Michael Zimberg
Mikey's first memory of wine was age 8 when he tried a red Burgundy that tasted like the "velvet britches of Jesus."
Mikey has an amazing sense of taste and always knows the perfect thing to drink--whether it's beer, champagne, scotch or wine. How does he know? I swear, Mikey, just KNOWS.
Experiencing the world through food and libations is a blast with Mikey. Each night, another adventure. Woohoo! Let the fun begin.
Note from Mikey: I apply a grade-school type grade to wine based on its current value. A $100 wine should rock, conversation can only center on the wine. A $50 wine should be as memorable as a beautiful work of art. A $10 wine I enjoy might get an A grade, while a $75 wine that is better (relatively) gets a B- because it is weaker than some $75 wines. Region and rarity also play a factor. Something that is fun to try because it is different may merit a higher grade.
"Mikey's Grade" is a trademark of independent wine reviewer Michael Zimberg, and does not represent the views or opinions of ClassicWines.com, LLC.
Columns written by Michael Zimberg
2002 Rex Hill Pinot Southern Oregon
Written By: Michael Zimberg on Thursday, July 3, 2008
Complex nose of earth, mushrooms, and pine needles. Somewhat closed and austere. With more fruit would be great. It has all the other elements. Drink up- don't think this will improve. Maybe a bad bottle? Not enjoyable.
Mikey's Grade
"Mikey's Grade" is a trademark of independent wine reviewer Michael Zimberg, and does not represent the...read more
2004 Artadi Vinas de Gain
Written By: Michael Zimberg on Wednesday, July 2, 2008
Rockin. Tastes expensive. Lovely velvet, graphite, mocha and cedar make up the very complex nose. Lush and expansive on the palate, with long, smooth tannins. Very well put together. I am a fan. Still needs more time. With my wife's salmon with spiced red wine.
Mikey's Grade
"Mikey's Grade" is a trademark of independent wine reviewer...read more
2004 Pine Ridge Crimson Creek Merlot
Written By: Michael Zimberg on Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Full, dark ruby. Lively, subdued pretty small berries and tell-tale leather. A pretty, more feminine style of Merlot. Lots of tannins and acid in on the finish, however, but integrated well. Not very Californian. Works well with a steak. Will improve with a few more years in the cellar.
Mikey's Grade
"Mikey's Grade" is a trademark of...read more

Michael Zimberg has intuition when it comes to wine. Somehow, some way, he is able to spot the best deals and the best food and wine pairings. Mikey's wife, Jill, attributes it to a naturally well-defined sense of taste and smell, combined with a healthy dose of experience. Whatever it is, his reviews shouldn't be missed.
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