When you think Williams Selyem you think Pinot Noir. With Spottswoode you think Cabernet Sauvignon. Both of these wineries make other wines that I count among my favorites.
The Zinfandel and Chardonnay programs at Williams Selyem are second to none. However, when you receive an offer letter with a dozen different Pinots the one off Chardonnay and Zinfandel can easily get overlooked on the order form. Bob Cabral, the winemaker at Williams Selyem, might be known for his touch with the Pinot Noir grape but he is equally adept at producing world class, single vineyard, Chardonnay and Zinfandel. On the most recent Fall mailer I made sure to include an Allen Vineyard Chardonnay and Bacigalupi Vineyard Zinfandel.
When the Spottswoode mailer arrives every Spring it is hard to read past the description of their newest Cabernet Sauvignon. Rightly so as this is one of the finest in all of Napa Valley. What many overlook is that Spottswoode also makes a Sauvignon Blanc that is delicious, exotic and age worthy. I always include at least a couple bottles to round out my Spottswoode order.
There are many examples but a few others worth considering include the Dehlinger Cabernet Sauvignon, Leonetti Sangiovese, Rafanelli Merlot and Kosta Browne Chardonnay,
Great winemakers make great wines. If you pass on varietals because they get less acclaim you are assuredly missing out on some exceptional wines.
I’d enjoy hearing about a few of your overlooked favorites.
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Have you had the KB chard before Tom? If so what style is it?
Definitely CA in style. Tropical fruits, nice acidity. I’m a buyer.
Chappellet makes a malbec that is stellar.
Thanks. I will look for a bottle. Have not had many stand alone Malbecs that are noteworthy.
Reynvaan will release their first Cab next year. I’m very excited!
I’m looking forward to that as well.
Ridge is known for Monte Bello, Geyserville and Lytton Springs, but their fantastic Chardonnay is often overlooked. Likewise the Sauvignon Blancs from Araujo and Rochioli.
Totally agree on these choices but have to admit it has been years since I have had a Ridge Chardonnay.