The February notes for 2010 are from a small gathering at Ali and Andy's house for some wine, cheese, and viewing of vacation photos.  This was simply an opportunity to enjoy great company and food, and to open some wines we've been saving.

Wines are described below in the order they were poured.

Domaine Carneros Brut Le Reve 1997 (Carneros).  Lemon, peach, and white mushroom aromatics are evident on this lively, elegant but rich California bubbly.  Honeysuckle, butterscotch, orange peel, and ginger flavors lead to a cranberry/raspberry finish.  Excellent wine.  About $50.

Silvio Grasso Barolo Bricco Luciani 2000.  Very perfumed, with roses, bubble gum, ruby port, and pine forest aromas.  Cherry, charcoal, espresso, and bitter chocolate flavors.  Andy noted that "this is why tannins were invented".  About $50.

Hartley Ostini The Hitching Post Pinot Noir Highliner 2006 (Santa Barbara County).  Ruby in color, and starting off with earthy scents that move to cherry, tomato, rubber tire, burnt sugar, sea air, and cola.  Expansive palate is reminiscent of herbs, ripe fruit, green tobacco, and smoke.  Long, long finish.  About $45.

Duckhorn Vineyards Merlot 2004 (Napa).  Hints of sewer and ammonia blow off to reveal green pepper, vanilla, and black olive.  Herbal on the palate, with plums, cherry, anise, tobacco, and forest notes.  David thought it was kind of average, but Ali and Andy liked it.  About $40.

FEBRUARY 2010:  DINNER AT ALI & ANDY'S
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