CA

2014 Sandlands, Chenin Blanc, Napa Valley: firm, deep, acidic and not a hint of wood. I hear the Amador bottling is oaky - this isn’t. Beautiful but young.

2015 Ryme, Vermentino, Hers: correct, balanced, pretty and good length. An easy drinker for the “I like acid” set.

2014 Cruse, St. Laurent, Pet. Nat.: 9.5%, bone dry, medium pink, good bead; fun and yet serious enough to accompany food.

2013 Dirty and Rowdy, Mourvedre, Antle Vnyd.: great wine - balance, depth, a “completeness” that is hard to describe and easy to recognize - as good a Mourvèdre as I’ve had in years.

2014 Vincent, Pinot Noir, Crowley Station Vnyd.: lively and long, contemplative but accessible and terrific balance. Truly charming.

2012 Spell, Pinot Noir, Weir Vnyd.: Mendocino fruit that comes from Burgundy (or something like that); a ringer for Romanee St. Vivant. Pretty stunning.

2014 Idlewild, Grenache Gris, Gibson Ranch: beginning to show its stuff; appearing like a dark rose but drinking like a light red; grip, guts, flavor and length, all in a focused delivery with presence; can’t get enough.

Lots of others but these were the easy to remember crowd.

Best, Jim