Wine Tastings – Cadus Vinum | Curated Natural Wines Wine Consultant

June 21, 2024June 21, 2024By Robert FlowerFrance, Save For Later, Wine Tastings

1er Cru White Burgundy in Palo Alto

Known for its exceptional quality and distinctive character, White Burgundy commands high prices due to several factors. Firstly, the terroir of Burgundy, with its unique combination of soil, climate, and topography, creates ideal conditions for growing Chardonnay. Secondly, Burgundy vineyards are fragmented into many small plots, often owned by different families for generations, leading to limited production and high demand for these exclusive wines. In […]

May 24, 2024By Robert FlowerDrink Now, Spain, Wine Tastings

Urbina Rioja Gran Reserva Especial 1994

As you might have gathered, I love sharing special bottles. We were out with friends at a Spanish wine tasting, and I thought if the hosts allowed it, I would bring along a special bottle they could try and we could share with our friends. I brought the Urbina Rioja Gran Reserva Especial 1994.

October 20, 2023January 25, 2024By Robert FlowerFrance, Not Impressed, Wine Tastings

Laurent Clapier – Mas Théo TO

With its dark ruby color, this wine offers an intriguing sensory experience. On the nose, you’ll find a blend of mineral notes, grass, vinegar, balsamic undertones, pickled cucumber, and hints of fermented pineapple, accompanied by subtle cardamom, cedar, and pine aromas.

April 27, 2023January 25, 2024By Robert FlowerFrance, Restaurant Wine, Wine Tastings

Bar Zola

Since the closure of Manresa, Bar Zola has become Wilson and Alandra’s new go-to wine bar. We thought it would be a great place for dinner. Upon arrival, we were promptly greeted and seated. Despite not being a white tablecloth establishment, the staff here is well-versed in the finer points of traditional French service. They paid attention to details such as knowing who ordered what, […]

April 27, 2023January 25, 2024By Robert FlowerCalifornia, Drink Now, France, Wine Tastings

Andrews Tasting Selection

Champagne, Corsica, Paso Robles, Napa Andrew did not disappoint with his selection! These wines were eye-opening and jaw-dropping. Particularly the reds which were best had on different days to truly enjoy them. Champagne Palmer 2012 A soft dry wine with fresh apples and a crisp citrus mouthfeel. Nicely creamy and lively with excellent acidity this vintage cuvée is ready to be enjoyed…and was! $112 Constellation […]

Rapley Trail Vineyard Pinot Noir and Gewurztraminer Solara NV

April 27, 2023January 25, 2024By Robert FlowerCalifornia, Drink Now, Special Occasions, Wine Tastings

Noble Grapes in the Santa Cruz Mountains

Wilson and Alandra’s Tasting Selection Thomas Fogerty Wines, Santa Cruz Mountains Single Vineyard Pinot Noir Mindego Vineyard, 2018 A fine representation from this winemaker, explosive fruit, full cherry, and red fruit with excellent depth and intensity. A beauty of a Pinot from this producer. $75 La Vida Bella Vineyard, 2018 Excellent ruby color with a slight clove nose, black cherries and licorice, and rich fresh […]

March 28, 2023April 28, 2023By Robert FlowerWine Tastings

Boston WIne Expo

Last weekend, I had the pleasure of attending the Boston Wine Expo, where I was presented with the opportunity to sample a vast assortment of wines. The selection included a mix of new and familiar names, as well as offerings from established winemakers. Before delving into the tasting, I carefully chose which distributor/importer wines I would be sampling. After looking over the hundreds of wines, […]

March 28, 2023January 25, 2024By Robert FlowerSpain, Wine Tastings

Castilla y Leon, Calatayud, Rioja & Pedro Ximenez

Balnea 2021 Located in Castilla y Leon on the Duero river, approximately 90 miles northwest of Madrid, Rueda is renowned for its dry and aromatic white wines primarily produced from the Verdejo grape. This producer practices organic farming and rely on 100% manual harvesting, using only grapes from the over 25-year-old vines. The grapes are estate-grown and crafted by Maria Jesus Hernandez, one of the […]

March 28, 2023January 25, 2024By Robert FlowerPacific NW, Wine Tastings

Willamette Valley Pinot Noir Flight

When it comes to drinking US Pinot Noirs, my first impulse is to look to the Willamette (sounds like damn it) Valley. The Willamette Valley is Oregon’s primary wine region, boasts over 700 wineries and is recognized for producing excellent Pinot noir. Its cool climate, protected by surrounding mountain ranges, creates distinct wine character within short distances. The valley includes 11 nested appellations, Chehalem Mountains; Dundee […]

March 28, 2023January 25, 2024By Robert FlowerCalifornia, Wine Tastings

Napa and Sonoma Selections

Out of all the California wines being presented at the Expo, the following selection didn’t necessarily align with my personal preferences, but they were certainly the most intriguing. I was taken aback, however, when one of my favorite winemakers (Heitz Cellars) failed to meet my expectations. As a distinguished Napa winemaker renowned for their unwavering commitment to quality, I expected their “entry-level” premium wine to […]

Domaine Muret Les Grand Boullions Picpoul de Pinet

March 28, 2023January 25, 2024By Robert FlowerFrance, Wine Tastings

Burgundy and a surprise from Southwest France

Domaine Muret Les Grand Boullions Picpoul de Pinet Picpoul is an ancient grape variety originating from southwest France. Traditionally used in the production of Cognac and Armagnac until the 20th century, this grape produces wines that are known for their crisp and refreshing qualities. In the glass, this particular Picpoul presents a straw-yellow color. The enticing aroma of fruit on the nose is carried through […]