CLOS RENE POMEROL - 2005

13.5% alcohol on this classic Merlot based Bordeaux red.

TASTING NOTES:

Dark red color with great smoke, pencil lead, mocha, and rich dark fruit on the nose. On the palate, loads up black currant, blackberry, coffee, tobacco and bold plum on the finish. Chewy, saturated and rustic.

SCORE & RECOMMENDATION:

91 PTS

I love this wine. An authentic Pomerol with a bit of Pauillac pencil on the nose. Retails for around $35 making this a stellar buy. This kind of quality and length from a great vintage makes this an affordable Bordeaux.

MANDOLIN CABERNET SAUVIGNON CENTRAL COAST - 2009

100% California Cabernet Sauvignon with 14% alcohol.

TASTING NOTES:

Aromas and flavors of black currant, cherry, vanilla and oak. Medium bodied with good mouthfeel.

SCORE & RECOMMENDATIONS:

84 PTS

Pretty straight ahead Cab for $12 a bottle. Not enough depth or character to push this above an easy drinking entry level Cabernet but significantly better than competitor Cabs that retail for a few dollars less.

MANDOLIN SYRAH CENTRAL COAST -2009

100% Syrah with malo-lactic fermentation in French oak barrels (20% new). Aged 14 months prior to bottling.

TASTING NOTES:

Medium-red color with aromas and flavors of blue and black fruits. Vanilla oak on the finish. Some tart cherry, acidity and spice.

SCORE & RECOMMENDATION:

87 PTS

On the nose fruit-driven Syrah. Medium-bodied with a better initial attack than mid-palate or finish. For $10, this is a solid offering.