Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/46939
NO ROOKIE: Alexander Valley Vineyards "My father started the winery and my brothers and our kids are continuing the tradition," Katie Wetzel Murphy points out of the family-owned estate once belonging to Cyrus Alexander, a 19th-century adventurer and rancher. Cyrus 2007 (SRP $55) showcases the best of the Alexander Valley, with this proprietary Bordeaux blend of the estates' MVP grapes. The home run–worthy results are barrel-aged for two years, bottle-aged for one. The Call: "Nicely done, Sonoma!" applauds Dana Farner of this Alexander Valley Vineyards "bright and yummy" wine. Chris Miller thinks it's reminiscent of an old-school claret. Anthony Dias Blue remarks on its fresh juiciness while declaring it "balanced and vibrant." Anthony Dias Blue score: 93 DOUBLE HEADER: Stacked Stone Cellars Winemaker Don "Walking Eagle" Thiessen took cuttings from some of Paso Robles's oldest vines to create Stacked Stone Cellars 2007 Zin Stone Reserve (SRP $40), a double-header blend of 70% Zinfandel and 30% Petite Sirah. The former gourmet chef dry-farms and head-prunes the vines, farming sustainably and organically: "I haven't fertilized in eight years: the nutrients are in the soil." CHARITY GAME: Great Dane Not only was Great Dane 2007 Coombsville Vineyard, Napa Valley (SRP $110) an MVP at our event, but also a recipient of a Gold Medal at this year's San Francisco International Wine Competition. The wine is one of three all-star Napa Cabs produced for Peggy Rowan's HeartSmart Wine lineup, focusing on heart health and physical wellbeing. This specific wine supports Rolling Dog Ranch, an animal sanctu- ary dedicated to disabled animals. The Call: Talia Tinari tastes the old world spin on this wine and adds, "It's an elegant Zin with rich ripe- ness." Jonathan Mitchell refers to it as "deep and dark with bold cherry and raspberry juiciness." Anthony Dias Blue score: 90 The Call: Chris Miller of K&L Wines in Hollywood opines on Great Dane's expressive nose of cassis, sweet herbs, dust and sweet oak. "This is a full-bodied wine, but also restrained," he notes. "The fruit is persistent and ripe—this is an excellent Cab." Anthony Dias Blue score: 92 98 / the tasting panel / november 201 1