Hidden Gem

Conn Creek is a regular wine at my table, but a sleeper to the general public. This cabernet sauvignon is a Napa cabernet bargain that is not widely distributed or credited for the value it offers.

 Glen Lake Wine and Spirits offers this wine at $19.99, while it is commonly found from $24.99 to $29.99. At any of these prices it is a good value for this quality of cabernet. Tonight I am sampling the 2005. It is equal to the 2004, which I also found delicious. The wine is 82% cabernet sauvignon, 7% cabernet franc, 5% merlot, 4% malbec, and 2% petit verdot. All five Bordeaux varieties! The wine offers a mellow easy to drink cabernet, with hints of plum, coffee, mocha chocolate, and a cherry finish.

Highly recommended. Give it a try with your next flourless chocolate cake.

Sun and Sauvignon Blanc

We spent the better part of the week traveling around California wine country in 100 degree weather. While some may think that sounds like a sweaty trip through the vineyards it was actually quite enjoyable. The chardonnays and sauvignon blanc's never tasted better than under the blistering California summer sun, the cabernets, merlots and pinot were simply taken inside the tasting rooms or caves. I have visited wine country during all the seasons and can't decide on a favorite, but I do have to say it sure feels good in the summer. As they say "it's a dry heat."

This trip found us visiting with some old friends as well as making some new friends in this wonderful business. Our relaxing trip through wine country found us at:

1. Guenoc

2. Schramsberg

3. Chalk Hill

4. Simi

5. Hess

6. Turnbull

7. Franciscan

8. Duckhorn

9. Paraduxx

10. Stags Leap

A great trip indeed and to those who have asked, they were all my favorite.