TASTE • DINE
Valuable Varietals Splurge on these sumptuous sips during the holidays By Alison Bailin Batz
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ow, we are never proponents of spending beyond one’s means. However, during the holidays if your budget permits, why not treat yourself — or the wine lover in your life — with a little something special? Need ideas or inspiration over that $50 mark? Allow us to help. 2018 The Prisoner Cabernet Sauvignon You would be hard-pressed to find a local restaurant that does not have The Prisoner Red Blend, which is primarily a zinfandel, on the menu. However, the brand has a dozen other varietals as well, including this nuanced cabernet sauvignon. It dazzles with notes of black cherry, plum and baking spices. $55 Adelaida 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Viking Estate Vineyard With a name like Viking, is there any surprise this wine is big, bold and intense? On the nose, there is a sweet floral essence with both rose oil and
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dried violets. Upon tasting, get ready for myriad notes ranging from cedar and wood smoke to cherry-vanilla and wild herbs. There is even a little spice cake offering a happy epicurean ending. $60 J Vineyards 2016 Foggy Bend Vineyard Pinot Noir It may surprise some, but the popular and lauded sparkling winemaker also boasts a line of award-
DECEMBER 2021 | JANUARY 2022 NORTHVALLEYMAGAZINE.COM
winning pinot noir. Among the best is this offering, which marries dark cherry, pomegranate and tart blueberry with a hint of nutmeg, touch of pine and the perfect level of acidity. $70 2018 Folktale Winery Whole Cluster Pinot Noir This 94-point Wine Enthusiast-rated pinot is made in an Old World style, fermenting while remaining on the cluster. The result is
