The wines of the United States of America

Many of the following wines may be unfamiliar so we have, in some cases, used quotes from Robert Parker Jnr, the highly regarded American wine critic, to guide you through these wonderful and truly artisinal winemakers. Quite literally, due to both high domestic demand and tiny production, some of these wines are available in miniscule quantities

Lander Jenkins, California

Winemaker Steve Reud provided the inspiration for Lander Jenkins Spirit Hawk Cabernet Sauvignon and Spirit Hawk Chardonnay.

"Years ago, while inspecting anewly planted vineyard, a hawk appeared overhead. It wasn't a rare or unusual occurence but it made a particularly strong impression on me that morning: this was his vineyard as well as ours.

These are the insights that keep us commited to employing the most environmentally beneficial practices. And the land rewards us with the highest quality, most flavourful wines."

Lander Jenkins wines are sourced from vineyards in select North Coast, Monterey County and the Central Valley.

Produced using sustainable methods of viticulture including organic growing conditions, this estate yields a pair of rich varietals. The lightly oaked Chardonnay has abroad palate filled with ripe tropical fruit. The Cabernet has a warming firm character, perfect with red meats.

Rutherford Estate

The Van Asperen family established the Round Hill Winery in 1977. Using coastal fruit for the Round Hill labelled wines, which is organically grown, they produce high quality wines with good structure and excellent balance.

Andrew Quady, Madera

Andrew Quady is a dessert wine specialist. His Elysium and Essensia wines are excellent with ripe, fruit driven flavours and lightly fortified style they have great body and depth. The Starboard is a play on words, a Port style wine from California.

Predator Wines, Lodi

There is being organic and then there is going the extra mile to ensure no chemical pesticides are used in the vineyards. Encouraging Ladybirds to flourish on your vines, thus eating the aphids and mites that would damage the foliage is the extra step. this powerful and luscious Zinfandel receives such protection from natural "body" guards. Great with even the most robust foods.

Shafer Vineyards, Napa

Typically solid Merlot with great depth and concentration and an elegant Chardonnay highlight their stature.

Cuvaison Estate, Carneros

Wonderfully sited ranch, well worth a visit if you are stateside. For California this wine is relatively good value, full of character and complexity after eight months in French oak.

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