Porter Creek 2006 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir, Fiona Hill Vineyard

This one starts bright and fruity on the nose. On the tongue, it begins with light berry flavors then punches you with warm tannins and spice, but in a nice way, balanced with light smoky hints and oak. It has a long finish that leaves you wanting more. Much of the Fiona Hill vineyard is on steep slopes and you can definitely pick up hints of minerals from the soils. Drinkable now through 2012. 

The vines photographed are right across from the entrance to Porter Creek's unassuming tasting room.

Enjoyed some Hornitos Añejo at a wedding this weekend

Hornitos Añejo: this is not your average Tequila; this is a smooth shooting tequila. A lot of people think Patrón is tops but I find it to be WAY over priced. This tequila is easily as good as Patrón, and one third the price. Hornitos Añejo has a fiery start with a pleasant tang that lets you know you have just knocked back a great tequila, but the real joy comes in the fact that there is no chemical feeling of hellfire in your mouth and throat -- just a smooth baritone tequila. This is 100% pure agave tequila that was done right, a hint of some smoke from the barrel and a lot of agave flavor.  Stick around tequila lovers; I have lots of weddings this month and I love my Tequila, so we shall be reviewing a couple more bottles this weekend. Then off to another wedding where we will be drinking Scotch!