originally posted on winodepot.com
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Date: January 26, 2005
Winery: Gemstone Vineyard
Winemaker: Philippe Melka
Consultant: Pam Starr
Tasting: Not open to public
Philippe Melka was just recently hired to take over the winemaking post, with Pam Starr going back to the consultant role. Proprietor Paul Frank, pf.gemstone, makes occassional appearance on this board.
2003 Facets Chardonnay
Eatate grown fruit made with 50% new oak and 50% malo. White peach and star fruit aroma. Good acidity and fruit balance. Spicy oak is apparent on the palate but not overpowering. Finish of cappuccino foam. Likely in a bit of bottle shock still, but should turn out to be a beautiful wine in a few month.
2000 Gemstone
Black fruits, cigar box, bayleaf and cedar wood cabinet. Supple, soft medium cherries with well intergrated tannin. Not an overpowering or blockbuster wine, just a very well made and refined Bordeaux style blend, especially considering the vintage.
2001 Gemstone
Stone, mineral, tobacco, black cherries, blackberries and bayleaf. The wine opened up dramatically 45 minutes after the cork was pulled. A beautiful melody with layers upon layers of intricate flavors dances on the palate. Finish of coffee grounds and dark chocolate that just lingers on.
2002 Gemstone
Blackberries, violet and a touch of mint. Sweeter profile than the 2001 release. Firm tannin that needs time to soften a bit. Can use a few more month in the bottle to work out the kinks. read more