We don't use the grill as much in winter, but last night we did, and it was a welcome change. An almost 3" porthouse to split between us, accompanied by an excellent mushroom ragout (dried porcini, fresh French horn, shiitake, and cremini) and creamed chard. Wine was the
2003 Franciscan Magnificat (Napa). OK, this is clearly New World, lush ripe black plum and blackberry fruit. It's not over the top, just proudly warm climate. There is some vanilla, but balanced. This is what I like in Napa, not trying to be Bordeaux, but also not going to extremes. Some graphite and cedar, an herby almost eucalyptus note. Some acidity and tannins- enough to give some backbone, but not enough to make it hard to drink now. A pleasant surprise (though I remembered a couple of positive notes) B+Grade disclaimer: I'm a very easy grader, basically A is an excellent wine, B a good wine, C mediocre. Anything below C means I wouldn't drink at a party where it was only choice. Furthermore, I offer no promises of objectivity, accuracy, and certainly not of consistency.