Friday, February 29, 2008

Zolo Sauvignon Blanc 2007

Zolo Sauvignon Blanc 2007
Origin: Mendoza, Argentina
Blend: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Alcohol content: 13.2%
Bottle closure: Synthetic cork
Purchase date: February 2008
Purchase price: $9.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "The result of carefully selected fruit coming from prize winning high-elevation vineyards, producing aromas of tropical fruit, passion fruit, with orange blossom notes that persist through the finish."

ABC Wines review: An exceedingly pale green, this sauvignon blanc has refreshing aromas of slightly herbal tropical fruit. The clean fruit-forward flavors have some mineral notes and are followed by a long-lasting crisp finish. Our score: Above Average (and would have rated higher had the price been a bit more competitive).

Winery website: Fincas Patagonicas

Thursday, February 28, 2008

Ecco Domani Pinot Grigio 2006

Ecco Domani Pinot Grigio delle Venezie 2006
Origin: Italy
Blend: 94% Pinot Grigio, 6% Chardonnay (?)
Alcohol content: 12.0%
Bottle closure: Synthetic cork
Purchase date: January 2008
Purchase price: $9.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "This wine has a clear, straw yellow color, with light golden reflections. A low concentration of surmaturo grapes gives the wine tropical fruit notes that make the vintage truly unique. The wine possesses pleasant floral and tropical fruit aromas, and has a light, crisp, clean and refreshing flavor, with fruit character and refined elegance."

ABC Wines review: This pinot grigio has a woodsy, almost nutty aroma. The muted fruit flavors are sharp, crisp, rather acidic, and not at all refined. The finish is brief and quite dry. Probably best served with pasta in red sauce dishes. Our score: Average at best.

Note: The blend of grapes is not certain. The 2005 vintage is listed on the Ecco Domani website as being a blend of pinot grigio and chardonnay, but elsewhere the 2006 vintage is listed as being 100% pinot grigio. The 2006 vintage information is not currently available on the Ecco Domani website.

Monday, February 25, 2008

Columbia Crest Two Vines Riesling 2006

Columbia Crest Two Vines Riesling 2006
Origin: Washington State
Blend: 100% Riesling
Alcohol content: 11.5%
Bottle closure: Synthetic cork
Purchase date: January 2008
Purchase price: $7.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Enticing aromas of baked pear and fresh peaches are complemented by a touch of sandalwood. A bright, sweet-tart finish follows loads of generous fruit salad flavors."

ABC Wines review: This riesling exhibits a very light, almost floral fragrance of sweet fruit. The initial taste is quite sweet but flavorful and complex. The finish is slightly dry, a bit tart, and surprisingly smooth and long-lasting. This wine would do nicely as a before dinner aperitif or paired with a spicy dessert. Our score: Above Average.

Sunday, February 24, 2008

Oak Grove Pinot Grigio 2006

Oak Grove Pinot Grigio 2006
Origin: California
Blend: 100% Pinot Grigio
Alcohol content: 13.5%
Bottle closure: Natural cork
Purchase date: January 2008
Purchase price: $8.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Its flavors are light and lively on the palate with lemony citrus notes, and has a refreshing, very clean finish. Try as a first course with chilled prawns, or serve along side antipasti in a festive setting."

ABC Wines review: This pinot grigio has a very pleasant herbal, almost grassy, aroma. The wine tastes of tart citrus with some stone mineral notes and surprisingly is not terribly dry. The finish is rather flat. Allowing this wine to breathe for 20 minutes or more greatly improves its overall complexity and flavors. Not ideal as an aperitif, it should work well with grilled chicken or fish. Our score: On the high side of Average.

Friday, February 22, 2008

Chateau Ste. Michelle Gewurztraminer 2006

Chateau Ste. Michelle Gewurztraminer 2006
Origin: Columbia Valley, Washington
Blend: 91% Gewürztraminer, 9% Muscat Canelli
Alcohol content: 12.5%
Bottle closure: Natural cork
Purchase date: January 2008
Purchase price: $7.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "A bright, refreshing medium-dry wine with inviting aromas of lychee nuts, nutmeg and clove spice. This Gewürztraminer is nicely balanced between fruit and the grape’s natural crisp character, while still being lush. Try this rich wine with Thai food."

ABC Wines review: Very fragrant, this wine has aromas of spiced fruit and herbs. The initial taste is semi-dry and reminiscent of tart citrus with just a hint of effervescence. The mineral characteristics blend nicely with the fruit flavors. The finish is relatively dry, crisp and clean. Rated 87 points by Wine Spectator and designated a "Best Value" (June 2007). Our score: Above Average.

Wednesday, February 20, 2008

Barefoot Pinot Grigio NV

Barefoot Pinot Grigio NV
Origin: California
Blend: 100% Pinot Grigio
Alcohol content: 13%
Bottle closure: Synthetic cork
Purchase date: January 2008
Purchase price: $4.50

Taste profile from the winemaker: "A crisp and refreshing wine with bright aromas and flavors of citrus and fresh green apple. Hints of gasmine complement a bright, delicate, flavorful finish. A perfect match with poultry, seafood, spicy pasta, and pizza."

ABC Wines review: Pale to the point of being colorless, this non-vintage pinot grigio is an unexpected treat. Soft floral citrus and freshly cut apple aromas are followed by the crisp, clean taste of stone dried fruit with a hint of herbs. The finish is semi-dry and tart but not noteworthy. Not a complex wine to be sure but given the price paid (2 for the price of 1) it is an unbeatable value. Serve well chilled alone, with appetizers, or with a sandwich or light salad. Our score: Above Average.

Note: Despite winning multiple awards, this wine is not listed on the Barefoot wine website.

Tuesday, February 19, 2008

Dellatorri Pinot Grigio 2006

Dellatorri Pinot Grigio 2006
Origin: delle Venezie, Italy
Blend: 100% Pinot Grigio
Alcohol content: 12.0%
Bottle closure: Natural cork
Purchase date: January 2008
Purchase price: $8.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "The bouquet displays the typical citrus, mineral and flint characters associated with the Venice region and the Pinot Grigio variety. On the palate, a combination of fruit richness with citrus elegance gives a well balanced wine of structure and length of flavor. Drink early for freshness. Will age and continue to evolve for two years."

ABC Wines review: Presented in an attractive blue bottle, this pinot grigio has a light, citrusy, almost floral fragrance. Crisp and dry on the palate, the fruit flavors are not particularly pronounced but blend well with the wine's mineral characteristics. The finish is brief and mildly acidic. Not a complex wine, but certainly an agreeable accompaniment for many different cuisines. Our score: Average.

Monday, February 18, 2008

Turning Leaf Riesling 2005

Turning Leaf Riesling 2005
Origin: Pfalz, Germany
Blend: 100% Riesling
Alcohol content: 11.5%
Bottle closure: Screw cap
Purchase date: January 2008
Purchase price: $6.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Rich with citrus flavors and aromas, with hints of apricots and fresh lemon. Expect a subtle floral fragrance tinged with freshly cut grasses. Light-bodied with the ability to pair with a wide variety of flavors."

ABC Wines review: Imported from Germany under the Turning Leaf brand, this riesling has light, fresh aromas of fresh tropical fruit. Moderately sweet, the taste has a bit more citrus character to it adding a refreshing tartness. The finish is flat with a slight, but odd, after-taste. It should pair well with many Asian dishes. A very good value, especially if available at less than the price we paid. Our score: Average.

Saturday, February 16, 2008

Elena Sauvignon Blanc 2006

Elena Sauvignon Blanc 2006
Origin: Sonoma County, California
Blend: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Alcohol content: 14.6%
Bottle closure: Natural cork
Purchase date: January 2008
Purchase price: $9.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "The fruit characteristics of this wine are light yet surprisingly rich in texture. In perfect balance, the floral aromas and flavors linger pleasantly. Just a small hint of barrel aging adds depth to the long finish."

ABC Wines review: Oak-drenched fruit aromas dominate this sauvignon blanc which clearly places it in the California fume blanc category. The flavors lack any herbal or grassy characteristics, being merely of muted tropical fruit with a touch of citrus. The semi-dry finish is particularly weak. Overall, very disappointing, especially considering the price paid. Our score: Below average.

Friday, February 15, 2008

Giesen Sauvignon Blanc 2006

Giesen Sauvignon Blanc 2006
Origin: Marlborough, New Zealand
Blend: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Alcohol content: 13.0%
Bottle closure: Screw cap
Purchase date: January 2008
Purchase price: $11.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Colour: Pale yellow with green rim. Bouquet: Lifted, fresh and vibrant aromas of sweet gooseberry and dried cut grass with a distinctive herbal note. Taste: Classic nettle and gooseberry flavours combine with dry, citrus flavours on a medium bodied palate. Focused acidity provides length and zest to the finish."

ABC Wines review: This sauvignon blanc exhibits fragrances of tart fruits and grass. The complex flavors are primarily citrus with some dried herbal, maybe vegetal overtones accompanied by a stone dry crispness. The finish is very smooth, mildly acidic, and pleasantly long-lasting. Our score: Just shy of Excellent.

Wednesday, February 13, 2008

The Crossings Sauvignon Blanc 2005

The Crossings Sauvignon Blanc 2005
Origin: Marlborough, New Zealand
Blend: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Alcohol content: 13.0%
Bottle closure: Screw cap
Purchase date: January 2008
Purchase price: $12.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Colour: Bright with a pale yellow/green hue. Bouquet: Powerful aromas of passion fruit and tropical notes. Palate: Melon and stone fruit flavours are underpinned on a complex palate by a zesty acidity and the classic Awatere (Marlborough) flinty mineral spine."

ABC Wines review: Pouring this wine fills the air with strong aromas of tropical fruit and herbs. Typical of many New Zealand sauvignon blancs, the blend of citrus and grassy flavors is accompanied by a crisp mineral dryness. The finish is long, somewhat tart, and surprisingly weak. The complexity of the wine improves after being opened for 10 minutes or so. Although very good, there are better choices at this price point. Rated 91 points by Wine Enthusiast (07/2006). Our score: Above Average.

Tuesday, February 12, 2008

Mas de Caralt White Wine 2006

Mas de Caralt White Wine 2006
Origin: Spain
Blend: Macabeo, Xarel-lo, and Parellada (no percentages given)
Alcohol content: 11.5%
Bottle closure: Natural cork
Purchase date: January 2008
Purchase price: $5.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "The long and clean finish makes this wine a great food companion. It is dry and balanced wine that pairs well with pasta with creamy sauces, grilled fish and soft cheeses."

ABC Wines review: This vintage white has aromas of citrus and herbs on pouring. Semi-dry, the overall taste is rather flat though not unpleasant. Mineral notes add a bit of crispness. The finish is smooth and increasingly dry. This wine would pair better with chicken dishes than fish. At $6 (on sale), it represents a terrific value. Our score: Average.

Sunday, February 10, 2008

Fernleaf Sauvignon Blanc 2005

Fernleaf Sauvignon Blanc 2005
Origin: East Coast, New Zealand
Blend: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Alcohol content: 12.5%
Bottle closure: Screw cap
Purchase date: January 2008
Purchase price: $8.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "A well structured wine with a harmonious blend of acidity and natural grape sugars. The palate has excellent fruit intensity, with warm alcohol and an elegant, lingering finish. Lively herbal flavors blend with refreshing citrus characters, balanced by the softer, warmer melon flavors of the Gisborne and Hawkes Bay fruit."

ABC Wines review: A wonderful fragrance of tropical fruit with notes of the fresh outdoors is evident upon pouring this sauvignon blanc. The complex flavors are nicely balanced with a crisp dryness. The only significant flaw, and it's relatively minor, is in the finish which, though very pleasant with a citrus induced tartness, doesn't linger. Pair this wine with a wide variety of foods, or serve just as an aperitif. Our score: Well above average, just short of excellent.

Saturday, February 9, 2008

Walnut Crest Sauvignon Blanc 2006

Walnut Crest Sauvignon Blanc 2006
Origin: Central Valley, Chile
Blend: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Alcohol content: 13.0%
Bottle closure: Natural cork
Purchase date: January 2008
Purchase price: $6.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Very pale yellow. Fragrant, with citrus and herbaceous aromas. Crisp, fresh, with pear and lemon flavors."

ABC Wines review: This sauvignon blanc has a primary aroma of ripe citrus, mainly lemon. The citrus notes are also evident in its taste that is simple, relatively pure, and accompanied by a mineral dryness. The finish is a bit on the tart, acidic side. Attractively priced, this wine is probably best served with a light lunch or with appetizers. Our score: Average.

Friday, February 8, 2008

39 degrees Sauvignon Blanc 2006

39° Sauvignon Blanc 2006
Origin: Lake County, California
Blend: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Alcohol content: 13.0%
Bottle closure: Screw cap
Purchase date: January 2008
Purchase price: $8.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Varietally accurate, this 2006 Sauvignon Blanc opens with vibrant aromas of grapefruit and lemon citrus, with subtle grassy characters. On the palate, this wine does not disappoint with refreshing flavors of grapefruit, lime and lemon, balanced by bright, crisp acidity on the finish. This easy sipping wine makes a perfect aperitif."

ABC Wines review: Mild aromas of tropical fruit are evident upon pouring this sauvignon blanc. It is a reasonably full-bodied wine with citrus flavors and grassy notes accented with herbs. The finish is neither terribly tart or dry, but it is very long-lasting and pleasing. Probably best served with grilled dishes. Our score: Average.

Note: 39° wines are a brand of the Cecchetti Wine Company that also produces Redtree wines.

Thursday, February 7, 2008

Twin Fin Pinot Grigio 2006

Twin Fin Pinot Grigio 2006
Origin: California
Blend: 81% Pinot Grigio, 7% Gewürztraminer, 7% Malvasia Bianca, 5% Other White Varietals
Alcohol content: 13.0%
Bottle closure: Screw cap
Purchase date: January 2008
Purchase price: $7.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Bright and brassy, our Pinot Grigio offers flavors of citrus and honeydew melon. The perfect choice for grilled shrimp or a chicken caesar salad, this wine's cool personality chills down even the hottest summer day."

ABC Wines review: Very pale in color, this pinot grigio exhibits aromas of freshly cut tropical fruit. The crisp, clean flavors are nicely balanced with a refreshing tartness. The finish is unusually smooth and just a bit sweet. Serve well-chilled with sandwiches or other light fare. Our score: Above Average.

Wednesday, February 6, 2008

Casillero del Diablo Sauvignon Blanc 2005

Casillero del Diablo Sauvignon Blanc 2005
Origin: Central Valley, Chile
Blend: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Alcohol content: 13.0%
Bottle closure: Screw cap
Purchase date: January 2008
Purchase price: $8.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "This Sauvignon Blanc is elegant, round and of great volume. Flaxen gold color. A fresh and crisp bouquet. On the palate, the wine is elegant, round and mouth filling balanced by crisp acidity. A clean and bright wine of astounding quality, this wine is best when served chilled. Enjoy with ceviche, oysters, and sush or serve as an aperitif."

ABC Wines review: This unusual wine has mild scents of ripe citrus and tropical fruit, maybe a bit of gooseberry. It is crisp and dry with a pleasant acidity. The disappointing finish dissipates rather abruptly. This is one of those wines that is best opened 10-20 minutes before pouring, and served just barely chilled. Our score: Average.

Tuesday, February 5, 2008

Beni di Batasiolo Gavi 2006

Beni di Batasiolo Gavi 2006
Origin: Piedmont, Italy
Blend: 100% Cortese
Alcohol content: 12.0%
Bottle closure: Natural cork
Purchase date: January 2008
Purchase price: $10.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Crisp, refreshing lemon and pear flavors. Perfect as an aperitif and with appetizers, fish and white meats."

ABC Wines review: This Italian white wine effervesces very slightly upon pouring. It is quite citrusy, but seems to lack overall body and depth, being almost watery. It is tart and crisp on the finish. A nice wine to serve with very light appetizers, but not likely to complement to a more substantial meal. Our score: Average.

Sunday, February 3, 2008

Nobilo Sauvignon Blanc 2007

Nobilo Sauvignon Blanc 2007
Origin: Marlborough, New Zealand
Blend: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Alcohol content: 12.5%
Bottle closure: Natural cork
Purchase date: January 2008
Purchase price: $12.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Light yellow in color with green hues and brilliant clarity. A distinctive Marlborough bouquet of ripe tropical and citrus fruit. Bursting with flavours of lemon, passionfruit and melon. Crisp and zesty, the palate has excellent weight and balance, lingering in a full, refreshing finish."

ABC Wines review: The aromas of this wine are reminiscent of the fresh outdoors with a clean, citrusy scent. The initial tartness of the flavors is balanced by more grassy than fruity notes with just a bit of mineral crispness. The finish is dry and slightly acidic. Not among the best from this region, but very good nonetheless. Our score: Above average to Excellent.
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