Russian River Valley

Ramey Wine Cellars was founded in 1996 by David Ramey and his wife, Carla, after David had worked for almost two decades at such famous wineries as Matanzas Creek and Dominus. Located just off the town square in Healdsburg, the winery is perfectly placed to make use of the great Sonoma and Carneros terroir famous for the quality of their Chardonnays. Ramey's philosophy is to make hand-crafted wines made in an Old World tradition, coupled with New World innovation.

With 12 months’ ageing in 14 percent new French and Hungarian oak, 2013 was a perfect vintage for Ramey, which is demonstrated in a rich and concentrated core, while the acidity brings an elegance and vibrancy to the palate.
Fiona Hayes - Buyer

Tasting both the 2012 and 2013 vintages of Occidental’s Sonoma Coast Pinot was eye opening and this continues in the same vein. It is another real “wow” wine. Occidental is firmly at the top of our list for New World Pinots. Forget this as an “entry-level” wine, the Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir easily rivals top Premier Crus (and some Grand Crus) from Burgundy.

This is beautifully fragrant, with an abundance of fruit jumping out of the glass. It is rich yet restrained and superbly structured – the tannins melt seamlessly into the fruit. Give this a couple of years in the cellar and it will be a beauty. While arguably more famous for his Chardonnays, Steve Kistler appears to have the Midas touch when it comes to Pinot Noir. A must buy!

A fascinating find- a 100% Meunier, American sparkling wine, that had 17years on lees. The rich truffley character is typical of mature Pinot-based sparkling wines, with the light citrus and touch of red berried fruit suggesting Meunier over Pinot Noir. One might mistake this for Champagne, but the soft, supple acidity takes you to warmer climes. The powerful truffle note continues on the palate alongside toasty, yeasty notes. An interesting aperitif, but I think even better paired with aged cheeses such as Parmesan, Comté, Gouda or for a real mushroom hit- risotto with truffle shavings.
Edwin Dublin, Champagne & Sparkling Wine Specialist