I would consider myself a fan of Blackstone wines. I'm particularly fond of their Merlot, and I also adore all of the Hayman & Hill wines. Granted, H&H isn't Blackstone, but Dennis Hill of Blackstone teamed up with David Hayman for that venture. At any rate, the exciting news is that Blackstone Winery has launched a new tier of wines that "seeks to express the diversity and richness of Sonoma County." The Chardonnay, Merlot, and Pinot Noir are available now. Rubric, which is a Bordeaux-style blend will be released some time in the fall. Curious for a taste?

2005 Sonoma Reserve Chardonnay - Suggested Retail Price $16.99 Fruit was sourced primarily from vineyards in the cool climate areas of Russian River Valley and Carneros, with small percentages drawn from the Sonoma Coast. The aromas of fresh apple, pineapple, nutmeg and lemon curd are supported with luscious flavors of pear, butterscotch and toasted cashew nut. 100% barrel fermented, this wine was aged for 12 months in small French oak barrels.

2005 Sonoma Reserve Merlot - Suggested Retail Price $16.99 The regions of Russian River Valley, Dry Creek Valley and Sonoma Valley were considered ideal for the 2005 vintage. Primary fruit aromas of raspberry, plum and black currant are supported by flavors of clove, vanilla and a hint of earthiness. Aged in a combination of French and American oak for 12 to 14 months prior to bottling.

2005 Sonoma Reserve Pinot Noir - Suggested Retail Price $18.99 The Sonoma Coast and Russian River Valley regions were selected as the primary fruit resources for this inaugural release. Brimming with aromas of dried cherries, dark plum, layered dark fruits and cranberry, the wine is supported by fine cedary oak and supple, silky tannins. Aged for 12 months in French oak, this wine will improve with further short term cellaring.

2005 Sonoma Reserve "Rubric" - Suggested Retail Price $18.99 A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon with components of Syrah, Cabernet Franc and Petite Sirah, Blackstone's signature Bordeaux-style red blend exudes layered flavors of black tea, plum and other dark luscious fruit. Matured in a combination of French and American oak barrels, this inaugural release will drink well now or benefit from short term cellaring.

For more information on these wines, including tasting notes, visit Blackstone Winery online.