Cockburn's Ruby Port review by (PB)

If you haven't explored the world of Port for Pete's sake do so! Port--real port from Portugal will be called Porto or Oporto on the label and no where else in the world is port made that is worth drinking. Australia has tried with minimal success and California produces only one port wine worth mentioning and that is from FicklinVineyards.

Don't even think of buying the domestic "ports" which are nasty, cough syrupy, sickeningly sweet medicines. Port is awesome and is a desert wine so it is sweet but before you screw up your nose and say, "I don't like sweet wines" you have to start over with your thinking. Classy desert wines, made from hundreds of years of experience that are balanced with the right acid ratios are awesome and affordable.

This one costs around $12 but most any Oporto in the $10-$20 range is going to be decent!

Review: Sweet raisiny bouquet with prune notes and a palate that is brimming with sweet prune and blackberries on the finish even if a touch "hot."

Now--sip some port with a chunk of Stilton or a block of dark chocolate and be prepared to get hooked. Raise a glass!

Strong Arms Shiraz 2008 review by (PB)

This Southern Aussie Shiraz is deeply pigmented as Shiraz should be with black cherry and plum hue with big black berry aromas accompanied by bold tar with a touch of licorice.

Palate--"Zippy" front with big ripe fruit; dark, bitter cocoa and a mid palate of sweet strawberry pie.

It's a little course but all in all pretty tasty. At $12 or less, raise a glass!

Veuve vs Gloria Ferrer Non Vintage Smackdown review by Billy

Vacationing with PB gives us a great chance to have side by side tastings of lots of different wines. We took this opportunity to pit a well known French Champagne against a good domestic sparkling wine. We wanted both to be generally accessible and of moderate pricing.

For the French Champagne we selected Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin Brut ($55 at the local grocery store).
Nose: muted dryer nose, dusty and layered with flowers and melon.

Palate:extra fine bubbles that effervesce and sparkle. Very dry with pleasing acid core. Honeyed flowers on the palate

Finish: of peach and mown hay

For the domestic Sparkling wine we selected the Gloria Ferrer Sonoma Brut which was $20 at the local grocery store.

Nose: quite rich and full at the outset. Notes of citrus and flowers.
Palate: medium dry, small tight bubbles with notes of peach and pineapple. The bubbles are wonderfully intrinsic to this sparkling wine being smaller than many other domestics I've had. While described as a Brut it is not quite as dry as many other bruts making for a somewhat more accessible sparkling for those who prefer their bubbly not so bone dry.
Finish: The finish on this Gloria Ferrer Sonoma Brut is short and weak. The weakest part of an otherwise wonderful wine.

Smackdown Review: We tasted these wines blind so that we would not be influenced by the labels or regional preconceptions. The first thing to remember is that you like what you like and that is just fine. In truth these are two magnificent sparkling wines. They both had depth of flavor, good crafting and delightful bubbles. They would both make a good drink after dinner and with a light dessert. At twice the price (or more) the Veuve simply outclasses the Gloria Ferrer. The bubbles are relative pinpricks that effervesce and tease where comparatively, the Gloria Ferrer bubbles are hammers pounding at your palate. Similarly, I prefer dry dry dry sparkling wines and the Gloria Ferrer Sonoma brut was not as dry as the Veuve. Finally the finish on the Veuve continued on well after the taste was done where the Gloria Ferrer was (much) shorter.

So I pick the Veuve as the winner in the head to head taste competition.

Any way you consider it, though, in these kinds of competitions, everyone wins.
Raise a Glass!

Luce 2006 sponsored wine review by Billy

Nose:cracked pepper and spicy licorice notes and hints of vanilla . Many layers.
Palate:juicy and lucid with firm acids and understated tannins that are not weak but are not strong either. This creates a less heavy wine with the characteristics of the Sangiovese while retaining the presence and gravity of the Merlot.
Finish: nice juicy finish with spicy heat and berries
Overall:Noticeable Merlot spice complements the juicy Sangiovese. We had this open and breathing for 3 hours before tasting. Accessible, open. The wonderful folks from Folio Wines sent us this wine to review. I brought it with me on a visit / taste-cation with PB so that we could review it together. We both enjoyed this immensely while being impressed specifically with the layered crafting of this incredibly fine Super Tuscan. This is a special bottle on any occasion and will run you a pretty penny for the privilege. I have seen it online for around $85 -95. But, in the words of Ferris Bueler, "...It is so choice. If you have the means, I highly recommend picking one up."

Raise a Glass.

Owen Roe Ex Umbris Syrah 2008 Wine Review (NW)

Tasting notes:

Wild berries and layers of spices on the nose

Full bodied and richly textured on the palate

Long finish of wild berries, licorice, and vanilla with a fine texture throughout

Summary:

When I flew out to Seattle two weeks ago to climb Mt. Rainier, I sampled a number of Washington state wines that I don't see near me in the Northeast. Occasionally, I'll spot an Owen Roe wine on a restaurant wine list, but not very often. As a result, I was quick to pick up this bottle and share with a friend.

While this is a very flavorful Syrah from a renowned producer, the most remarkable thing about this wine is the incredible texture. It's both rich and finely textured, especially on the long finish. If you can find it for sale, you'll probably spend about $24. Raise a glass!

Soos Creek "Sundance" Columbia Valley Red Wine 2006 Wine Review (NW)

Tasting notes:

Wild berries, spice, and cocoa on the nose

Full bodied and firm and on the palate

More of the same on the finish

Summary:

When I flew to Seattle two weeks ago to climb Mt. Rainier, I had the chance to sample a number of Washington state wines that I just don't see near me in the Northeast. This wine from Soos Creek is at the lower end of their price spectrum, costing $22. It's a blend of primarily Merlot with some Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. While not as voluptuous as other wines from Soos Creek, it delivers a lot of flavor on a firm backbone. Nice wine!

And yes, I made it to the summit of Mt. Rainier. Raise a glass!

Chateau Grand Puy Lacoste Pauillac 2000 wine review by Billy

Nose: Olive Tapenade with toasted caramel and creme brulee underneath. Special and amazing.

Palate: featherbed softness that caresses the palate rather than accosts it or simply sits on it. Supple.

Finish: cherry and charcoal hints.

Overall: This is a classic old world style wine from Bordeaux. At 10 years old it is amazing right now and still has enough youth to age for years to come.
A complex and sophisticated wine that tempts and delights and is, quite simply amazing. This is another wine that PB and NW and I had the opportunity to review together. At $99 it is spendy and should be served as a very special treat to people who will appreciate the sophistication and a story.

Raise a Glass!

Chateau Grand-Puy-Lacoste 2000 review by (PB)

This Grand Cru Classe from Paulliac Bordeaux is from the super vintage of 2000 presenting with a deep opaque garnet,nice nose of ripe plum and rich blackberry with a deep nose of licorice/cedar.

Palate--This wine is still tight at 10 years old; tannic structure is maturing but needs more time. Cherry and black cherry fruit up front, with cedar and evergreen in the finish. I'd love to try this in another 10 years.

Now here is where I receive the scorn of the wine world but so be it. I appreciate the nicer Bordeaux and they cannot "really" be compared to many new world wines but that being said, the Tapestry I reviewed (below) which was less than a third of the price of this "great growth" wins my preference in taste. I cannot divorce a wine's price compared to its quality as part of the overall "rating" factor.

So there it is, raise a glass of two different style wines, two different price points and two different experiences--both wonderful.

Beaulieu Vineyard (BV) Reserve Tapestry 2006 wine review by Billy

This is a classic Napa Valley red. You'll see it in stores referred to as "BV" and it is a blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot, petit verdot, cabernet franc and malbec.

Nose: blueberry jam, smoke, cedar
Palate: soft and lush with delightfully smoky notes on the palate. Impressive but not overbearing Tannins, dark fleshy fruit notes (plums) and ever so slight peppery spice.

Finish: lighter berry hints on the finish, even some strawberry.

Overall: Wonderful new world style red. Complex and structured, evenly crafted and juicy. At $26 a steal. This wine typically is seen for $45 - 50. We had this wine at a family reunion with PB and NW and me all in the same place at the same time. These rare occasions always involve reviewing some really special wine and this was no exception. Be sure to see PB and NW's reviews as well.

Raise a Glass!

Beaulieu Vineyards "Tapestry" 2006 reivew by (PB)

In a rare meeting of the whole Wine Cask Blog--(NW)(Billy) and myself, we sat down amidst the pandemonium of our four families--and 8 of my 9 grandchildren to sit, taste and review a couple nice wines.
Presents with a deep black cherry hue with fresher fruity bouquet of black cherry and plum pie with deep tar notes.

Palate--plush tannins with solid dark fruit and the subtlest of vanilla, cocoa and fruit in the nice finish.

BV's "Tapestry" holds a special place in the enophilic chamber of my heart being such a favored wine that I transported it on a trip to Italy one year to drink in the gardens at Vignamaggio--birthplace of Mona Lise. (Pretty cheeky considering we were in the heart of Chianti...)

At any rate--(NW)scored this wine for less than $30 which is a great price on a value wine so raise a glass!

Columbia Crest Two Vines Riesling 2008 review by (PB)

Confusing bouquet with sweet almost floral with a very slight under current of something--almost chemically.

Palate--also confused sweet, off dry with slight green apple. Not unpleasant but just confusing. Was much better with a chill but probably an off-bottle from a routinely good value producer.
Raise a glass of something else.

Chateau St.Jean Chardonnay (Sonoma) 2008 Review by (PB)

Very light golden presentation with powdery vanilla front on plenty of citrus with lemons and some tropical fruits.

Palate--Racy acidity with soft texture and lemon, light apple, and creme brulle that finishes with a creamy aftertaste that hangs on for some time.

Another nice value from the maker Margot Von Staavren, which will pair greatly with our lobsters which are in the pot! The acid will cleanse the palate with every sip and will highlight the sweet lobster ecstasy which is only in Maine! At $9, raise a glass and at $4.25/pound for lobsters, raise a fork!

R. Stuart "Big Fire" Pinot Noir 2007 reviw by (PB)

This Oregon wine presents as a very light crystalline black cherry hue with pronounced green pepper aromas on opening with slight pepper nose. With 10 minutes of air the green pepper aromas are gone replaced by strawberry fruit fragrances.

Palate--Somewhat subdued with a hint of licorice and smokey berries. This is an odd Pinot and may be the result of forest fires in the region at the time of growth--not sure without more research. I paid $15 for this and it is unique but exactly in a good way. I would pass on this and buy a Foris Pinot in the same price range and a much better wine.

Chateau Ste. Michelle Gewurztraminer 2008 review by (PB)

Barely straw hued with nice aromas of Lime, ripe pineapple and lemon touches.

Palate-- Off dry, with solid acid but a bit much on the alcohol that overshadows the fruit. It has a juicy core but fleeting flavors. I think my wife paid around $8 and it's OK if you're desperate for a reasonable facsimile of Gewurztraminer. But I'd pass, pay $2 more for Fetzer or Covey Run and get some joy.

Quarles Harris Vintage Port 2007 review by (PB)

This "Vintage" Oporto is deeply pigmented with beautiful floral violet fragrances with green tree subtleties.

Palate: Thick and creamy, rich, plush, sensual with big dark berry fruit; I am nearly struck dumb at how utterly amazing this vintage port is yet so young. This is a love affair in a bottle, absolutely wowing. I reluctantly paid $38 for a full bottle of this at a Trader Joes in Boston. I have since had my Los Angeles daughter find me a couple more bottles and bring them to Maine.

Note well--there are many "port" wines on the shelf, some which contain the word "vintage" in the title especially "Late Bottled Vintage Port." These are NOT "Vintage" port and normally the price is telling. This is why I was so skeptical of this true Vintage Port being drinkable and 2007 is one of the best vintages of a lifetime. But this is the real deal and a ridiculous value at this price. Considering Vintage Port is meant to age for a long time I cannot even imagine what this wine will be like with some years on it. Raise a glass and say WOW!

Smoking Loon Old Vine Zinfandel 2007 review by (PB)

Pretty garnet hue with nice ample, brambly rich creamy berry aromas;

Palate: tart, harsh, blackberry fruit, and thin. I served it too warm.

With some air it mellows out and is neither tart nor harsh but this is a very mediocre Zin. I paid $10 for this and for the price there are numerous zins widely available and much better. Think Rosenblum'sVintners Cuvee or Cline so definitely raise a glass of another Zin!

Man Chenin Blanc 2009 review by (PB)

Light golden hue with nice aromas of sweet cream, green apple notes with traces of pear and maybe even light guava.

Palate--Racy acidity, juicy fruit core of citrus lemon/lime with a slightly bitter finish.

This is different than previous vintages and is a bit edgy. It is okay for a $9 wine but past vintages were super value Chenins. This one will pair nicely with buttery, fatty foods but I would try something else in a Chenin of which there are many nice values out there. Raise a glass of Chenin Blanc--the Rodney Dangerfield of varietals--but probably not this one.

Colloquially known as "Steen" in South Africa so don't miss a good Chenin because of the name.

Duckhorn Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc 2008 Wine Review (NW)

Tasting notes:

Green apple, citrus, and green herbs on the nose

Medium bodied and focused flavors on the palate

Finishes with more citrus and cut grass

With all the hot weather, I've had a nice run of Sauvignon Blancs lately. This one shows nicely on a warm afternoon with appetizers.

Our friends treated us to this bottle on a recent visit to their home in Wisconsin. While this wine runs $25 or more, there are also plenty of great Sauvignon Blancs for much less money. Don't miss the perfect opportunity to enjoy one. And raise a glass!

McPrice Myers Paso Robles Beautiful Earth 2006 Wine Review (NW)

Tasting notes:

Ripe dark berries, gobs of chocolate, and pepper on the nose

Full bodied and richly textured

More dark fruit with black licorice and pepper on the finish

Summary:

This wine is a big, bold Syrah that carries balance into the finish. I recently drank it with a steak, and it was a worthy compliment. While it runs about $30 retail, I don't see it in my neck of the woods. The restaurant price I paid was $66. Raise a glass!

Pommard-Epenots Louis Latour 1990 review by (PB)

(NW) served this up and it was fabulous.
Brick red showing its age.

Bouquet--Aged aromas of caramel with a touch of acetone laced with subdued fruit. Away from the swirl, the aromas that carry are wonderful red fruit with hints of strawberry but only a touch.

Palate--Surprisingly hot first impression but light smokey stewed prunes and the harshness mellowed out very quickly with no "heat" at all.

This aged Burgundy (Pinot Noir) definitely needed to be drunk being past its prime but still truly wonderful. Aged wines bring a certain charm that both mystify and capture one's senses.

Paired with a grilled chicken. Awesome all around so raise a glass.

Mondavi Napa Valley Chardonnay 2009 by (PB)

Very pale slightly green with bouquet of sweet citrus, green apple, light lemon notes and creme brulee.

Palate--solidly acidic, with pronounced white pepper, lemon and citrus fruit on a vanilla foundation with a textured cream finish. This is an all around nice Chard that works with food or by itself. Not manufactured tasting and crisply refreshing. Around $20 so raise a glass of real wine!

Beringer California Riesling 2009 wine review by (PB)

Almost clear in color but with beautiful, surprising big aromas of lime, and pungent sweet guava with oriental 5 spice! Really nice!

Palate--Nice structure with off dry flavors of citrus, lemon rind, lime and a finish that holds.

I wrote in my review book, "R U kidding me?" This was $6 at Sam's Club and it is really a great value! If here is more I will definitely buy more!

Beringer was a producer of some pricey wines years ago and then made a decision to essentially forsake the higher end wines and just produce popularly priced table wine. Their change of focus has been our gift. They are consistent producers of super value wines so raise a glass.

Buena Vista Carneros "Ramal Vineyard" Pinot Noir 2006 wine review by (PB)

Nice Pinot hue of sparkling easy cherry brightness. Room rising bright sweet fruit aromas with a nice forward raspberry touch with loads of strawberry and background hint of black pepper. Very nice!

Palate--Major strawberry fruit with nuanced chocolate ganache and even a slight cream texture. It finishes with a touch of smoke.

For our anniversary we went to a local up scale restaraunt which does not have a liquor license but encourages you to bring your own. Now that's a sweet deal! This wine, which I brought back to Maine on a trip to Los Angeles coast me $30. It would be anywhere 2-3 times that in a restaurant so the meal was a relative bargain. Knowing ahead of time I was going to have hanger steak and my bride, Quail in a creamy tarragon sauce, I wanted a wine we both would enjoy. The Pinot Noir was hefty enough to work with my steak and gentle enough to work with the Quail. Raise a glass to Pinot Noir.

Poggio Amorelli Chianti Classico Riserva 2001 wine review by (PB)

This wine is showing a little age with slight bricking just beginning at the rim. It is an opaque garnet with a bouquet that is throwing gorgeous cherry fruit into the air from its place on the table. Cherry and mushrooms rise on the swirl along with a lovely pipe tobacco and a touch of licorice.

Palate--For a wine of this age it should be prime yet it is chewy (tannic) with cherry as the predominate flavor with an earthy foundation that is slightly tart. This is classic Sangiovese that is not up to the vintage. At $30 retail which is what I paid, I expect more out of a wine.

We had this wine on our 35th and blogged it accordingly if interested to see the difference 2 years of aging makes. I paid $70 for it at a restaurant on our 35th. The pairing? A bizarre spread of appetizers consisting of Baked brie with puff pastry and jam, Eel, Salmon and Tuna sashimi, bruscheta, three cheese raviolis with tomato pesto.

Re: pairing--this was not the classic wine to serve with our spread of appetizers but it worked none-the-less. you just don't take a sip of your wine right after downing some sashimi with wasabi and soy. Wait a few minutes. If you like the wine--go for it regardless what you are washing down just realize there will be better combinations especially with spicy tastes.

All in all, it is hard to go wrong when sharing a dinner and a bottle with the love of your life. We have been together more than twice as long as we were old when we met. Everything is better with your best friend so raise a glass to our 37th year together in faithfulness truly blessed by God!

Moselland Arsvitis Riesling 2006 wine review by(PB)

The grape of Germany is Riesling and the best German viticultural area I the area known as the Mosel, Saar, Ruwer--3 rivers in this prime grape growing region.

This is a QBA wine which putting it simply means it has earned a certain level of quality to merit the QBA rating. For reference, this is toward the bottom of the rung as far as quality ratings of German wines go but don't think that means plonk. This wine which cost a ridiculous $5 is nice gentle gold color with wonderful aromas of cream sickle (orange sherbet) and a mix of tropical fruits.

Palate--Interesting with okay structure and citrus middle with tart mandarin orange notes. I drank it too warm and chilled should be really nice.

On a trip to the Mosel my wife an I were astounded by the grade of the slopes on which grapes are planted. One misstep and you wouldn't stop until the water--a long way down. And we can enjoy the efforts and danger of their work for $5. At this it is a buy more wine and at this age needs to be consumed NOW. This is another front porch quaffing wine on a nice hot summer day so raise a glass!

Rosenblum Sonoma Valley 2006 Reserve Zinfandel Monte Rosso Vineyard wine reivew by (PB)

Today is the 4th of July when we in America celebrate our independence from Britain. After roasting in the blazing sun for 4 hours playing the captain of a Revolutionary War ship we came home and I commenced slow cooking some country style pork ribs on the Webber grill. What would be a tribute to the great country in which I live and all the sacrifice poured out for that freedom? An All American wine!

Moderately intense hue with nice pigmentation of opaque garnet with lovely aromas of classic Zinfandel loaded with brambly ripe dark berry fruit, bitter sweet chocolate, espresso and spicey wild herbs.

Palate--Gorgeous thick texture with intense ripe unsweetened baker's chocolate highlighted by black fruit flavors with a charcoal underlayer and more fruit after that.

Finishes with a lasting espresso, berry and wood finish.

This is why you buy single vineyard wines. this wine normally sells for around $45 but I found it online for $25. It WILL pair nicely with my ribs but it doesn't matter. This is sheer American independence drinking. Here's to you Mr. Adams, Mr. Jefferson and Capt. John Paul Jones and the tens of thousands who paid the ultimate price for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness! I raise a glass.

July 4th wines by (PB)

With the annual celebration/observance of our declaring independence from the tyrants of Britain only hours away what might you be drinking? Need some ideas? Here goes:
For sitting and quaffing put a good chill on a domestic, German, Alsatian or Aussie Riesling or perhaps a Chenin Blanc; a domestic, S. African, a Vouvray (France) or my first pick--a wonderful Gewurztraminer from California, or Alsace. None of these wines will cost you more than $20 and there are many nice drinking wines at the $10 price point.

If grilling, Zinfandel is my first choice. There are numerous nice examples around $12 but if you want to splurge, buy a "single vineyard" bottling. Plan to pay around $30 but its worth it. For that steak on the grill, get a decent Cabernet Sauvignon; here it will cost you a bit more (high teens on up) but Chile has some nice bargains. Casa Lapostolle (Cuvee Alexandre) or Concha Y Toro are usually reliable but there are many more.

Above all be safe and remember what the day is all about--then raise a glass to all the dead who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom!

Fattoria Capannacce Rosso della MaremmaToscana 2005 wine review by (PB)

This inexpensive Italian red is a "Super Tuscan" meaning it is a blend of Syrah, Grenache, and Carnaiolo, with the classic Chianti grape of Sangiovese. There are lovely big aromas of black cherry and ripe dark berry fruit with some ripe plum.

Palate--Juicy, with a tannic back bone, tight fruit, chewy, with quick finish and smokey ending.

But--breathe this an hour or more and it is a different wine! It opens nicely and all the imbalance of tannins and tight fruit morphs into an easy drinking, Tuscan which was great with our Lou Malnati's Pizza from Chicago! At $12 raise a glass!

Melini Borghi D'elsa 2008 wine review by (PB)

This $7 wine has a nice garnet hue with tart red fruit aromas with herbal scents that are lovely and almost minty but not quite. More basil like.

Palate--a mite young but juicy fruit-filled cherry/berry core that is tasty.

For the price it is a nice value and a "buy more" so raise a glass.

Masi Masianco Pinot Grigio/Verduzzo wine review by (PB)

This wine was sent to the WCB free of charge for review.

Crystalline straw hue with lovely fruit aromas rising from the glass.

Bouquet is full of lovely fruit aromas with bananas and vanilla cream at the front with a wonderful tropical fruit melange with melon accents and loads of citrus notes. Wow!

Palate--minerals up front with citrus and juicy acid making this a great food wine. Flavors are a tad thin on opening but really grow after a few minutes. The texture of this wine is supple and carries the menagerie of tropical fruit and apples to a clean, crisp finish.

I paired this with grilled salmon and it was perfect. This wine will run you around the $15 price point. It is one of the best Pinot Grigio's I have had so raise a glass!

Four Vines Old Vine Cuvee Zinfandel 2007 wine review by (PB)

*Previously reviewed: Nice black cherry hue with really nice bouquet of wild black cherry, ripe blackberry and plum with the characteristic wild, brambly, forest floor edge that is classic Zin.

Palate--Nice full bodied plush texture with big, fruity, bready, dark berries on top of plenty of smoke and wood with an espresso highlight. Paired with BBQ'd pulled pork--home made of course.

This is a good example of the grape at a great price of $10.

*Why do we re-review wines? Because it helps you see the subjective elements of wine tasting by checking (if you desire) to see how the same person or a couple experts might review the same wine. It is also so that we can check ourselves on our consistency. You will find that with few exceptions, an adjective might differ here and there from a previous review but you will notice how it reflects that same characteristic. The third reason we may do repeat reviews is to verify that a particular wine we gave a marginal review to was truly marginal rather than just corked or otherwise flawed due to poor storage etc.

At any rate--raise a glass as I ponder my current contract on my latest book! Oh yeah!

Maryhill Wihemaker's White 2008 sponsored wine review by Billy

Nose:minerals, nutmeg and rhubarb against a citrussy acidic backdrop.
Palate:Slight sprtiz on the tongue is fun. Ginger flavors. Soft and smooth at the front of the palate are sparkled with the spritz and give way to some sharper acids at the back.
Finish:Tropical citrus and pineapple on the finish.
Overall: This wine was provided to The Wine Cask Blog by Maryhill winery free of charge for a review. Online this wine runs $12-15. In the glass this Maryhill Winery Winemaker's White 2008 is the palest yellow - almost white. According to the label it is a blend of Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon and Viognier grapes. This wine is a varietal adventure with each grape lending its own unique expression to the wine. To start with a minerally nose and move to a gingery palate that has some sparkle and standup backbone to a tropical finish is a joy. I served this with olives, aged gouda and cheddar cheeses, fresh berries and a butter-sage pasta. Delightful.

Trimbach Gewurztraminer 2003 wine review by (PB)

This 7 year old Alsatian Gewurz is on its last legs. Golden hue with "brown" aromas of caramel,burnt honey with nuanced fruit underneath it all reminiscent of stewed pears.

Palate--Solid structure with decent acid and flavors of baked and stewed fruit with subtle classic Gewurz suggestion hiding in the finish which has some light pear and green apple notes. Tastes almost like a Madeira.

How reliable is this blog? I bought my 03 Trimabach a week after NW of this blog for under $10 when it normally sells for twice that. (Read (NW's) entry just below this one) After reading (NW's) piece about his 03 I decided to open mine immediately. Good thing--mine is even a little further gone than (NW's) and would have lost it if I had waited to open it. See? We even take our own advice!

What is a wonderful experience is the glorious difference between the young version of this wine and the aged one. Same wine, same producer, but a world of difference all because of age. If you have the means sometime, buy a few bottles of the same wine and drink them at different ages keeping good notes to compare. You will learn how age effects a wine and you will be able more intelligently to "know" what you like and the treasure that lies within some wines. Raise a glass on this fine summer day!

Solane Santi Valpolicella Classico Superiore 2007 wine review by (PB)

This ripasso is a medium garnet hue with a bouquet of unique aromas of dried cherries and a touch of stink like that of some pinot noirs. Herbal notes of italian spices with earthy and slight milk chocolate notes under it all.

Palate--Plush, silky tannins and tasty fruit with smoke and strawberry/cranberry/raspberry fruit with a rather thin finish.

For a $14 ripasso this is a nice wine and great with any kind of tomato based pasta's and garlic bread. Raise a glass!

Cave de Saumur "Les Pouches" Saumur 2008 Wine Review (NW)

Tasting notes:

Fragrant apple, melon, and lemons on the nose

Lively and acidic yet full bodied on the palate

Long finish of peach and citrus

Summary:

I always enjoy this wine. Made from Chenin Blanc, I promise it will be a crowd pleaser (especially for that anything-but-Chardonnay crowd that seems to show up at most parties these days).

The reason Chenin Blanc isn't more popular is due to two very simple things to explain. Number one: the varietal is not often on the label, so for the original expression of this grape you must know to ask for certain white wines from the Loire Valley in France. Occasionally you'll see one with the varietal on the label from California or South Africa (sometimes called Steen). If you do, grab it. Number two: it's unpredictable. Sometimes Chenin Blanc is very dry and firm but other times it has a sweet edge.

Because of these two factors, here's what I suggest. Try a few on your own- after all, isn't it exciting and educational to try a few wines that might be unpredictable? After you discover one you like, serve it to other people. Trust me on this. You'll have the ABC crowd hovering around your half empty bottle looking for insider information. Oh, the best part is that a good Saumur or Chenin Blanc from other parts of the world costs very little. I paid $12 for this one. So raise a glass!

Trimbach Alsace Gewurztraminer 2003 Wine Review (NW)

Tasting notes:

Tropical fruit bouquet with floral and honey notes

Medium bodied on the palate

Citrus layers on the finish with fig and spice

Summary:

Here was a bargain I couldn't pass up while treasure hunting with PB of this blog. For $10 on sale, I picked up this clearance wine that was originally $19. Of course, the reason it got marked down is that it was presumed to be past its prime and the store probably only had a few bottles left they wanted to move out. I figured it might still have some life in it, so I grabbed it.

While the wine is most likely fading, it's drinking nicely in this phase. Recognize that might not last much longer. The tropical fruit and spice is still present along with some honey and fig that probably wasn't noticeable on release five or six years ago. If you happen to have some, open it! And raise a glass on a warm Summer evening!

Maso Campofiorin 2006 sponsored wine review (PB)

This "ripasso" style wine was sent to the WCB with compliments.
Presents with a nice ruby/garnet hue of some intensity and a bouquet emitting bold fragrances of nice cherry and earthy notes with subtle prune hint. If you waft the glass away from your nose there is a lovely sweet candied cherry note.

*Palate--A little hot, a little watery in texture and rather thin all around. After a great start, this is disappointingly lackluster with some smoke on the finish but I also just opened it and haven't let it breathe. (*After a couple hours of air my review stands) Finish is smokey fruit but short lived.

This is made from Veronese grapes consisting of a blend of Corvina, Rondinella and Molinara. In the "ripasso"method of vinfication, grapes that were used in the making of Amarone where the grapes are dried and then vinified, the ripasso method utilizes the pomace (the old skins, stems and seeds) and the new wine is allowed to undergo another fermentation on the pomace. It might sound weird but at its best it produces a more affordable "junior" kind of Amarone.

This wine runs around $15 and for the price, it is a decent enough food wine . Old World lovers of wine will appreciate this more than new world lovers. I paired it with "refrigerator aged" coffee rubbed rib eye steaks on the grill and it did a good job so raise a glass at any rate!

Masi Campofiorin 2006 Sponsored Wine Review by Billy

At the pour this Masi 2006 Campofiorin (aka Ripasso) looks like a deep Zinfandel or Merlot but with the clarity and dazzle of a lighter bodied red.
Nose: Blueberries, lavender, smoke and a hint of spicy vanilla.
Palate: Thin on the palate with soft acids and weak tannins. It is balanced but lacks the plush feel and well defined layers of a heartier wine.
Finish: More berries on the finish and, here is the interesting part, this is where the majority of the character from this bottle emerges. There is some acid and tannin play intermingled with the smoky berries.
Overall: This bottle of Masi Campofiorin 2006 red wine was sent to the Wine Cask Blog free of charge for a review. I have seen it in stores and online for about $15.00. Thanks to Folio Wine Partners for providing the samples. If you are looking for a fruit forward red wine this is not it. With time this wine is opening to reveal additional layers that add more character. However, the layers are phyllo dough thin. This is a wine that can be enjoyed by sitting down and studying it. But for an easier drinking and more accessible wine, select something else.

Either way, Raise a Glass!

Helfrich Gewurztraminer 2007 wine review by (PB)

This is an Alsatian Gewurz which at the price of $12.99 stopped me in my tracks. In my neck of the woods I don't often see anything from Alsace (pronounced--All-Soss) and never see a Gewurztraminer for much below $20. So I hesitantly bought one in case they were dumping these due to a flaw or running out their life span.

Boy was I wrong. Straw presentation with fragrant stone fruit aromas with sweet powder, green apples and spice. Lovely!

palate--Nice minerally front with solid structure that is balanced with fruit galore; apple, peach, pear, and a mix of tropical fruit. Simply gorgeous so I bought more today just so I could raise more glasses!

Drink chilled on your porch doing a crossword puzzle with your wife--NOT, or drink unchilled with spicy Asian food, salty cheese or just all by itself.

Gnarley Head Old Vine Zinfandel 2007wine review by (PB)

This is a $10 Zin from Lodi, Ca. and turns out to be a nice find.

It presents with a dark cherry hue with a bouquet of jammy blackberry and plum with sweet spices and a breath of blueberry.

Palate--Big "sweet" plum and blackberry flavors with companions of cola, brambles and black licorice. We served it with grilled, marinated sirloin tips which were marginal but the wine was fine!

What was interesting with this wine is that I perused various other's reviews at the many retail sites "out there" that enable anyone to write a review of one of the wines they sell. I read about 10 different reviews and 9 of them gave half-hearted approval of this wine with comments like, "lacked complexity," "boring mouth feel," and various ho-hum comments. Only one person said, "I don't understand why everyone seems to pan this wine. We served it at a tasting of 10 zins and it was clear and away the favorite."

Everyone has an opinion on what they like--that's fair. But as I have written in the past, there is an objective element to wine review and to what constitutes a good wine versus a bad wine personal preference not withstanding!

This IS a good example of the grape and is well made. At the price, this is a nice Zin--period. The Wine Cask Blog exists to give you the benefit of our experience with thousands of bottles of wines we have downed. That is the only way one can adequately and reliably review wines. So raise a glass--here's to YOU!

Chateau Patache D'Aux 2005 wine review by (PB)

This Cru Bourgeoise from Bordeaux is a rather intense black cherry hue with a gorgeous bouquet of big black berry pie aromas, blueberry touches with ample pie spice and cigar box highlights. Nice!

Palate--Medium bodied with toast and berry fruit and some nice cedar notes at mid-palate. It is all nearly integrated but another 1-2 years would improve what is a pretty darn good wine.

This is a $16 snatch from the hallowed vintage of 05 and I would love to find another and hold it another year just to see what the extra time would do. Another nice find and a good value so raise a glass!

Masi Masianco 2009 Sponsored Wine Review by Billy

Nose: Lightly acidic nose with summer flower bouquet, minerals and lemon notes.
Palate: Spry acids make this very lively and crisp. Even and balanced. Dry, Refreshing and light.
Finish: Short and dry. cleansing to the palate. Like summer time in the shade. Summer fruit notes tease at the back of a nice clean finish - nectarine skins and lemon infused water.
Overall: This wine was sent to The Wine Cask Blog for free in order for us to review it. Thanks to Folio Wine Partners for providing the samples. I have seen this wine sell for anywhere from $12 to $15 here in the states. For an interesting Italian white blend, this is a fair price. On sale, this is a must buyThis is a blend of Pinot Grigio and Verduzzo grapes. According to the wine making notes the Verduzzo grapes are partially dried after harvest and blending with the Pinot Grigio. This concentrates the flavor and sugars in the grape and makes a very nice Pinot Grigio alternative.

While others have noted more tropical fruits and a long finish, I find that the crispness and cleanness of the Masi Masianco 2009 is enhanced with a short and enthusiastic finish. Whatever your palate is telling you, raise a glass!

Raise a Glass!

Rocca Sveva Soave Classico 2008 sponsored wine review by Billy

Nose: peach, lavender, minerals and oil
Palate: smooth on the tongue with a nice acidity at the back of the palate for structure.
Finish: pleasing, tree-nut flour texture at the sides of the mouth at the finish yield a pleasing diversion from other summer whites.
Overall This wine was sent for free to The Wine Cask Blog to review by the Soave Consorzio. It will typically run anywhere from $12-18. This really is a delightful summer wine. Made of 100% Garganega it is a pleasant change from your typical summer time Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay. It is a nice and easily drinkable combination of flowers (I thought lavender) and mineraliness and fruit. It has a good structure that keeps it easy drinking but can stand up to buttery foods. If you are looking for something new, inexpensive and summery, pick up a bottle of the Rocca sveva Soave Classico from 2008 and Raise a Glass!

Long Flat Destinations Adelaide Hills Sauvignon Blanc 2006 wine review by (PB)

Aussie varietal with a light straw presence and bouquet of spicy, grassy vanilla cream and guava galore.

Palate--front palate of spice which is quickly overpowered by sharply acidic citrus fruit and tart limes. Finishes quickly and cleanly--make that, cleeeeeeeeeanly.

I like an acidic white and this fills the bill even though it is a bit overdone. It should be a decent food wine which I will use in my risotto I am making to go with grilled tuna. Not everyone will enjoy this acidic of a wine but I do and at $5 on sale, I'm raising a glass!

Snoqualmie Riesling "Wine Maker's Select" 2007 wine review by (PB)

Straw hue with lovely bouquet of light lemon and pear with a mixed tropical fruit expression and then awesome sweet apple and creme brulee notes.

Palate--Big sweet fruit flavors of citrus, lime, minerals, stone and just more mixed fruit. If this had just a touch more acid I would do a cart wheel over it. But it is an excellent summer quaff so chill it down well and then enjoy it as it warms up.

At $7, this a wine you buy by the case for those nice afternoons in the sun. Pairs really well with a salty cheese like aged Gouda, as well as herbed goat cheese and sesame crackers. Raise a glass and shout "Yeah Washington State!"

Conte Di Bregonzo Amarone 2006 wine review by (PB)

Reviewed twice previously, this was one of my top ten wines of the year for 2009 and it will probably be on the top ten wine of the year list for this year again! I paid around $16 for this wine at a Trader Joes in Boston and made the 3 hour trek back just to pick up more. Alas I am down to two bottles...

Deep dark hue with rich berry laden spice with cherry pipe tobacco nuances and a touch of prunes.

Palate--Plush, rich dark mocha with rich blackberry, and a dark cherry rear although faint. For the price this is an absolutely fabulous wine so raise a glass.

Chateau Beauchene Grand Reserve 2007 wine review by (PB)

This Cotes Du Rhone red is a black cherry hue with aromas of cracked black pepper and sweet red fruit under a big layer of cooking spices.

Palate--Closed, stingy on opening and a little chewy. Breathe it!

Cherry predominates with dried cherry behind the brighter fruit. Will only get better with another 2 years. For the price, ($10-12) this is a solid Rhone table wine which is great with food from pasta with a red sauce to something on the grill. So raise a glass and thanks T.S.!

Cloudy Bay Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2008 Wine Review (NW)

Tasting notes:

Gorgeous lemon, lime, and pineapple

Firm, with good acidity

Long finish of citrus and mineral layers

Summary:

Cloudy Bay is the winery that helped put New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc on the map in years past. This 2008 is a good wine, with nice citrus layers and a long finish. It also has mineral notes on the finish that others typically don't have.

While it's at the upper end of the price spectrum for such wines, it's a real treat at $25 or so. Raise a glass!

Casa Lapostolle Cuvee Alexander Apalta Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2006 Wine Review (NW)

Tasting notes:

Dark plum, blackberry, and dark chocolate

Full bodied and dense

Dark berries, herbs, coffee, and dark chocolate

Summary:

Here's a classic Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon. It has a dense core of fruit along with coffee and dark chocolate accents.

In my experience, this wine has been reliable from year to year, and the 2006 is no exception. Expect to pay around $20, although the list price is even a bit higher. Raise a glass!