CA: Wineries wait, worry of possible smoke taint

Red wine aficionados love flowery descriptions for what swirls in their globed glasses. When sniffing and swishing they may detect “delicate, balanced tannins,” a “hint of leather” or a “bouquet of ripe currants.” Unfortunately, the 2016 vintage from grapes grown in Cachagua Valley high above Carmel Valley may bring less palatable tasting notes such as “smoked meat, “campfire” or “dirty ashtray.” Not good.