Classic Wines

Move over cabernet, this one is all about California Zinfandel. Among the extremely popular varietals produced by California, Zinfandel is one of the most dominant. Not to be confused with white zinfandel, zinfandel is a fruity red style that can also pack a punch of complexity. Tune in to this week's episode as Brian compares two distinctly different zinfandels from California. Tasted in today's episode are the Benson Ferry Vineyards 2006 95240 Lodi Old Vine Zinfandel and the M. Cosentino 2005 Zinfandel Cigarzin.

Host Brian Freedman gets vertical this week as he tries out two Pessagno Chardonnays. Pessagno is a well respected establishment that hails from the Monterey and San Benito counties of California. Focusing on back-to-back years, 2005 and 2006, Brian is able to analyze the different flavor profiles a year's difference can produce. Tasted in this episode of ClassicWines TV are the Pessagno 2005 Sleepy Hollow Vineyard Chardonnay, and the Pessagno 2006 Lucia Highlands Vineyard Chardonnay.

California may be most well known for Cabernet Sauvignon, but host Brian Freedman doesn't want you to forget about the Pinot Grigio either. Pitting two California Pinot Grigio's against each other, Brian examines a significant contrast in production style, and how that comes through on the palate. Sampled today are the Estancia 2007 Pinot Grigio and the Tangent 2006 Pinot Gris.

What's your favorite California wine? Join us this week as we compair two wines from California in The Classic Wines Wine Showdown. The Miner Viognier with an aroma of marzipan, apricots and orange blossoms or The Cline Viognier with a more subtle taste. It's a tough decision for most but we can count on our own Brian Freedman to help you find the answers.

Pinot Noir and salmon is a truly classic combination. But how well will a Pinot stand up to other flavors on the plate? In this episode, Brian explains why Pinot is one of the most versatile pairing partners around, and how its flavors change depending on what you're enjoying it with.