Tobin James Sangiovese

[Innkeeper]

1999 Tobin James, 7th Heaven, Paso Robles, Sangiovese ($18). Lots of fresh berry fruit on the nose and tongue tip. More mature fruit, high acidity, mild oak, and smooth tannin across the palate. Feisty finish. We mated it with Italian sausage, penne in thick tomato sauce, garlic bread, and salad.

Excellent wine that came in with the fall shipment from the James Gang. To join call: 805-239-2204.

[Innkeeper]

2000 Tobin James, Paradiso, Paso Robles, Sangiovese ($18). Came with the Spring '03 shipment. So with a suitable rest, decided to pop it with a tomato, pesto, and feta cheese, white pizza tonight. It was very nice with juicy black berries, a hint of earthiness, nice acid, smooth as a baby's behind, and a pleasant finish. Everything was super.

Having said that, don't normally recommend $18 wines with pizza! Fact is that the wine was no better than many $10-$12 Chianti Classicos we've had lately.


[This message has been edited by Innkeeper (edited 05-21-2003).]

[Kcwhippet]

You're starting to sound a bit disallusioned with Toby's products there, IK. This isn't the first post to mention such frustrations.

[Innkeeper]

Well, I was not disappointed with this one, just thought it was overpriced compared with the competition. Was disappointed with the reserve chardonnay, and the journeyman merlot (Made in the Shade).

They like everyone else should stick to their knitting. Their zins, cabs, syrahs, blends, petite sirahs, dessert wines and others are still outstanding.

[Kcwhippet]

Totally agree.