Here are some new wines to hit the shelves…

Chehalem Pinot Blanc 2007
Dundee Hills, Oregon
13.0% alcohol
Est. Price: $20.00

Winery says…
From our newest plantings at Stoller Vineyard, there is excellent ripeness and clean flavors. Experiments have developed a process that combines classic Alsace-textured and Kaiserstuhl-ripe characteristics, showing a purity of fruit, lushness and huge weight on the palate. We think we’ve found the key to making predictably complex wines from a potentially monochromatic variety.

Critics say…
90 pts Wine Spectator

FSW students say… “Yawn…”
C+

Star Lane Sauvignon Blanc
Santa Ynez Valley, CA
13.5% alcohol
Est. Price: $16.99

Winery says…
Stainless steel bring vivid aromas of wild thyme, gooseberries, guava and nectarine, while some wood contributes lots of rich lemon curd and lemon drop. On the palate, the lots fermented in tank and stainless barrels bring poise and vibrancy to the belnd and the barrel fermented lots offer a mouthfeel marked by bottomless concentration.

Critics say…
90 pts. Connoisseur’s Guide to CA Wines

FSW students say…
C 

Schug Pinot Noir 2008
Sonoma Coast
13.5% alcohol
Est. Price: $19.99

Winery says…
This classic Carneros region Pinot Noir offers a wide range of flavors and aromas, in the tradition of the finest red Burgundies of France. This is a complex wine with a rich bouquet of cherries, berries and hints of spicy new oak. It has flavors reminiscent of black cherry, currant and strawberry, followed by a rich, spicy texture and long silky finish.

Critics say…
94 pts, Wine Review Online

FSW students say…
B+

Kunin Zinfandel 2007
Paso Robles, CA
15.6% alcohol
Est. Price: $19.99

Winery says…
Sweet, bright red fruit and spice in the nose (almost candied,) with the same candied fruits and spice on the palate. Full-flavored but not heavy, the wine has medium tannins, and its acidity and intensity of fruit support the medium-long finish.

Critics say…
90 pts, International Wine Cellar

FSW students say…
B-

Alexander Valley Syrah 2007
Alexander Valley, CA
14.0% alcohol
Est. Price: $17.99

Winery says…
Estate-grown grapes give depth and character to this medium-bodied Syrah. Small lot, whole berry fermentation contributes bright fruitiness and aging in toasty French and American oak barrels for 14 months adds finesse and richness. A bit of Viognier is blended with the Syrah to increase aromatics. Beautiful blackberry and blueberry flavors along with smokiness and spice.

Critics say…
90 pts, Connoisseur’s Guide to CA Wines
Robert Parker’s Wine Bargains “The World’s Best Wine Values Under $25.”

FSW students say…
A-