I went to the NVWLA tasting August 13 at Silverado. The theme this year was "alternative reds" which means anything other than Cabernet/Merlot. There were about 80 wineries pouring. There were some notable absences (Mondavi, Beringer). Varietals poured in decreasing order of frquency were Zinfandel, Syrah, Pinot Noir, Petite Sirah, and 8 minor varietals. Overall it was a bit disappointing. Nothing really blew me away. I guess my favorite was an 04 Charbono by Shypoke. The winemaker at Shypoke is Peter Heitz. He is no relation to Joe Heitz, but his family has been growing grapes around Calistoga for a few generations. Jim
- posted
17 years ago