Chateau Ste. Michelle Dry Riesling 2006

Chateau Ste. Michelle Dry Riesling 2006
Origin: Columbia Valley, Washington State
Blend: 100% Riesling
Alcohol content: 13.0%
Bottle closure: Natural cork
Purchase date: March 2008
Purchase price: $9.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "A dry, crisp, refreshing style of Riesling with beautiful forward fruit flavors, crisp acidity and an elegant finish. It offers brisk, cooler climate Riesling character of white peach and mandarin oranges with a clean finish. Classified as a dry Riesling and made it in the Troken style, it is very versatile with food. Try it with Asian dishes or shrimp."

ABC Wines review: This riesling is really well done. The wine is very fragrant, with floral aromas of honeyed tropical fruit. Very smooth, the flavors are of sweet melon and pineapple with a nice citric-based acidic balance. The long-lasting finish is on the dry side. This wine could easily be paired with a Japanese yakitori or most Chinese dishes. Our score: Above Average, nearly Excellent.

Winery website: Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery.

Brancott Sauvignon Blanc 2006

Brancott Sauvignon Blanc 2006
Origin: Marlborough, New Zealand
Blend: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Alcohol content: 13.0%
Bottle closure: Screw cap
Purchase date: March 2008
Purchase price: $10.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Colour: Light straw with green highlights. Aromas: Gooseberry, ripe capsicum and lemongrass with tropical fruit notes. Palate: This wine displays real fruit intensity. The gooseberry flavours meld well with fresh capsicum and underlying nectarine and passion fruit flavours. A well-balanced wine showing the lively, crisp acidity associated with this style."

ABC Wines review: This sauvignon blanc exhibits ripe tropical fruit and tart apple aromas with a hint of spice. There is no single dominant fruit flavor but rather a harmonious blend of several that results in a strong, smooth, and very fruitful finish. The wine lacks a significant mineral crispness often associated with this varietal (it's much more subtle here), but that's a minor quibble. Serve this wine with lightly to moderately spiced dishes. Rated 87 points by Wine Spectator (April 2007). Our score: Above Average to Excellent.

Winery website: Brancott Vineyards.

Dupond Sauvignon Blanc 2006

Pierre Dupond Sauvignon Blanc 2006
Origin: Pays d’Oc, France
Blend: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Alcohol content: 12.5%
Bottle closure: Natural cork
Purchase date: March 2008
Purchase price: $10.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Fresh and flinty gooseberry aromas, a lean elegant body and a crisp mineral finish."

ABC Wines review: This French table white wine is presented in an unusual dark brown bottle. It has a fresh citrus and gooseberry fragrance. Very smooth on the palate, the aromas carry through to the flavors which are accompanied by a mineral crispness. The finish is somewhat acidic and dissipates very quickly. This is a wine best served with a meal but not alone or as an aperitif. Our score: On the high side of Average.

Winery website: N/A. An image of the bottle was unavailable.

Anakena Sauvignon Blanc 2006

Anakena Sauvignon Blanc 2006
Origin: Central Valley, Chile
Blend: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Alcohol content: 13.0%
Bottle closure: Synthetic cork
Purchase date: March 2008
Purchase price: $9.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "A delicate and crisp pale gold Sauvignon Blanc. This wine shows good aromatic intensity, with notes of white peach and black current bud. At the palate it is elegant, fresh, and with a long finish. Delicious as an aperitif, or with poultry, seafood, salmon, and salads."

ABC Wines review: Fresh grassy, stone fruit and citrus aromas are evident upon pouring this sauvignon blanc. The palate is refreshingly crisp with fruit-forward flavors accompanied by mineral and just a hint of herbal notes. The finish is on the acidic side, though not excessively so. This wine would be terrific to serve with appetizers or a light lunch. Our score: Above Average to Excellent.

Winery website: Anakena Wines.

Stonehaven Riesling 2006

Stonehaven Riesling 2006
Origin: South Eastern Australia
Blend: 100% Riesling
Alcohol content: 11.5%
Bottle closure: Screw cap
Purchase date: March 2008
Purchase price: $8.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Pale straw in color with green hues, this bright Riesling shows zesty lemon and lime characteristics, which follow onto a fresh and lively round palate with tropical fruit flavors. A lingering, fruity finish."

ABC Wines review: This riesling has herbal citrus, most notably lime, aromas. The taste has a mineral sweetness that lacks significant fruit flavors and has an almost chalky texture. The finish is weak but tends to improve after the bottle has been opened for 15-20 minutes. Our score: Below Average.

Winery website: Stonehaven Vineyards.

Guenoc Lake County Sauvignon Blanc 2006

Guenoc Lake County Sauvignon Blanc 2006
Origin: Lake County, California
Blend: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Alcohol content: 13.5%
Bottle closure: Natural cork
Purchase date: March 2008
Purchase price: $11.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "The aromas jump out of the glass, with notes of citrus, gooseberry, and fresh cut hay. All stainless steel fermented, this wine shows pure focused fruit and a laser-like crispness."

ABC Wines review: Refreshingly fragrant, this sauvignon blanc has aromas of tropical fruit, notably pineapple, with notes of grass and sweet herbs. The wine has an almost creamy texture with clean fruit-forward flavors. The finish is on the disappointing side, a bit too acidic with little balance. The wine should pair well with most chicken dishes. Our score: Above Average but well short of Excellent.

Winery website: Langtry Estate and Vineyards.

Francis Coppola Sauvignon Blanc 2006

Francis Coppola Yellow Label Sauvignon Blanc 2006
Origin: California
Blend: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Alcohol content: 13.5%
Bottle closure: Natural cork
Purchase date: February 2008
Purchase price: $11.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Appearance: Pale straw. Aromas: Pink grapefruit, tropical fruit, and fig. Flavors: Summer melon, lemongrass, and a hint of gooseberry."

ABC Wines review: Very lightly scented, this sauvignon blanc has aromas of tropical fruit and a hint of grass. Very smooth on the palate, the taste is of stone fruit with a brisk mineral crispness. The finish is rather bland, a little dry and tart with a few bitter notes. A solid effort, and though we purchased the bottle at a significant discount, there are far better choices at this price point. Our score: Above Average.

Winery website: Francis Coppola Diamond Collection Wines.

Concha y Toro Trio Reserva Sauvignon Blanc 2007

Concha y Toro Trio Reserva Sauvignon Blanc 2007
Origin: Chile
Blend: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Alcohol content: 13.5%
Bottle closure: Screw cap
Purchase date: March 2008
Purchase price: $12.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Colour: Greenish-yellow, pale color. Nose: Very expressive, mineral with green note, passion fruit, citric and pomell. Palate: Fresh, well balanced with a crisp acidity and a a juicy limely finish."

ABC Wines review: A fresh aroma of herbs and gooseberry balanced with tropical fruit notes is exhibited by this wine. The flavors are similar and are further enhanced by a mineral crispness. The long and flavorful finish is briefly acidic before smoothing out. A fine wine for an elegant dinner party. Our score: Excellent.

Winery website: Concha y Toro Winery.

Dancing Bull Sauvignon Blanc 2006

Dancing Bull Sauvignon Blanc 2006
Origin: Central Coast and Sonoma County, California
Blend: 95% Sauvignon Blanc, 4% Semillon, 1% Other
Alcohol content: 13.5%
Bottle closure: Screw cap
Purchase date: March 2008
Purchase price: $10.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "The wine is crisp and clean with bright grapefruit tanginess balanced by tropical fruit and a hint of cut grass herbaceousness usually found in New Zealand wine. The nose is packed with aromas of green apple, lime, kiwi, with subtle notes of fresh cut grass and boxwood. The mouth has a crisp acidity and focused grapefruit and lime freshness balanced by tropical flavors of guava and mango."

ABC Wines review: The aroma of this sauvignon blanc is a nice combination of citrus and gooseberry with some fresh herbal notes. The palate is dominated by tart and rather acidic (too acidic) citrus flavors that have little balance. What little finish there is isn't memorable. Definitely not a sipping wine, pair this wine with tomato-based dishes like pasta with marinara sauce or a spicy pizza. Our score: On the very low side of Average.

Winery website: Dancing Bull Wines.

3 Blind Moose Pinot Grigio 2007

3 Blind Moose Pinot Grigio 2007
Origin: Central Coast, California
Blend: 100% Pinot Grigio
Alcohol content: 13.0%
Bottle closure: Synthetic cork
Purchase date: March 2008
Purchase price: $7.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Pale yellow-straw color; fragrant floral, pear and stone-fruit aromas with fresh, lively flavors that are smooth, round and refreshing on the palate."

ABC Wines review: Fresh, tropical fruit aromas are released on pouring this pinot grigio. The fruit-forward flavors are surprisingly full-bodied, though somewhat on the sweet side. The finish is initially pleasing but ends with an unusual, though not unpleasant, aftertaste. A good wine to serve with appetizers, snacks, or pizza. Our score: Average, maybe a bit better.

Winery website: 3 Blind Moose Cellars.

Fetzer Valley Oaks Sauvignon Blanc 2005

Fetzer Valley Oaks Sauvignon Blanc 2005
Origin: Mendocino County, California
Blend: 97% Sauvignon Blanc, 3% Voignier
Alcohol content: 13.0%
Bottle closure: Synthetic cork
Purchase date: February 2008
Purchase price: $8.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Aromas of grapefruit, mango and lime introduce the wine, and classic varietal signatures of freshly mown grass show well. In the mouth you’ll find a crisp, clean wine, surprisingly full bodied with flavors of green apple, lemon/lime and a hint of mint."

ABC Wines review: This wine exhibits a fragrance of tart citrus and freshly sliced apples. The citrus notes follow through to the palate which initially has a hint of sweetness followed by a pleasant, tart acidity. The finish is smooth, long-lasting, and dry. A good wine for lightly grilled dishes or to serve with appetizers. Our score: Above Average.

Winery website: Fetzer Vineyards.

Beringer Pinot Grigio 2006

Beringer Pinot Grigio 2006
Origin: St. Helena and Napa Counties, California
Blend: 100% Pinot Grigio
Alcohol content: 13.0%
Bottle closure: Natural cork
Purchase date: March 2008
Purchase price: $6.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "The winemaking team focuses on the refreshing crisp minerality and fruity peach undertones for which the varietal is known. A cool-fermentation follows in stainless steel to retain the Pinot Grigio’s bright, fruit forward character. The resulting wine has a refreshing bite of juicy white peach and citrus, finishing with a flinty-minerality."

ABC Wines review: This pinot grigio opens with a fresh cut apple fragrance. A bit on the sweet side, the flavors are of tropical fruits, notably pineapple. The finish is smooth and somewhat crisp and dry. Though this wine isn't likely to win any awards, it's an ideal picnic wine or one to serve with a sandwiches or a light snack. Our score: Average.

Winery website: Beringer Winery.

Robert Mondavi Private Selection Sauvignon Blanc 2007

Robert Mondavi Private Selection Sauvignon Blanc 2007
Origin: Central Coast, California
Blend: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Alcohol content: 13.0%
Bottle closure: Synthetic cork
Purchase date: March 2008
Purchase price: $8.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Displays varietally expressive melon and citrus fruit aromas augmented by subtle herbal spice and banana tones. In the mouth, the wine is bright and fresh with rich mid-palate flavors of lime, grapefruit and melon that pick up a spicy peach tone in the long, crisp, mineral- tinged finish. Enjoy this high-quality Sauvignon Blanc with appetizers, salads, cracked crab, fried calamari, grilled halibut and lemon chicken."

ABC Wines review: This wine opens with a blend of tropical fruit and pear aromas. The palate is quite crisp with surprisingly muted citrus flavors and some mineral notes. There is none of the refreshing grassiness that is typical of this varietal. The finish is initially quite dry but smooths out towards the end. Our score: Average.

Winery website: Robert Mondavi Private Selection.

Selaks Sauvignon Blanc 2006

Selaks Sauvignon Blanc 2006
Origin: Malborough, New Zealand
Blend: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Alcohol content: 12.5%
Bottle closure: Screw cap
Purchase date: February 2008
Purchase price: $10.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Colour: A delicate yellow in colour with brilliant clarity. Aroma: A distinct bouquet of gooseberry and nettle overlaid with rich, tropical aromas. Palate: A classic New Zealand Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc this wine has been crafted in the Selaks tradition of consistent, fine quality. Showing excellent structure and balance, with flavours of ripe capsicum, gooseberry and passionfruit, fresh, tangy acidity and a generous finish."

ABC Wines review: This sauvignon blanc has a delicate fragrance of tropical fruit and fresh cut grass. These aromas carry forward to the flavors which are well-balanced with some underlying mineral notes. The finish is a bit on the dry side but very refreshing. A perfect wine to serve as an aperitif or with a brunch alfresco. Our score: Above Average, nearly Excellent.

Winery website: Selaks Wines New Zealand. Selaks is part of the Nobilo Wine Group and a division of Constellation Brands Inc.

Mouton Cadet Bordeaux White Wine 2006

Mouton Cadet Bordeaux White Wine 2006
Origin: Bordeaux, France
Blend: 40% Sauvignon Blanc, 50% Semillon, 10% Muscadelle
Alcohol content: 12.0%
Bottle closure: Synthetic cork
Purchase date: February 2008
Purchase price: $7.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Colour: Radiant golden yellow. Nose: A powerful nose marked by typical Sauvignon notes of boxwood and broom that slowly evolve towards citrus and passion fruit. Richly aromatic. Palate: The attack reveals the crispness of the fruit, giving the impression of biting into the grape itself. The mid-palate is rich and expressive, harmonious and deep, the finish smooth and elegant on pleasantly lingering fruit."

ABC Wines review: This white wine exhibits a somewhat odd aroma of dried, candied fruit. Dry and rather understated, the taste has a blended mineral and vegetal quality to it. The long lasting finish is quite nice. Not a sipping wine or even one for light meals, it should go well with most heavier dishes. Our score: Average.

Winery website: Baron Philippe de Rothschild.

Sartori Villa Sarti Pinot Grigio 2005

Sartori Villa Sarti Pinot Grigio 2005
Origin: delle Venezie, Italy
Blend: 100% Pinot Grigio
Alcohol content: 12.0%
Bottle closure: Natural cork
Purchase date: February 2008
Purchase price: $7.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Aromatic with citrus and white-flower notes, light bodied with crisp lemon-zest flavors and a clean lingering finish, this classic Pinot Grigio elegant when served as an aperitif or provides the perfect pairing for seafood appetizers, fish, white meats, and grilled poultry."

ABC Wines review: Lightly scented with citrus aromas, this pinot grigio's tastes are dominated by a very tart, almost bitter, grapefruit flavor. There's a bit of mineral crispness but it's hard to discern. The wine is very dry, exceedingly so. The finish is acidic and unpleasant. Not quite undrinkable, but close. Our score: Inferior.

Winery website: Not found. An image of the bottle could not be located.

Condes de Albarei Albarino 2006

Condes de Albarei Albarino 2006
Origin: Salnes Valley, Spain
Blend: 100% Albarino
Alcohol content: 12.5%
Bottle closure: Natural cork
Purchase date: February 2008
Purchase price: $12.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "A lovely, straw-colored white wine with a good fruity nose and floral hints. On the palate, beautiful citrus fruit flavors emerge. It is a gentle, fresh, harmonious wine with a good and lingering finish."

ABC Wines review: This albarino possesses a fresh, citrus fragrance with just a hint of apple blossoms. Initially quite crisp, the citrus flavors are balanced by a mineral acidity. The finish is quite long, tart and dry. A very nice wine, indeed. Pair with grilled chicken or fish. Rated 90 points by Wine Enthusiast and designated a best buy (11/2007). Our score: Above Average to Excellent.

Winery website: Condes de Albarei Winery.

Firestone Riesling 2006

Firestone Riesling 2006
Origin: Central Coast, California
Blend: 100% Riesling
Alcohol content: 12.5%
Bottle closure: Screw cap
Purchase date: January 2008
Purchase price: $8.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Offers delicate aromas of pear, honeysuckle and lemon zest. The texture is fresh and clean, with graceful flavors of apricot, honey, melon and nutty spice. Natural sweetness is harnessed by brisk acidity for a refreshingly balanced off-dry finish."

ABC Wines review: Soft aromas of honey and tropical fruit are evident upon pouring. Quite sweet, but not cloyingly so, this riesling has a lot of body. The flavors are reasonably well-balanced and there is a somewhat unexpected, and rather pleasant, dry and tart citrus finish. Though too strong to be served as an aperitif, this wine can be nicely paired with barbeque or spicy dishes. Our score: Average to Above average.

Winery website: Firestone Vineyard.

Estancia Pinot Grigio 2006

Estancia Pinot Grigio 2006
Origin: California
Blend: 100% Pinot Grigio
Alcohol content: 12.0%
Bottle closure: Natural cork
Purchase date: February 2008
Purchase price: $8.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Appearance: Pale straw. Aroma: Fresh notes of pear, apricot and honeydew melon are accented by hints of citrus and lemongrass. Flavor: Crisp apple and pear with notes of honey and ripe peach mingle softly with white pepper that adds a mineral touch to the vibrant, fruity finish."

ABC Wines review: A pale yellow in color, this pinot grigio exhibits aromas of sweet citrus with a hint of melon. The taste is remarkably similar to fresh squeezed lemonade, a bit tart and and a bit sweet. The finish, though long, is not particularly memorable. Think outdoors when serving this wine, such as at a picnic or garden party. Our score: On the high side of Average.

Winery website: Estrancia Estates.

d'Arenberg The Hermit Crab Viognier Marsanne 2006

d'Arenberg The Hermit Crab Viognier Marsanne 2006
Origin: McLaren Vale, South Australia
Blend: 66% Viognier, 34% Marsanne
Alcohol content: 13.5%
Bottle closure: Screw cap
Purchase date: February 2008
Purchase price: $9.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "The Hermit Crab McLaren Vale Viognier Marsanne has a green, brilliant mid-straw colour and exhibits fresh and tropical fruit with a strong emphasis on stone fruits, pineapple, mango and honeysuckle. The youthful palate is immediately luscious with those tropical fruit, honeysuckle and stone fruit flavours balanced by fresh grapefruit and light butter tastes, before a long persistent fruit finish. The wine shows vibrant freshness with enjoyable hints of hazelnut and slight mineral boney-ness, characteristic of Marsanne. Given time to prove its longevity and most importantly not served over chilled, The Hermit Crab Viognier Marsanne we believe should develop intense, complex nuttiness with emphasis on cashews, as well as butterscotch characters."

ABC Wines review: Quite aromatic, this white wine blend has a somewhat unusual overripe fruit and woodsy fragrance. The flavors, which lean towards tropical fruit, are not particularly pronounced and have a bit of sweetness initially. The finish is on the acidic side. Not recommended for sipping or as an aperitif, pair this wine with grilled chicken satays and a spicy peanut sauce. Our score: Average.

Winery website: d'Arenberg Winery.

Campanile Pinot Grigio 2006

Campanile Pinot Grigio 2006
Origin: Friuli, Italy
Blend: Pinot Grigio (with small amounts of Chardonnay and Pinot Blanc; percentages not given)
Alcohol content: 13.0%
Bottle closure: Natural cork
Purchase date: February 2008
Purchase price: $6.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "A light straw-yellow color in the glass. Light and pleasant floral notes fill the nose and the vibrant palate envelopes the mouth. The excellent harmony of fruit and acid give the wine a full structure with a crisp and lively mouth feel. The wine is light-bodied with a long finish."

ABC Wines review: This pinot grigio has soft, floral aromas of apples and pears. A bit sweet at first, the full fruit flavors come through with some stone mineral notes. The finish is very long and pleasant. A simple wine, but very good and an exceptional value. Our score: Above Average.

Winery website: CampanileWines.com. Campanile Wines is a member of the Foster's Group.

Jacques and Francois Lurton Les Fumees Blanches 2005

Jacques and François Lurton Les Fumées Blanches 2005
Origin: Vin de Pays de Côtes du Tarn, France
Blend: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Alcohol content: 12.5%
Bottle closure: Screw cap
Purchase date: February 2008
Purchase price: $8.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Color: Light with slight tinge of green gold. Bouquet: Fresh and citrus-like. Palate: Fresh, delicate floral aromas and crisp melon and spice flavors. An added smoky, slightly pungent aspect."

ABC Wines review: This wine has very pleasant tart citrus and herbal aromas. Very smooth on the palate, the flavors are of stone dried tropical fruit with a hint of vanilla-like spice. Though refreshingly crisp, the finish is brief and ends with a bit of earthiness. A fine wine to serve alone or with appetizers. Our score: Above Average and a very good value.

Winery website: JFLurton.com.

Harding Estates Sauvignon Blanc 2006

Harding Estates Sauvignon Blanc 2006
Origin: Napa Valley, California
Blend: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Alcohol content: 14.1%
Bottle closure: Natural cork
Purchase date: February 2008
Purchase price: $10.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Elements of this classic wine are prevalent in the nuances of citrus, vanilla, ripe melons and earthy minerals. The freshness is evident in a vibrant acidity and the long, well-balanced finish."

ABC Wines review: Very fragrant, this sauvignon blanc has scents of fresh tropical fruit and sweet spices. The tart, citrus flavors are nicely balanced with a clean mineral crispness. The finish slowly becomes quite acidic at the end, almost to the point of being unpleasant. Not a wine for an aperitif, but should hold up well with a substantial chicken, fish, or even pork dish. Our score: The disappointing finish is bringing this wine's rating down to merely Average.

Winery website: None found.

Montevina Pinot Grigio 2006

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

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Vibrantly hued, it catches the light and warms a room. Breezes of ripe pears swirl with hints of peach and lotus blossom to form a heady perfume. Each sip delivers cool ripe pear slices coupled with lively acidity each more refreshing than the last."

ABC Wines review: Nearly colorless, this wine exhibits soft, almost floral, aromas of fresh picked fruit. A bit acidic, the flavors are somewhat muted and hard to characterize but are not memorable. The finish is long and rather weak. The wine improves after being open for 10 minutes or more. Our score: On the low side of Average.

Winery website: Montevina Winery

Veramonte Sauvignon Blanc 2007

Veramonte Sauvignon Blanc Reserva 2007
Origin: Casablanca Valley, Chile
Blend: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Alcohol content: 13.5%
Bottle closure: Screw cap
Purchase date: February 2008
Purchase price: $9.99

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Good clarity with light straw color. Fresh stone fruit, citrus, and herbs mingle with floral accents. Zesty, medium body with flavors citrus, melon and herb flavors that linger on the palate."

ABC Wines review: This is an exceptionally well-balanced sauvignon blanc. The fragrances of freshly sliced fruit and herbs are followed by a crisp, clean taste of tropical fruit with a touch of citrus. There is a refreshing grassiness to the finish which is full, long, and mildly acidic. Allow this wine to remain opened a few minutes before pouring to improve its complexity. Serve alone or with grilled dishes. Our score: Just shy of Excellent.

Winery website: Veramonte