posted 10-18-2012 12:25 PM            

We had an appointment at Charnu, another small family winery. They make two wines, what else, Cabs. We purchased the 2007 Cab which is already quite relaxed and is is extremely smooth and approachable. It is interesting to think what this wine may be in a couple years. They also make a Cab called Red Dye which is their "drink now" Cab and is very smooth and silky on the finish. When I made the appointment, I made it with the owner and by the time we tasted, they had hired a company to do their tastings and sales and one of the owners, Scotti Stark was our host.

After Charnu, Scottie asked if we had time to go back toward Calistoga about 7 miles and taste at another property that he represented, Phifer Pavitt. Naturally, we couldn't turn that down. In my opinion, this was the find of the trip this time. They call their cab "Date Night" because any large decision they ever made, getting married, having kids, moving jobs or wine making was made on a Friday night Date Night. Boy, did they hit this one on the head. This is what James Laube, The Wine Spectator had to say:
"Of the dozens of Napa Cabernets released over the past year…many other highly rated Cabernets, show off the vintage's range and depth of flavor. Phifer Pavitt Date Night does it (94 points, $75)…sell(ing) for less than $100." Because my cases were getting full, and I had one more stop I wanted to make, I only purchased 2 bottles but may order more. In my opinion, a definite stop. They do make a Sav Blanc, but the Cab overshadows it.

Scotti said that they have a new tasting room in St. Helena and they represent 4 different wineries. I asked if they were all ad good ad the Charnu and Phiver Pavitt? His answer was "definitely". That room will be on my agenda next trip, whenever that may be. When he sends me more information, I will post it here.

I had wanted at least 6 spaces in my last shipping case for the 2001 Kelham Cabernet, one of my all time favorites. However, when we got there, 3 spaces were all I had, so 3 bottle are coming home this time.

This was one of the best trips I believe we have had. Lots of friends, lots of food, and LOTS of wine. Until next time . . .