Writing about wine this week seems trivial. I started today’s column with my thoughts on current news. Realizing many RRs don’t share my opinions on other issues, I pushed that to the close.
Last week I reviewed Ron Rubin Russian River Valley Pinot Noir. Let’s follow up with two Chardonnays and a Cab from Ron Rubin. His RRV Chardonnay 2018 at $20 (and I have seen this discounted to $17 for case buys) is worth your search. Remember, your local wine store pal can probably acquire some for you. Look for pear and mild almond aromas. A medium buttery body is followed by a clean finish enhanced by citrus and an almond reprise, 88 McD points. Rubin also produces River Road, and the Chardonnay Double Oaked 2017 is interesting for those who enjoy the aromas, flavors and bite oak can provide. The extra oak aging profile is offset with fruit and the dry wine appears sweet. I had a tough time evaluating Double Oak because although I enjoy many oak-driven flavors and textures, I prefer them more subdued. Others who reviewed this at my table rated it 88 points. I say 85 with the caveat that if oaky is your preference, the value is there around $17. If anyone gives this a try, I would love to read your comments. River Road Alexander Valley Reserve Cab 2018 is an approachable, fairly priced Sonoma Cab under $20 bottle, 88 McD. Look for blackberry nose, medium body, some oaken spice and subdued tannins.
How about a $13, 88-point Rosé? RRs know I am a sucker for interesting bottling and labeling, and Day Owl Rosé fills that bill. It is blended of 58 percent Barbera, 25 percent Grenache and a soupçon of Syrah 6, PN 6, Zin 4 and 1 percent Grenache Blanc. I’d be lyin’ if I told you I can differentiate the soupçons, but I love the word. Some locations sell half bottles for $7. Why, I don’t know. Day Owl will help you find a friend or two to share. I’m inserting part of the winemaker’s note because I enjoyed his enthusiasm: “Barbera is akin to Nebbiolo’s spunky, scandalous little sister. Like the best things in life, this Italian varietal is meant to be enjoyed young (aka now), so seize the moment. Bright, citrusy, and effortlessly cool, this versatile wine pairs perfectly with whatever the day throws at it.” Look for grapefruit, orange zest and strawberry aromas, and a dry, crisp palate. Recommended with avocado toast. We tried that combo and enjoyed it.
Rarely am I at a loss for words. The current unrest is so sad, I am nearly in despair. China woes, border clashes between India and China, fear of C-19 and the societal, political and economic toll it has/will engender have all taken a back burner to the civil unrest which has been sweeping the country. As horrible as the recorded brutality of the George Floyd murder was and the equally repugnant rioting and destructive, criminal responses it prompted from so many, I’m praying these events will propel the palliative of our country finally dealing with the underlying societal ills that have been seething since long before the ‘60s and ‘70s riots. Sadly, our leaders, of every political stripe, are failing us. I am fearful that if the violence isn’t contained soon, the populace will take matters into their own hands. The USA may Balkanize and resort to vigilante justice.
The blathering, scribbling class are currently undermining the ability of law enforcement by claiming that in Minneapolis Precinct #3, all were aware the police involved were unprincipled, violent bigots and should have been exposed by their fellows, then discarded, inferring this blue brotherhood activity is prevalent. How many of us are guilty of allowing a miscreant in our workplace to avoid discovery? I think an honest answer would give most critics pause. Considering the violence, criminality and destructive activities I’ve seen captured on “the TV news,” the restraint shown by law enforcement is remarkable. The same commentators slam law enforcement for losing control of the situation in one breath and excoriate them for using force in the next. All of us, regardless of our color, ethnicity or creed, better hope the “thin blue line” doesn’t toss in their badges and provoke martial law. That rarely ends well. Wishing all good health and safety during these difficult times.
-
Email John at chjonmc@yahoo.com.
