Wine bargains are out there for careful shoppers

Daley emailed me, “What about Vina Garces Silva Sauv Blanc 2021?” I haven’t written much about the 2021s from the Leyda Valley in Chile because the region suffered a very wet year, and many claim 2021 was a difficult year. So far, I have been unable to find any in U.S. to sample. Tim Atkin, a very well-regarded wine reviewer and chair of International Wine Challenge, gave it a 95. In the past I have found his reviews to be fair and accurate. If you find some under $24, I’m guessing it will be a great buy. Let me know. It is rare for an SB to get such high marks; I reviewed the 2018 at 91, Atkins at 90. Those who support U.S. will pay up. The following are vintage specific. From Washington, DeLille Cellars Chaleur Estate Blanc 2018, 94 McD points under $43, reminds me of Bordeaux, 71% SB and Semillon, French oak. Look for buttered almonds with citrus and stone fruit aromas. Ripe trop fruit, kiwi and herbal flavors supported by slightly salty minerality and barrel-driven cream. Just entered its optimum drinking window. Next, Merry Edwards RR Valley SB Sonoma 2019, 93 McD, under $40; and Rudd Crossroads Napa 2019 or ‘17 under $34, 93 McD. Samantha Rudd is the proprietress and Natalie Bath is winemaker. Peter Michael SB L’Apres-Midi Knights Valley 2019, 90% SB and Semillon. Barrel fermented and aged eight months on lees, biweekly batonnage (stirring of lees), no malolactic fermentation. Melon, lemongrass, minerally aromas, still needs a few years but should be wonderful. Michael products are definitely and rightfully driven by his rep. Posted range is $48 to $93. Over $60 there is a value question for me.

Heads up! National Pinot Noir Day Aug. 18 is rapidly approaching. An affiliate of Far Niente Family of Wineries and Vineyards, EnRoute Les Pommiers RRV Pinot Noir has been scoring in the 90s with most of the likely suspects since 2007. In 2018, these folks produced a 1.5L bottle (over 12 4-oz. pours for those with muscular, steady hands). It might be great fun at $130, club price is $110.50. Those with no fun can find 750ml for $52, 93 McD, ready to drink. Keep in mind that larger-format bottles take longer to age. Some claim this provides more complexity. I don’t have enough experience to weigh in. You will go a long way to beat Chalone Estate Grown Central Coast PN 2019 at $28, 93 McD. Raspberry tart, damp earth, roses and sweet/spicy nose lead to cherry, cranberry flavors with hints of graphite and dried herbs. Finishes smoothly with hints of vanilla. This is the belle of the ball for me. The only reason I can fathom Chalone’s Estate Grown is not a top pick for many scribblers is that occasionally it throws an 87-point wine for sale or their Monterey-labeled selection is confused with the Estate Grown. Careful shoppers can find a fine bargain here. The 2019 Chardonnay, 92 McD around $22, is a fine example of leaner style. Fifty bucks will get you a 93 McD Belle Glos Las Alturas Vineyard PN 2019 from Santa Lucia Highlands; WE said 96. Redolent of black cherry, plum with damp earth and pencil shavings on the nose, dried violet and plum repeat with some cedar and dark chocolate flavors riding a slightly tannic and slatey mineral acidity frame. I found this huge at each level, but the balance says it will improve greatly over time. Made No. 11 on WE top 100 2021. Those searching for other well-crafted PN priced under $30 need look no further than Boen RRV PN 2019. I’ve seen it in Delaware at $28. You are safe with 2016, ‘18, ‘19 and ‘20. Lovely medium ruby-colored, opens to cherries, blueberry, licorice and barrel spice aromas. On the full-bodied palate, chocolate, more licorice, cocoa and pie spice. All supported by properly balanced tannin and acidity through a fresh, clean, long finish. All those enumerated rate 89 or better McD. 

Wishing all a bang-up July Fourth. With all our troubles, USA is still by far the best place to live.