Reserve wines

[PinotEnvy]

I was at the wine shop the other day and came accross Castle Rock 2003 Reserve Russian River Valley Pinot Noir (about $13 on sale). Figuring that I did like the regular version, I bought a bottle to give it a try next weekend when I have the time to enjoy it. What should I expect out of Reserve that sets it apart from their standard bottle?

Thanks in advance.

[winoweenie]

Not familiar with the Castle Rock but most Reserve wines are either grapes from their premium vineyards, selected lots of their best barrels, or the grapes from the oldest vines, or a combination of the above. It is also normally kept in barrel for an extended time. Ww

[Innkeeper]

The "Reserve" notation on American wine bottles officially means nothing. There has been some effort over the years to codify it, but without success.

Having said that, when a winery puts out two bottlings that include both a reserve and a plain ole, the reserve is usually a better wine. It will always be more expensive. There are other wineies that put "Reserve" or "Reserve Proprietors Choice" on all their bottles.

[RJonesUSC]

"...the reserve is usually a better wine. It will always be more expensive."
I can definitely say that neither was true when I bought that horrible Mondavi Cab a while back.

[Thomas]

Reserve wines, I believe, beging with the intent of them being the better product, but quite often they turn out way too oaky for me.

I remember a Beringer Reserve a few years back that got all kinds of accolades, but to me it was a moist toothpick.

Hey ww, i tried phoning you back yesterday--nada.

[This message has been edited by foodie (edited 02-21-2005).]

[Innkeeper]

Did say "usually" Mr Jones. Even though I'm not a ratings fan, have seen from time to time reserve wines from a given winery rated below the regular bottling from same. That is "unusual" though.

[winoweenie]

Hi RJJones and you said the Mondavi Reserve was horrible? What vintage was that? Been drinking the Reserves from this reliable supplier since the 1970 vintage and have NEVER found one that was " Horrible". Describe the problem if you have time. WW

[RJonesUSC]

I must be mistaken...that can't be right. It must have been another wine that happened with. [img]http://www.wines.com/ubb2/confused.gif[/img]

I apologize for any confusion and misinformation.