Here’s a decent, everyday sipper in a full-bodied red wine. It’s dry enough to accompany a steak or roast, with modest berry flavors that turn astringent on the finish. Perfect for backyard gatherings where barbecue is the theme.——S.H.(2/1/2004)—— 84

From Chalone’s second label. A perfectly acceptable wine with lots of up-front fruity flavors and quite a bit of elegant structure for this price. It’s dry, round and supple, and has a surprising edge of quality and depth. You have to hand much of the credit to the excellent vintage, which aids all wines, not just expensive ones. ——S.H.(5/1/2001)—— 85