When: February 23 , 2010
Row Eleven Pinot Noir
Where: Cru Wine Bar
Notes: First impression was it seemed a tad dry and sparse, but then it’s not supposed to be a full-bodied wine. What I liked best was the hint of dark chocolate on the nose.
WS: 82
Price: $24
When: February 17 , 2010
Fuqua Syrah, 2006
Where: Women in Wine Sense Panel discussion
Notes: Dark and rich. Low minerality–very typical of a Rhone wine but made in Dallas!
WS: Not rated. 90, is my guess.
Price: $24
When: February 17 , 2010
14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon, 2007
Where: Women in Wine Sense Panel discussion
Notes: Aromas of cherries and currants with subtle hints of spice and dried herbs. A bit high in the alcohol but not overpowering.
WS: Not rated. I’d say 89-ish
Price: $12
When: February 1 , 2010
Rodney Strong “Charlotte’s Home” Sauvignon Blanc, 2008
Where: Home, by itself
Notes: Bright, fresh green apple and grapefruit notes blend elegantly with an interesting herbal, grassy edge. A note of honey–reminds me of Riesling, in that regard. Very winsome 
WS: 88 (easily)
Price: $10
When: January 28, 2010
Nickel & Nickel 2006 Oakville Merlot
Where: Big Bottle Party, Cotes du Coeur
Notes: Tightly wound. Sleek, with light berry and spice notes. Non-challenging but terrific as a straight wine without food.
WS: 85
Price: $30
When: January 28, 2010
Iron Horse 2005 Classic Vintage Brut
Where: Big Bottle Party, Cotes du Coeur
Notes: Floral layered with baked apple, citrus and baked bread that balance crisp acidity with a rich texture. Tingly!
WS: Not reviewed. 89?
Price: $30
When: January 28, 2010
Spottswoode Sauvignon Blanc, 2007
Where: Big Bottle Party, Cotes du Coeur
Notes: Citrus with apricot and peach flavors. Slightly musky note, refreshing acidity, pleasant bitterness on the finish and a slightly coarse texture.
WS: 88
Price: $30
When: January 27, 2010
DeCanal Pinot Grigio Garganega 2007
Where: Home, with broiled halibut
Notes: Hint of cool limestone on the nose. Gorgeous grapefruit and pineapple with a fine, bright finish. Nice.
WS: Not reviewed. I’d say about an 88.
Price: $13
When: January 24, 2010
Penfolds Koonunga Hill Shiraz-Cabernet 2007, Red Wine from South Australia
Where: Home, with Tenderloin/Expresso Bourbon Sauce
Notes: Bright mouthful of plum and berry flavors. Open and inviting through the fine-grained finish.
WS: 88 points
Price: about $11 retail
When: January 23, 2010
BOGLE Zinfandel California Old Vine 2007
Where: Home, with gruyere cheese
Notes: Juicy with black cherry, toast, and spice notes. Slightly woody and firm on the finish.
WS: 84 points
Price: about $11 retail
When: December 11, 2009
Wine: Paso Creek, Paso Robles
Where: Kirby’s Steakhouse
Notes: Dense with plum and blackberry, hint of licorice and smoky pepper. A little funky on the finish. Good. Not spectacular.
WS: 83 points
Price: About $18 retail.
