If nothing else, the LA Wine Fest provided two relaxing and entertaining weekend afternoons of fine wine tasting at an excellent fare, and left most attendees with a broader appreciation for the large variety of wines produced in California and throughout the world.

It was really a fantastic event, fun for anyone with even a passing interest in wine. Congratulations to the organizers, LA Wine Fest President, Joel M. Fisher, PhD, and partner, radio personality Adam Leemon.

 

Tasting Notes

Amici Cellars 2002 Old Vine Zinfandel - Panek Vineyard. Made from 35+ year-old dry-farmed vines that yield just two tons of fruit per acre. Aged 16 months in American oak barrels with 14.4% alcohol. A lavish, full-bodied wine with intense and long finish. Deep ruby/garnet color with aromas of black cherries, currants, and exotic spices. ($30.00)

Kunde Estate 2002 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon - A blend of 92% Cabernet Sauvignon, 6% Cabernet Franc, and 2% Merlot aged for 16 months in small French and American oak cooperage, 40% new. Blackberry and black cherry fruit and soft, chewy tannins with rich fruit. ($21.00)

Cline Vineyards - Viognier Sonoma Coast 2005. Vibrant golden color and ‘full' bouquet, with just a touch of wood. Round, and smooth on the palate. A wonderful wine, with rich and distinctive aromas of peaches, apricots, orange blossoms and honeysuckle. 15% alcohol ($16.00)

Anglim Winery 2003 Syrah - French Camp Vineyard, Paso Robles 15.4% alcohol Barrel-aged 15 months and bottled unfiltered. This is a full-bodied Syrah, with aromas of toasty blackberry jam, and flavors of ripe, luscious blackberries and black cherries, with pepper on the finish ($30.00)

Rosenthal The Malibu Estate 2005 Chardonnay - An elegant, medium-bodied wine, displaying hints of pear, apple, and a subtle trace of creamy vanilla. Aged in French oak. Quite distinct and complex finish. 14.1% alcohol. ($22.00)

All Photographs: © 2006 Vineyard Report. Unauthorized use prohibited.