Benzinger Zinfandel 2008

Description - Zinfandel

Maker - Benzinger Family Winery

Notes - Full-bodied with a tangy kick. A nice Zinfandel.

6/10

Gallo Family Pinot Noir

Description - Pinto Noir

Maker - Gallo Family Vineyards

Notes - Packing a tangy punch, this wine doesn't have much after the initial attack. Decent with food.

5/10

Crane Lake Petite Sirah 2008

Description - Petite Sirah

Maker - Crane Lake Cellars

Notes - A lightly fruity and not unpleasant attack and a bland to bitter aftertaste. Both Kim and I felt nauseous after the first glass, but felt better after TUMS.

2/10

Hitachino Nest Beer - Red Rice Ale

Description - Ale brewed with red rice

Maker - Kiuchi Brewery

Notes - Like a sweet tart, this ale very distinctly expresses its fruity character while packing quite the sour punch as well. I've never had a beer anywhere close to this. It also reminded me of Spree candy in a kind of strawberry way. I wouldn't want it all the time, but it's just so off the wall and a party on my palate, I have to score it pretty high

7/10

Hess Select Cab 2008

Description - Cabernet Sauvignon

Maker - Hess Select

Notes - This cab had an intriguing richness and was quite tangy in the aftertaste.

6/10

Earthquake Cab 2006

Description - Cabernet Sauvignon

Maker - Michael and David Phillips

Notes - I was really surprised by this one. I guess that's where it gets its name. It's dry and spicy, but with a hint of something more that really keeps wanting another sip.

8/10

Ptarmigan Cab

Description - Cabernet Sauvignon

Maker - Stoney Mesa Winery

Notes - A fruity and slightly spicy cab with a deep flavor and strong body. Quite unique.

8/10