2006 Grgich Hills Estate Napa Valley Zinfandel

Mission Codename: In Harmony

Operative: Agent Red

Objective: Revisit our friends at Grgich Hills Estate to acquire their delicious Napa Valley Estate Zinfandel

Mission Status: Accomplished!

Current Winery: Grgich Hills Estate

Wine Subject: 2006 Napa Valley Estate Zinfandel

Winemaker: Miljenko “Mike” Grgich

Backgrounder: In 1976, Mike Grgich rocked the wine world by creating a California that beat out French Chardonnays in the now famous Judgment of Paris. The French were outraged, and Mike Grgich earned the respect of wine drinkers and critics, worldwide. Today, Mike continues to oversee production of what have been heralded as “the finest wines in the world”. We are very proud to be able to bring you today’s fantastic Grgich Hills Estate Napa Valley Zinfandel.

Wine Spies Tasting Profile:

Look – Deep ruby red with a slight burgundy tinge, with perfect clarity and color that remains concentrated out to the edges of the wine. This wine has a tight and springy surface that settles very quickly when swirled, leaving behind widely-spaced and skinny legs that move quickly down the glass

Smell – A deep inhalation delivers a delightful rush of layered fruits of juicy raspberry, strawberry, blackberry, and plum jam, with plenty of spice, dark forest floor, soft cocoa, black pepper and soft earth

Feel – Medium bodied right out of the gate, softly grippy and mouth-coating, a plush tannins take hold all around the palate

Taste – Delicious and very flavorful, but balanced and not at all overpowering. This wine shows off tasty layers of dark berry jam, raspberry, strawberry, mixed spice, a hint of sweetwood and softest dried meats

Finish – Deep layers of flavor taper off very slowly, leaving behind a slight dryness and sweetness that makes you jump right into your next gulp of this delicious wine

Conclusion – This is another fantastic wine from our old friends at Grgich Estate! This is the sort of wine that is delicious and delightful on it’s own, but pair it with your favorite meal for a real treat. This is a big and flavorful wine, but it has enough balance and acidity to make it food-friendly. I encourage you to sample it both ways for a varied experience with the wine. Once again, Mike Grgich and his entire winemaking team strut their stuff – and show off the virtues of Biodynamic farming – with this delicious Zinfandel. We tip our spy hats to you, Mike and Ivo!

Mission Report:

WINEMAKER INTEL BRIEFING DOSSIER

SUBJECT: Miljenko “Mike” Grgich

DATE OF BIRTH: April 1st, 1923

PLACE OF BIRTH: Desne, in Croatia’s coastal Dalmatian region

WINE EDUCATION: Attended University of Zagreb. Field of study, viticulture and enology

CALIFORNIA WINERIES EXPERIENCE: Christian Brothers Cellars, Souverain Winery, Robert Mondavi and Beaulieu Vineyard (with André Tchelistcheff)

FOUNDED NAMESAKE WINERY: Grgich Hills Cellar, founded 1977, renamed to Grgich Hills Estate in 2006

WINEMAKING PHILOSOPHY: To, ”… year after year, is to improve the quality of [the] vineyards and [the] wines” and to, ”… remain committed to making distinctive wines with quality, consistency and longevity”.

SIGNATURE VARIETAL: Chardonnay

CAREER HIGHLIGHT: In 1976, Mike Grgich’s Chateau Montelena Chardonnay won the infamous Judgement of Paris tasting, to become the best Chardonnay in the world. The fact that a California wine won the tasting shocked the wine world – and spurned Mr. Grgich on to great success with his own winery

CAREER HIGHLIGHT: On March 7, 2008, in recognition of his impact and contribution to the wine industry, Mr. Grgich was inducted into the Vintner Hall of Fame. The honor coincided with his 50th vintage of winemaking in the Napa Valley

GRGICH QUOTE: ”For years, everybody in the world believed that only French soils could produce great wines. We shattered that myth. That was probably the most significant result of the Paris tasting. Our victory pumped new energy into the California wine industry, particularly in the Napa Valley.”

BLACK BERET: Mr. Grgich wears an ever present black beret. It is rumored that the beret is imbued with magical energies that power his winemaking talents. Further investigation is required…

Wine Spies Vineyard Check:

The location of the Grgich Hills Estate can be seen in this satellite photo.

2006 Podere Il Cocco Rosso di Montalcino DOC

Mission Codename: il Cocco no es loco

Operative: Agent White

Objective: Secure an exclusive and value oriented Rosso di Montalcino for our operatives.

Mission Status: Accomplished!

Current Winery: Podere il Cocco

Wine Subject: 2006 Rosso di Montalcino DOC

Winemaker: Mirco Bindo

Backgrounder:

Today’s selection is 100% Sangiovese grapes from the famed Montalcino region. In addition, the wines from Podere il Cocco are produced using organic and bio-dynamic farming methods resulting in fruit of exceptional quality and flavor character. This wine was aged for 12 months in traditional oak barrels and then sod for immediate consumption. The resulting wine truly highlights the purity of the 100% Sangiovese Grosso fruit.

Wine Spies Tasting Profile:

Look – Deep and intense ruby with ruby hues and reflections through its deep but clear core. Along the edges, the color lighten just slightly to ruby-red and fast thin legs and slow fat legs grace the edge of the glass when swirled.

Smell – Classically old-world and Tuscan aromatically, but in a more youthful and fresher manner. Earthy red cherry and other red fruits backed with a medium spicy kick. Toasted vanilla oak, a touch of wild fennel and pencil shavings add a pleasant complexity.

Feel – This dry full-bodied wine is bright and tangy with youthful medium-fine textured tannins, balanced acidity and a touch of spice that coats the mouth. At mid-palate, the spice kicks in and spreads to the edges to the edges of the mouth.

Taste – Bright, fresh and tart red fruit including Italian red cherry, pomegranate and cranberry are framed by a toasted oak and vanilla backbone. Earth and spice along with a touch of herbal bramble and tar keeps things interesting.

Finish – Medium in length and clean with lingering youthful tannins support the bright fruit and subtle complexity of this fresher Tuscan classic.

Conclusion – The 2006 Podere il Cocco Rosso di Montacino is the fun and fresh younger sibling of the region’s powerhouse wine. Youthful and bright flavors of red fruit and enough complexity to keep things interesting, this wine is perfect for just about any occasion that you’re feeling like adding a little Italian flair. If you are a fan of Sangiovese, then you’ll enjoy this wine.

Mission Report:

Agent Baco Noir had been hard at work, when I met up with her in Siena I could tell she was tired of being in the field for such an extended tour of duty. Not that she was complaining, drinking the finest wines from Italy, but sometimes you need a break. We couldn’t afford to let up for a single moment though. The evil cadre of O.D.S.W. (Only Drink Supermarket Wines) were constantly trying to foil our exploits and force the us to drink a world of boring mass produced flavorless wines.

I knew the perfect way to rejuvenate Baco. A short visit to a small farm with an exceptional view. Don’t tell Agent Blush as she may get jealous, but Baco needed some ‘girl time’. perfect place, a high peak in the Montalcino region with a view of the sea, a bottle of wine and just some quite time to enjoy it.

The perfect location? The farm at Podere il Cocco. I had made arrangements with the winery to visit the vineyards but this was going to be an easy trip. Upon arriving a note was left at the door with a small hand drawn map on it. We followed the map to the top of the hill behind the 200 year old farm-house and stables that had been converted to wine cellar.

Upon reaching the idea spot with a view of the famed Montalcino region, I noticed that Mirco Bindi, the owner and winemaker, had set up a small picnic blanket with a couple glasses and some simple but amazingly delicious Tuscan snacks.

Sitting there, drinking the 2007 Rosso di Montacino and taking a couple hour vacation from the world is exactly what the doctor had ordered.

Wine Spies Vineyard Check:

The location of the Podere il Cocco farm can be seen in this satellite photo.

2008 Trecini Cellars Sonoma County Sauvignon Blanc

Mission Codename: Live and Let Live, Part Two

Operative: Agent Red

Objective: Return to Trecini Cellars and return with the perfect Summertime refresher

Mission Status: Accomplished!

Current Winery: Trecini Cellars

Wine Subject: 2008 Russian River Valley Sauvignon Blanc

Winemaker: Dan Barwick

Backgrounder: Sauvignon Blanc originally hails from the Loire Valley in France, but has found new homes in other parts of France (Bordeaux, where it is blended with Sauternes); New Zealand, and specifically the Marlborough region as well as California. It is generally dry and crisp with flavors of apples, pears and tropical fruit and tends to have bright acidity that lends itself well to pairing with spicy foods.

Wine Spies Tasting Profile:

Look – Gorgeous pale straw yellow in color with perfectly clear and consistent color, right out to the edges of the glass. The springy surface of this wine settles very quickly after a good swirl, leaving behind tightly-packed, skinny legs that emerge quickly before streaking down the glass

Smell – Medium intensity on the nose with aromas of soft dried hay, soft grass, fresh citrus, subtle herbs and soft minerals. These aromas are balanced atop tropical notes of pineapple and starfruit, with a soft minerality

Feel – Soft and round on the entry, then crisp and slightly very slightly dry, with soft tannins that emerge with a slight minerality that evolves slowly in the mouth

Taste – Bright, crisp and fresh with flavors that closely echo the nose. These flavors are also accompanied by distinct soft lime, acacia, pineapple and subtle pink grapefruit

Finish – Clean and crisply fresh, the finish is soft and mouth-watering, with flavors that fall off slowly from tart to sweet as an easy minerality is revealed

Conclusion – This delicious and easy-drinking 2008 Russian River Valley Sauvignon Blanc is a delightful wine that is a pleasure to drink. With a few weeks of Summertime remaining, now is the perfect time for this tasty and budget-minded wine. We love wines from our friends at Trecini Cellars. Always, they are refined, balanced and a very tasty companion to a great meal. If you are looking for light-hearted but interesting white, this wine comes highly recommended. We enjoyed ours with grilled chicken and baked red potatoes. Delicious!

Mission Report:

WINEMAKER INTEL BRIEFING DOSSIER_

SUBJECT: Dan Barwick, Winemaker

PLACE OF BIRTH: Dover, England

WINE EDUCATION: Hands in vineyards and wineries on 4 continents, basic chemistry at Davis

CALIFORNIA WINE JOB BRIEF: Sonoma County vineyard and winemaking consultant

WINEMAKING PHILOSOPHY: Work with the vineyards, and get to know them, fine tune where necessary – low alcohols where possible, high acid

SIGNATURE VARIETAL: Sauvignon Blanc, Syrah and Cabernet Sauvignon

WINEMAKER QUOTE: ”Wine should be enjoyed with food and friends and not judged in flights of 40”

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WINEMAKER INTERVIEW

AGENT RED: Greetings, Dan. We are thrilled to be showing your 2008 Trecini Sauvignon Blanc today. Thanks so much for taking some time to answer questions for our Operatives today.

DAN: My pleasure, Red!

RED: Was there a specific experience in your life that inspired your love of wine?

DAN: I have worked with food since I was 16, I love food, and wine makes almost everything taste better.

RED: And where did you learn the most about winemaking?

DAN: In the vineyard and in wineries throughout the world, tasting a lot of different wines and asking a lot of questions and listening

RED: What is your winemaking style or philosophy?

DAN: Food friendly, lower alcohol. Sometimes the best Peach of the year is that first one you taste, where it’s just ripe enough, the fruit is fresh and piercing the texture is almost luscious and definitely mouthwatering. The same theory can follow with the time you harvest grapes – Riper is just not better. The riper the grape the less varietal distinctiveness it will have, and even less sense of place, ‘Terroir’.

RED: What wine or winemaker has most influenced your winemaking style?

DAN: Burgundy, Alsace, South Australia.

RED: How long have you been making wine?

DAN: 19 harvests

RED: Who do you make wine for?

DAN: Myself and people who love to enjoy eating and drinking.

RED: Tell me, what makes the Russian River Valley so special?

DAN: Russian River, and all of Sonoma County. Massive diversity in soils, climates, vineyard techniques and its people.

RED: What is one piece of advice that you would give to someone that is considering a career as a winemaker?

DAN: The more you Care – the better the wine.

RED: What is occupying your time at the winery these days?

DAN: Getting ready for 2009 harvest

RED: Please tell me a little bit about the wine we are featuring today

DAN: The Trecini Sauvignon Blanc is crisp, delicious, flavorful, complex and it’s an outstanding Sauvignon Blanc.

RED: What is your favorite pairing with today’s wine?

DAN: Fish, chicken, vegetables, or even pasta with clams.

RED: Please share one thing about yourself that few people know

DAN: My real name is Jonathan

RED: Interesting. We’ll have to explore that at a later date! What is your favorite ‘everyday’ or table wine?

DAN: RRV Sauvignon Blanc

RED: How would you recommend that people approach your wines, or wine in general?

DAN: Complexity is my thing so with each sip and glass you have the wine evolves and different aromas, flavors, textures greet you. And with food all of this is amplified. Life is good

RED: If you could choose any one wine to drink (regardless of price or availability), what would it be?

DAN: Burgundy

RED: What is the one question that I should have asked you, and what is your answer to that question?

DAN:Favorite food – Prosciutto, for flavor and texture

RED: Thank you so much for your time. We learned a lot about you – and about your wine. Keep up the great work, we are big fans!

DAN: You are welcome!

Wine Spies Vineyard Check:

The location of the Trecini Cellars’ Vicini Vineyard can be seen in this satellite photo.

2007 Starry Night Winery Sonoma County Zinfandel

Mission Codename: Warm Summer Starry Nights

Operative: Agent White

Objective: Return to Operative favorite, Starry Night Winery to recover one of their most popular Zinfandels

Mission Status: Accomplished

Current Winery: Starry Night Winery

Wine Subject: 2007 Sonoma County Zinfandel

Winemaker: Wayne Hansen

Backgrounder:

Varietal Backgrounder: Zinfandel is related to the Italian Primitivo grape, tracing its origin to the Croatian grape Crljenak Kastelanski. Zinfandel is one of the most versatile varietals with the ability to make wines, both rich to fruity, dark to light, and dry to sweet. Alexander Valley and the Russian River Valley, where this Zinfandel’s grapes are are grown are characterized by their balanced flavors, are gaining in popularity with our Operatives.

Wine Spies Tasting Profile:

Look – A deep garnet, with a dark but clear core that shows ruby colored highlights when held up to the light. When swirled, this wine shows a bouncy, fast-settling surface that leaves behind tightly spaced fat legs that take their time to emerge before they slowly descend down the side of the glass.

Smell – Bold, ripe and tangy aromas of wild bramble berry including blackberry, black cherry and raspberry with a dusty earthy-herbal touch and hints of exotic spice and soft oak.

Feel – This full-bodied Zinfandel is dry and tangy with firm textured tannins that coat the mouth, coupled with its bright acidity it leaves an almost chewy structure that lingers through to the finish.

Taste – Classically bright but balanced flavors of ripe dark wild bramble fruit including wild blackberry and red cherry and a touch of plum. Spicy white pepper and fresh cut oak supported by this wine’s sturdy and tangy structure. A touch of mocha and herbal bramble add to the easy drinking but complex flavor profile of this wine.

Finish – This wine finishes smooth and with medium length with balanced flavors of its fruit, spice and earthy minerals.

Conclusion – In tasting this wine, its clear why Starry Night Winery is one of our operatives’ most favorite Zinfandel producers. Classic bold Zinfandel aromas and flavors, but in a wine that doesn’t knock you over the head by being overly powerful. This blend of great Alexander Valley and Russian River Valley fruit shows a finesse and elegance not common in Zinfandel. We paired this wine with classic summertime fare including burgers, sandwiches and crudités.

Mission Report:

For those Operatives that missed it, what follows is a retransmission of a prior winemaker interview:

For today’s wine mission, we were able to get Starry Night winemaker, Wayne Hansen, to a secure location for the following interview:

AGENT RED: Greetings, Wayne. We are thrilled to be showing your Zinfandel today and I am happy that you made some time to answer some questions for our Operatives.

WAYNE HANSEN: No problem – and greetings to all you Operatives out there.

RED: Tell me, was there a specific experience in your life that inspired your love of wine?

WAYNE: In the early seventies, I went to weekly graduate school brown-bag screw-cap faculty seminars on demography and advanced statistical methods. These seminars developed into wine fests, with each of us bringing new wines to try (under $7.00). I think that was the only way they could keep us coming back for yet one more lecture! And, of course the gallons of Gallo consumed at every occasion.

RED: I hear that is a common practice at colleges these days. Where did you learn the most about winemaking?

WAYNE: In my garage.

RED: I remember reading that about you in an intelligence briefing. You’ve come a long way since then. We recently visited your winery. Impressive to be sure. Tell me, what is your winemaking style or philosophy?

WAYNE: I am a minimalist – the less fussing, the better. And of course, like raising children, do no harm. I make all of my wines fruit forward, not overly extracted, and very approachable.

RED: And what wine or winemaker has most influenced your winemaking style?

WAYNE: That would have to be a young guy that came and made some wine with us early in my career – Nick DeLuca (now winemaker for Dierberg and Star Lane). Like me, he was not fussy and he taught me to work with the fruit as it was picked, tailoring the process to develop the best qualities of those particular grapes at that particular time, to be creative with solving any problems they may present, and to avoid formulaic wine making.

RED: How long have you been making wine?

WAYNE: Only about 12 years.

RED: You’ve accomplished a lot in that time! What is one piece of advice that you would give to someone that is considering a career as a winemaker?

WAYNE: You might want to reconsider! Working for a large corporate winery is no fun, and working for a small winery can be a lot of fun, but has its own set of challenges. In any case, winemaking is a lot of hard work, requiring dedication, perseverance, and guts. It is not for the faint of heart.

RED: What is occupying your time at the winery these days?

WAYNE: Paperwork, blending, and bottling. In that order.

RED: Please tell me a little bit about the wine we are featuring today.

The following answer refers to a wine that we featured previously

WAYNE: This is the last vintage of the Tom Feeney Ranch Old Vine Zinfandel. We have made this wine every year from 1997 until 2006. It has been our flagship wine. After Tom’s death, the vineyard was sold in 2006 and all but one small plot of zinfandel was replanted with Pinot Noir grapes. These were historical vineyards that should have been preserved and their loss was mourned by all of us who knew and loved the wine that came from those gnarly old vines.

This is a wine that will age well. We recently did a vertical tasting back to 2002 and found that the earlier vintages were showing very well, with the 2002 and 2004 being favorites. In short, this wine is very drinkable now, but it will age very well and will continue to develop for ten or more years.

RED: What is your favorite pairing with today’s wine?

WAYNE: A nice veal or lamb chop. Although I have had it paired nicely with everything from oyster bisque to a chocolate éclair.

RED: Please share one thing about yourself that few people know

WAYNE: My grandparents, who grew Thompson Seedless grapes for raisins ONLY, were extremely active in the temperance movement and actually helped destroy wine and wineries during prohibition. I hope they are rolling over in their graves.

RED: More than likely, they are proud! What is your favorite ‘everyday’ or table wine?

WAYNE: Other than a cold beer, any good zinfandel.

RED: How would you recommend that people approach your wines, or wine in general?

WAYNE: My best approach is usually with one or more wine glasses and a cork screw. One of my favorite answers to such a question paraphrases Dorothy Parker – “Like a lion approaching an antelope – with anticipation and gusto”.

RED: Great answer! If you could choose any one wine to drink (regardless of price or availability), what would it be?

WAYNE: The Libfraumilch in a clay bottle that I drank one fine afternoon in 1964 with my true love under an oak tree by a trickling stream deep in Malibu Canyon. That was the best wine I ever drank.

RED: I can see why. Thank you for spending this time with me today. And keep making your wonderful wine. We remain loyal fans of your work!

WAYNE: Thank you, Agent Red.

Wine Spies Vineyard Check:

The location of the Alexander Valley, in Sonoma County can be seen in this satellite photo.

2006 von Strasser Winery Diamond Mountain District Cabernet Sauvignon

Mission Codename: Diamonds are Forever – Part Duex

Operative: Agent White

Objective: Return to von Strasser to procure a Diamond District Cabernet Sauvignon that embodies the best that the unique region has to offer

Mission Status: Accomplished!

Current Winery: von Strasser Winery

Wine Subject: 2006 Diamond Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon

Winemaker: Rudy von Strasser

Backgrounder: Best known for its exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, von Strasser Winery in Napa Valley’s scenic Calistoga, has been a long time Wine Spies favorite! Where 2004 and 2005 were a fantastic years for Napa Valley Cabernet, we feel that today’s ready-to-drink 2006 Diamond District Cabernet Sauvignon also has incredible potential for aging – if you have the patience.

The Diamond District AVA (American Viticultural Area) sits at the northern most tip of the Napa Valley, in the Mayacamas Mountains. The higher elevation of the region sees more direct sunlight and less cooling that the rest of the valley, leading to the production of some of the most concentrated and delicious Cabernet Sauvignon in the entire Napa Valley.

Wine Spies Tasting Profile:

Look – Deep and dark garnet in color that shows just a few glistening reflections through its dense but clear core. Along the edges the color fades just slightly and when swirled, fast randomly spaced thin legs ring the glass.

Smell – Medium bold in intensity with ripe aromas of blackberry, blueberry and cassis layered over complex notes of floral violet and sweet vanilla oak, a touch of anise, mocha coffee and dark chocolate provides tremendous depth and richness.

Feel – Round and plush with supple fine grained textured tannins and balanced acidity that coats the palate and lingers long into the finish. Not quite chewy, but not far from it.

Taste – This wine has classic California Cabernet flavors with the distinct earthy/mineral character of Diamond Mountain. Wild bramble blackberry, blueberry, and plum with sweet fresh oak, herbal and floral notes with a touch of minerality from the volcanic soil of the vineyard. Complex flavors of dark chocolate and anise add to the rich and plush flavors that continue long into the finish.

Finish – Long and lingering rich flavors are supported long into the finish by the supple and textured tannins of this wine, making the mouth water and inviting another sip.

Conclusion – The 2006 von Strasser Winery Diamond Mountain Cabernet Sauvignon is a lovely and elegant Napa Cab from a great vintage. Enough complexity to keep things interesting but not so much that it gets in the way of the great rich and dense fruit. Enjoy this wine right now with grilled meats and also try, if you can, to keep a few bottles stashed away in the cellar to enjoy in the future.

Mission Report:

While my life is almost completely consumed with wine, I do have other interests. One of them is treasure hunting.

I am constantly receiving intel for my assets around the wine industry – and sometimes that intel has noting to do with wine.

Recently, I received a report that the world famous Diamond District, in the norther tip of the Napa Valley, was so named because a cache of stolen diamonds was buried high up in the Mayacams mountains, among some of the fines Cabernet Sauvignon grapes known to humankind.

This report included clues to the specific whereabouts of the diamonds, valued at an estimated $5 million. My source provided a map, general coordinates and a few old photographs from the 1920’s. I agreed to a 50/50 split and set of to Napa.

Once up in the Mayacamas, a gorgeous vine-covered region at the northern tip of the Napa Valley. Juggling the old photos and my portable GPS, I managed to make my way what was almost certainly the right vicinity.

[beep.boop.beep beep.boop.beep]

An open wine glass? Up here? My Wine Spies PDA is never wrong, and that alert was difficult to believe. Utilizing the PDA’s direction finder, I made my way toward the wine. I made my way down a vineyard row, turned a corner – and witnessed a remarkable sight: A small table with a white tablecloth with a single glass of wine atop it!

I approached the table and saw that its surface was strewn with… with… loose diamonds! My heart raced. Ignoring the note card that sat next to the wine glass, I grabbed a diamond and examined it with my jewelers loop. My heart sank. These were no diamonds. Instead, just fakes.

I stood there for a moment, stunned. Eventually, I snapped out of it and reached for the card. It read, “Agent Red. My apologies for the subterfuge. To make it up to you, I have arranged a special allocation of a very special wine for you. Sincerely, [CENSORED] – von Strasser Winery.”

This note was significant and I felt instantly better. I had been trying to infiltrate the von Strasser Winery for months. Their wines, particularly their Cabernet Sauvignon, is the stuff of legend.

I grabbed up the glass, inhaled deeply, and took a sip. Heavenly.

Then, my phone rang.

“Agent Red. [REDACTED] here, from von Strasser….”

The rest is obvious, dear Operative, for today you have a unique opportunity to sample one of the best Cabs from one of the best regions – by one of Napa Valley’s best wineries.

Diamonds? Who needs diamonds, when you have a wine this good?

Cheers!

Wine Spies Vineyard Check:

The gorgeous location of the steeply sloping von Strasser vineyards can be seen in this satellite photo.

2006 Adobe Road Bacigalupi Vineyard Russian River Valley Petite Sirah

Mission Codename: The Great Toothbrush Incident, Part Deux

Operative: Agent Red

Objective: Return to Operative’s favorite, Adobe Road Winery, and return with their newest Petite Sirah, this time from Bacigalupi Vineyards

Mission Status: Accomplished!

Current Winery: Adobe Road Winery

Wine Subject: 2006 Adobe Road Petite Sirah – Bacigalupi Vineyard – Russian River Valley

Winemaker: Michael Scorsone

Backgrounder: The Russian River Valley is ideally suited for red grape varietals. Its early morning fog and coastal breezes result in a cooler climate than the neighboring wine growing regions. For today’s wine, Agent Red returns to our old friends, Adobe Road Winery, and he returns with their deep, rich and delicious 2006 Bacigalupi Vineyards Petite Sirah.

The Bacigalupi family has been growing some of the finest – andmost famous – fruit in California for nearly a half century. The family’s vineyards earned notariety in the 1970’s when their grapes caused a worldwide sensation. With wine made from Bacigalupi grapes, Chateau Montelena of Napa Valley stunned the world by winning the prestegious Judgement of Paris, beating out wines from France, the traditional winners of the competition. Today’s wine is made from the finest Bacigalupi fruit, and to great effect. The Wine Spies love this well-balanced and very delicious Petite Sirah. Read Agent Reds interview with Adobe winemaker, Michael Scorsone, following his tasting notes below

Varietal Backgrounder:

Petite Sirah’s California roots dates back to when it was believed to be a close relative of the Syrah grape. Later it would be found to be genetically identical to the Durif, named for its after French discoverer François Durif who found that the varietal was a Syrah grape pollinated with Peloursin flowers. Its smaller berries with higher skin to pulp ratio leads to more intense flavors. Another benefit of the smaller berries are tighter clusters that are more resistant to mildew. Currently Petite Sirah is less popular in France and increasingly popular in the United States.

Wine Spies Tasting Profile:

Look – Deep, dark inky Burgundy heart, with a solid and tightly springy surface, this wine shows off darkly concentrated purple edges and tightly-spaced, skinny legs that run down the glass at varying speeds after swirling

Smell – A big rush of overripe blackberry leads off, followed by smoky dark blueberry, cassis, subtle dried meats, smoky tree bark, dried leaves, pepper and the softest hint of tutti-fruity ice cream

Feel – Very round on initial entry, but then quickly grippy and mouth coating as a mid-palate dryness makes a sudden appearance, coating the mouth with rich, medium to big tannins

Taste – Darkly delicious, richly layered and highly concentrated, with flavors of dusky/jammy mixed dark berries, tart cranberry, cassis, darkest black cherry, plum, with soft spice, oak, subtle cedar and a tasty hint of dried leaves

Finish – Long, dry and dusky, with rich, dark flavors that start sweet, go slightly tart, then back to sweet as your watering mouth reminds you to take another delicious sip

Conclusion – This is another delicious offering from our great friends at Adobe Road! We went ga-ga over their last Petite Sirah, shown here just a few months back, but we have to admit – we like this one even more. With a balanced boldness that is thrilling, this wine is a food-friendly treat that, like some Petite’s can do, will not overpower your meal. We enjoyed our sample bottles with a wide variety of foods, including grilled New Your steak, roasted chicked, grilled potatoes, a fresh garden saladand gourmet sausages. Against each of these, the wine held up beautifully and so did the food. This is a big Petite, but not so big as to be problematic. If you look for balance in your Petite Sirah, this wine is a superb choice.

Mission Report:

Today we are very pleased to bring you an interview with the very busy winemaker for Adobe Road Winery, Michael Scorsone:

AGENT RED: Greetings, Michael. We are thrilled to be showing your newest 2006 Bacigalupi Petite Sirah today. The wine is fantastic. Can you please tell us a little bit about the wine?

MICHAEL SCORSONE: Hi Agent Red!!! Thanks. We all love this wine. This Petite Sirah is a monster!! It has loads of texture and body with an intense, lingering finish. It’s like enjoying a chocolate blueberry espresso with ginger and orange peel, ”if that makes any sense” . I remember when we were racking this wine for the last time to bottle it. The production cellar was filled with intense aromas. It smelled like black figs and truffles. It’s making me hungry just talking about it.

RED: Was there a specific experience in your life that inspired your love of wine?

MICHAEL: Growing-up in an Italian Family, attending the C.I.A, Being a professional chef.

RED: C.I.A.?! By that, you mean the Culinary Institute of America and not that other spy agency. Tell me this, where did you learn the most about winemaking?

MICHAEL: I learned a lot through previous jobs and schooling, Traveling and working in Italy, France, New Zealand. However, anyone can learn to make wine. It’s personality and philosophy that sets us apart.

RED: What is your winemaking style or philosophy?

MICHAEL: Let the wines show character and personality. A strong sense of vineyard location. Show tradition…but not afraid to take chances. Don’t make the wine into something it’s not.

RED: Porsche racing legend, Kevin Buckler, owns the winery. How much input does he have during the winemaking process?

MICHAEL: Kevin has a great pallet! He is always tasting with us and giving input. He definitely brings something to the table.

RED: How long have you been making wine?

MICHAEL: ‘09 will be my 8th vintage.

RED: Excellent. And who do you make wine for?

MICHAEL: Myself! RED: Tell me, what makes the Bacigalupi Vineyard and the Russian River Valley so special?

MICHAEL: Sure.. It is a combination of everything from the site, exposure, soil, temperature, weather, etc. but most important, it is the Bacigalupi family who make this vineyard special. They have been farming this vineyard for over fifty years. Some of their Zinfandel vines are over a hundred years old. They know every single vine on their property like the back of their hand. This attention to detail is what separates great from exceptional!

RED: What is one piece of advice that you would give to someone that is considering a career as a winemaker?

MICHAEL: It is a lifestyle…not just a job! You have to love it and be passionate about farming and winemaking. Yes.. it is romantic, but it is very hard work.

RED: What is occupying your time at the winery these days?

MICHAEL: Traveling …… You have to sell the stuff too!!!!

RED: Please tell me a little bit about the wine we are featuring today

MICHAEL: Lots of fresh black plumb and sweet baking spices. This wine is from very old vines in the hills of dry creek.

RED: What is your favorite pairing with today’s wine?

MICHAEL: So far, my favorite meals with this wine have been spicy and sweet dishes like Thai or BBQ with a sweet ,spicy, sticky sauce.

RED: Sounds delicious. I’ll have to try that. Please share one thing about yourself that few people know

MICHAEL: If I tell you….then everyone will know.

RED: What is your favorite ‘everyday’ or table wine?

MICHAEL: I love “Burgundy” I also love to find cheap random “old-world” wines that are usually overlooked.

RED: How would you recommend that people approach your wines, or wine in general?

MICHAEL: With a corkscrew, a glass, and a willing attitude!

RED: Nice! If you could choose any one wine to drink (regardless of price or availability), what would it be?

MICHAEL: Wow !!!! I could go crazy trying to narrow that down to one wine. Probably some older Domain Dujac from Burgundy

RED: What is the one question that I should have asked you, and what is your answer to that question?

MICHAEL: Shaken…….not stirred and long walks on a beach

RED: Interesting… Well, Michael, thank very much for spending this time with me. Keep up the great work, we continue to be big fans!

MICHAEL: Thanks, Red!

Wine Spies Vineyard Check:

The location of the world famous Bacigalupi Vineyards can be seen in this satellite photo.

2006 Jacuzzi Family Vineyards Primitivo

Mission Codename: Mature Beyond its Age

Operative: Agent White

Objective: Secure a limited allocation of the delicious and value oriented Jacuzzi Primitivo

Mission Status: Accomplished!

Current Winery: Jacuzzi Family Vineyards

Wine Subject: 2006 Primitivo

Winemaker: Charlie Tsegeletos

Backgrounder:

Primitivo, a native grape of southern Italy can trace its earliest heritage back to ancient Greece. Genetically, it is nearly identical to Zinfandel with Zin having the identical DNA as the clone of Primitivo found in and around Puglia Italy. Primitivo gets its name from the monks who tended this varietal as they noticed it was one of the first to ripen amongst their vines. Known for its rich and vibrant color, aromas and flavors of zesty cherry and spice, Primitivo is best enjoyed young (within five or so years of bottling), however this wine can and does improve with cellaring as well.

Wine Spies Tasting Profile:

Look – Bright garnet in color with ruby-red reflections through its brilliant clear core. Along the edges, the color fades to a ruby-pink and when swirled, clusters of alternating fast and slow thin legs ring the glass.

Smell – Medium in intensity with aromas of sweet and ripe red fruit and fragrant floral notes. A touch of dusty earth, tar and spice as well as a distinct mocha coffee aroma emerge as this wine opens up and breathes.

Feel – Rich and plush, this medium-to-full bodied wine has sweet medium-firm tannins and slightly tangy acidity that adds a freshness to the smooth structure.

Taste – Focused flavors of dusty red cherry along with other bramble fruits including wild raspberry, blackberry and strawberry. A pleasant and soft oak component, a touch of earthiness and mild cayenne and clove spice round out the vibrant and fresh flavors of this wine.

Finish – Medium long in length with lingering flavors of spice and fruit that are supported by its fresh and youthful structure.

Conclusion – The 2006 Jacuzzi Family Vineyards Primitivo is a delicious and fun wine that will appeal to anyone who loves Zinfandel. This wine has a more fresh and youthful appeal to it as opposed to the denser, and often times, over extracted Zinfandel at comparable price. Enjoy this wine with everything on your next pizza night, or with bold and spicy southern Italian cuisine, either way you win with the delicious wine.

Mission Report:

WINEMAKER INTEL BRIEFING DOSSIER

SUBJECT: Charles G. Tsegeletos

DATE OF BIRTH: 1956 AD

PLACE OF BIRTH: The county of Marin in Northern California

WINE EDUCATION: University of California at Davis degree but really educated by the myriad of great and sharing winemakers that I have known.

CALIFORNIA WINE JOB BRIEF: now: Cline and Jacuzzi Director of Winemaking; then:Glen Ellen Director of Winemaking, D’Agostini Winemaker; Hacienda Assistant Winemaker; Pendleton Apprentice Winemaker

WINEMAKING PHILOSOPHY: Make balanced wine that is delicious

SIGNATURE VARIETAL: Zinfandel (Primitivo)

CAREER HIGHLIGHT: The 2007 Cline Ancient Vine Mourvedre is one seriously tasty wine.

WINEMAKER QUOTE: ”You just know when you have made a great wine because your wife will like it too.”

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WINEMAKER INTERVIEW

AGENT RED: Greetings, Charles. We are thrilled to be showing your Primitivo today. Thanks so much for taking some time to answer questions for our Operatives today.

CHARLIE: Thanks for having me. And, please, call me Charlie

RED: Thanks, Charlie! Was there a specific experience in your life that inspired your love of wine?

CHARLIE: A 1975 Charles Krug Cabernet Sauvignon at a tasting I attended after college rocked my world.

RED And where did you learn the most about winemaking?

CHARLIE: Over the years I have had a chance to work with a number of experienced and sharing winemakers. Each winemaker has a tool box for creating wines. I kept the tools that worked for me and discarded the ones that I considered marketing fluff or did not deliver enough bang-for-the buck.

RED: What is your winemaking style or philosophy?

CHARLIE: The grapes will lead you in the direction of wine that they want to become but a winemaker chooses the style – in other words a big flavorful red grape can make a big flavorful red wine but it can also make a delicate rose depending on it’s treatment in the winery.

RED: What wine or winemaker has most influenced your winemaking style?

CHARLIE: There have been a bunch of them but one that sticks out is Joel Aiken who was the Beaulieu Winemaker for many years asked me what blend I was working on was suppose to taste like and it really made me reconsider that each wine should have a unique signature and, as winemaker, I had better have an idea of what it was!

RED: How long have you been making wine?

CHARLIE: 29 years

RED: Who do you make wine for?

CHARLIE: I make wine for our consumers which happens to be just like the wine that I like to drink.

RED: Tell me, what makes Oakley such a special winegrowing region?

CHARLIE: Deep sand and warm temperatures in Oakley have kept our ancient Zinfandel, Carignane and Mourvedre alive despite that pesky root louse. Cool temperatures in Sonoma challenge our Syrah and Mourvedre to ripen and give us great “cool grown” flavors.

RED: What is one piece of advice that you would give to someone that is considering a career as a winemaker?

CHARLIE: Go to a leading university, become a good salesman, become a good mechanic – I think these things are important in succeeding in today’s market.

RED: What is occupying your time at the winery these days?

CHARLIE: Everything as usual – I am working on blends, we are bottling, we are talking to growers, we are in our vineyards, etc etc….

RED: Please share one thing about yourself that few people know

CHARLIE: I have loved motorcycles since my parents would not let me have a mini-bike when I was twelve. I have not been without one since I was 15 years old.

RED: How would you recommend that people approach your wines, or wine in general?

CHARLIE: If you think about what you are drinking you will be going a long way toward appreciating it.

RED: If you could choose any one wine to drink (regardless of price or availability), what would it be?

CHARLIE: Right now a cold glass of Dom would be good.

RED: What is the one question that I should have asked you, and what is your answer to that question?

CHARLIE: Do our wines compare favorable to a wine that cost 75 bucks a bottle? Put them both in a brown bag, taste them side by side and decide for yourself!

RED: Thank you so much for your time. We learned a lot about you – and about your wine. Keep up the great work, we are big fans!

CHARLIE: Cheers and good luck with your business

Wine Spies Vineyard Check:

The location of the Jacuzzi Family Vineyards can be seen in this satellite photo.

2006 Ty Caton Sonoma Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Mission Codename: Live and Let Ty

Operative: Agent White

Objective: Return to Ty Caton Vineyards to retrieve Ty’s delicious 2006 Sonoma Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Mission Status: Accomplished!

Current Winery: Ty Caton Vineyards

Wine Subject: 2006 Sonoma Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Winemaker: Ty Caton

Backgrounder:

The Sonoma Valley AVA is one of the oldest wine growing regions in California with the first vines being planted in the early 1800s. The AVA is located along California Route 12 and its eastern boundary are the southern end of the Mayacama mountains. The unique micro-climate with less rainfall and fog than other parts of the region along with its unique soil provides ideal growing conditions for Zinfandel and especially Cabernet Sauvignon.

Wine Spies Tasting Profile:

Look – Deep and dark purple that lightens just slightly to an intense garnet hue along the edges. Dark and almost black, but clear through its dense core that allows just hints of garnet highlights shine through. When swirled, slow clusters of medium thick legs that show hints of color slide down the side of the glass.

Smell – A bold and youthful nose with aromas of dark fruit including black cherry that are complexly layered over a distinct oak and classic Cabernet herbal component. As it opens, hints of soft licorice, sweet smoke and mocha emerge.

Feel – This full-bodied wine is rich and supple on the palate. At mid palate, fine-grained but firm tannins and a slight tangy acidity and touch of spice coat the mouth and spreads to the edge of the palate.

Taste – Round, rich and complex Cabernet flavors of black fruit including black cherry, dark plum and blackberry that are supported by a solid oak framework. A touch of exotic spice and pepper, mocha, oak and licorice add to the robust flavor profile of this wine.

Finish – This wine finishes long with lingering dark fruit, oak, spice and bittersweet chocolate supported by its well structured tannins that goes on and on, tempting you into another sip.

Conclusion – The 2006 Ty Caton Sonoma Valley Cabernet Sauvignon is a delicious and classic Cab that shows that Sonoma Valley can clearly rival the best of Napa. An aromatic nose invites you into a deep inhale, when sipped the rich and round attack that is followed by a solid structure that supports its excellent complex blend of fruit, oak, spice and other flavors make the mouth water.

Mission Report:

Read about Agent Red’s original encounter with Ty Caton here when he discovered their Field Blend Red.

TY CATON: This is Ty.

AGENT RED: Ty Caton, Agent Red calling.

TY: Are we on a secure line?

RED: We are. I know how busy you are, so thanks for spending a few minutes with me today. Is harvest keeping you busy?

TY: Yes, but we’re about half way through. Merlot, Malbec, Syrah, and Petite Sirah are off – and next week the Cabernet Sauvignon will start to come off. By mid-month, we’ll be done and crush will continue. I won’t get a great until right around Thanksgiving!

RED: Such is the life of a winemaker, eh?!

TY: Indeed. I have to tell you, 2008 is looking really great. We had some crazy weather, but because of our elevation, we didn’t get hit hard by the frost like other wineries did.

RED: That’s good news! Tell me, Ty, how your career in winemaking began. Are you a lifer?

TY: Actually, I have a background in real estate development. When I was 26 years old, after completing a real estate project, I caught the wine bug. My parents has land in Napa. We became partners, and I began growing grapes.

RED: But that wasn’t enough for you, was it…

TY: No. I had made good friends with our neighbor, who was planting his vineyards at the same time. He turned out to be the winemaker for Ravenswood – and he continues with Ravenswood to this day.

RED: That’s Peter Mathis, right?

TY: Correct. We worked with Peter and, in 2000, released our first vintage. I’ve been honing my winemaking abilities ever since.

RED: I’d say that you’ve done a great job in that regard. Your 2005 Field Blend Red Wine is a super-delicious treat. Here at Wine Spies HQ, we really love the wine.

[note: This was the wine we featured last year. We like today’s Malbec even better!]

TY: Thanks. The Field Blend Red is a really special wine. I call it my ‘mini-TyTanium’.

RED: So-called for your TyTanium wine – your flagship, right?

TY: Exactly, but where my TyTanium is a $65 wine, this Field Blend is less than half the price.

RED: We declare the wine to have an exceptional QPR. Its really a great wine, with very distinctive layers of aromas and unique flavors. Its delicious!

TY: I’m glad that you like it. I pick grapes for flavor and blend for maximum effect. I strive to create head turning wines that are rich and deep, yet approachable and fun to drink.

RED: Congratulations, then! You’ve managed just that with all of the Ty Caton wines we have tasted!

Wine Spies Vineyard Check:

The location of the Ty Caton Vineyards & winery can be seen in this satellite photo.

2007 L’Antica Quercia Matiu Prosecco di Conegliano Brut DOC

Mission Codename: Ancient Oaks Sparkle in the Sun

Operative: Agent Sparkle

Objective: Secure an exclusive Italian sparkler for our operatives

Mission Status: Accomplished!

Current Winery: Azienda Agricola L’Antica Quercia

Wine Subject: 2007 Matiu Prosecco di Conegliano Brut DOC

Backgrounder:

Prosecco, a native white grape of northeastern Italy originating in the village of the same same, shines as the preferred spumante, its favorite sparking wine and in Venice, at just about every cafe in the late afternoon it is served as the favorite aperitif and obrette for Venetians.

Some of the best Prosecco comes from around the villages of Conegliano and Valdobbiaden in the hills just north of Venice. Many Prosecco are slightly sweeter and less fizzy than its cousin Champagne, however, today’s selection is a fully dry Brut. Also, Prosecco is made differently from Champagne with its secondary fermentation taking place in pressurized tanks (a method called Charmat) as opposed to a secondary fermentation in the bottle (methode champenoise).

Wine Spies Tasting Profile:

Look – Pale straw yellow in color with a brilliant clear core, medium fine bubbles and moderate effervescence that leaves a medium mouse that lingers just long enough to kiss your nose as you take a your first sip. When swirled, alternating fast and slow medium thick legs ring and descend along the side of the glass.

Smell – Fresh and youthful on the nose with bright aromas of citrus fruit, a solid mineral component, lightly perfumed floral notes, and a touch of orange blossom honey and a hint of almonds.

Feel – This fully dry Brut Prosecco has an initially smooth attack with amble minerality that lingers long into this sparkler’s finish. Medium-bodied with crisp acidity and a good structure supports the clean fruit as its spumante lingers on the tongue.

Taste – Fresh and tart flavors of citrus including Meyers lemon and tart Clementine orange are framed and backed by a solid flinty and limestone minerality. A touch of melon, honey, and white flowers and a tiny hint of creamy nuts rounds out the bright clean flavors of this wine.

Finish – Crisp and clean with a lingering minerality that supports its fresh citrus and other flavors of this delicous sparkler.

Conclusion – The 2007 L’Antica Quercia Matiu Prosecco di Conegliano Brut DOC is classic Venetian in character with fresh, bright flavors and a dry crisp texture. If you find yourself in need of a mental vacation to Italy, this is a perfect getaway. Fresh and clean, drier than most Prosecco, this wine will pair perfectly with grilled calamari, seafood antipasto and anchovies, or if you must, you can always make a perfect Bellini.

Mission Report:

Agent Sparkle reporting in. I know I’ve been AWOL for a while but its not without cause. I needed a break for the routine and thus jumped on the opportunity to do some covert ops related to our international selections. My travels took me to Italy, where I was able to brush up on my language skills and also rediscover some great wines that, it seemed Agent White had all the fun in reviewing.

It was, of course, with his guidance that I made the trip. He had wanted me to investigate several of the wines from the northeast including his personal favorite Amarone, but but tastes are different. After connecting with his local asset Agent Baco Noir and explaining my dilemma, she said not to worry. White might be a hard ass, but us Italians can always tempt him with our great wines, and if not our wines, our Italian flair and fantastic footwear.

Being the resident sparkle or in Italian spumante agent, I went in search of some fun and delicious bubbly wines to bring back and feature. Agent Baco Noir gave me a lead, she said go to the the cafe Al Prosecco Enoiteca (a fitting name) in Venice’s Campo San Giacomo at 4PM local time. Once there I was to use the code words L’Antica Quercia or The Ancient Oak, or at least I thought it was a code word. That is until the waiter smiled and said sure, its one of our local favorites.

Local favorites, I thought…, was he in on the game? He returned with a bottle of 2007 Matiu Prosecco di Conegliano Brut DOC from Azienda Agricola L’Antica Quercia and a couple glasses. Just then Agent Baco Noir sashayed into the cafe and sat down. As she raised her glass in a toast, she said ”welcome to Venice and to the easiest of missions, Cin Cin!”

Wine Spies Vineyard Check:

The location of the village of Conegliano in Italy can be seen in this satellite photo.

2007 LaZarre Wines Central Coast Pinot Noir

Mission Codename: Return of the Rock Star

Operative: Agent White

Objective: Acquire a limited allocation of the legendary Pinot made by Adam LaZarre

Mission Status: Accomplished!

Current Winery: LaZarre Wines

Wine Subject: 2007 Central Coast Pinot Noir

Winemaker: Adam LaZarre

Backgrounder:

California’s Central Coast region, and specifically Santa Barbara and San Luis Obisbo County has become one of the state’s premier regions for Pinot Noir. The generally warmer climate, moderated by the coastal fog, its sandy and clay loam soil, and broad exposure results in Pinot of exceptional purity.

Adam LaZarre, while he is officially the winemaker for Villa San-Juliette Winery (and formerly from Hahn Estates and their affiliated labels) has been making super-premium, limited quantity Pinot for years and has elevated his skill to an art form. Always an operative favorite, this wine is well worth tasting.

Wine Spies Tasting Profile:

Look – Beautiful deep burgundy with a dark clear core that shows garnet reflections when held to the light. Along the edges the color fades gracefully from garnet to pink, and when swirled widely spaced fat lets ring the glass with a secondary ring of slow chubby legs that just hangs on the upper edge of the glass.

Smell – Youthful and redolent, with aromas of ripe and earthy red and black cherry layered over notes of cola and vanilla. Adding to the complexity, hints of mint leaves, toasted oak and a slight smokiness emerge that tempts you into taking a sip.

Feel – Seductively smooth on the initial attack this medium-to-full bodied dry wine has firm, but super-finely textured tannins and a youthful acidity that kick in mid-palate and reach the far corners of the mouth.

Taste – Soft, supple and complex flavors of earthy cherry great you immediately as you take your first sip. As this wine rolls across your palate flavors of complex exotic spice, subtle funky-earthiness and a touch of minty herbs emerge and are framed by a toasted oak and vanilla component that holds everything together.

Finish – Medium in length with lingering earthy cherry cola, spice and vanilla oak notes. This wine is extremely clean, perhaps almost too clean, in the sense that you tempted into taking another sip right away, or maybe it just tastes that good!

Conclusion – The 2007 LaZarre Central Coast Pinot Noir is a spectacular wine that shows all the polish, elegance, finesse and purity of any Premier or Grand Cru, but with the richer California fruit profile. Aromatic and inviting on the nose. Its structure perfectly holds the complex flavors and its clean finish begs for another sip. Enjoy this wine right away but if you can, stash a few bottles away for a few years to see how this one evolves. You won’t be disappointed. We paired this wine with a chicken in Pinot Noir reduction barbecue sauce crepe.

Mission Report:

The call came in at 2AM, thinking to myself, this had better be good. Wiping my eyes, I answered the phone. The voice at the other end of the line, using a voice scramble, said to meet at the Playboy Mansion in 30 minutes, use name ’Agent Orange’ to get in. While Hef’s place is just around the corner you just can’t show up without looking good. You never know who you might run into.

A speed record breaking shower, quick shave and I threw on my tux, grabbed my spy gear and rushed out the door. I arrived with just seconds to spare.

As always, the party was just getting started so I walked up to the extremely large doorman/bouncer and only said ‘Agent Orange’. Fully expecting a thorough ass-whooping, I tried to hide the flinch of my body as he reached out his hand.

“Right this way, sir…”, as he forcefully gestured me to enter the house. I was lead past dozens of people and carefully treaded over the many a tongue hanging out at the amazing beauty that surrounded me,.. the house silly – what were you thinking?. Thankfully, Agent Blush wasn’t there to supervise me. We reached the back yard and we walked through the gardens to the far side of the swimming pool which was full of lovely eye-candy.

Just before reaching the grotto I saw a familiar face, wearing his trademark dark sunglasses (even though it was now 2:45AM). With a big smile on his face, our good friend and winemaker extraordinaire Adam LaZarre reached out his hand and gave me a big hug.

“I thought you’d like this party”, he said as I nodded with approval at the exceptional scenery, just as I was about to ask why the late notice, Adam thrusted a glass of wine into my hand, almost splashing it onto my neatly pressed white shirt, and said “you MUST taste my new Pinot, It couldn’t wait”.

I took a long sip and trying to hide my excitement (which was already brimming, considering the location), put on the best contemplative face I could. Must not have worked very well, since he just raised up his hand in a ‘High five’ gesture and said ”REDACTED AWESOME!”. He continued, “Exclusive for your Wine Spies Operatives, if you want it, but don’t wait too long, The Rockstar is Back!, and I can’t hold it back forever you know.”

It was indeed awesome, in fact beyond awesome – perhaps one of the nicest Pinot I’ve tasted this year. As we sat there enjoying the party, we quickly polished off the stash of his amazing Pinot Noir. While I can’t get you into the Playboy Mansion, this wine is even better. Enjoy!