Chablis Vaulorent Premier Cru Domaine William Fevre 2008 (France)

This wine was a suggestion from whom I deem as my Wine Guru. We waited till Christmas to open this wine as it was $52 per bottle and very special occasion wine.

This is a French Chablis, Chardonnay Varietal and un-oaked of course so you really taste the grape. Chablis Premier Cru is a classification of the Chablis white wine appellation of Burgundy. As some of you may know Burgundy is a historic and highly respected wine-producing region of eastern France. Appellation encompasses the wine and labeling laws of a particular geographical area, including a defined regional boundary with specifications outlining vineyard and winery practices. In many traditional wine-growing countries, such as France, the appellation may also indicate the quality and style of wine. Wines made under the title Chablis Premier Cru are from vineyards identified as producing wines of higher quality than those classified simply as Chablis.

Now that we have a bit of French wine knowledge, on to the review. When we first opened this bottle we had all the anticipation of a $52 bottle of wine. The color was a delicate straw yellow. The nose was very tart, like grapefruit, lemons and a touch of persimmon. Perhaps a bit off-putting to some. I was unsure myself. The first thing you notice that is different from New World Chardonnay from California, Chile and other Wine Countries, is the amount of acidity on the palate. On the Palate this wine had a lot more acidity than other wines I have had and if your Palate is not used to French Chablis you will have to dig a bit deeper to understand this wine and allow it time to express itself to you. I took a moment, tasted and sniffed and swirled my glass a bit more and flavors of very fresh citrus, grapefruit and lemon and that of very tart oranges came forward. The finish is long and fairly acidic but never the less a very elegant wine and not for every palate.

Domaine William Fevre is a young wine and will continue to improve and become increasingly balanced over the next decade. Chablis are known for being food wines and the acidity would integrate well with seafood dishes, salads and several cheeses.

How to read a French Wine Label, not true with every bottle but perhaps this will help some.

   

Marco Felluga Pinot Grigio 2010 (Italy)

This wine was a recommendation and a great one! Italian Pinot Grigio from Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Italy.

On the pour this wine was yellow in color and had an intense bouquet of acacia and jasmine on the nose with a hint of apple. On the palate this wine was elegantly fruity, full bodied with flavors of melon, citrus and white peach. Well structured with a velvety texture, which I love! This wine had a remarkably long luscious finish. I served this wine Christmas Day with Bacon Wrapped Scallops, Shrimp Scampi and an array of cheeses. The pairing was great and I think this wine would pair well with many light to medium light dishes.

The Marco Felluga family estate founded in 1950 by Marco Felluga in Gradisca d'Isonzo, a fortified citadel of the former Venetian Republic. Today Marco’s son Roberto heads the family’s Marco Felluga and Russiz Superiore wineries. Felluga controls over 250 acres of vineyards, most of which are family owned and operated, within the Collio DOC. The vineyards are planted on layers of sandstone, limestone and clay at an elevation of 262 feet. Marco Felluga employs integrated pest management in the vineyards, working with nature to protect the environment. White wines are filtered before fermentation at controlled temperatures in stainless steel tanks. A percentage of white and red wines are refined in wooden casks. The winemaker Rafaella Bruno employs the latest technologies, while respecting tradition.

Sincero Tempranillo (Spain)

This wine is 100% Tempranillo and from Spain and hales from the Ribera del Duero region. Tempranillo is Spain's most planted grape and its most famous grape. This grape is known for making some of the best wines in Spain, the top (3) regions that make the best Tempranillo are: Rioja, Ribera del Duero and Toro, where it is called "Tinta de Toro". It makes bold red wines that offer plenty of fruit, tobacco, leather and vanilla and is usually made to last many years in the cellar.

Tempranillo came from the word Temprano, which means early. Tempranillo grapes ripen about two weeks early than the other major grapes in Spain which include Grenache and Syrah.

I purchased this wine at an International wine shop where wine from every region is plentiful and at many price points. That day however there was a wine tent sale and I was able to get some really great wines at excellent prices and this wine happened to be one of them. I think I paid $7, what a steal but it was on sale.  

When I opened this wine the color was dark and rich, what I anticipate in a red wine. The aromas were cedar, spice, black cherry and a hint of leather. On the palate this wine was powerful and rich and had grit, just what I like in a red wine. It has intense flavors of dark fruits and spice with earthy/minerality. Just the right amount of tannins with good structure and a nice long finish.

Mark West 2010 Pinot Noir (California)

After trying the Mart West Chardonnay I thought I might as well try the Pinot Noir so I picked up a bottle for Christmas Eve, at $13 per bottle.

On the pour this wine was light bright red, I actually was taken back a bit as I expected a dark more rich color from a Pinot Noir, that is what I get for anticipating! On the nose, this Pinot is heavily perfumed exuding strong floral aromas that seem to overpower hints of black cherry or blackberry and even the smoky oak found in many Pinot Noirs. That is not a bad thing and actually it was quite a nice aroma. On the palate there is a lot of juice, ripe berry, maybe even some jamminess. The juice fades to a bit of tartness with medium acidity and mild tannins. There is allot of fruit on the finish some might find disappointing after such a forceful impression, however it was fairly nice if you want an easy drinking un-complicated Pinot Noir.

Mark West 2010 Chardonnay (California)

I had passed this Chardonnay over many times, I guess it just did not speak to me. I wanted an inexpensive Chardonnay to serve and so I picked up a bottle, cost was around $13 per bottle, not to bad.

The color was straw yellow, typical Chardonnay color. On the nose there were aromas of lemon grass, melon and a hint of vanilla. On the palate this wine was fruit forward, well balanced, fresh and clean with flavors of gooseberries, oak and a touch of citrus. Not bad for an everyday Chardonnay, easy drinking, perhaps even a bit more bold than a typical Chardonnay.

Eroica Riesling 2010 (Washington)

I am sure many of you are familiar with Chateau Ste Michelle winery in Washington. This is one of their Riesling wines, they have others but this is more dry, although it does not state Dry Riesling on the bottle the alcohol content is a good indication. The higher the alcohol the more dry the wine. I am not a sweet wine drinker and I was skeptical about this wine but it was pretty good and I would buy it again.


In this glass this wine was a pale yellow. The nose was crisp, floral and fruity. On the palate this wine was light body a bit tannic at first with notes of jasmine, melon, citrus such as lime and clementine orange. I served this wine with spicy tacos which was not to bad but would pair well with spicy tuna, goat cheese and sushi much better. Long fruity finish, easy to drink and after a bit of air it was smooth.

Interesting fact:  Eroica was named after one of Beethoven's Famous Symphonies by the same name, Eroica

Incognito Red Blend 2008 (California)

I had this wine at a Holiday Party, not too bad! It is a blend of 21% Syrah, 18% Carigan, 18% Cinsault, 13% Tannat, 11% Souzon, 10% Cabernet Franc, 6% Mourvedre, 3% Petite Sirah......whew long list of reds and yes they mingle well. At around $15 to $20 per bottle depending on where you purchase it I think it is a great holiday wine and should satisfy the taste of any red wine drinker and will pair well with an array of foods.

On the pour this wine is a deep red, great indication this wine is a blend at least in my experience. On the nose it tends to open the more you swirl and as it warms, it has the spice as any Syrah and Petite Sirah, a bit of smoke and dried cranberry. On the palate this wine exhibits many layers from jammy fruit to spice and a bit of smoky clove. The finish is smooth and the tannins are soft. While I like a wine that is a bit more complex and makes you think all in all this wine was not to bad for an easy drinking red. You can't have a slap you in the face magnificent wine everyday!

Meet my good friends Rita and Ken, notice Rita has a glass of wine, Incognito Red Blend to be exact, and a cup of coffee, she made me laugh! Perhaps she will comment on this post and give us her opinion of the wine as well. It was a great party with friends and a bit of John Denver to sooth the soul.

Michael David winery located in Lodi California make several wines you might be familiar with such as 7 Deadly Zins, 6th Sense Syrah, Earthquake, 7 Heavenly Chards and many more. Check them out online at http://www.michaeldavidwinery.com/



Guenoc Cabernet Sauvignon 2010 (California)

I have tried other Guenoc wines and really enjoyed them so I decided to try the Cabernet Sauvignon, not bad for $12.99.

In this glass this wine was dark red, which is always a good sign. On the nose, big blackberry, currents, black pepper and spice with a bit of vanilla.
On the palate this wine was wonderfully mouth filling with flavors of dark cherry, earth and spice. A bit tannic at first but with time to breath it opens up a bit and the tannins diminish. This was a surprisingly complex wine for it's price for under twenty dollars. Nice lingering finish with hints of mocha.

Guenoc wines are a trademark name of Langtry Estate and Vineyards which straddles both Lake and Napa Counties in the Guenoc Valley. Langtry has different wine families at different price points. Lake County Guenoc and Guenoc to name a couple. They are one of California's top producers of Petite Sirah and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Liberty School Cuvee 2007 (California)

The folks at Liberty School believe that the Central Coast of California is perfect for Rhone varietals. If their 2007 Cuvee is any indication, I say they’re right. A cuvee is a blend, and this wine is a blend of Syrah, Petite Sirah, Grenache, Mourvèdre and Viognier.

I tasted the wine at three intervals, right after I opened it, after 10 minutes of air and after 30 minutes of air. While it definitely opened and changed, it was fairly consistent throughout.

The wine was a dark inky purple, and the cork bottom was almost black. At first, the nose had a very meaty bouquet, with a note of cocoa and spices. It had a great lush mouth feel, and after 10-30 minutes there were dark berries balanced with some earth and nice leather notes on the palate. The wine was definitely dry, though not very tannic. Towards the end I started to taste secondary notes on the finish of spiced cherry pie and smoke, with a finish that lingered. At a price point of around $15 it is a definite wine to try!

We paired this wine with Rosemary Roasted Cornish Hens, we were thinking Pinot Noir but this wine paired quite well and I think would even pair well with hamburgers or other grilled meats!

What I enjoyed most about the wine was how it captured the essence of old world Rhone wines, with a touch of new world finesse and approachability.

Red Guitar Old Vine Tempranillo/Garnacha 2008 (Spain)

I am reluctant to even write a review on this wine, however when I started this blog I decided I would write the good, the bad and the ugly about wines I tried so here it goes.

I opened the bottle anticipating a nice Tempranillo/Garnacha blend  as I have had many that were less expensive and enjoyed them. This wine retailed around $14.99 per bottle.

The color was a light red. The aromas were horrible, smelled like a dirty locker-room or worse but I wont go there. Since smell is ninety percent of taste I was concerned to even tip my glass to sip this wine but I did. Now the taste was not as bad as the smell but the aromas were so offensive it was hard to get past, in fact I could not get past it. The palate was flat, no structure whatsoever and absolutely no redeeming qualities. Bad bottle? Perhaps, I suppose any number of things could have happened to make this wine smell as horrible as it does but I wont waste my money again on another vintage to find out.

I have read other reviews about this wine, same vintage that were nothing like my review and the writers seemed to enjoy the wine and gave it good press so try it for yourself and see what you think. Everyone tastes wine different and feel free to write your comments and your experience.

Laird Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 (California)

We purchased this wine on a recommendation from a friend and fellow wine lover. I have tasted many Laird wines and have never been disappointed so I was not afraid to try it! Laird Family Estates is in Napa California.

On the pour this wine was deep red with aromas of cocoa and spice on the nose and hints of vanilla pipe tobacco. Fruit forward palate with black cherry and current, subtle notes of blackberry jam, plum and chocolate with a bit of herb. Lingering finish with earthy notes. Full bodied, soft tannins and easy to drink!

I served this wine with maple glazed baked ribs and garlic mashed potatoes and it paired very well.

  http://lairdfamilyestate.com/

Earthquake Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 (California)

I was really surprised by this one. If you read my blog you know I am not a Cabernet Sauvignon fan and it takes a pretty special Cab. to get my attention and this one did!   

In the glass this wine is deep purple, the aromas are bold and open with blackberry, coffee and cinnamon. On the palate this wine is full-bodied, flavorful with wild black current, coffee, chocolate and spices. You keep wanting to sip it. I really liked this Cabernet.

Earthquake is vinted by Michael & David Phillips

from Lodi California.

Cline Mourvedre 2010 (California)

I purchased this wine as I enjoy many of the Cline wines and I really wanted to try their Mourvedre. The pairing was not half bad either, nachos. I was working late and wanted to make a quick dinner but I wanted a nice wine and they seemed to work together quite well.

On the pour this wine was dark red. The aroma was very nice, black raspberry and plum. Continuing to swirl my glass there were some herbal notes and hints of cocoa. On the Palate this wine has great ripe and juicy fruits. Cherry, raspberry and plum but as it warms and opens the cherry really come forth and has definite plum. There is a hint of spice and chocolate in the middle and on the finish, followed by a slight bit of smokey oak.

Kimmel Merlot 2008 (California)

I opened this bottle with all the anticipation I had for the 2007 Kimmel Merlot and I was again amazed. Like a fine wine one would find stored in a old wine cellar awaiting it's debut. To describe this wine in one word, Stimulating.


Liquid ruby in a glass, all my senses came alive as I swirled and sniffed this gorgeous wine. The aromas were immense, leather, cedar and the faintest smell of a fine cigar. On the palate, many layers and depth with flavors of baked bing cherries, black current, fresh pepper, vanilla and raspberry. Soft tannins, good structure and well balanced. This is a big one and will age well for years to come. Out of all the Merlots I have tried and there have been many Kimmel does it best!

Kimmel Vineyard is located in Mendocino County in Potter Valley, approx 1100 acres of Vineyards. You can visit them on line at

http://kimmelvineyards.com/

or on Face Book at

https://www.facebook.com/#!/KimmelVineyards

  

Chilensis Reserva Chardonnay 2008 (Chile)

100% Chardonnay. From the Maule Valley in Chile. Ahh Chile, how I love their wines! Looking for a nice white, we picked this wine up and thought it sounded interesting and we were not wrong!

On the pour this wine was a vibrant gold color, on the nose fresh tropical fruits mingle with your sences. Guave, green apple and touch of apricot are present. On the palate this wine hums with a bit of butter, melon and vanilla. Medium bodied with a smooth creamy finish. I would purchase this wine again!

Boekenhoutskloof The Wolftrap Red 2010 (South Africa)

This was another wine I had great expectations for as Boekenhoutskloof also makes The Chocolate Block which is an excellent wine, a bit higher in price than The Wolftrap blend but well worth it!

The Wolftrap was around $14 per bottle and I thought not bad, if I don't like it I wont spend allot. I was never really into South African wines much as I never really had one I liked until The Chocolate Block. Needless to say that wine sold me on the idea of South African wines.

This wine is a blend of 65% Syrah, 32% Mourvedre & 3% Viognier. On the pour this wine is dark ruby red and opens with pomegranate and blueberry on the nose. On the palate, this wine is medium bodied, slightly acidic and approachable. The flavor profile is a slightly smoky mild tart cherry with hints of plum and a touch of minerality. A bit spicy with hints of violet. The finish is dry and moderate tannins linger slightly. All in all this not a bad wine, would I purchase it again? Maybe!

Apothic Red Winemakers Blend 2009 (California)

I purchased this wine with great expectations! It was neither great nor bad, at least by my wine standards. This wine is a blend of zinfandel, syrah and merlot.

When I first opened the bottle and poured a glass, the smell was not a slap you in the face intense red blend that I am used too but I proceeded of course. The color was a nice ruby red and the nose was smoky oak and vanilla aromas--and that vanilla aroma is a clue that the wine saw American oak. There was a touch of nutmeg, black cherry and chocolate.
The wine seemed more confused than complex, it did not have the grip I was expecting nor the intense flavors you find in most red blends. That might be my wine snob talking, so please judge for yourself. There was a touch a sweetness, perhaps from all the subtle yet fairly strong berry flavor, strawberry, cherry and plum. Not much finish on this wine but enough it leaves you with a hint of vanilla. Although it appeared unbalanced at first a bit of breathing helped, perhaps even decanting a bit. Many people who enjoy a more delicate red blend would appreciate this wine.

Three Saints Syrah 2008 (California)

I was looking for a nice Syrah when I found this one, it was a pleasant little Syrah.

On the pour this wine was dark inky purple with slight cherry rim. On the nose this wine is clean, fully intense and developing aromas of bright red cherry, red raspberry, light cassis, blackberry and huge blueberry notes with savory baked earth. On the palate this wine has moderate red current, moderate body with flavors of leather, hints of dark coffee and berries. Good balance and structure.

All in all it's a nice wine and I would purchase it again. Needs to be drank by 2014 as as it will not develop further in bottle.

Dierberg Pinot Noir 2007 (California)

What's in a name? That which we call Dierberg Pinot Noir. This is a bit more expensive than your daily Pinot Noir. It retails around $42 a bottle but is well worth the price if you are Pinot Noir fan like me.

In the glass this wine is violet red, lighter around the edges.
On the nose cranberry, faint dark fruits and subtle oak.
Rich, ripe, and deep on the palate, this wine shows cranberry, dark cherry, and raspberry. It’s fresh and balanced, with rich notes of spice, subtle but persistent tannins, and a lasting finish. This is a gorgeously integrated Pinot with rich body and an excellent combination of fruit and subtle earth tones.

Dierberg Vineyard Pinot drinks well now with the most deeply flavored foods, but will reward patient cellaring for decades to come.

 

Cline Ancient Vine Zinfandel 2010 (California)

This is another one of those wines I want more of. As you may or may not know I am a fan of the Ancient Vine, perhaps because the vines are older than most humans alive today, better yet the flavor is usually amazing, bigger, bolder and more spice, at least in my opinion. Old vines produce less clusters and smaller grapes, but with better concentrated flavor.

I love a good Zin for its big flavors. I want it to punch me in the mouth, leaving me with a mouth full of brambles and this wine did it! Simply delicious through the last glass. 

In the glass this wine pours dark rich red with faintly lighter edges. On the nose fat strawberry, dark chocolate and a hint of coffee.
On the palate explosive fruit and spice, a bunch of pepper and the most delightful aftertaste of french vanilla. Just like I like in a Zinfandel. 

The Culprit 2009 Red Wine (California)

This wine is a marriage of 9 different grape varieties Barbera, Cabernet Franc, Grenache, Merlot, Petite Sirah, Primitivo, Sangiovese, Syrah and Zinfandel, whew..now that is a wide variety! From Sonoma County in California.

I purchased this wine on a whim and with a slight suggestion of another wine connoisseur. I paid $19.99 a bottle, not bad for this wine and I really like the little Gargoyle on the bottle.

This wine is big, bold and intense, just what I like in my red wines, especially a red blend. On the pour this wine is deep purple with aromas of blackberry, spice and earth. On the palate it is Full and plush in the mouth with round tannins. Flavors of raspberry, chocolate and a touch of pepper and spice. A great wine to drink by itself or a good pairing for pizza, burgers, roast. Not a wine for the shy!

Cline Viognier 2010 (California)

This is a great little white wine and affordable as well and any great wine that is affordable gets an A plus in my book. I came across this wine via Internet while searching for some great wines I had not tried yet. If only I could try every wine, I suppose that would be a full time job!

This wine is a nice straw color yellow on the pour. The aroma of pear, apricot and orange blossom jump at your nose with a hint of honeysuckle. On the Palate this wine is juicy with a kick of spice, dry white, medium to light bodied. I drank the entire bottle and purchased another. Pairs well with Sushi.

What is Viognier you ask? Good question and I like to explain it as being in between a Pinot Gri, perhaps Sauvignon Blanc and a Chardonnay. Viognier is not as crisp and clean as a Pinot Gri or Sauvignon Blanc but not as buttery or heavy as a Chardonnay.

Unlike most grapes the origin of Viognier is un-known, leaving a bit of mystery. Presumed to be an ancient grape, possibly from Dalmatia (Croatia) and brought to the Rhone Valley in France by the Romans. Ahh the history of it all. The  origin of the name Viognier is also obscure. Vienna, which was a major Roman outpost or perhaps Gehennae, meaning the "Vally of Hell". Probably referring to the difficulty of growing the grape. Viognier was once fairly common. Now it is a rare white grape grown almost exclusively in the northern Rhone Region of France. In 1965, the grape was almost extinct but popularity and price of the wine has risen and the number of plantings has increased in France as well as California.

Kimmel 2007 Merlot (California)

Unlike Miles in Sideways I really like Merlot even though I have had Merlots I am not crazy about, Kimmel Merlot really got my attention! This wine is amazing and gave me a new found LOVE for Merlot.


When I first opened the bottle I could smell the rich berries and Lush aroma of cassis coming forth. On the pour this wine is dark and alluring and pulls you in with intoxicating scents of black cherry and exotic spice. On the Palate this wine fills your mouth with a texture like silk and flavors of ripe plum, chocolate, anise and toasted vanilla. This is indeed the best Merlot I have tasted in years, I am almost afraid to try any other as I fear it will not measure up to this Merlot.


Kimmel Merlot was rated 94 points and is A Gold Medalist from the San Francisco International Wine Competition.

Kimmel Vineyard is located in Mendocino County in Potter Valley, approx 1100 acres of Vineyards. You can visit them on line at

http://kimmelvineyards.com/

or on Face Book at

https://www.facebook.com/#!/KimmelVineyards

2009 Kimmel Chardonnay (California)

I have long been a fan of California wines and when I opened this 2009 Kimmel Chardonnay I remember why. This wine is exquisite, everything about it was amazing. From the color to the nose to the ever so velvety texture of the Palate. This is a wine I will remember and want more of.


On the pour this wine is a light sunlight yellow and on the nose aromas of white peach, green apple and a bit of orange zest fill your glass. I found myself smelling this wine over and over trying to figure out all the sensual aromas. Finally I tasted it and the terroir of California filled my palate. Subtle buttery notes kiss your tongue as you inhale and taste at the same time. Juicy tropical fruits, white peach, melon and a kiss of oak, just enough and not over done so you enjoy the juice of the grape. Well rounded wine with a luscious lingering velvety finish.

Kimmel Vineyard is located in Mendocino County in Potter Valley, approx 1100 acres of Vineyards. They primarily focus on two varietals Chardonnay and Merlot, however in reading their website they have plans for a Cabernet Sauvignon with a release date of 2013. I can't wait! You can visit them on line at

http://kimmelvineyards.com/

or on Face Book at

https://www.facebook.com/#!/KimmelVineyards

Spellbound Petite Sirah 2009 (California)

While wine shopping a few months ago I ran across this wine and yes it spoke to me. I enjoy Petite Sirahs as they are usually big and bold just like I like. This wine did not disappoint!


In the glass this wine is a dark purple, almost black. Even when you swirl the wine very little light passes through. On the nose this wine has intense aromas of blackberry, cherry pie and big ripe juicy plum, the type that leaves juice and fleshy fruit all over your face when you sink your teeth into it with vanilla, pepper and just a touch of prune. On the Palate this wine is bold and fruity with hints of raspberry jam, vanilla and a hint of pepper on the finish. This is a pretty incredible Petite Sirah especially for the price around $15 per bottle and I highly recommend it!


 76% Petite  Sirah 18% Syrah 6% proprietary red wines

Spellbound is a partnership between Robert and Lydia Mondavi, Patti Romano and Geoff Whitman. The partners also own Medusa Wines. Robert is the grandson of the Robert Mondavi who founded Robert Mondavi Wines, so he is no stranger to the industry.

Fonseca 10 Year Old Tawny Port (Portugal)

This wine is a russet in color with brilliant crimson highlights, just beautiful.
On the nose this wine is fragrant with ripe-fruit bouquet. On the palate its smooth, silky in texture and has subtle oak nuances, well balanced and good grip with a long elegant, plummy finish.

Tawny Ports of age will not improve once bottled; they should be served at room temperature or barely cool at the end of a meal with nuts or not overly-sweet desserts. 
Should be refrigerated after it is opened, allow to warm slightly before you serve unless you like it cooler and some people do.  

Like all ports they are wonderful for cooking, maybe a reduced Port sauce over pork or grilled salmon.

Fonseca "Bin 27" Port (Portugal)

Port is a Portuguese fortified wine produced in the Douro Vally of northern Portugal. It is typically a sweet red wine, often served as a dessert wine and comes in dry, semi-dry and white varieties.
Port is also produced outside of Portugal in many other countries.


Fonseca "Bin 27" Port is chocolaty and plush, displaying good concentration with hints of plum, mocha and dark cherry flavors with hints of paprika accents. Very fruity, with raspberry notes, on the finish.

Fortified wine is wine to which a distilled beverage (usually Brandy) has been added. Fortified wine is distinguished from spirits made from wine in that spirits are produced by means of distillation, while fortified wine is simply wine that has had a spirit added to it. Many different styles of fortified wine have been developed, including port and sherry.

Cline CASHMERE 2010 (California)

When you think of Cashmere, you think soft, supple and warm and that is a pretty fair description for this wine as well.

Deep purple in the glass, on the nose this wine is bright and juicy as well as on the Palate. Sweet fruit flavors emphasizing red and dark berries. A hint of spice and mocha on the finish. A red wine for everyone.

Blend of 41% Mourvedre 41% Syrah 18% Grenache

For more information on Cline Vineyards visit http://www.clinecellars.com/ourstory

Terroir

What is Terroir you ask? No it is not a wine but you can taste it in wine. Terroir comes from the word terre "land" a french term used to denote the special characteristics of the land the grapes are grown, the climate, geography etc. For example if grapes are grown near a grove or orange trees or olive trees, perhaps fields of lavender you might tastes these in the wine. If the climate is humid or dry or the soil rich or sandy.

When I think of wine, I think of terroir: I think of the essence of the land, the air, the sun blended together and refined into a thing of utter and wondrous beauty. An especially well-constructed wine transports me in one sip to the dry fields of Ribera del Duero in Spain or the beautiful landscape of  Tuscany in Italy though I have never been to those places, yet!

Over the centuries, winemakers developed the concept of terroir by observing the differences in wines from different regions, vineyards, or even different sections of the same vineyard. Vintners began to use the concept of terroir as a way of describing the unique aspects of a place that influence and shape the wine made from it

While wine experts disagree as to the exact definition, particular consideration is given to the natural elements that are generally considered beyond the control of humans. Some of the components often described as aspects of terroir include climate, soil type, topography and other plants growing in and around the vine plots.

Ercavio Blanco 2009 (Spain)

Being a fan of Spanish wines and having had the Ercavio Tempranillo I had to try this wine and it's a nice litte white wine for the money, normally $10 a bottle I picked this up at a huge once a year wine sale for $5, you can't beat that and I wish I had another bottle!


On the pour this wine is light yellow, looks crisp and clean. The nose brims of pears, a little floral, and some green apple. The palate is crisp and light , with granny smith apples and pears along with some nice mineral notes. Slight tropical note as well. I would refer to this one as sauv blanc light, good with salads, light fish and seafood, or as a patio wine all by itself. It's a easy drinking wine and before you know it the bottle is empty! Needs to be drunk young.

100% Airen grape, this grape is native to Spain and often used as a blending grape

Guenoc Lake County 2010 Sauvignon Blanc (California)

Could there be a better Sauvighon Blanc..perhaps but I have not tasted one. At least not in this price range, roughly $16 per bottle and worth every penny.


This wine blew me away! From the moment I opened the bottle you could smell the fruit, ripe, lush, mouth watering. Just the smell alone was amazing. This is indeed a beautiful wine.


In the glass this wine is a beautiful light green/straw in color and on the nose this wine radiates with intense fruit aromas of tropical fruits, pineapple, guava and a touch of pear. On the palate this wine literally bursts into song on your tongue with mouth watering flavors of white peach, grapefruit and kiwi.

Absolutely the best Sauvignon Blanc I have ever had! This wine haunts me still as to why it so good.

If you wish to experience what I did with this wine, please visit http://langtryestate.ewinerysolutions.com//index.cfm

2006 Poggio San Polo Mezzopane Toscana (Italy)

This wine is a blend of 65% Merlot and 35% Sangiovese


Deep ruby-red in color with aromas of ripe currents, black cherries and violets. On the palate lots of juicy fruit, lush velvety texture and a long intense finish like liquid poetry. I truly enjoy Italian wines and this was an enjoyable wine.

B.R. Cohn Silver Label Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 (California)

When I purchased this wine I was looking for a Cab and this was the recommendation from the shop owner. It was a reluctant purchase as I had never heard anything about the winery.

Ruby red in color and the smell was terrific. On the nose a sort of smoky, red current aroma. On the Palate heavy on the berry, fruit forward full in flavor and a long finish. Improved substially with air, although no decanting needed, it is a ready to pour and enjoy. It is a nice drinking wine, pairs well with steaks and mushrooms

.

Trentadue Block 500 Merlot 2008 (California)

Merlot Alexander Valley Sonoma California.

This wine is garnet red on the pour, very nice color. On the nose very fruity with some spice and a bit of cedar. On the Palate it's fruity and lush with cherry and boysenberry, I get a bit of cigar tobacco but not everyone does. It's a nice wine much as I anticipated it would be.

Some of the characteristics you'll pick up in various Merlots include:
Fruits - plum, cherry, blackcurrant
Lightly oaked - vanilla, coconut
Heavily oaked - smoke, tar, oak
Floral - violet and rose
Spices - mint, caramel, cloves, bay leaves
Bottle age - mushroom, earth, coffee, leather, cigar

2009 Ercavio Tempranillo (Spain)

This is a 100% Tempranillo Roble wine from Bodegas Ercavio in Toledo/La Mancha, Spain.  Ahhh, tempranillo!  Such a seductive varietal, invoking images of rocky, terraced ledges of vineyards clinging to life in a harsh climate that produce wonderful, resilient grapes with concentrated flavors of toasted spice, dark cherry fruit, vanilla, minerality and a hint of smoke.  This is a wine that is bold, yet understated; savory, yet smooth; quaint, yet haunting. Aged in French Oak, highly drinkable and promises to be a treasured possession in any wine cellar, but one that will not remain uncorked for long. 

 

Lunta Malbec 2008 (Argentina)

100% Malbec Mendoza Region

Where do I begin, this wine is gorgeous in the glass, on the nose, on the Palate and at the finish.

On the pour Lunta is a deep rich dark red and on the nose spice, chocolate. lavender and woods. On the Palate there is intense flavors of raspberry, black current (aka Cassis) leather and a hint of balsamic, blackberry and plum on the long alluring finish. Light bodied and brilliant wine!

Excellent wine to drink alone or with food such as roast pork, ribs and maybe a gourmet pizza with Feta and Artichoke.

If you read the back of the bottle you will read a bit more about this wine, which I think is wonderful information. I always did like a wine that has a story, so I always look for the story on the back of the bottle.

This wine is from the southernmost parcel of the Mendoza region in Argentina. The vineyard location is Lujan de Cuyo-3280 feet above sea level and the vineyards were planted in 1928. Does anyone remember what they were doing in 1928? I don't either, lol. So the vines are 83 years old which could make this an old vine wine perhaps, if you think in those terms. What I find interesting is some of the vines that produced this amazing wine are older than most of us today. In most vineyards new vines are planted yearly but they still have the grandparent and in this case the great grandparent vines which started it all.

Stemmari Arancio Nero d'Avola Sicilia 2009 (Italy Sicily)

This was another bottle that spoke to me, of course I asked Stewart
(wine guru) and he recommended it!

This wine pours deep red and is light bodied. On the nose you can smell the fruit, cranberry perhaps. On the Palate this wine is soft with flavors of cranberry, cinnamon a bit of smoke and some violet. Not allot of tannin are present.

I served this wine with stuffed Italian peppers and it was a great pairing. See my full pour...lol!

Nero d'Avola is "the most important red wine grape in Sicily and is one of Italy's most important indigenous varieties. It is named after Avola in the far south of Sicily and its wines are compared to New World Shirazes, with sweet tannins and plum or peppery flavours. It also contributes to Marsala blends.

Kim Crawford 'Unoaked' Chardonnay 2009 (New Zealand)

This wine was a recommendation from a wine shop owner I frequent in Missouri. I was looking for something different and had tried other 'unoaked' Chardonnays but never one from New Zealand and I liked it!

In the glass it is straw in color. On the nose citrus and floral notes and on the palate, soft with a creamy texture and delicate pear, peach and citrus flavors. Appealing for its light touch and details of spice.

A double review..WOW! I have also had the 2010 Kim Crawford 'unoaked" Chardonnay and is was as enjoyable as the 2009, perhaps a touch of butterscotch the 2009 did not exhibit but just as nice and round with an oak free finish.

Valley of the Moon Chardonnay 2009 Unoaked (California)

On a trip to Eureka Springs Arkansas we stopped at this unique little wine bar called The Stone House Wine Bar.
https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Stone-House/361620917920 
I recommend it if you are ever in the area. The atmosphere is amazing and they have a great selection of wine by the glass or by the bottle. They will open a bottle to let you taste it if you request, which we thought was wonderful! Look for the inuksuk on the sign and you have found the place!

Being a rather warm day we decided we wanted a refreshing white wine, we tasted a couple and decided on Valley of the Moon Chardonnay. It's an unoaked Chardonnay so more fruit quality and no oak. Great little wine, I think we purchased it for around $20 a bottle at The Stone House however if you were purchasing a bottle at a wine shop itis around $12 to $15.

In the glass this wine is a light sundress yellow. On the nose, lots of citrus, refreshing to smell with delicate aromas. On the palate this wine is equally refreshing to taste with white plum, pear, citrus and mineral notes. Complex flavors of nectarine, kiwi and green apple play on your taste buds with enough acidity to make it interesting and a beautiful creamy pear richness for the finish.

Of course we finished the bottle and I purchased a bottle on the way home.

Chardonnay wine grapes can be fermented and aged in any container that doesn’t leak but the predominant vessels these days are oak barrels and stainless steel tanks. The winemaker’s choice of vessel determines the flavor profile of the finished wine. Stainless steel fermented and aged wines tend to express more forward fruit aromas and flavors while those fermented in barrels absorb wood, vanilla, baking spice and other barrel character from the oak.

Codice Vino de la Tierra de Castilla 2008 (Spain)

Tempranillo


Another Tempranillo and just as alluring as the last. The pasta was stuffed conchiglione, and the basis for the sauce was a mid tier brand. I added some of the tempranillo, some EVOO, some seasonings, red onions, fresh pressed garlic, mild Italian cheeses topped with Asiago.

The wines pours purplish/ruby with wide ruby rim. On the nose low intensity, young, spicy, dark fruit, cherry perhaps. On the palate mildly tart on the tongue, first notes are mildly jammy, fruity with a quick finish.

 

The idea of pairing wines with food has always been an interesting vocation, an idea that needs more food for thought. I’m concluding this wine would have been perfectly paired with a black cherry reduction sauce over pork loin and roasted root vegetables. 

Quintay Pinot Noir 2007 (Chile)

We first tried this Wine at a tasting a little over a year ago and really enjoyed it, so much so that we purchased half a case and decided to age a few bottles. We opened a bottle immediately and really enjoyed it, about 6 months later opened another bottle and we were not very impressed, it seemed to be going through some sort of phase and tasted too mineraly and not many other flavors could be distinguished.  

A year passed and I opened another bottle...VERY GOOD!

Dark red in the glass. On the nose blackberry and cherry juice and quite a bit of herb and a wild intense aroma of outdoors, almost like you are smelling the vineyard itself. On the Palate red current, pepper, raspberry but there is something else, an intentness that is hard to describe like a wild berry or fruit you have never tasted before like something from the Garden of Eden. A lively very complex Pinot with plush juicy fruit and minerally notes on the finish.

Pinot Noir has been for a long time my most favored of wines. The flavors can be amazing, intense and unforgetable.

Pinot noir is a black wine grape variety of the species Vitis Vinifera. Noir meaning black in French and Pinot the French word for Pine alluding to the grape variety's tightly clustered dark purple pine cone-shaped bunches of fruit.

Pinot noir grapes are grown around the world, mostly in the cooler regions, but the grape is chiefly associated with the Burgandy region of France. It is widely considered to produce some of the finest wines in the world, but is a difficult variety to cultivate and transform into wine. It is one of the most difficult grapes to grow and make into fine wine. It is also one of the very best when it is done properly. It has very specific requirements for its growing conditions.  It needs warm days and cool nights. If Pinot Noir receives too little heat in the growing season, its wines are thin and pale.  If the growing season is too warm, the wines have an overripe, cooked flavor.

Leone de Castris Verdeca Bianco Messapia 2009 (Italy)

100% Verdeca

This was my 2nd bottle of this wine. The first bottle I had, well I was not real impressed, maybe my palate was off and that does happen but this bottle was great! I served it with Mango Chicken and Mediterranean couscous, the pairing was phenomenal.

Color is light straw with green highlights. One the nose allot of citrus and white peach, lots of white peach, delicate and floral. On the palate this wine was crisp, clean and very refereshing with a hint of lime on the finish. This is a great wine for anyone I think, even those friends who are wine beginners.

Verdeca is an ancient Greek varietal that produces wines that are crisp, refreshing and floral. This wine is fermented and aged in stainless steel to retain the fresh character of the grape.

Toasted Head Chardonnay 2009 (California)

Another bottle that spoke to me, as so many of them do. It was the beginning of summer and I wanted a nice Chardonnay and I have to admit I do like the fire breathing Bear. I wasn’t looking at price tags just wanted to try something different, and it was.


Beautiful straw color in the glass. On the nose you smell fresh pear and mango with a hint of pineapple and the slightest pinch of coconut. On the Palate this wine is succulent and fruit forward, round and smooth with a lingering toasty-vanilla finish.

Toasted Head is a California winery located in the beautiful farming county of Yolo. The name comes from toasting the heads of the barrels they age the wine in.
The mysterious fire-breathing bear who appears on Toasted Head labels was inspired by a drawing created by Robert Shetterly for a William Carpenter poem entitled "Speaking Fire at Stones." The poem reads: "Every one of these stones contains a bear, you just have to burn it free.

Bodegas Ramos Monte Toro Roble 2009 (Spain)

Tempranillo


The wine region of Toro traditionally produces big brooding wines, but this one is different. Big, yes, bulky, yes but I still like it, although not my favorite.
Ruby red color in the glass and on the nose earth, tobacco and mushroom. 
On the palate you will find hints of cocoa and a little spice round out this full bodied wine. Drink now.

The Toro wine region is 125 miles north from Madrid Spain, where you might be familiar with the running of the bulls. Toro means Bull in Spanish.
A decade ago, there were only 10 wineries in the Toro region. Today there are 55. With modern wine making techniques and farming, a new breed of winemakers is taming the wild horse. The horse in this case is the grape known as Tinto del Toro, a type of Tempranillo grape. The Toro region produces bold and robust wines rich with flavor and aroma.