Earn The Somm

We just opened our second section of the Spring Core Program! This will be the last full semester until Fall 2020, so if you have been planning on earning your wine certifications, there is no better time than now.  We currently have nine openings available to our newsletter readers.

Cuatro Rayas 2018 “Nocturna” Rueda

Classic verdejo from northwest Spain. Aromas of tulip and guava are enticing, but it’s the crunchy acid and orange-fennel flavors that make this a winner. If you’re thinking of having some wintertime oysters (this is prime oyster season) you should be cracking open a few of these, too.

PA (PLCB) Pricing: $9.99
WSoP Rating: 90 Points

Glenelly “Glass Collection” 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon,  Stellenbosch

This producer has always been a dark horse. Owned by Bordeaux winemaker May-Élaine de Lencquesaing, Glenelly has been vinting old-world style wines in South Africa for a decade now.

This Cabernet is far too young, but buy a case and wait until 2021. The graphite-meets-hedonism structure promises greatness to come.

PA (PLCB) Pricing: $10.99
WSoP Rating: 91 Points

Jason Stephens 2014 Cabernet Sauvignon, Santa Clara Valley

One of the few wineries still producing in Silicon Valley. Significant varietal character makes this a best buy for Cabernet.

Cedar and plum on the nose are followed by briar and fresh cherries. Medium to full bodied with a nice grip of tannin. 30 months in oak (25% new) give this a spice-box finish that lovers of the Napa style will recognize.

PA (PLCB) Pricing: $13.99
WSoP Rating: 90 Points

Carlos Serres 2010 Rioja Gran Reserva

I’ve come to realize there is no better food wine than Reserva Rioja. And there is no better value in the world of wine wine, either.

Serres is a classic bottling with high toned cranberry and burnt sage folded into an elegant structure. Notes of kirsh and mineral round out this beautiful wine.

PA (PLCB) Pricing: $15.99
WSoP Rating: 92 Points

La Braccesca 2016
“Sabazio” Rosso di Montepulciano

While the town of Montalcino gets more attention, neighboring Montepulciano offers up similar graces in the form of the Sangiovese grape.

Lavender and leather aromas give way to wild strawberry and roses on the palate. A hint of burnt cedar on the finish with a complex layer of spice.

PA (PLCB) Pricing: $14.99
WSoP Rating: 91 Points