Press Democrat wine writer Peg Melnik scopes out restaurant wine lists around the North Bay, looking for good value and the occasional splurge. This week’s picks (prices are retail; restaurant markup varies):
Trebbiano, 2008 Orvieto Classico Campogrande Antinori, Italy White Wine, 12 percent alcohol, $10. A refreshing white wine, crisp, yet delicate. Aromas and flavors of pear, melon and mineral.
Aiena, 2007 Monterey Pinot Noir, 14.5 percent, $25. Racy and vibrant, ripe and showy. Flavors of red and black fruit flavors. Notes of raspberry, orange zest and white pepper.
Duckhorn Vineyards, 2008 Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc, 13.5 percent alcohol, $27. A sauvignon blanc that has a silky texture and that’s lightly oaked. Aromas and flavors of grapefruit, melon and spice. Balanced.
Valdez, 2007 Landy Vineyard, Russian River Valley Zinfandel, 15.8 percent, $36. A smoky, spicy zin that’s ripe but not overly so. Notes of blackberry, plum, anise and cracked black pepper.
Domaine Drouhin, 2007 Williamette Valley Pinot Noir, 13.9 percent, $40. A feminine pinot with floral aromas. Notes of cherry, mineral and spice. Crisp, with great acidity.
Want to share a current wine on your favorite restaurant’s list? E-mail peg.melnik@ pressdemocrat.com or check out her Tasting Room blog at pressdemocrat.com.
