Wine list

By
THE PRESS DEMOCRAT
Published: Monday, August 10, 2009 at 3:00 a.m.
Last Modified: Thursday, August 6, 2009 at 5:46 p.m.

Press Democrat wine writer Peg Melnik scopes out wine lists around the North Bay, looking for good value and the occasional splurge. This week’s picks (prices are retail; restaurant markup varies):

Aquinas, 2007 Napa Valley Merlot, $15. An approachable merlot with good structure. Fruity, with notes of toast and spice. A good quaff.

Alban, 2007 Central Coast Vigonier, $24. A floral viognier with great minerality. Aromas and flavors of peach, lemon and honey. Good spice notes.

Whitehaven, 2006 Marlborough New Zealand Pinot Noir, $25. A gamey pinot noir with notes of plum, cherry, spice and toast. Has a hint of smoke. Long finish.

Arrowood, 2007 Saralee’s Vineyard, Russian River Valley, $30. An aromatic viognier with notes of honeysuckle and orange blossom. Lush and lively. Spot on.

Patz & Hall, 2007 Jenkins Ranch Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir, $55. A seamless pinot noir with complex flavors. Notes of cherry, pomegranate, cinnamon and clove. Long finish.

Want to share a current wine on your favorite restaurant’s list? E-mail peg.melnik@ pressdemocrat.com or check out her Tasting Room blog at pressdemocrat.com.

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