Cortese is an Italian wine grape variety used to create white wines. Earliest records of Cortese date to 1659 in Montaldeo and note that all vineyards were planted with the Cortese or Vermentino variety. Cortese was widely planted in the 1800s in Piedmont due to its ability to withstand disease and to produce high yields and good quality wine. Wines containing the Cortese variety are medium bodied wines with notes of lime and greengage. Some vines grown in cooler regions tend to produce very acidic flavors, but producers have found a way to mellow the tone of the wine with oak barrel fermentation. The taste of the Cortese white wine is said to be a signature Italian taste, with pleasing aromas and light flavor. The wines are typically higher priced due to the location of Piedmont, where the wines are produced. Growers, however, have planted Cortese in California, although the amount planted is quite small. Cortese is mostly linked with the Cortese di Gavi wine that is created in the area of Alessandria. The grape has a moderate level of acidity and a light flavor, and is paired well with seafood dishes. In restaurants in Genoa, the wine is paired with fresh seafood from the Lingurian coast. Cortese is also used to blend with the Bianco di Custoza.
This 100% Cortese white offers fruity aromas intertwined with hints of daisy and acacia flowers. Fresh and elegant on the palate with charming citrus notes.
DAOU Vineyards Soul of a Lion is made from 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 13% Cabernet Franc, 7% Petit Verdot .
The 2020 vintage presents an alluring profusion of black cherry, mulberry and Oregon blackberry aromas with notes of leather, cigar box and dark chocolate. Hints of desert sage and crème de menthe accent the rich fruit. The palate is silky and voluptuous, delivering loads of currant, cassis, black raspberry and ripe cherry. Notes of fig and baking spice are underscored by earthy tones of dates and truffle. Mature, ripe tannins yield a weighty, velvety texture integrated with a limestone minerality and subtle oak. A lengthy finish leaves lingering impressions of blackberry, plum and espresso with a touch of white pepper. A wine of immense staying power that will evolve favorably for many years to come.
Review:
Impressively dark in the glass, this bottling pairs intense purple fruit and flower on this nose with more roasted, umami-laden aromas. The elegant palate is a master class in tannin management, proving firm in structure yet soft in mouthfeel. Flavors of blackberry jam, cocoa, walnut and cracked pepper ride a lingering acidity into the finish.
-Wine Enthusiast 97 Points
Robert Mondavi Winery Cabernet Sauvignon is made from 91% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petit Verdot, 3% Cabernet Franc, 1% Malbec.
The 2022 Robert Mondavi Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon shows notes of plum, blackberry, licorice, chocolate, violet, and warm spice. Dark plum and black fruit carry through to the palate. Fresh and lively with plush tannins and a polished structure.
Review:
"A solid representation of Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine sources fruit from St. Helena down to Carneros, with the bulk of the blend coming from the Wappo Hill property in Stags Leap. All five Bordeaux varieties are included in the blend. Fermentation begins with a cold soak in stainless steel, followed by 26 days on skins, and 18 months of ageing in 31% new French oak. The wine opens with powerful Kirsch aromatics, lifted by bright Bing cherry, warm baking spices, new wood cedar, and white pepper. It is plush and layered on the palate, with black-toned fruit and robust, lingering tannins that carry through a long finish of dark red and black fruit, warming spices, and mineral tension. A balanced expression of power and fruit-forward ripeness, this vintage showcases both depth and structure, making for a bold yet polished Napa Cabernet."- Jonathan Cristaldi, February 2025 Pts. Decanter