Wednesday, December 30, 2009

Canaletto Prosecco Spumante Brut NV

Canaletto Prosecco Spumante Brut
Origin: Veneto, Italy
Blend: Prosecco (100%)
Alcohol Content: 11.0%
Bottle Closure: Natural Cork
Purchase Date: December 2009
Purchase Price: $9.99

Our review: Green apple aromas with distinct herbal notes are exhibited by this lightly sparkling wine. Initially very slightly sweet on the palate, a toasty flavor profile develops giving the wine a "champagne"-like character. There is also some minerality present. The finish is surprisingly long, unexpected for this varietal.

Our rating: Just in time for the New Year celebrations, this delightful prosecco will make a satisfactory, and much less expensive, alternative to more traditional bubblies. Serve very chilled and enjoy! We rate this wine Above Average.

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Pale straw yellow with greenish shades. Fruity, with a rich scent of fruit, especially of unripe apples, lemons and grapefruits. It has a pronounced aroma of wisteria in bloom and acacia flowers. It has a pleasantly acid, fresh flavour. Full-bodied, it has a pleasant and harmonious taste characteristic."

Winery website: Canaletto Wines.

Sunday, December 6, 2009

Sobon Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2008

Sobon Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2008
Origin: California
Blend: Sauvignon Blanc (94%), Semillon (6%)
Alcohol Content: 13.0%
Bottle Closure: Screw Cap
Purchase Date: October 2009
Purchase Price: $9.99

Our review: Light golden straw in color, this wine exhibits aromas of tropical fruit, honey, and spice. The fruit flavors on the palate have a smoky character, not unpleasant but distinctive. The finish has considerable length and is rather complex.

Our rating: This is a fairly typical California version of this varietal, a bit heavy on the oak, which tends to dominate the overall experience. Allowing the wine to breathe a bit seems to help diminish some of the oakiness. Serve with roasted chicken or grilled fish. This isn't a terrific effort, but isn't bad either; about Average. We rated the last year's vintage, the Sobon Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2007 average as well.

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Crisp and fruity, a perfect match for seafood and fowl dishes. The aromas are a captivating blend of floral and spicy tones with a hint of tropical fruit and toasted coconut."

Winery website: Sobon Family Wines.

Friday, December 4, 2009

Oak Leaf Sauvignon Blanc NV

Oak Leaf Sauvignon Blanc NV
Origin: California
Blend: Sauvignon Blanc (100%)
Alcohol Content: 12.5%
Bottle Closure: Synthetic Cork
Purchase Date: June 2009
Purchase Price: $2.97

Our review: Greenish gold, this wine has aromas of grapefruit and lemongrass with a note of spice. The palate is a little bitter with not much fruit flavor, but does have a some vegetal (asparagus) character. The finish is brief and rather flat.

Our rating: Based purely on taste, we would rate this wine Below Average. But if one considers price, it really is not all that bad. Sometimes it may seem like an extravagance to break out a bottle just to accompany a simple sandwich, or even popcorn. An inexpensive wine, especially one that's eminently drinkable, is a perfect choice. We're not entirely sure we'd serve this wine to guests, but it's OK for an evening at home, snacking and just watching television.

No taste profile from the winemaker found.

Winery website: Oak Leaf Vineyards. Oak Leaf wines can only be purchased from Wal-Mart.

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

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Monday, November 30, 2009

Barefoot Riesling NV

Barefoot Riesling NV
Origin: California
Blend: Riesling (100%)
Alcohol Content: 11.5%
Bottle Closure: Synthetic Cork
Purchase Date: October 2009
Purchase Price: $6.99

Our review: Pale yellow with a very citrusy aroma, mainly lemon, and some light floral notes. Semi-dry to crisp on the palate, the flavor is similar in character to lemonade. The finish is brief.

Our rating: We're generally fans of Barefoot non-vintage wines, and this example is no exception. It's a light, fun wine, the natural sweetness nicely balanced with a brisk acidity. Choose this wine for a picnic or summer barbeque. We rate it on the high side of Average.

Taste profile from the winemaker: "This light-bodied and refreshingly sweet wine hits all the right fruit-filled notes: delicate orange blossom, juicy apple, and tangy lemon."

Winery website: Barefoot Wine and Bubbly.

Saturday, November 28, 2009

Famega Vinho Verde NV

Famega Vinho Verde
Origin: Portugal
Blend: Avesso, Azal and Pedernã (percentages unknown)
Alcohol Content: 9.5%
Bottle Closure: Natural Cork
Purchase Date: October 2009
Purchase Price: $6.99

Our review: Bright yellow in color with aromas of green apple, spice, and bell pepper, this wine is a bit fizzier than most vinho verdes. Dry and fruity on the palate, there is a refreshing mineral, almost flint character. Not much finish, nor is one typically expected, but there is a very slight sweet sensation.

Our rating: This is a very nice vinho verde (green wine), which we served at a brunch, though it would work equally well paired with appetizers or a spring mix salad. Usually consumed as young as possible, our bottle was dated 2008. We rate it slightly Above Average.

Taste profile from the winemaker: None found.

Winery website: None found.

Thursday, November 26, 2009

Shop The Wine Messenger for Tasteful Gifts this Holiday Season

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Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Coyote Creek Symphony 2008

Coyote Creek Symphony 2008
Origin: California
Blend: Symphony (100%)?
Alcohol Content: 13.0%
Bottle Closure: Synthetic Cork
Purchase Date: October 2009
Purchase Price: $6.99

Our review: Golden yellow in color with tropical fruit (melon) and tree fruit (white peach) aromas, this light- to moderate-body wine is slightly sweet, but with a good acidic balance, though the fruit flavors are a bit muddled. The finish is rather flat, but has a nice spicy character to it.

Our rating: We're not entirely sure this is a varietal wine or a blend with symphony being the dominant grape. It's pleasant, but not remarkable. We'd recommend serving it with spicy Asian cuisines, with which it should pair nicely. About Average here, maybe slightly better.

Taste profile from the winemaker: None. There is no information about this wine on the winery website.

Winery website: Adler Fels Winery.

Sunday, November 22, 2009

Santa Julia Organica Torrontes 2008

Santa Julia Organica Torrontes 2008
Origin: Mendoza, Argentina
Blend: Torrontes (100%)
Alcohol Content: 13.0%
Bottle Closure: Natural Cork
Purchase Date: October 2009
Purchase Price: $9.99

Our review: Golden straw in color, this wine has aromas of tropical fruit (melon, pineapple, banana) with distinct spice notes. Of light- to moderate-body on the palate, the fruit flavors are expressive, and nicely balanced with a crisp acidity. The finish is equally pleasing, complex with depth of character.

Our rating: This is a wonderful wine, full of flavor and character. We served our bottle with broiled chicken and rice pilaf, with which it paired quite nicely. This isn't a common varietal in the US, but look for it when trying something different, and this winery in particular. We rate this wine Excellent.

We've enjoyed previous, non-organic, vintages almost as much, rating the Santa Julia Torrontes 2005 Above Average, nearly Excellent; and the Santa Julia Torrontes 2006 well Above Average.

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Colour: Silver yellow with brilliant pale green reflections. Aroma: Notes of rose, orange peel, white peaches, fruits salad, chamomile and other aromatic herbs. Flavor: A fresh and balanced flavor."

Winery website: Familia Zuccardi.

Friday, November 20, 2009

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Wednesday, November 18, 2009

Carmen Sauvignon Blanc 2009

Carmen Sauvignon Blanc 2009
Origin: Curico Valley, Chile
Blend: Sauvignon Blanc (100%)
Alcohol Content: 12.5%
Bottle Closure: Screw Cap
Purchase Date: October 2009
Purchase Price: $6.99

Our review: Yellow-green in color, this wine has herbal aromas of lemongrass, with significant spice notes. Initially a bit tart and citrusy on the palate, the fruit flavors smooth out and are accompanied by a touch of minerality. The finish is clean but lacks depth.

Our rating: This is a nice, versatile wine, not exceptional but decent. We served our bottle with grilled fish, but we think it would work well with most Asian-inspired cuisines. We rate it about Average. Last year, we rated a previous vintage, the Carmen Sauvignon Blanc 2007, also about Average.

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Bright greenish-yellow in colour with fresh and expressive varietal aromas. Deliciously crisp with fresh and juicy citrus and grapefruit, along with nettle and flint. Nice varietal typicity and a long finish."

Winery website: Viña Carmen.

Monday, November 16, 2009

River Road Sauvignon Blanc 2008

River Road Sauvignon Blanc 2008
Origin: Russian River Valley, California
Blend: Sauvignon Blanc (100%)
Alcohol Content: 13.2%
Bottle Closure: Natural Cork
Purchase Date: October 2009
Purchase Price: $9.99

Our review: Silver-gold in color, this wine has aromas of tropical fruit (pineapple) and lemongrass. Light and crisp on the palate, there's a nice balance between the fruit flavors and a mild acidity. There's a touch of spice in the finish.

Our rating: This is a rather pleasant wine, not terribly complex but versatile with respect to pairing. We served our bottle with an appetizer course, a good choice, but most cuisines would benefit from its inclusion in the menu. We rate it well Above Average.

Taste profile from the winemaker: None. There is no information about this wine on the winery website.

Winery website: River Road Vineyards.

Saturday, November 14, 2009

Stock Up on Great Thanksgiving Wines from Wine.com

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Thursday, November 12, 2009

Nobilis Vinho Verde NV

Nobilis Vinho Verde NV
Origin: Portugal
Blend: Unknown
Alcohol Content: 9.0%
Bottle Closure: Screw Cap
Purchase Date: October 2009
Purchase Price: $6.99

Our review: Straw in color with a bright aroma of green apples, this slightly sparkling wine's mineral character tends to dominate the fruit flavors on the palate. It's a bit tart on the finish and slightly unbalanced.

Our rating: In contrast to many vinho verdes, this one doesn't quite work as a sipping wine or aperitif, but rather is better consumed with food. Try it with brunch, or a spring mix of salad greens. We rate it on the low side of Average.

Note: Vinho Verdes (literally Green Wines) should be purchased as young as possible. Our bottle was stamped 2009.

No taste profile from the winemaker found.

Winery website: Sogrape Vinhos.

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

J. Lohr Bay Mist White Riesling 2007

J. Lohr Bay Mist White Riesling 2007
Origin: Monterey County, California
Blend: White Riesling (100%)
Alcohol Content: 11.5%
Bottle Closure: Synthetic Cork
Purchase Date: September 2009
Purchase Price: $8.99

Our review: Light gold in color with aromas of tree fruit (peaches) tropical fruit (kiwi) with notes of apple blossom and a touch of spice. Initially a bit crisp on the palate with nicely balanced fruit flavors, a slight sweetness slowly develops into the finish, which itself is very fruity and pleasing.

Our rating: A long time ago, this was one of our favorite wines, but it went through several years of poor quality and we stopped buying it. We picked up a bottle to try again and are pleased to report that it seems to have regained some of its former glory. This is a fine riesling, not overly sweet, and with a lot of interesting elements. We rate it near the top of the Above Average range.

Note: The product specification sheet states the alcohol content is 12.9%, yet the bottle label states it is 11.5%.

Taste profile from the winemaker: "A pale brassy yellow color with enticing fruit aromas of pear, lychee, ruby grapefruit, honeydew melon and apricot. The 1.98% residual sugar is balanced by the crisp grape acidity and natural spritz from a long cool fermentation, making it an enticingly fruity, refreshing wine capable of complementing the vibrant flavors of Thai curried chicken, Indian Mughlai Biryani chicken, or as an aperitif."

Winery website: J. Lohr Vineyards and Wines.

Sunday, November 8, 2009

Coyote Creek Sauvignon Blanc 2008

Coyote Creek Sauvignon Blanc 2008
Origin: California
Blend: Sauvignon Blanc (100%)
Alcohol Content: 13.0%
Bottle Closure: Synthetic Cork
Purchase Date: October 2009
Purchase Price: $6.99

Our review: Pale straw with aromas of gooseberry, herbs, and lemongrass, this wine is quite tart on the palate, the fruit flavors dominated by a mineral character. The tartness dissipates somewhat in the mineral finish.

Our rating: This is a somewhat unpleasant wine, and definitely one that needs to be consumed with food. We served our bottle with a chicken dish, but it might be slightly better with fish. Still, we don't recommend it, and rate it Below Average. We rated the previous years vintage, Coyote Creek Sauvignon Blanc 2007, similarly, on the low side of Average.

Taste profile from the winemaker: None. Though an image is provided on the winery website, no information about the wine can be found.

Winery website: Adler Fels Winery.

Friday, November 6, 2009

La Playa Sauvignon Blanc 2009

La Playa Sauvignon Blanc 2009
Origin: Colchagua Valley, Chile
Blend: Sauvignon Blanc (100%)
Alcohol Content: 13.0%
Bottle Closure: Screw Cap
Purchase Date: October 2009
Purchase Price: $7.99

Our review: Light gold with an aroma of gooseberry and lemongrass, this wine is crisp, even tart, on the palate though without much fruit flavor. The finish is pleasant, but brief.

Our rating: This wine favors the somewhat harsher New Zealand style of this varietal, one that works well with seafood dishes. Unfortunately, it seems to lack depth and complexity. We enjoyed it, and would probably recommend it based on its price, but it isn't memorable. About Average overall. Interestingly, we rated a previous vintage, the La Playa Sauvignon Blanc 2007, nearly Excellent.

Taste profile from the winemaker: "A consistent favorite with the critics, this pale yellow-green wine has a bright and floral nose, with aromas of blossoms, lime and honeydew. On the palate, it is fresh, well-structured and shows a lively acidity, with crisp lemon-lime zest, citrus candies and a note of fresh grass."

Winery website: Viña La Playa Winery.

Wednesday, November 4, 2009

Pavao Vinho Verde NV

Pavao Vinho Verde NV
Origin: Portugal
Blend: Unknown
Alcohol Content: 11.0%
Bottle Closure: Natural Cork
Purchase Date: September 2009
Purchase Price: $6.99

Our review: Light gold in color with a very brief appearance of tiny bubbles, this wine is very fragrant, with aromas of tree fruit and blossoms. The initial sensation on the palate is one of harmony, but then it diverges into what can only be described as a sweet tartness. The finish is surprisingly lengthy, though maybe a little heavy on the minerals.

Our rating: This vinho verde (literally "green wine" due to its young age) may be best suited as an aperitif; it doesn't hold up well when paired with food. We did serve ours at brunch, but enjoyed it more on its own. Just for fun, we did a 50:50 mix with fresh orange juice to finish up the bottle (creating a mimosa), and found it quite refreshing. The juice helps soften some of the rough edges of the wine. Not one of the better vinho verdes we've tasted, it scores on the low side of Average. (Note: always purchase the youngest vinho verde you can find; our bottle was dated 2009.)

No taste profile from the winemaker found.

Winery website: None found.

Monday, November 2, 2009

Ch. Los Boldos Momentos Sauvignon Blanc 2009

Ch. Los Boldos Momentos Sauvignon Blanc 2009
Origin: Rapel Valley, Chile
Blend: Sauvignon Blanc (100%)
Alcohol Content: 13.5%
Bottle Closure: Synthetic Cork
Purchase Date: September 2009
Purchase Price: $8.99

Our review: Straw in color, this wine has gooseberry, citrus, and herb aromas with notes of honey. Light-bodied and crisp on the palate, the fruit flavors have the merest hint of sweetness and are accompanied by a brisk minerality. The finish is quite nice, lengthy, with a touch of spice.

Our rating: We're fans of Chilean sauvignon blancs, and this is a fine example. Very versatile, you can confidently pair this wine with a wide variety of foods and cuisines; we served our bottle with stir-fried chicken and vegetables. We rate this moderately priced wine well Above Average.

No taste profile from the winemaker found.

Winery website: Vina Los Boldos. No mention of this wine could be found on the winery's website.

Saturday, October 31, 2009

Cielo Pinot Grigio 2008

Cielo Pinot Grigio 2008
Origin: delle Venezie, Italy
Blend: Pinot Grigio (100%)
Alcohol Content: 12.0%
Bottle Closure: Screw Cap
Purchase Date: September 2009
Purchase Price: $8.99

Our review: Light golden straw in color, this wine has dominant citrus aromas with distinct spicy, almost smoky notes. Light- to medium-bodied on the palate, there isn't much fruit flavor here; there is a hint of spicy sweetness though. The finish is of moderate length, but otherwise unremarkable.

Our rating: This is an interesting wine, with lots of subtleties, but not one of much depth. We served our bottle with a mildly seasoned chicken and rice dish, possibly not the best pairing; grilled seafood, or maybe even barbecued chicken, is probably a better match. Priced a little on the high side for what it is, we rate it just Average.

No taste profile from the winemaker found.

Winery website: None found.

Thursday, October 29, 2009

Dashwood Sauvignon Blanc 2008

Dashwood Sauvignon Blanc 2008
Origin: Marlborough, New Zealand
Blend: Sauvignon Blanc (100%)
Alcohol Content: 13.0%
Bottle Closure: Screw Cap
Purchase Date: September 2009
Purchase Price: $9.99

Our review: Light straw, this wine exhibits fresh grassy, vegetal aromas with significant citrus notes. Initially slightly tart on the palate, slightly sweet tropical fruit flavors emerge to provide good balance. A minerality develops into the finish, which is long and crisp.

Our rating: This is a fine example of this varietal from New Zealand, and attractively priced. Serve with appetizers or a crisp salad topped with grilled chicken. Allowing the wine to remain open a few minutes before serving improves its overall complexity. Our rating: Above Average, nearly Excellent.

Taste profile from the winemaker: "A pale straw colour, this classically styled wine shows lifted melon, citrus and fresh tropical notes on the nose. These flavours follow through to the richly structured palate which has a long crisp finish."

Winery website: Vavasour Wines.

Tuesday, October 27, 2009

Gazela Vinho Verde NV

Gazela Vinho Verde NV
Origin: Portugal
Blend: The predominant variety is Loureiro, with Pedernã, Trajadura and Azal being used in smaller amounts
Alcohol Content: 9.0%
Bottle Closure: Screw Cap
Purchase Date: September 2009
Purchase Price: $5.99

Our review: Silver straw in color with a very light effervescence, this wine has a bouquet of tree fruit (notably pear) and apple blossom. Initially slightly bitter and tart on the palate, the fruit flavors are quickly balanced by a touch of sweetness. There isn't much of a finish (nor is one really expected).

Our rating: We really enjoy vinho verdes, low in alcohol and perfect for sipping on a lazy afternoon (or really, for that matter, at any time). This one is a typical example, not exceptional, but unusually complex. We rate it on the high side of Average (and at $6, a terrific value). Most vinho verdes are non-vintage, and are best when consumed as soon as possible after bottling, so look for the most recent date you can find on the bottle (usually on the export label). This rated bottle has a 2009 date.

Taste profile from the winemaker: "A very light yellow citrine colour, with a slight fizz that enhances its bouquet, flavours and freshness. Aromatic and engaging, its citrine and tropical fruit notes have a lively and stimulating acidity, very well balanced by a slight touch of sugar."

Winery website: Sogrape Vinhos.

Sunday, October 25, 2009

CK Mondavi Pinot Grigio 2008

CK Mondavi Pinot Grigio 2008
Origin: California
Blend: Pinot Grigio (76%), Sauvignon Blanc (12%), Chenin Blanc (6%), Viognier (3.5%), Muscat (2.5%)
Alcohol Content: 12.9%
Bottle Closure: Screw Cap
Purchase Date: September 2009
Purchase Price: $6.99

Our review: Golden straw in color, this wine has a bouquet of sweet apples (e.g. golden delicious) and apple blossom. There's not a lot of depth on the palate, but the fruit flavors are nicely balanced with a moderately brisk acidity. The finish is slightly chalky.

Our rating: This is an example of an inexpensive wine done well. Very versatile, it's a good party wine where there might be a wide variety of foods. The slightly unpleasant finish is much less noticeable when the wine is consumed with a meal. We rate it overall about Average, but at $7 it's a very good value.

Taste profile from the winemaker: "A medium-bodied wine filled with aromas of wildflowers, peaches and pears. Fresh, tropical flavors combined with a touch of spice lead to a delightfully crisp finish."

Winery website: CK Mondavi.

Friday, October 23, 2009

Porcupine Ridge Sauvignon Blanc 2008

Porcupine Ridge Sauvignon Blanc 2008
Origin: Western Cape, South Africa
Blend: Sauvignon Blanc (100%)
Alcohol Content: 12.5%
Bottle Closure: Screw Cap
Purchase Date: September 2009
Purchase Price: $9.99

Our review: Straw in color, this wine has light aromas of citrus and orange blossom with slight notes of lemongrass. The smooth fruit flavors are balanced with some minerality on the palate. The finish is quite pleasing, and of moderate length.

Our rating: We very much enjoyed this bottle of wine. It's a softer, gentler version of some of the more aggressive sauvignon blancs typical of New Zealand or Chile. Very food friendly, it probably pairs best with seafood. We previously rated the Porcupine Ridge Sauvignon Blanc 2007 on the high side of Average, but we think this vintage is even better, rating well Above Average.

Taste profile from the winemaker (from the bottle label): "Gooseberry and tropical fruit flavours, fresh and dry with lengthy citrus finish"

Winery website: Boekenhoutskloof Winery.

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Yellow Tail Sauvignon Blanc NV

Yellow Tail Sauvignon Blanc NV
Origin: Australia (86%), New Zealand (14%)
Blend: Sauvignon Blanc (100%)
Alcohol Content: 12.0%
Bottle Closure: Screw Cap
Purchase Date: September 2009
Purchase Price: $5.99

Our review: A blend of sweet bell pepper, citrus (maybe lemongrass), and floral aromas are exhibited by this pale yellow wine. Light-bodied, the palate tends towards the slightly sweet, though an acidity is present that balances the fruit flavors. There is little finish.

Our rating: Though Yellow Tail is known for its wide variety of inexpensive wines from Australia, this is the first time we've seen a Sauvignon Blanc. And as of the date of this review, there's no mention of the varietal on the company website. Overall, it rates on the low side of Average, but at $6 it's a great deal. A good choice for lunch, or to take along on a picnic.

Taste profile from the winemaker (from the bottle label): "Flavors: Fresh tropical fruits, passionfruit and lime. Enjoy: With good friends and your favorite seafood dish."

Winery website: [yellow tail].

Monday, October 19, 2009

Cantine Riondo Prosecco Spago Nero NV

Cantine Riondo Prosecco Spago Nero NV
Origin: Veneto, Italy
Blend: Prosecco (100%)
Alcohol Content: 10.5%
Bottle Closure: Natural Cork
Purchase Date: October 2009
Purchase Price: $9.99

Our review: Pale straw in color, this wine has gentle aromas of citrus and citrus blossom. Lightly sparking, the palate is an interesting combination of ever so slightly sweet and ever so slightly tart citrus flavors. The nicely balanced, though brief, finish has some mineral character.

Our rating: We first reviewed this prosecco about a year ago. A non-vintage wine, we wanted to see if it was still as pleasing today as we found it then. And it is. In fact, our score sheet indicates we actually liked it slightly more. Proseccos can be enjoyed at any time of the day, but we mostly prefer our bottle as we watch the sun set, or with a light brunch. While not the best prosecco we've tried, it's certainly our favorite. Go figure. We rate it Above Average.

Taste profile from the winemaker: "This sparkling wine is produced in full respect of ancient traditions, using Prosecco grapes grown on the Veneto hills. It is characterised by a fine, light perlage and a fresh and aromatic perfume. It is perfect both as an aperitif and as an accompaniment to light dishes."

Winery website: Cantine Riondo.

Saturday, October 17, 2009

Robert Mondavi Fume Blanc Reserve 2007

Robert Mondavi Fume Blanc Reserve 2007
Origin: To Kalon Vineyards, Napa Valley, California
Blend: Sauvignon Blanc (94%), Semillon (6%)
Alcohol Content: 14.5%
Bottle Closure: Natural Cork
Purchase Date: September 2009
Suggested Retail Price: $40.00

Our review: Rich, yellow-gold in color, this wine has aromas of tropical fruit, sweet spice, even some notes of leather. Silky smooth on the palate, the fruit flavors, which now include soft tree fruit like peach, have nuanced textures with nicely balanced acidity. The finish is expressive with an evolving flavor profile.

Our rating: This is an elegant, refined and opulent wine, one to be savored. The oak cellaring adds depth and interest without being overpowering; allow the wine to breathe a bit in your glass to enhance the experience. We suggest you serve this wine with roasted poultry or shellfish; your guests will be most impressed. We rate this vintage Excellent.

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Pronounced tropical aromas are followed by waves of similarly rich flavors -- pineapple, coconut, zesty lemon, a bit of mano and orange pekoe tea. Mouth-coatingly creamy with lively acidity, this is a vibrantly stylish wine."

Winery website: Robert Mondavi Winery.

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Castellana Trebbiano d'Abruzzo 2008

Castellana Trebbiano d'Abruzzo 2008
Origin: Italy
Blend: Trebbiano d'Abruzzo (100%)
Alcohol Content: 11.0%
Bottle Closure: Synthetic Cork
Purchase Date: September 2009
Purchase Price: $6.99

Our review: Light yellow in color, this wine has aromas of tropical fruit, honey, with floral notes. The palate has some brief fruit flavors, but they are quickly replaced by a nutty, earthy character. The finish is lengthy and has an interesting evolution, or progression, of flavors and sensations.

Our rating: This complex wine is not meant to be consumed as an aperitif, and requires food to bring out its best. We served ours with a risotto, not a bad choice but probably not the best. We think a rich casserole, or maybe a poultry dish, is better. It scores well here, Above Average, but not quite as good as the Castellana Trebbiano d'Abruzzo 2007, which we rated slightly higher, and for completely different reasons. At $7, though, it's a bargain regardless.

No taste profile from the winemaker found.

Winery website: None found.

Tuesday, October 13, 2009

Robert Mondavi Private Selection Pinot Grigio 2008

Robert Mondavi Private Selection Pinot Grigio 2008
Origin: California
Blend: Pinot Grigio (86%), French Colombard (7%), Semillon (4%), Sauvignon Blanc (1%), Chardonnay (1%)
Alcohol Content: 13.5%
Bottle Closure: Synthetic Cork
Purchase Date: September 2009
Purchase Price: $11.00

Our review: Light gold with aromas of citrus and tree fruit and distinct floral and spice notes, this wine has a similar flavor profile on the palate with a good acidic balance. The finish is somewhat disappointing, though, a bit uninteresting and flat.

Our rating: We enjoyed our bottle with a meal of chicken and biscuits, a good choice. It's a very food friendly wine, and would work well with a variety of cuisines. (The flavors and complexity improve a bit if served just slightly chilled.) California pinot grigios have been improving in recent years, and this is a nice example of what's available. We rate it on the high side of Average.

Taste profile from the winemaker: "An enticing aroma of fresh, ripe pears with appealing peach, vanilla, and floral spice scents adding complexity. Round and creamy on the palate, it has the typical tonic water, pear, and tart lemon flavors, culminating in a full, lingering finish that invites pairing with food."

Winery website: Robert Mondavi Private Selection Wines.

Sunday, October 11, 2009

E. Soria Prosecco Spumante Extra Dry NV

E. Soria Prosecco Spumante Extra Dry NV
Origin: Italy
Blend: Prosecco (100%)
Alcohol Content: 11.5%
Bottle Closure: Natural Cork
Purchase Date: August 2009
Purchase Price: $10.99

Our review: Yellow gold in color, this lightly sparkling wine has aromas of apricot and peach, with floral notes of apple blossom. Crisp and clean on the palate, the fruit flavors are quite flavorful, almost full-bodied, and ever so slightly sweet. There isn't much of a finish (nor is one really expected) but it does exhibit a dry toast sensation.

Our rating: This is a very nice, quite refreshing prosecco, and a delight to drink, either as an aperitif, sipping on a warm afternoon while reading (which is how we enjoyed ours), or with a light salad of mixed greens. But it's priced a bit on the high side for what it is. It rates well Above Average, but it's really not an exceptional value at $11; stock up on it if it's $9 or less.

No taste profile from the winemaker found.

Winery website: None found.

Friday, October 9, 2009

Fatascia Kaila Grillo and Inzolia 2007

Fatascia Kaila Grillo and Inzolia 2007
Origin: Sicily, Italy
Blend: Grillo (50%), Inzolia (50%)
Alcohol Content: 13.0%
Bottle Closure: Synthetic Cork
Purchase Date: August 2009
Purchase Price: $12.99

Our review: Deep gold in color, this wine exhibits aromas of peach and melon with distinct notes of honey and spice. Rich and full-bodied on the palate, the expressive fruit flavors have considerable complexity and depth. The finish is long, with characteristics of oak cellaring (though according to the winemaker none was used).

Our rating: This is a most interesting wine. The grapes are native to Sicily and produce a wine that is likely quite unfamiliar to American palates. Pair this wine with roasted chicken and potatoes, as we did, or dishes that have richly flavored sauces, and serve just barely chilled. We rate it Above Average, nearly Excellent.

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Colore: Giallo paglierino, con riflessi dorati (straw yellow with golden reflections). Sapore: Equilibrato ed armonico, sapido, fruttato. Tipici sentori delle uve di provenienza (balanced and harmonious, full-bodied, fruity; typical aromas of the varietal grapes)."

Winery website: Fatascia.

Wednesday, October 7, 2009

Woodbridge Saugivnon Blanc 2008

Woodbridge Saugivnon Blanc 2008
Origin: California
Blend: Sauvignon Blanc (77%), Proprietary blend of White Varietals (23%)
Alcohol Content: 12.5%
Bottle Closure: Synthetic Cork
Purchase Date: September 2009
Purchase Price: $7.99

Our review: Pale yellow in color, this wine has blended aromas of lemongrass, herb and spice. The palate is initially quite citrusy with almost a hint of apple or maybe even something sweeter like peach, followed by a quickly developing mineral character. The finish has a touch of spice but otherwise is rather unremarkable.

Our rating: We have to wonder a bit about the blend in this wine. There are many characteristics of a sauvignon blanc here, but the result seems a bit muddled. It's not a bad wine by any means; we enjoyed ours with stir fried chicken and vegetables, a solid pairing. Still, it doesn't really stand out. On our score sheet, it rates on the low side of Average.

Taste profile from the winemaker: "The ripe tropical aromas give the impression of a sweet wine, but the dry, crisp flavors--with hints of lime on the finish--make a perfect complement to seafood."

Winery website: Woodbridge Wines.

Monday, October 5, 2009

Jean-Louis Blanc de Blancs Brut NV

Jean-Louis Blanc de Blancs Brut NV
Origin: Loire Valley, France
Blend: Ugni Blanc, Folle Blanche, Colombard (percentages unknown)
Alcohol Content: 11.5%
Bottle Closure: Natural Cork
Purchase Date: August 2009
Purchase Price: $9.99

Our review: Golden yellow in color, this sparkling wine produces an abundance of bubbles. The bouquet is of red and green apples and honey. The palate improves on the nose with expressive fruit flavors. The finish has some mineral character and is slightly astringent.

Our rating: We enjoyed our bottle at a "champagne" brunch. It is food-friendly, pairing well with the wide variety of dishes at our buffet. We don't recommend it as a sipping wine, though. The blend apparently changes considerably over time; one page of the importer's website says the blend is of ugni clanc, colombard, and chardonnay; the technical sheet (from the same website) says chenin blanc, ugni blanc, and various other grapes. The label, which we think might be the most accurate for the bottle we tasted, states ugni blanc, folle blanche, colombard. We're not sure what to make of this, only to say that the bottle we reviewed here may not be the bottle you buy. We rate ours about Average.

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Nose: Bright and fruity, this wine exudes aromas typical of chenin blanc: apples, apricots and a hint of honey. Palate: An explosion of fine bubbles followed by a smooth, fruity finish."

Winery website: Boisset Family Estates (importers).

Saturday, October 3, 2009

Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc 2008

Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc 2008
Origin: Marlborough, New Zealand
Blend: Sauvignon Blanc (100%)
Alcohol Content: 13.0%
Bottle Closure: Screw Cap
Purchase Date: August 2009
Purchase Price: $12.99

Our review: Silver green in color, this wine has aromas of gooseberry and bell pepper, with notes of lemongrass. Light, clean, and crisp on the palate, there is good acidic balance though the flavors tend to be citrusy (maybe a little too much so). The finish has more mineral character than fruit, but is long and satisfying.

Our rating: This is a nice example of the varietal, but not an outstanding one. We enjoyed our bottle with chicken tenders and a fresh raw vegetable platter, a good choice. New Zealand sauvignon blancs have been creeping up in price recently, and this is no exception. Price aside, we'd rate it Above Average, nearly Excellent. However, there are equally good (think Chilean) wines that are priced much less. We also rated the Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc 2007 Above Average, Nearly Excellent, but, interestingly, for very different reasons.

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Colour: Pale green. Aroma: Lifted aromatics of tropical fruits combined with the traditional nettle and herbaceous aromas. Palate: Firm acidity is surrounded by tropical fruits and herbaceous notes with hints of citrus sneaking in. "

Winery website: Kim Crawford Wines.

Thursday, October 1, 2009

Woodbridge Pinot Grigio 2008

Woodbridge Pinot Grigio 2008
Origin: California
Blend: Pinot Grigio (77%), Chenin Blanc (18%), Aromatic White Varieties (5%)
Alcohol Content: 12.0%
Bottle Closure: Synthetic Cork
Purchase Date: September 2009
Suggested Retail Price: $7.99

Our review: This wine is silver green with a pleasant aroma of spiced green apple and notes of tropical fruit (think kiwi). The palate is nicely balanced, the fruit flavors accompanied by a crisp minerality. The finish is of considerable length but is marred by being both a little too tart and astringent, and a little too spicy, almost smoky (which some may consider a positive attribute for a wine that received no oak cellaring).

Our rating: This is not a complex wine, but it's probably not intended to be. It would pair nicely with a cold turkey sandwich and a fresh summer salad, which is how we enjoyed our bottle; it's more of a lunch wine than a dinner one. (We noticed that the slightly disappointing finish is less noticeable when the wine is accompanied by food.) Look for it at less than it's retail price of $8, where it represents a good value. We rate it on the high side of Average.

Taste profile from the winemaker: "With its spicy array of citrus, honeydew melon and tropical fruit notes, this wine pairs nicely with many foods. The silky flavors -- enlivened with a refreshing, lemony finish -- taste great with appetizers, grilled fish or chicken, and fresh seafood salads."

Winery website: Woodbridge Wines.

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Montresor Trebbiano di Lugana 2008

Montresor Trebbiano di Lugana 2008
Origin: Lugana, Italy
Blend: Trebbiano di Lugana (100%)
Alcohol Content: 12.5%
Bottle Closure: Synthetic Cork
Purchase Date: August 2009
Purchase Price: $11.99

Our review: Pale gold in color, this wine has aromas of spiced fruit with hints of honey and flowers. Smooth and dry on the palate, the fruit flavors are somewhat muted, and accompanied by a soft mineral character. The finish is slightly nutty and of extended length.

Our rating: An elegant wine, its flavors are refined but rather subdued; it should pair nicely with richly flavored cuisines. We chose an oven roasted chicken and potatoes, which enhanced both the wine and the dish. Priced a bit on the high side, still, if you're unfamiliar with trebbianos this would be a fine one to try. We rate it Above Average.

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Straw pale colour with golden reflections; intense, nice nose. Dry on the palate, delicate and elegant with flavors of pear flowers."

Winery website: Cantine Montressor S.P.A..

Sunday, September 27, 2009

Casal Garcia Vinho Verde NV

Casal Garcia Vinho Verde NV
Origin: Portugal
Blend: Arinto, Azal Branco, Loureira, Treixadura (percentages unknown)
Alcohol Content: 11.5%
Bottle Closure: Screw Cap
Purchase Date: August 2009
Purchase Price: $5.99

Our review: Greenish silver in color, this slightly sparkling wine has aromas of citrus and peach with a touch of orange blossom. Crisp and dry on the palate, the flavor is decidedly citrusy with a distinct mineral character. The finish is brief but quite pleasant.

Our rating: This a most delightful wine, one of the best vinho verdes we've tasted recently. Though non-vintage, the serial number label indicates it was bottled this year; these wines are intended to be consumed as soon as possible. We enjoyed our bottle as an aperitif and with appetizers. At $6, it's a good value, and definitely one worth seeking out. We rate it well Above Average.

Taste profile from the winemaker: "The wine has a citrine color and a clear appearance with a very delicate and slightly fruity aroma. On the palate this is a fresh, smooth and well-balanced wine. Ideal with fish, seafood, Asian food and some white meat."

Winery website: Aveleda. Our Wine. Our Love. Our Life..

Friday, September 25, 2009

Robert Mondavi Private Selection Sauvignon Blanc 2008

Robert Mondavi Private Selection Sauvignon Blanc 2008
Origin: California
Blend: Sauvignon Blanc (94%), Riesling (3%), Gewurztraminer (3%)
Alcohol Content: 13.5%
Bottle Closure: Synthetic Cork
Purchase Date: September 2009
Purchase Price: $11.00

Our review: Straw-green in color, this wine has aromas of citrus (notably lime), gooseberry, and hints of fresh grass. The flavors are quite smooth on the palate, the citrus (here more grapefruit) based acidity is balanced with just a touch of sweetness. The finish is rather tart but not excessively so.

Our rating: We found this wine to be very expressive, showing off many of the more subtle aspects of the varietal. It's not clear how much of the roundness of the wine comes from the blend, but we suspect it softens a bit the harsher edges of the sauvignon blanc grape. We downgraded it slightly as it seemed to lack some depth. Still, it's a very food-friendly wine, easily paired with most poultry or fish dishes, and we rate it Above Average.

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Displays varietally expressive lemon 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."

Winery website: Robert Mondavi Private Selection Wines.

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Montes "Limited Selection" Sauvignon Blanc 2008

Montes "Limited Selection" Sauvignon Blanc 2008
Origin: Leyda Valley, Chile
Blend: Sauvignon Blanc (100%)
Alcohol Content: 13.5%
Bottle Closure: Screw Cap
Purchase Date: August 2009
Purchase Price: $9.99

Our review: Very fragrant, this pale gold wine has classic varietal aromas of gooseberry and grass with slight notes of pineapple and maybe a hint of sweet asparagus. Very crisp on the palate, the flavors are more citrus-like, and accompanied by a brisk minerality. Though no oak was used to create the wine, the extended finish has an oak-like character, a little woodsy and spicy.

Our rating: Individually there would seem to be a lot to like in this wine, but overall we weren't totally impressed. The finish is the most displeasing aspect; normally a lengthy finish is an asset, but we were hoping the earthiness here would have ended a bit sooner. Or at least have been balanced with a bit of fruitiness. It's a fine pairing wine, working well with most poultry or seafood dishes, and the elegantly designed bottle would look terrific at a formal dinner party. Still, despite the disappointing finish, it scores reasonably well, and rates an Above Average from us. We previously rated the Montes "Classic Series" Sauvignon Blanc 2006 Below Average (for similar reasons).

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Very powerful. To the palate it is refreshingly crisp, sparkling with softness and sumptuous. Great complexity of tropical fruits with citric accents, high acidity and low Ph contribute to the impressive overall freshness and high minerality. An allowing edge, great name, a joyful wine which lingers and has an impressively long finish."

Winery website: Vina Montes.

Monday, September 21, 2009

Volteo Viura + Viognier + Sauvignon Blanc 2008

Volteo Viura + Viognier + Sauvignon Blanc 2008
Origin: Spain
Blend: Viura (50%), Sauvignon Blanc (35%), Viognier (10%)
Alcohol Content: 12.5%
Bottle Closure: Screw Cap
Purchase Date: August 2009
Purchase Price: $9.99

Our review: Silver-gold in color, this wine has a very pleasing tropical fruit and citrus blend aroma with just a hint of grass. Nicely balanced on the palate and quite smooth, the fruit flavors are accompanied by a crisp mineral character. The finish is exceptionally long but somewhat one-dimensional, lacking depth.

Our rating: We generally haven't rated viuras very highly, but this blend with sauvignon blanc and viognier is rather interesting. We served our bottle with grilled chicken and french fried potatoes, but we think seafood may be a better choice for pairing. Definitely a wine to consider when looking for something different, we rate it Above Average.

No taste profile from the winemaker found.

Winery website: Volteo Wines.

Saturday, September 19, 2009

il Cortigiana Prosecco "Vino Frizzante" NV

il Cortigiana Prosecco "Vino Frizzante" NV
Origin: Veneto, Italy
Blend: Prosecco (100%)
Alcohol Content: 10.5%
Bottle Closure: Natural Cork
Purchase Date: August 2009
Purchase Price: $9.99

Our review: Golden straw in color, this wine has aromas of green apple and white pear with some slight sweet, honey-like notes. Only ever so slightly sparkling, there is a lot of fruit flavor on the palate, and semi-dry (not exactly sweet, but a sensation of such). The finish is on the dry side, though, and somewhat flat.

Our rating: This is a nice prosecco, but we actually prefer the il Cortigiano Prosecco Vino Spumante, with its foamy bubbles and drier character. This wine is fine, though, for outdoor brunches or get-togethers with friends and family. We rate it on the high side of Average.

Taste profile from the winemaker: "A bright straw-yellow colour. The typical fruity perfume is pleasant. The taste is dry, agreeable and aromatic."

Winery website: Sant'Orsola.

Thursday, September 17, 2009

Line Shack Sauvignon Blanc 2007

Line Shack Sauvignon Blanc 2007
Origin: Monterey County, California
Blend: Sauvignon Blanc (100%)
Alcohol Content: 13.8%
Bottle Closure: Synthetic Cork
Purchase Date: August 2009
Purchase Price: $9.99

Our review: Metallic straw in color and very lightly fragrant with aromas of tropical fruit and citrus. The blended fruit flavors on the palate are similar in nature, though not pronounced, and are accompanied by a clean, slate, mineral character. The finish is extended and of interest.

Our rating: This is a very nice wine, and one that can readily accompany a wide variety of dishes. For a wine with a relatively high alcohol content, it's surprisingly gentle. We served our bottle with cold sliced chicken breast and a fresh summer salad. We rate it well Above Average.

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Dry and stylish, crisp and refreshing yet fuller and more generous than you expect with layers of tangy citrus, pineapple and melon aromas with a clean crisp enjoyably long finish."

Winery website: Line Shack Wine.

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

La Vieille Ferme White Wine 2008

La Vieille Ferme White Wine 2008
Origin: Rhone Valley, France
Blend: Grenache Blanc (30%), Bourboulenc (30%), Ugni Blanc (30%), Roussanne (10%)
Alcohol Content: 13.0%
Bottle Closure: Screw Cap
Purchase Date: August 2009
Purchase Price: $7.99

Our review: Pale yellow in color, this wine has aromas of tree fruit (pear, apple) with distinct notes of tree nuts. The fruit and nut flavors are initially nicely balanced on the palate, but then seem to dissipate. The finish has a mineral, almost chalky character and becomes increasingly unbalanced and astringent.

Our rating: This is not a sipping wine and must be paired with the right food to bring out its best character. We served our bottle with a tomato-based dish; the acid in the food complemented the wine nicely, improving it dramatically. It also seemed to help allowing the wine to remain open for 10-15 minutes. Paired with the right cuisine, this wine would rate on the high side of Average. But alone or with the wrong dish, it's likely to be perceived as Below Average.

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Appearance: bright pale yellow with hints of green. Nose: green fruit, corn and hazel-nuts. Palate: soft, balanced and deliciously aromatic. "

Winery website: La Vielle Ferme, Cotes du Luberon.

Sunday, September 13, 2009

Montresor Soave Classico 2008

Montresor Soave Classico 2008
Origin: Soave, Italy
Blend: Garganega (80%), Trebbiano di Soave (20%)
Alcohol Content: 12.0%
Bottle Closure: Natural Cork
Purchase Date: August 2009
Purchase Price: $9.99

Our review: Yellow-green in color, this wine is lightly aromatic, with notes of citrus and light spice. The palate is surprisingly fruitful in contrast, clean and fresh with moderate acidity and some mineral character. The finish is lengthy with a bit of heat, but otherwise unremarkable.

Our rating: Not a complex wine, but interesting nonetheless. We enjoyed our bottle with breaded chicken tenders and stir-fried vegetables, with which it paired nicely. It seems priced a little high at $10 for what we rate an Average wine.

Taste profile from the winemaker: "Clear pale yellow in colour, with greenish reflections. Fresh and slightly fruity bouquet with delicate aromas of acacia and elder blossoms. Dry, with an almond and honey aftertaste."

Winery website: Cantine Montressor S.P.A..
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