($36):   Though the winery was founded in 1978, it has slipped under my radar until now.  I’m glad that’s changed.  This restrained style of Chardonnay has plenty going on.  It’s just not in-your-face.  Indeed, its many charms appear after it sits in the glass for a half hour. … Read more

($32):  Similar to Dry Creek Valley’s Sauvignon Blanc, their DCV Block 10 Chardonnay is a study in balance.  They manage barrel fermentation and aging judiciously so that just a wisp of oak-scented creaminess comes through, harmonizing with the fruitiness of the grape without overpowering it. … Read more

($17):  Dry Creek vineyard draws on their nearly half-century experience in Dry Creek Valley to fashion beautifully balanced wines that speak rather than scream.  This Sauvignon Blanc has a bit — but not too much — of the bite characteristic of the grape variety. … Read more

($24):  The name of the winery, Center of Effort, is a sailing term, which, to my non-nautical brain, means the wind hits the sail in exactly the right place.  This well-price Chardonnay, which they call an introduction to their estate, hits all the right notes. … Read more

($35):  Nathan Carlson from Center of Effort insists that Edna Valley is ideally suited for Chardonnay.  And indeed, Chardonnay is the most planted grape in the area, according to him.  Judging from this five-year old wine, I agree that Edna Valley is an ideal place for this variety. … Read more

($45):  Despite its 14.5 percent stated-alcohol, Sosie (pronounced so-zee) is fresh and lively, not overdone at all.  Paradoxically, there’s almost a lovely austere character to it.  Firm, not hard, tannins frame its racy red fruit flavors.  Mineral-like notes — you can almost taste the volcanic soil — and a pleasing hint of bitterness in the finish adds to its allure. … Read more

($38):  Full disclosure: Zinfandel and Petite Sirah, which comprise 99 percent of the blend of this wine, are among my least favorite varieties because, when converted to wine, they often display power and little else.  So, imagine my surprise when I discovered how well Dry Creek Vineyard manages them. … Read more

($45):  Gary Farrell is a winery known for brilliant single vineyard Pinot Noirs, which show that terroir is alive and well in California.  This one, however, is a blend to represent the Russian River Valley in general — and it does. … Read more

($90):  Though Coeur de Vigne might suggest highly selected grapes and an over-extracted precious wine, this one is not.  Though more immediately appealing — slightly softer and rounder — than their Estate Bottling (previously reviewed), it displays the classic savory-ripe dark fruit mixture for which top Napa Valley Cabernet is known. … Read more

($48):   Lovely savory, olive-like notes balance the dark fruitiness of this big bold and broad Cabernet.  Fine tannins provide structure without being astringent or intrusive.  There’s a delightful hint of bitterness in the finish to emphasize this is not a “fruit bomb.” … Read more

($25):  A whiff of savory notes peek out from the ripe Sonoma fruit lending intrigue to this Pinot Noir.  A touch of heat and sweetness in the finish reflects the stated 14.5 percent alcohol.  Mild tannins allow you to enjoy it with grilled salmon.… Read more

($32): Dry Creek Vineyard, still owned by the Stare family, is approaching their half-century mark of making wine in Dry Creek Valley.  Though I’ve always been a fan of their balanced wines, I think they are just getting better and better. … Read more