du Vin in Bordeaux.

RIEDEL has introduced a new wine goblet, the Vinum Montrachet, a large volume bowl for the famed Grand Cru Burgundian wine.

ROBERT MONDAVI and SOUTHCORP finalize their joint 50/50 venture to produce and market worldwide two new lines of wine--one from Australia and the other from California in the super-premium ($15 retail) and luxury ($75 retail) categories.

GALLO of SONOMA has been named "Winery of the Year" by the San Francisco International Wine Competition for the third time in six years.

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NEW RELEASES
(quotes are winemakers' comments)

ZACA MESA 1999 "Z" Cuvee $15, a blend of Grenache, Cinsault, Syrah and Counoise, surprisingly, reminds Winemaker Clay Brock of team sports.   "Even more," he says, "it's like the player introductions at the big game.  The Super Bowl.  The World Series.  The Final Four.  The wine's aroma seems to introduce each variety separately as they charge out of the glass: raspberry/strawberry of Grenache, blueberry/white pepper of Mourvedre, Satsuma plum of Cinsault and the smoked meat/autumn campfire of Syrah, while Counoise adds  woodsy pink peppercorns."  Well, don't dispair if the poet in you fails to rally all those impressive features, just enjoy the wine.  And his lovely ZACA MESA Gris "Z" $9 as well--a dry Rose blend of Grenache, Counoise, Cinsault, Viognier, Syrah and Mourvedre.  It's a lovely starter wine and suits any number of foods well.

BERNARDUS has proudly introduced its 1997 Marinus $46, an estate blended wine.  This wine is subtly balanced with complexity and proportion, rather than varietal character or intensity.  To achieve rivaling the best of Bordeaux, Marinus vineyard was planted in 1990 in upper Carmel Valley on 50 or 210 acres.  The winemaker says the 1997 vintage is the most impressive yet, due to increased vine maturity coupled with almost perfect growing conditions.  The wine has great concentration, subtlety and elegance.  BERNARDUS 1999 Chardonnay $20 characterizes the classical expression of the vineyards of Monterey County.  Bernardus' "spice rack" approach to winemaking selects grapes from various vineyards to blend and adds their particular flavor point.  Lower yields per acre in 1999 provided quality fruit and the long "hang time" on the vine had uniformly higher levels of acids that resulted in wines of great elegance and balance. 

BEAULIEU produces Coastal,  Appellation, Reserve and Specialty wines.  Here's an elaboration of the current Specialty wines.       The BV Winemaker's Collection is a series of limited production, often experimental wines from Beaulieu's winemaker. This series explores new varietals and blends.  A search is made up and down California  each year to find great vineyards with  delicious grapes for small lots of wine that will give the consumer a sensational taste experience.  BEAUZEAUX and ENSEMBLE BLANC are two such wines.      1999 was the coolest year of the last decade. The cool, wet spring and some frost caused a late bud-break, and while bloom took place under cool but good conditions, the berry weights did not ’t increase. Thus crop size was down significantly from estimates. Positively, the small berry size increased flavors and concentration. Slow ripening conditions prevailed until the last week in September, when a heat wave caused rapid sugar accumulation, and truck jams at the crushers as harvest went into overdrive! Weather did return to more normal conditions afterwards, and there was no real rainfall until November, a factor that contributed to the strong flavors and rich fruit of the resulting wines. The wines show intense fruit, rich tannins and color in the reds, and high extract, which should insure that this will be an excellent vintage to lay away for many years if one chooses. 
BEAULIEU 1999 Beauzeaux (46% Zinfandel, 22% Valdiguié, 10% Charbono 10% Petite Sirah, 7% Primitivo, 5% Lagrein) $22: "Deep, ruby-crimson,  this vintage of Beauzeaux is the fullest to date--bouquet of rich black berry, black pepper, cocoa powder, licorice and Christmas cake spices! Full bodied, highly fruity with rich but soft tannin, hints of dark chocolate, a velvety texture and a long, inviting finish.
BEAULIEU 1999 Ensemble Blanc  (59% Marsanne, 32% Roussanne, 6% Viognier, 3% Chardonnay, $21--"The Marsanne and Roussanne grapes were whole-cluster pressed, and directly run off to barrels for fermentation.  After fermentation completed, the wine was aged sur-lie in  barrels with frequent stirring until blending shortly before bottling. No malolactic fermentation.    It reveals  green almond, white peach and mineral bouquet. Medium-full bodied it is fairly viscous and dense on the palate; flavors reveal notes of almond or peach kernel,  some spicy elements, with a solid structure and firm acid  balance in the finish.  An excellent wine with Provençal-style dishes, particularly fish grilled with rosemary tarragon, or sage.

CLOS DU VAL, in the heart of Napa Valley, is located in the famed Stags Leap District.  President Bernard Portet says, "Since 1972 Clos Du Val has successfully endeavored to set itself apart by combining its graceful winemaking style with the extraordinary terroir of this special region. From vintage to
vintage, this magical marriage has consistently resulted in wines of incomparable balance, elegance and complexity."

• CLOS DU VAL 1999 Ariadne (70% Semillon/30% Sauvignon  Blanc) $25: ". . . a delightful marriage of citrus and lush fruity characteristics integrated with vanilla, bright melon, crisp acidity"
• CLOS DU VAL 1999 Palisade Vineyard Zinfandel $28: "black spice and blackberry jam, briary, dense, leathery tobac notes, rich silky tannins"
• CLOS DU VAL 1999 Sangiovese $27: "intensely fruity nose matched by concentrated, rich,  fruit flavors, well-structured, balanced"
• CLOS DU VAL 1999 Pinot Noir $26: "spicy nose of ginger and cinnamon, ripe strawberry and cherry aromas, toasty oak, ripe fruit, creamy mid-palate, balanced with complex acidity"
• CLOS DU VAL 1999 Zinfandel California $21: "blackberry and spice, hints of vanilla and wildflowers, jammy, well-structured mid palate, lengthy, lively balanced finish"
• CLOS DU VAL 1998 "Vineyard George III" Cabernet Sauvignon, Rutherford, Napa Valley $55: "ripe varietal nose, hints of bell and black pepper, ripe blackberry and blueberry and tannins, full flavored, full bodied, complex long finish"
• CLOS DU VAL 1998 Merlot, Napa Valley $30: "aromas of ripe, dark fruits, integrated with herbal and oak notes, rounded, soft tannins"
• CLOS DU VAL 1998 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley $28: "bright fruit nicely integrated with floral and cedary notes, rich youthful entry leads to expressive fleshy mid-palate, broad finish, hints of chocolate, earthy quality, balanced"
• CLOS DU VAL 1998 Cabernet Sauvignon, Stags Leap District $55: "aromas of spice, menthol, ripe dark fruit flavors of blackberry and blueberry, elegant mouthfeel, subtle oak nuances, dense lengthy finish"

VALLEY OF THE MOON has released its 1998 Zinfandel.  Many believe Zin originated in Sonoma Valley in the late 1800s, and, that this distinctive varietal was actually grown on VALLEY OF THE MOON  property.  This current release uses grapes planted at the winery more than 60 years ago.

• VALLEY OF THE MOON 1998 Zinfandel Sonoma County $15: " . . . after stainless steel fermentation, wine aged in French oak 21 months, elegant, intense aromas raspberries and figs, spiciness"
•  

LAKE SONOMA WINERY 1999 Russian River Chardonnay $15; "whole-cluster pressing, fermented in 60-gallon French oak, fruit and toast, flavors of apples, pears, rounded, and crisp finish"

GEYSER PEAK 1998 Reserve Merlot, Alexander Valley $40: "All Merlots are not the same!  This one is powerfully structured, dark colors, rich, exotic nose, array of red cherry, chocolate, roasted coffee flavors with smoky vanilla oak, amazing structure and balance."

HOGUE CELLARS has more Vineyard Selection wines for your pleasure.   Dry whites wines are also available, just in time to add some nice moments to record breaking heat throughout the country.  It is a treat to find reasonably priced wines this delicious.

• HOGUE CELLARS Vineyard Selection 1999 Syrah $18: "complex, well-structured, black pepper, spice, pair with grilled lamb, moussaka, goat cheese, gnocchi and lasagna"
• HOGUE CELLARS Vineyard Selection 2000 Viognier $16: "crisp, minty, nicely balanced, apricot and floral, cinnamon, fresh baked bread, viscous with lingering nectarine finish"
• HOGUE CELLARS 2000 Chardonnay $10: "pear, apple, toastiness, vanilla honey, soft and rounded, enjoy with chicken and pasta dishes"
• HOGUE CELLARS 2000 Pinot Gris $10: "crisp acidity,  balanced with fruitiness, melon, peach, guava, ripe apple, and hint of vanilla, enjoy with poached halibut and pizza"
• HOGUE CELLARS 2000 Fume Blanc $10: "refreshing acidity, aromas of freshly cut hay, peach hint of smokiness, peach, dried fig, enjoy with shellfish and soft-shell crab"

MONTEVINA TERRA d'ORO are the best wines produced annually at the winery from the 400-acre estate vineyard in the Shenandoah Valley of Amador County. 

• MONTEVINA TERRA d'ORO 1997 Barbera $18: "ripe, concentrated, juice fermented at 75 degrees for 10 days for fuller extracted color and flavor and then aged in American oak barrels for seven months"
• MONTEVINA TERRA d'ORO 1998 Sangiovese $18: "grapes were harvested at full ripeness, 15% free-run juice was incorporated and the new  wine was racked to American oak barrels (20% new) for 10 months aging"

• MIRASSOU COASTAL SELECTION 1999 Chardonnay $13: "green apple, banana, pineapple aromas with  rich vanilla and cloves background, pair with smoked chicken.
• MIRASSOU COASTAL SELECTION 1998 Pinot Noir $13.50: "lush cherry, touch close and vanilla with notes of plum and ginger, pair with beef, lamb, veal or game"

SUTTER HOME has joined the fight against breast cancer.  Look for pink ribbons around the bottle of White Zinfandel.  The family invites you to register online (www.city of hope.org) to join the City of Hope's Walk for Hope campaign in 24 American cities.  They hope to build awareness.  for information (800) 260-HOPE.   New releases from SUTTER HOME include the pink White Zin. 

• SUTTER HOME 1999 California Moscato $5: "luscious dessert wine, succulent peach, honeydew, match with fruit-based desset"
• SUTTER HOME 2000 Chardonnay $6: "fresh pear, peach, apple and citrus fruits, rich an creamy, smooth and rounded texture"
• SUTTER HOME 2000 Gewurztraminer $6: "classic varietal character, lichee, rose petals, hint of allspice, medium-dry, spicy, dry finish"
• SUTTER HOME 2000 White Zinfandel $5:  "best-selling U.S. wine, light body, fresh berry aromas, delicate, strawberry, watermelon, and crispy"

FOREST GLEN 1999 Forest Fire White Merlot $8: "Winemaker Ed Moody says this wine is bold and zingy; it's fruity that is a no-brainer partner for all of the hot, spicy and dramatic foods people love to cook--BBQ ribs, Asian foods, grilled fish, tamales, pizza--just about anything"

KENWOOD, founded in 1970,  releases its summer white wines. 

• KENWOOD 2000 Sonoma Gewurztraminer $11: "soft, off-dry style, apricot and lychee, rosewater and spice, zesty"
• KENWOOD 2000 Sonoma Sauvignon Blanc $12: "crisp, tropical fruits, pears, citrus, grassy characteristics, lively"

• DRY CREEK VINEYARDS 1998 Reserve Zinfandel, Dry Creek Valley$30: "vibrant powerful fruit focus, spicy cherry aromas, hint boysenberry jam,vanilla, cedary, complex with rich long finish"
• DRY CREEK VINEYARDS 1999 Heritage Clone Zinfandel, Sonoma $15: "luscious raspberry, cherry and baking spice aromas, juicy, concentrated, textured, dusting of mint and earthy quality, balanced"

BARNWOOD VINEYARDS and LAETITIA ESTATE VINEYARDS are both enjoying the winemaking skills of of a Frenchman from Bordeaux, Louis Mitjavile, formerly of St. Emilion. 

• BARNWOOD VINEYARDS 2000 Sauvignon Blanc $14: "citrus, herb aromas with  grassiness hints, tart melon, pear, clean crispy finish"
• BARNWOOD VINEYARDS 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon $19: "rich, intense, blackberry, cassis, chocolate, firm tannins, cinnamon, clove,oak finish"
• LAETITIA ESTATE VINEYARDS 1999 Chardonnay Estate $18: "intensely structured, vanilla, grapefruit, green apple aromas, creamy mouthfeel, smooth finish of pineapple and guava"
• LAETITIA ESTATE VINEYARDS 1999 Pinot Blanc Estate $16: "melon, citrus, vanilla aromas, smooth balance of acidity and fruit, refreshing crisp finish"
• LAETITIA ESTATE VINEYARDS 1999 Pinot Noir Estate $35: "full-bodied, ripe black cherry, spice, currants, cedar, vanilla, plum, ripe tannins, long full finish"

BERINGER Winemaker Laurie Hook suggests serving her summer wines with "Citrus Chicken Salad with Jalapeno-Ginger Vinaigrette."

• BERINGER Vineyards 2000 Gewurztraminer $7: "fresh floral aromas, spicy stone fruits, balanced with crisp acidity"
• BERINGER Vineyards 2000 Chenin Blanc $6: "lush citrus compote, grapefruit, orange, lime and nutmeg, round and mellow"
• BERINGER Vineyards 2000 Johannisberg Riesling $7: "delicate, white flower aromas, citrus, rounded with crisp acidity"

"Citrus Chicken Salad with Jalapeno-Ginger Vinaigrette"

• 6 boneless chicken breast halves
• 1 cup light corn syrup
• 3 oz. soy sauce
• 3/4 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup ginger, peeled and minced
• 1/3 cup orange juice
• 3/4 Tbs. orange zest
• 1/4 Tbs. star anise, ground
• 1/2 teas. Jalapeno
• 1/4 teas. garlic, minced
• 1 Tbs. lemongrass, finely minced
• 8 cups mixed field greens
• 1 cup pea shoots (sprouts)
• 1/2 cup cucumber, finely julienned

Combine 1/2 cup corn syrup, soy sauce and broth in a heavy, non-reactive skillet.  Add the next seven ingredients and bring to a boil.  Simmer five minutes to reduce sauce.  Add chicken breasts and simmer for 7 to 9 minutes.   Turn chicken and cover pan.  Cook 20 to 25 minutes or until done.   Transfer chicken to plate and cool.    Blend remaining corn syrup and 5 Tbs. of poaching liquid in small bowl.  Season with salt and pepper.  Set aside.  Cut chicken crosswise into thin strips.  In large bowl, toss greens, pea shoots, cucumber and most of the dressing.  Divide salad onto plates and top each with chicken and lightly drizzle with dressing.

• THOMAS FOGARTY 1998 Estate Pinot Noir, Santa Cruz $30: "from six acres that receive constant hands on attention in ideal growing conditions and yield   exceptional fruit that undergoes extended maceration and whole-berry fermentation to extract as much color and flavor  as possible, imparting depth, vanillin tones, and seductive qualities.
• THOMAS FOGARTY 2000 Gewurztraminer, Monterey $14: "a widely acclaimed Gewurztraminer, a bright, youthful and naturally fruity wine full of character,   a dry, cool-fermented style, known for its intricacies of flavor and aroma, and recognition, includes  "Best White Wine of the Show" and "Quadruple Gold" from top wine  competitions and critics.

ROBERT CRAIG WINE CELLARS 1998 Cabernet Sauvignon, Mt. Veeder, Napa Valley $44: "intense black fruit, hints of mocha, roasted coffee and white chocolate aromas, blackberry and black cherry, vanilla and spice, long, luscious and ripe, well balanced"

BARON PHILIPPE DE ROTHSCHILD invites you to discover the two sides of Bordeaux: Left Bank and Right Bank.  For two centuries, Bordeaux has produced world-class wines.  Bordeaux is divided by two rivers that become one, creating two banks where wine is grown.  The differences in climate, soil and types of grapes explain the amazing diversity.  Each bank produces wine with distinct personalities.   The Left Bank is represented by MEDOC-1998 COLLECTION BARON PHILIPPE $13: " 55% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 5% Cabernet Franc, 3% Malbec and 2% Petit Verdot; medium bodied, delicate classic bouquet of cassis and cedar, stylish, complex flavors. "  The Right Bank is represented by SAINT EMILION -1999 COLLECTION BARON PHILIPPE $18: "soft tannins, full body, full fruity varietal flavors of frambois and spices," and the POMEROL -1999 COLLECTION BARON PHILIIPPE $25: "crimson, full bodied, long finish, big, rich, classic Merlot bouquet."

• BRANCOTT VINEYARDS 1999 Reserve Chardonnay,   Gisbourne, New Zealand $17: "fresh distinctive aromas of peaches, pineapples, melon, and stone fruits, vanilla, oak, big and rich, full and balanced"
• BRANCOTT VINEYARDS 2000 Reserve Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough $17: "green olive, lemongrass, capsicum, nectarine aromas, gooseberry and melon flavors, herbaceous with ripe tropical fruit, crisp acidity"
• BRANCOTT VINEYARDS 1999 "B" Brancott Estate Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough $24: "passion fruit and vanilla aromas, ripe intense flavors of attractive character, balanced acidity"

STONE CELLARS is a new line of BERINGER, classically structured varietal wines that reflect the tradition of quality established by Jacob Beringer 125 years ago.  

• STONE CELLARS 2000 California Chardonnay $8: "bright tropical fruit, citrus aromas, apples, pears, malolactic, barrel aging long finish"
• STONE CELLARS 1999 California Merlot $8: "vanilla, black cherry, plum aromas, soft, silky structure, sweet-spice to long finish"
• STONE CELLARS 1999 California Cabernet Sauvignon $8: "layers of currant, blueberry, clove, tobac, barrel aging structure supports blue cheeses, mushroom smothered hamburgers or thyme port chops"
• STONE CELLARS 1999 California Cabernet Sauvignon/Shiraz $8: "rich blackberry and cassis, balanced and soft structure with smooth finish, pair with barbecue and smoked meats"

CHATEAU MONTELENA 1998 Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, Calistoga Cuvee, $35, Winemaker Bo Barrett: "High rainfall and lower than usual daytime spring and summer temperatures resulted in later development of all stages of vine growth and a late harvest.  September and October were quite kind
with primarily mild days with cool to cold mornings. Pretty darn good ripening weather.   The Cabernet Sauvignon we saw from the Calistoga area was literally perfect; Great flavors and ripeness with very good fruit chemistry. The quality is remarkable for several facts: It ripened late with a good size crop; the berry size was textbook Cab… tiny berries, so the skin to juice ratio was good, an excellent vintage for all Cab vineyards.   This wine has a fine structure and classic style, strong varietal Cabernet fruit cassis, earthy and some pepper highlighted by balanced structure, rich and round with lots of fruit,  open-front texture and full body to finish. "

BARTON & GUESTIER history records that Daniel Guestier made his fortune with fast merchant ships capable of running the British blockade during the American Revolution.  President Thomas Jefferson later asked him about the best French exports.  Together with Guestier's partner, Hugh Barton, a list was presented, presaging the famous Bordeaux classification on 1855.  B & G provides many Americans with introductory French wines at reasonable prices.  B & G's own estate, Chateau Magnol, produces a proprietary blend as well and I have many kind memories of my visits to this fine property over the years.

• Barton & Guestier 1998 Chateau Magnol, Haut-Medoc, Cru Borgeois $20: "rich and complex,  intense blackberry, cherry, spicy oak, peppered vanilla notes, powerful and fleshy, firm but soft tannins"
• Barton & Guestier 1998 Medoc-Leobourg, AOC, $15: "ripe currants and blackberries, spices, jam aromas, full-bodied, good concentration, long finish"
• Barton & Guestier 1998 Margaux Tradition, Margaux, AOC $20: "intense and complex, morello cherries, notes of vanilla and fruity aromas, harmonious and full attack, firm rounded tannins and peppery finish"

McPHERSON WINES founder Andrew McPherson says when asked, he says that drinking his wines should taste like drinking sunshine.  He hopes you enjoy the discovery of Australia's McPherson wines.

• McPHERSON WINE 2000 Semillon-Chardonnay, Australia $7: "melon and citrus notes, palate of ripe orchard fruit thriving in unoaked blend"
• McPHERSON WINE 2000 Chardonnay, Australia $7: "well-balanced, fruit forward, fig, grapefruit and bright tropical peach and melon"
• McPHERSON WINE 2000 Shiraz, Australia $8: "ripe cherries, raspberries, pepper-spice, well-integrated toasty oak"
• McPHERSON WINE 2000 Merlot, Australia $8: "ripe black currant, mocha, soft, ripe fruit and a kiss of oak"
• McPHERSON WINE 2000 Cabernet Sauvignon, Australia $8: "bright red berry fruits, smoky toasted American oak"

E. & J. GALLO has released a number of wines.  "Our Winery's flagship wines proudly bear the names of our founders," says Gina Gallo.   "The Gallo of Sonoma Estate Series has the best grapes reserved for the E. & J. Gallo Estate Wine Program.  E. & J. GALLO Estate 1998 Chardonnay $45: "whole cluster, malolactic, 100% barrel fermented with lees contact"; E. & J. GALLO Estate 1997 Cabernet Sauvignon $70: "100% destemmed, not crushed, fermentation rotary, rack and return, unfined, 26 months in 100% French oak"

Gallo of Sonoma Single Vineyard Series showcases the individual strengths and differences of each vineyard.   GALLO OF SONOMA 1997 Frei Vineyard Zinfandel, Dry Creek $19: "restrained, well-balanced, raspberry character, slight pepper, classic"

Gallo of Sonoma County Series is produced from Gallo-grown grapes and those purchased from neighboring Sonoma County vineyards, outstanding examples of Sonoma County excellent grapes. GALLO OF SONOMA 2000 Pinot Gris, Sonoma Coast $13: "crisp, fruitful, easy to drink, aged in oak;"

• MARCELINA--Elegant wines showcasing the complex, concentrated character of the fine Napa Valley grapes.   The MARCELINA 1999 Merlot, Napa Valley $30: "aromas of ripe blackberries, smoky bacon notes, soft tannins, pair with medallions of Beef tenderloin, mushroom risotto, tomato basil pasta"
• TURNING LEAF--California high quality fruit from its premier wine growing regions are combined with world-class winemaking techniques.  TURNING LEAF 1999 Coastal Reserve Pinot Noir $10: "crisp forward raspberry, strawberry, firm tannin structure, hint herbal complexity, oak and spice on finish"
• INDIGO HILLS--Wines blended with a perfect balance of  California's cooler coastal fruit flavors for complex, crisp, and elegant wines.   INDIGO HILLS 1997 Cabernet Sauvignon, North Coast $13; INDIGO HILLS 1999 Merlot, San Francisco Bay $16
• RANCHO ZABACO--Showcases the bold, intense varietals grown in the best Sonoma areas.   RANCHO ZABACO Zinfandel 1999 Dry Creek Valley $18: "powerful, yielding, mouth-filling bright flavors." RANCHO ZABACO 1999 Sonoma Heritage Vines Zinfandel $15;  RANCHO ZABACO 2000 Sauvignon Blanc, Russian River Valley $16: "zesty, distinctive, racy, grapefruit, honeydew, subtle mineral." RANCHO ZABACO 1999 Syrah Sonoma $18: dark berry, cassis, smoky, white pepper, pair with roasted lamb or braised squab." RANCHO ZABACO 2000 Pinot Gris Sonoma $16: "good acidity, well-balanced, tangerine, peach, sweet vanilla, honeysuckle, serve with crabs, lobster, foie gras, linguini."
• BELLA SERA 1998 Merlot, "aromas of currants, cherries, blackberries, plum, ripe and rich finish, match with wide range of foods, pasta dishes, grilled meats."  BELLA SERA 1998 Sangiovese, "ripe red fruits, rounded plum and cranberry, spice, crisp acidity, mild tannins, pair with fowl, meat and pasta."
• ANAPAMU 1999 Central Coast Chardonnay "lush, full-bodied, nutty character, serve with Mediterranean dishes."  ANAPAMU 1999 Central Coast Syrah "aromas of ripe black cherries, violets, ripe plums, notes of tabac, white pepper, rich, serve with robust meats."

BERNARDUS Winery 2000 Sauvignon Blanc $15: "At Bernardus, the textural element--the mouthfeel--is the most important expression of wine.  This wine shows delicate balance of maintaining pure varietal character and texture to insure its ability to complement food."

VILLA MT. EDEN has new releases from the Napa Valley winery.   Winemaker Mike McGrath produces three styles of wine--Coastal, Grand Reserve and Signature.  Each offers distinct characteristics yet shares a commitment to clear varietal expression which he describes  below.

• VILLA MT. EDEN 1999 Monterey County Coastal Chardonnay $10: "accents of roasted grain and caramel, melon, apple, intense ripe fruit, rounded with smoky oak"
• VILLA MT. EDEN 1999 Monte Rosso Vineyard Grand Reserve Zinfandel $21: "dark ruby, intense aromas of ripe raspberry and white pepper, ripe berry jam, layers f cola and spice, full and smooth"
• VILLA MT. EDEN 1999 Mead Ranch Vineyard Grand Reserve Zinfandel $21: "heavy, intense, raspberry aromas, jammy plum flavors tinged with white pepper, concentrated and robust"
• VILLA MT. EDEN 1999 Fox Creek Vineyard Grand Reserve Zinfandel $21: "traditional claret-style Zin, bright fruit aromas, flavors of raspberry and cherries, blackberries with hints of mocha and mint, luscious and balanced"
• VILLA MT. EDEN 1999 Santa Maria Valley Grand Reserve Chardonnay $17: "brimming with melon, pear, touch creme brulet, clove nuances, rich and oily, ripe tropical fruits, strong acid backbone, full bodied, mouth filling"
• VILLA MT. EDEN 1998 Napa Valley Grand Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon $20: "plum, blackberry, dried spice aromas, concentrated flavors of black cherry and chocolate, complex, well-balanced"
• VILLA MT. EDEN 1999 Santa Maria Valley Grand Reserve Pinot Noir $21: "deep cherry and cranberry aromas, nutmeg, brown sugar, toasty oak, ripe cherry and black plum flavors, lavish mature fruit"
• VILLA MT. EDEN 1999 Santa Maria Valley Bien Nacido Vineyard Signature Chardonnay $32: "aromas of honey, pear, pineapple, hints of coconut and clove, lush style, rich mouth feel, peach, melon and oak with lingering finish"
• VILLA MT. EDEN 19998 Napa Valley Signature Cabernet Sauvignon $54: "rich plum, currant and black pepper aromas, hints of mint, layers of raspberries, smoky mocha, vanilla, bold character and elegance"

VALLEY OF THE MOON 2000 Pinot Blanc $15: "delicious sipping for the lazy days of summer, balanced and crisp, pear, apple and honeydew" 

MAISON MARQUES & DOMAINES has released several wines.

• DOMAINES SCHLUMBERGER 1999 Pinot Blanc Princes Abbes, Alsace $14: "structured acidity, delicate fruit, fine balance, dry and fresh, serve with pates and fish"
• FLEUR DU CAP 2000 Sauvignon Blanc, South Africa $9: "crisp, hints of guava and green pepper, tropical fruits on palate"
• FLEUR DU CAP 1999 Merlot, South Africa $19.50: "cherry and berry aromas, chocolate and vanilla, raspberry flavors, wood notes"
• FLEUR DU CAP 1998 Pinotage, South Africa $11.50: "plum, cassis, smoked bacon aromas, hints of vanilla, strawberry, raspberry and spicy flavors"
• de LADOUCETTE 1999 Pouilly Fume de Ladoucette, Loire $28 : "exotic floral, citrus aromas, hawthorne, broom blossoms, white nettles, and grapefruit, mineral notes of gunflint, lively, fruity roundness, lemony freshness"
• LE BON HEUR 1997 Prima, South Africa $15: "complex nose with cassis, spicy clove and mint, well-structured, full-bodied, supple, red fruit flavors, soft ripe tannins, well balanced oak and fruit"

cabernet Franc

• KENWOOD VINEYARDS 1998 Cabernet Sauvignon, Jack London Vineyard, $35: "wonderfully complex blend of 87% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Syrah and 6%Cabernet Franc, exceptional intensity and varietal character, luscious blackberry, chocolate and earthy flavors meld together"
• KENWOOD VINEYARDS 1998 Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma $22: "well crafted blend of 79% Cabernet Sauvignon, 18% Merlot and 3$ Cabernet Franc, aged in French and American oak over 22 months, intense lush wild berry, currants, rich velvety tannins"

J. LOHR 1999 Old Vines Zinfandel,  Bramblewood, Lodi $20: "boysenberry, raspberry, red currant and quince aromas, white pepper and peaty spice, brambly fruit on palate with moderate weight, ripe tannins and texture, pair with grilled meats and pastas"

While the world is still full of excitement over the Bordeaux 2000 vintage, it will be some time before those wines make it America.  Meanwhile, enjoy the 1998s.    It was a wonderful year on the left bank; however, even better in St. Emilion and Pomerol.  These bottlings represent offerings from "petits chateaux" and do a textbook job of  capturing the overall style and essence of the vintage--lovely ripe fruit and classic style.

• 1998 Chateau Larose-Trintaudon, Haut Medoc $15.50
• 1998 Chateau Puy Blanquet, St. Emilion $20.00
• 1998 Chateau Bel-Air, Haut-Medoc $14.50
• 1998 Chateau La Cardonne, Medoc $15.50
• 1998 Chateau Meyney, Saint Estephe  $28.00
• 1998 Chateau Greysac, Medoc $15.50

• CHATEAU SOUVERAIN 1999 Russian River Valley Winemaker's Reserve Chardonnay $25: "fruit forward flavors, nose of tropical fruits, citrus, pear, layered with toasty, roasted-grain and vanilla custard aromas and flavors,oily texture, firm acidity, elegantly balanced"
• CHATEAU SOUVERAIN 1999 Alexander Valley Winemaker's Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon $35: "continuity from the nose to the back of the mouth, concentrated black fruit, dark bittersweet chocolate, roasted coffee, ripe tannins, rich and focused"

• R.H.PHILLIPS 1999 Merlot, Dunnnigan Hills $9: "fresh, bright cherry and raspberry aromas, flavors are accented by vanilla, light herbal nuances, and caramel, moderate tannins, well balanced"
• R.H.PHILLIPS 1999 Syrah, Dunnnigan Hills $9: "fresh jammy fruit, elegantly integrated with toasty oak and a hint of spicy notes, soft tannins and lingering finish"
• R.H.PHILLIPS 1999 Cabernet Sauvignon, Dunnnigan Hills $9: "dark cherry and black currant aromas with dried herbs and mint notes, medium tannins balanced with long fruit flavors with cherries, light toastiness and spice with lingering finish"

KORBEL CALIFORNIA, WINES and BRANDY has announced three innovative brandy initiatives.  For one, there's a package enhancement to the KORBEL classic line.  For others, there are two new line extensions that transcend the brandy category.  According to President Gary Heck, "Alone in a snifter or mixed in a drink, KORBEL is ready to set the brandy category on fire."

• KORBEL Gold Reserve VSOP $17 is positioned to bridge the gap between superior brandies.  A dark, brooding drink, it has bold, smoky flavor with subtle hints of chocolate and butterscotch.
• KORBEL XS Extra Smooth $14 "is an energetic new and exciting blend with an exotic taste from aging in small oak barrels and Madagascar vanilla, natural orange essence and spices.

KORBEL also has introduced a single-serving size (187 ml) for its KORBEL Chardonnay Champagne.  This elegant wine has a natural affinity with food.

KORBEL also garnered one of the top honors with an impressive award--"Best Sparkling Wine in California" title at the California State Fair Wine Competition.

JOSEPH PHELPS VINEYARDS Winemaker Craig Williams celebrates his 25th year with the company this year and introduces his latest releases, OVATION, appropriately, and Le Mistral.

• JOSEPH PHELPS VINEYARDS 1998 Ovation Chardonnay $42: "a blend of small cluster clone grapes, crop thinning, low yields, rich and concentrated, well-balanced fruit and acidity, lovely sugar/acid/flavor balance"
• JOSEPH PHELPS VINEYARDS 1998 Le Mistral $25: "a blend of major grapes grown in the Rhone, spicy, floral aromas, black fruit flavors, a versatile wine and good companion to Mediterranean cuisine"

SNOQUALMIE VINEYARDS, a sister winery to Washington's Columbia Crest and Chateau Ste. Michelle, has been a favorite of mine since my first taste.  They're well-made, tasty  wines that are deliciously priced.   Enjoy!

• SNOQUALMIE VINEYARDS 2000 Chenin Blanc $7: "perfumed nose of cantaloupe, honeydew and sliced apple, palate of similar fruits, plus a delicate lemon nuance, crisp and lively, subtly sweet has creamy finish"
• SNOQUALMIE VINEYARDS 1999 Syrah $11: "concentrated plum and currant  layered spicy black pepper, intensely fruity, a lighter style Syrah that's luscious and easy to drink, perfect with food"

COLUMBIA CREST WINERY has introduced six new releases from its Columbia Valley and Reserve tiers, including the debut of the Reserve Merlot and Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon--latest additions to its portfolio of super-premium red wines.  The 1998 vintage had an early growing season, mild temperatures and April bud break.  Hot, dry weather in July produced small and powerful berries.  Warm temperatures continued through August which slowed ripening and allowed additional hang time.  Traditional 45-degree day-to-night temperature swings held throughout harvest.

• COLUMBIA CREST WINERY 2000 Gewurztraminer $7: "terrific companion to spicy Asian dishes, exotic spice and lychee nut aromas, ideal balance between acidity and sweetness levels yields a lush, juicy finish"
• COLUMBIA CREST WINERY 1999 Sauvignon Blanc $7: "honeydew and herbal, flinty aromas, a hint of wildflower honey and a rounded, crisp wine that lingers to the medium-bodied finish"
• COLUMBIA CREST WINERY 1998 Reserve Red $30: "opulent, elegant wine, integrated aromas of intense fruit, cocoa and smoke extend across palate, concluding in a lingering balance and refinement"
• COLUMBIA CREST WINERY 1998 Reserve Merlot $28: "this first release offers concentrated varietal expressions, an imposing wine, an ideal combination of richness, structure and balance, deep cherry and raspberry character, appealing aromas of nutmeg and vanilla bean, consistent flavors create a complex, intense and lingering Merlot experience"
• COLUMBIA CREST WINERY 1998 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon $28: "This firmly structured debut Cab attacks the senses with complex flavors and supple mouthfeel, dense cherry and eucalyptus are layered with American oak toast, clove and cocoa, black cherry and mocha cross the palate and linger"
• COLUMBIA CREST WINERY 1999 Reserve Syrah $28: "A powerful, sensual wine that demonstrates remarkable character and finesse from start to finish.  The nose is a melange of raspberry, pepper and vanilla.  A wild berry of brambly character is noted on the palate.  Ample tannins and concentrated fruit join on the mid-palate where they linger with a smoky finish"

ANTINORI introduces a new white wine, in keeping with the firm's centuries-old reputation as innovators.   Marchesi Antinori's first new wine of the new millennium is Vermentino DOC Bolgheri $16, produced at the family's Tenuta Guado al Tasso estate in Bolgheri on Tuscany's seacoast.    Antinori believes the vermentino grape can become one of Italy's most interesting white wines.  It has "intense aromas with scents of minerals, acacia, wildflowers, mimosa and citrus.  Medium bodied, it's rich and harmonious."

CHAMPAGNE G. H. MUMM & Cie., Reims, France, has created blends from grapes of the finest villages (crus) in the heart of the Champagne region since 1827.  The Carte Classique benefits from this commitment, as does the Cordon Rouge, which is amplified by the addition of older reserve wines and the subtleties of all the great terroirs.

• CHAMPAGNE MUMM CARTE CLASSIQUE $35, "attractive golden color, appealing effervescence and tiny bubbles, fruity and rich bouquet frames a medley of fresh red fruit, round and soft on the palate, this Sec Champagne finishes with a subtle sweetness."
• CHAMPAGNE MUMM  CORDON ROUGE $35, "More than 40 crus provide grapes for this wine, a complex blend of the best wines, bouquet is fruity, subtle, creamy and refined.  Its hallmark on the palate is a delicate harmony of softness, complexity and elegance.  Ready to drink upon release and up to two years."

GLORIA FERRER Winemaker Bob Iantosca has been harvesting grapes and making wine from Carneros for over 16 years.  He loves the place!  And, his wines show it.  He's even poetic about it.  "Part of the winemaking process is a mystery, an indefinable relationship between the sky, the vines, the land and us," he says.  He's also a realist.   "The rest is about observation and hard work.  The GLORIA FERRER 1999 Carneros Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are the products of this alchemy."

• GLORIA FERRER 1999 Carneros Chardonnay $20, "honeyed pineapple and vanilla aromas lead to a rich palate with spicy apple flavors and a lingering, toasty finish, a fine balance maintained between richness, structure and acidity"
• GLORIA FERRER 1999 Carneros Pinot Noir $24, "nose of perfumed dark cherry and violets, earthy smoky highlights adding complexity, subtle palate filled with pomegranate and red currant flavors, roasted oak note carries to a sleek, extended finish"

PENFOLDS has released its 46th vintage of Grange with the 1996 vintage.  Grange has become the benchmark by which all other Australian wines are measured.  The limited production may be found in stores for an estimated price is $195.00.   PENFOLDS has released some super premium reds and a Koonunga Hill blend that are more immediately available.  If there is an ideal Shiraz in your future, it's probably one of these PENFOLDS' wines.  The Cabernet and Cab blend are delicious too.

• PENFOLDS 1998 Magill Estate Shiraz $50: "complex tobac and cinnamon stick spice with licorice and black pepper in the background, aeration reveals mocha and charcoal aromas and well-handled cedary oak and typical Magill spectrum aromas of plum and dark berry compote"
• PENFOLDS 1998 RWT Shiraz $70: "rich plum-pudding-saturated fruits and stylish French oak hints followed by more subtle glaced fruits encasing dark licorice and sweet plum"
• PENFOLDS 1998 Bin 707 Cabernet Sauvignon $80: "concentrated creme de cassis and black plum with floral aromas, Brazil-nut oak and complex barrel fermentation characters in the background"
• PENFOLDS 1997 St. Henri Shiraz $45: "There are lively, rich and stylish, varietal notes, stewed raspberries and logan berries with a savory accompaniment reminiscent of cassoulet.  Chocolate, mocha and black tea aromas are shyly in background."
• PENFOLDS 1999 Koonunga Hill Shiraz-Cabernet $11: "forward aromas of rich plum, blackberry with hints of licorice and eucalyptus, some cherry and chocolate revelations with black olive and rhubarb"

GRGICH HILLS 1995 Cabernet Sauvignon Yountville Selection, Napa Valley $110, "Like the past offerings of our Yountville Selection, this limited Cabernet Sauvignon production is from a single vineyard and is 100% of the varietal.  The young wine is dark, opaque and purple-red.  It is a delicate but complex wine which first displays a subtle aroma of spicy, ripe, berry fruit in the nose followed by soft, earthy, ripe fruit flavors in the glass.  There are also oaky, herbal notes and a touch of Bing cherry.  Very nicely balanced for its age, it has a clean, slightly tannic finish and shows every indication of improving with several years of additional bottle age." www.grgich.com

GRGICH HILLS 1999 Chardonnay Napa Valley $33,   "More refined than some of our previous vintages, this Chardonnay is well balanced from start to finish.  It has an enticing nose of ripe fruit with a snappy flavor of crisp green apple, clean tart fruit from avoiding malolactic--which also retains natural acids and aromas and flavors.  Barrel fermentation and sur lee stirring adds dimensions and texture--most appealing wine."

MIRASSOU 1998 Harvest Reserve Merlot, Monterey, $18: "Enticing black cherry aromas with exotic backdrop of cedar and spice.   Hints of coffee, chocolate, and rosemary, cherry, plum and vanilla flavors, long finish, soft tannins, suits a range of foods: pizza, burgers, beef, lamb, and game dishes"

MIRASSOU 2000 Monterey Riesling Coastal Selection, Monterey County $8: " proprietary specialty harvested in cool of morning, captures fruit and spice character of grapes, enhanced floral qualities with Sylvaner."

RODNEY STRONG VINEYARDS 1998 Reserve Pinot Noir, Northern Sonoma $30: Winemaker Rick Sayre says, "This wine imparts heady aromas of dark chocolate, strawberry, a light note of dandelion and a trace of smoke.    One year in French oak barrels sculpts an array of sweet fruit and roasted nut character in the nose.  Full bodied and lingering, the flavors are classic Pinot Noir."    

• R.H.PHILLIPS 2000 Sauvignon Blanc $8: "lean and classic,bright stone fruit and crisp dry flavors, grapefruit, fresh hay,clean and refreshing, richness and weight from Semillon"
• R.H.PHILLIPS2000 EXP Viognier $14: "luscious round and fleshy, vivid apricot, mango aromas, rich creamy texture, high viscosity, subtle vanilla and spice hints, vibrant lychee, honeysuckle and hazelnut flavors"

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Dining in Austin can be Fabulous: Siena, Emilia's, Hudson on the Bend, Castle Hill, and Mirabelle

SIENA SIENA RISTORANTE TOSCANO is a beautiful dining destination for all the senses.    Restaurateur Stan Adams loves good food and fine wine. Fortunately for Austinites he is equally as fond of bricks and mortar. All these things come together at Siena, the latest addition to his family of restaurants. Besides being a delicious way to spend an evening, it’s an attractive way as well.

    And now to the delicious food.  I can recommend everything I ate without pause: the Salad of Fresh Pear, Endive, Gorgonzola, Roasted Walnuts in Port Sauce; Grilled Tuscan Bread with Ragu of Wild Boar, Roasted Onions and Chianti Sauce; and Roasted Potato, Fresh Chive Flan with Grilled Sea Scallops in White Truffle Oil; Veal Rib Chop with Fresh Herbs on Fricassee of Braised Greens, Pancetta and Crimini Mushrooms, and the Wood Roasted Sea Bass. 

    The wine list has something for everyone with approximately 118 selections under $50.

    By now you should be grabbing the car keys and heading for the door.  It will be a very worthwhile evening.

EMILIA'S and enjoying STAR PACIFIC wines   The essence of any fine dining experience is good company.   Sally Ottoman, Star Pacific winemaker, and her husband, Robert Zimmer, definitely fulfilled that roll.  As I told them, "If I had know I was going to like you and your wines so much, I'd have spent the whole day with you."  We sampled her delicious wines at Emilia's, and we agreed that Emilia's has reinforced Austin's fine dining scene.  That fact is clearly evident in the 1852 historic building (Hofheintz-Reissig Store) that owner Denis Tracey handsomely restored to become his restaurant.    "Emilia's is in the Waterloo Compound, Austin's oldest commercial complex," Tracey says.  "These old limestone walls once housed a popular 19th century saloon.  Over the years it has served as a home, a dry-goods store, a tenant house for freed slaves, a winery and an electric lighting company--among other things.  When Mr. Hofheintz built it in 1852, it was a Sunday House--a place German immigrants used for Saturday lodging to be in the city for Sunday church services.   The essential structure remains the same."  Preservation and restoration have created an atmosphere of artistic elegance enhanced by the superb culinary talents of Chef Will Packwood.  The honest ambiance, attractive still-life paintings, tasteful linens and crystal and excellent cuisine ensure a nonpareil evening of fine dining.   Here are some menu items.

Hudson's on the Bend  (Please look for my upcoming article in the September issue of Country Lifestyle). Preview:  I've known Chef/owner Jeff Blank long before I interviewed him for my cookbook, Top Chefs in Texas (Eakin Press 1990).  He has always worn a grin and been full of big laughter--an easy man to like.  His cuisine has developed a Hill Country touch featuring game and fish.   This is true both at his restaurant and nearby at his stunning country home and kitchen overlooking the lake where he teaches and entertains.  In his cookbook, Cooking Fearlessly, Jeff says, "Our food has a big hearty taste with full and round flavors, so if you're looking for something really mild, you're not going to find it here."  The food at Hudson's has been inspired by the Mexican, German, Czech, American cowboy cooks and Hill Country hunters with an emphasis on smoking and grilling and that's what Jeff practices and preaches.   So popular was Jeff's food that he was forced to start a cooking school on Sundays at the restaurant--moved eight years ago when Shanny and Jeff built their new home.  Shanny, Jeff's talented artist   wife, decorates their life with her delightfully colorful personality and their walls with her whimsical and happy art.  They're a fabulous combination and enhanced by the marvelous view and ambiance of their country setting.

CASTLE HILL food enjoyed with ZD wines: This favorite Austin eatery remains popular for good reason.  Castle Hill now has a long-standing, excellent reputation.   It has consistently served the public well and the public continues to come and to be satisfied.  That was certainly the case at the ZD Wines luncheon enjoyed here.    About ZD-- Two former aerospace engineers dreamed of producing world-class wines and launched ZD Wines.  In 1968, Norman de Leuze and Gino Zepponi (untimely death from a car accident in 1985) pooled their resources of $3,000 apiece and applied for a winery permit--the first issued in Sonoma County in nearly 20 years.  They rented a Carneros farm building and purchased winegrapes from René di Rosa's Winery Lake Vineyard.   Winery Lake's 1971 winegrapes produced ZD's first Chardonnay.   After 10 years part-time wine production, Norman left engineering for wine.  His wife, Rosa Lee, handled the sales and marketing.  They bought six-acres in Napa Valley, built a winery in 1979.  Today their children, Robert, Julie and Brett, are on the staff.   In 1993 ZD expanded, tripling in size--with 16 employees.
1998 Reserve Chardonnay, Napa Valley:  ripe fruits, coconut and spicy oak,  pineapple, floral and luscious.  ZD Chardonnays have been a favorite of mine for more than a decade.  "Grapes from cool end of Napa Valley (two vineyards involved) were fermented individually (long and slow ) in American oak barrels, with 6-8 weeks of yeast swirling for final wine richness and complexity.   In ZD’s consistent style, no malolactic fermentation, so the natural fruit character and balance are maintained.  In the 1998, the vineyards' full maturity and resulting depth of flavor can only be credited to Mother Nature; long cold barrel fermentation, no malo-lactic, extended barrel aging--ZD produced a rich yet elegant wine."    

1999 Pinot Noir, Carneros: "This is ZD Wines' 31st consecutive vintage of Carneros Pinot Noir. . . well-balanced, aromas of cranberry and black cherry, hints of vanilla bean and smoky oak, fresh and juicy cherry notes and subtle tannins."  Robert deLeuze, Winemaker

1998 Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley: "a blend of fruit with a high proportion of mountain vineyard fruit, intensely rich flavors and aromas, some nutmeg, allspice and dried currants, dark blackberry with toasty vanilla oak, full-bodied, well balanced and has a long, lingering finish." deLeuze

MIRABELLE enjoyed with Eli Parker and FESS PARKER wines: Food remains consistently delicious at Mirabelle--whatever you order! We ordered a lot of dishes to complement the many FESS PARKER wines and both wines and foods deserve high praise. 

1999 FESS PARKER Chardonnay: 75% Barrel aged; 85% French oak and 15% American oak; 35% new oak overall. Aged
approximately 10 months. Complete malolactic fermentation.   ". . .apple, pineapple, citrus, light toastiness and buttery notes,   pear, lemon, light toast and hints of melon on the palate.  Pair with fresh fruits and cheeses, grilled chicken, pasta or white fish.

1999 FESS PARKER Sauvignon Blanc: (80% Sauvignon Blanc, 10% Chenin Blanc, 5% Pinot Blanc & 5% Pinot Gris)
". . . grassy and floral notes, green olive, melon and light citrus, melon and butter, a light herbaceousness on the palate for a rich finish."

1999 Pinot Noir  ". . . aromas of spice, strawberry, cherry, cranberry, leather, mint and hints of rose petals. Flavors of dark
cherry, cranberry, spice and smoke commingle with well-integrated oak, soft tannins and a lingering fruit finish."

1999 Syrah Composition: (83% Syrah, 9% Mourvedre & 7% Carignane) ". . .Aromas of dark cherry, blackberry, smoke, toast, spice and vanilla on the nose. Flavors of dark cherry, blackberry, spice and toast commingle on the palate with light mint, firm tannins and herbal notes."