Chip's Picks

Duck Pond Syrah - 2007
Although produced in Oregon, the grapes for this outstanding wine are grown in the Columbia River Valley, which has proven an excellent climate for Syrah.  The varietal character of jammy fruit and spice has unique intensity derived from the climate, and subtle oak overtones imbued through winemaking.  Duck Pond Syrah is a well rounded yet complex wine, rich in fruit and texture yet completely in balance due to the nature of this variety.  You can drink it now, but it will be better after 2011.
 
Alamos Malbec Seleccion - 2007
This Mendoza Valley varietal produced from the malbec grape presents a deeply dark violet color with blackish tones. The nose is full of ripe black fruits with floral tones and touches of leather, vanilla, and spice. The wine is full yet supple, with juicy black raspberry, black cherry and black currant fruit layered with notes of violets, black pepper and anis. The finish is long and lingering, with soft, velvety tannins and bright, refreshing acidity.  Drink now.
 
Markham Chardonnay - 2007
Wonderfully fragrant aromas of apricot, roasted nuts and butterscotch make this wine pleasurable from the start.  Markham Chardonnay shows both tropical and golden delicious apple fruit at its core, which is wrapped in the creamy texture of vanilla and caramel flavors.  This Chardonnay is balanced enough to enjoy alone as an aperitif, yet it also works as a perfect match to grilled fish because of the touch of orange zest on the finish.  Drink now.
 
Spruce Goose Pinot Noir - 2005

Made in a classic Burgundian style, this elegant medium-bodied red has an aroma of cherries, berries, plums and hints of pepper, cinnamon and rose petals.  This full flavored Pinot Noir carries a balance of fruit and subtle tannins that pair with stronger fish as well as lighter pasta dishes.  Drink now through 2011.

Olivier Leflaive Les Setilles Bourgogne - 2007
This white Burgandy comes from a blend of vineyards in the villages of Puligny-Montrachet (60%) and Meursault (40%).  The nose is redolent of honeysuckle.  The palate is tart apple and lemon cream, with a background of toast.  The finish shows a bit of browned butter.  This is clean and refreshing, with a good acid backbone.  Drink before the end of 2010 with lighter fish dishes.