I looked forward to trying the new 2012 Pinot from Frost Watch in Sonoma County, after being blown away two years ago with a barrel sample of the 2010 vintage. The 2012 was also extremely impressive. It was also a treat to meet and visit with Monty Paulsen, son of the late Pat Paulsen, who is carrying on his dad's legacy as winemaker and promoter for Pat Paulsen Vineyards.
With the help of Wine Pleasures, not only did we taste exceptional Cavas, visit remarkable places, meet unforgettable people and taste divine food, we came home with memories that will last a lifetime.
The fruit simply exploded from the glass. I thought this was an exceptional wine. Ken called it "luscious all the way through." Sue called it the perfect Merlot.
Al gave it a perfect five-star rating for both taste and value. Ken called it "big, hey there, slap you in the face." Chris liked the earthy nose with big dark berry fruit and long, creamy, lingering finish.
Karsten prepared a roasted butternut squash soup with citrus /mint/chili pesto to pair with the wine. The nose was modest, but on the palate it was crisp with notes of lemon and grapefruit.
This was a flawed wine, scoring 11.5 points out of a possible 60. Comments ranged from "Yuck! Toss it!" to "I get burning tyres. (Brian is British) And the mailman's used rubber bands. Actually not nice."
There are so many vivid memories from last year's visit to the 50 Great Cavas. The people of Catalonia, the food, the sights, the sounds and last but not le...
