These are the Top 10 wines I sampled in 2005. While the specific vintages may be hard to find, the producers are generally consistent from year to year.
1. Rosenblum Rockpile Road Zinfandel, 2003
Port-like in style, but subtle with a long, long finish
2. Chehalem 3 Vineyard Pinot Noir, 2002
From the Williamette Valley, perfect balance and structure
3. Carmody McKnight Cabernet Sauvignon, 2001
From Paso Robles, an outstanding Cab and a great value
4. Clos Saint-Jean Chateauneuf-du-Pape, 1998
Velvet-smooth gem from the Southern Rhone
5. Rosenblum Pickett Road Petite Syrah, 2000
Blackberry jam, dark toast and vanilla flavors
6. Sterling Silver Lake Pinot Noir, 2000
A special bottling from a consistent Napa producer
7. Chateau Souverain Sauvignon Blanc, 2004
Excellent with crab cakes, shrimp and lobster
8. Chateau Cap de Faugeres Bordeaux, 2000
Terrific value from a classic vintage
9. Brophy Clark Pinot Noir, 2001
From San Luis Obispo, a vibrant burst of cherries
10. Yalumba Viognier, 2004
Nutmeg flavors dominate this robust white
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