Is Paul Sloan the best winemaker in Sonoma? Quite possibly.

By crafting exceptional Sonoma Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays in true Burgundian style, Small Vines Owner and Winemaker, Paul Sloan, has developed a reputation among wine cognoscenti as a leading proponent of the traditional style of winemaking, proven over the centuries in Burgundy and emulated at Small Vines, to produce some of the most sophisticated, elegant and  pleasing wines.

I love Champagne and would drink it daily if I could. Among the mid-sized houses, Henriot is absolutely a personal favorite. The quality of fruit, winemaking expertise, and style offer tremendous value.

Henriot remains one of the very few independent, family-owned houses in Champagne with over two centuries of history. The house is known for impeccable sourcing, working predominately with chalk-laden premier and grand cru vineyards in the Côte des Blancs for Chardonnay and on the Montagne des Reims for Pinot Noir. Chef de Cave Alice Tétienne continues the longstanding focus on terroir, guiding Henriot into a new era of greatness.

Take advantage of this specially priced collection and join me in indulging in what has for several years been my “house Champagne.” --Warren.

The 2012 growing season was not easy; however, the vintage yielded high quality fruit, especially in the area north of Montalcino where Sassetti’s Pertimali vineyards are located. Dried figs, juicy red cherries, cranberry and sweet spices are marked by finesse, depth and concentration. Best to have a few bottles on hand to enjoy and a few to lay down in the cellar. Drink now or hold - this wine is showing brilliantly and has a beautiful future ahead.

And great scores: WS: 96, WA: 94, WE: 93, JS: 95