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As you may have read, I’m a great fan of the Balboa Candy Mountain Sangiovese. I bought all I could find. And in an uncharacteristically generous holiday spirit, I took some to our office Christmas party. Of course, surrounded in this community by winemakers and wine lovers, there was quite a collection of bottles on the counter already.

The Balboa was soon finished off, but there were more joys in the evening than I thought possible. A taste of the 2006 Va Piano Cabernet Sauvignon. Justin Wylie (owner/winemaker) hand delivered a bottle and stuck around for a few moments to chat. I look forward to trying this wine in 2010. This is one that is set up to age beautifully, so keep a few bottles around. Don’t sip it all down right now.

Several California reds were sampled. Of these the Lucas & Lewellen 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon from Santa Barbara County was the hit of the party. I actually overheard one of the doctors say it might be his favorite wine… ever. So props to Stacy from American Winery who brought the California wines.

The last of the reds opened was a Colvin 2002 Allegresse. The last bottle. Elegant nose, rich and full mouthfeel with some coffee, lots of berries and just enough spice. Good finish. Since Colvin Vineyards closed its doors there won’t be any more of this beautiful blend. It will be missed.

So the party went well, a good time was had by all, and we look forward to Christmas and the New Year. In the meantime, we’ll keep trying new wines… and sharing.