WINE TIME: Columnist Frank Sutherland picks the best wines of 2009(3)
• 2007 Louis Jadot Pouilly Fuisse ($24.99): Soft aromatics, with scents of melon, dill, toasted marshmallows and floral hints.
• 2007 Foley Rancho Santa Rosa Pinot Noir ($36.99): The aroma reminded us of a cherry Tootsie Roll. A smooth and awesome texture, so silky, with tastes of cinnamon and clove on the finish. An exemplary Pinot Noir.
• 2005 Genesis Columbia Valley Syrah ($17.99): Scents of black fruits, cassis, mocha, smoked ham and baked clay. The palate reflected the nose well, plus flavors of cherries and leather.
• 2006 Hess Mendocino/Lake/Napa Cabernet Sauvignon ($15.99): Flavors of chocolate, olives, like in a tapenade, plus stewed fruit and a rum-like flavor. An exquisite texture and dusty chocolate finish.
• 2006 Patz & Hall Pinot Noir ($44.99): The texture was absolutely velvety. The taste was closer to black cherry than red cherries, along with a hint of sweet tobacco. From a superb wine maker, this pinot noir was structured and elegant.
• 2003 Baron de Ley Reserva Rioja ($28.99): Scents of cherry cola, mulberries, vanilla beans, leather, wood shavings, raw bacon and espresso were followed on the palate by beautiful acidity and a soft texture, with red cherry and leather flavors.
• 2006 L'Archet Cuvee Occitane ($19.99): This white blend had an earthy aroma of dried apricots, orange jelly beans, anise, clay and peanuts. The wine started off juicy on the tongue giving way to cinnamon and baking spices on the finish.
