August 3rd - I'm hoping there'll be a surprise or two but it doesn't look good!

Aug.03, 2010. The dreary releases of the summer continue with very few selections that make us want to race out and part with our hard earned dollars. Are there any ‘must buy’ wines in this release? In a word, One.

The VRSS staggers in at 54 points.

Pinks and Whites

Alain Jaume Domaine Grand Veneur Cotes du Rhone rosé - $14.95 – As summer rolls on, here’s another nice selection for the back deck.

Ken Forrester Chenin Blanc 2011-$17.95 – Last year’s release was very good. A refreshing, light  accompanyment to grilled tuna, or grilled veggies in goat cheese perhaps.

The Reds

If you’re a fan of reasonably priced Cabs, three leap out at me.

Santa Carolina Reserve de Famiglia Cab Sauv $17.95 (139 cases) and Montes Alpha Cab Sauv $19.95 – (1009 cases)  Two different takes on the same wine from  two different Chilean vintners. Both are good for the price and will accompany anything on the ‘Q.

D’Arenberg The High Trellis Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 - $19.95 – (319 cases) D’Arenberg seems to have fallen on hard times over the last few years. Their Dead Arm certainly does not generate the excitement it once did. The High Trellis continues to provide ample pleasure around the BBQ and is well priced.

Zonte’s Footsteps ‘The Lake Doctor’ Shiraz Viognier 2010 – (639 cases) A bargain at $16.95

Barone Riccasoli Rocco Guiciarda  Chianti Classico 2010 –$24.95  (599 cases) Always a nice food wine. On its own, less than thrilling but with a meal, it shines. Decant it for sure.

Big Bucks

St. Hallet Blackwell Shiraz - $34.95 – (383 cases of 6) Ignore the James  Halliday score, as usual it’s just too good to be true. However, the wine is a big bruiser that’ll provide ample pleasure in the right context and in the right crowd.

Raymond reserve Selection Cabernet $37.95 – Quality from Cali.

Cameron Hughes Lot 257 Cabernet - $34.95. Did you like their Lot 285? If so, try this one. If not, save your $$’s.