Michel Slumberger

The most notable thing about this winery is the layout of the grounds. The main building encircles a long courtyard with fountains. The tasting rooms are small and intimate, with outdoor patios surrounded by sweet-smelling flora. The surroundings belie the character of the wines, which over very delicate and minerally, in the typical style of a French Bordeaux. Moreover, the clownish atmosphere of the staff and the patrons (of which there were scores) may have tainted our following opinions. The quality wines were being tasted in the reserve tasting, but they weren't worth anywhere near the price they were listed at. I won't bother to embarrass them by listing them, here.

This was our second outing to Michel Slumberger; the first was five years before. My impression hasn't changed...

2007 Cabernet Sauvignon/Syrah blend

Very tannic. Would not purchase. Has to lay down for 10 years.

2007 Estate Cabernet Sauvignon

Notes of blueberry pie, but a confusing cab; still tannic (2 -year lay down)

2006 Dry Creek Valley Pinot Noir

Great nose, but lacked flavor with a flat palate; barely simple.

2006 Dry Creek Valley Merlot "Le Sage"

Very tannic - hid the fruit. Might be good in 3-4 years.

1992 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Dry Creek Valley

Smooth with a good backbone. Tobacco, dried black fruits with a nose reminiscent of a merlot.

1993 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Dry Cree Valley

More dried fruit with good tannic balance; so integrated that it's hard to distinguish fruits.

1996 Reserve Cab Dry Creek Valley

No nose, but nice palate. A little stringent and green; won't likely improve to strong fruit. Very minerally.

2000 Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon Dry Creek Valley

Balanced and accessible.