Robert Foley Vineyards: 2006, 2007, 2008

Bob Foley's reds are definitely rock 'n' roll. I spent a morning with the energetic winemaker late last year at his mountain winery tasting a range of his wines, and I was surprised to hear that he was a seriously good lead guitarist. Tasting his reds, like his fabulous Merlot or intense Charbono, is like listening to a serious guitar riff from a number of my rocking friends. Think Alex Lifeson from Rush and not Noel Gallagher of Oasis (I like both of their music by the way).

Anyway, Foley's reds are definitely full throttle and at the limit of balance for me. But the top ones, like his Merlot, entice you with their full throttle and intense fruit vibe. I am less impressed with Foley's clarets, although I know that they are his most popular wines.

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** The Griffin 2008 was tasted but not rated