Umani Ronchi Montepulciano D'Abruzzo 2019

This previously reviewed wine has a gorgeous cranberry jelly hue with big aromas of sweet red berry and cherry fruit rising from the glass before you even get near it. Nearly floral hints of spring time daffodils and savory spice on top of sweet spices.

Palate--Classic acidic structure with lovely mouthful of cherry berry fruit with lip smacking tannins, and a lovely cherry finish at the rear palate.

At $10 I had to grab another bottle of this great pizza wine, Italian sausage, any pasta with tomato sauces and garlic and s host of other great dinner suggestions. 

I loved this before a couple months back and I love it again so raise a glass!

Benziger Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 (Sonoma)

Aromas of gentle blackberry with subtle notes of sweet spices...  needs to breathe... 

Palate-- Nice structure, with steely notes among the array of dark berry fruit, tar, grapefruit rind, robust tannins, that mellow out with some breathing.

At the $12 price point this is a nice value even if too young to fully enjoy right now. It is a nice quaff and will only improve with a few more years. Napa cabs are at a premium these days and have been for many years. Sonoma offers outstanding quality cabs without the "Napa" surcharge as I call it.  So be wise, and enjoy these bargains! Raise a glass

Care Tinto Sobre Lias Garnacha/Syrah 2018

Youthful purple hue with aromas of wonderfully sweet bubble gum, (yup!) beautiful bright berries, laced with sugary sweet spices. Smelling this waft into the air is tantalizing!

Palate--First impression is lively acid, with loads of beautiful red berry hard candy, floral notes of spring roses, and each mouthful is loaded with more surprises. Wow! 

This Spanish blend of the native Grenache and the foreign Syrah (spelled Sirah depending on the country) is a delicious surprise and unexpectedly good! 

My wife grabbed this for me as an Easter surprise in y wine cellar.  Unwittingly she grabbed another one a couple weeks later and gave it to me Easter morning.  I am glad she has a bad memory!  :)  This is a keeper! Raise a glass!

Querceto Chianti Classico Riserva 2017

Label is not loading sorry!

Nice crystalline ruby hue with aromas of cherries, savory spice, a suggestion of mint, and cherry cream bonbons.

Palate-Vibrant acidity, loads of cherry fruit, and savory spice (just like the bouquet) a nice acidic foundation with a finish that is satisfying and lingering.

Previously reviewed which I like to do to check my own consistency but also the differences from bottle to bottle.  They are not drastic but there is a reality called "bottle variation which could be due storage difference, shipping issue etc. 

This is just an always delicious Chianti and classic fo the grape (Sangiovese) and at $12 it is a definite "raise a glass" kind of wine! 

Check my previous review(s) to see if I am on the money...  :) but remember, this wine was opened yesterday evening!  

Alexander Valley Vineyards Chardonnay (Alexander Valley) 2017

Moderate golden hue with immediate aromas of an aged Chardonnay moving beyond peak. Baked caramelized peach pie bouquet, and caramelized honey.

Palate--Lovely palate cleansing, acidic foundation, with very nice mouth filling flavors of slightly beyond ripe stone fruit, light oak notes, and a buttery texture and a lingering nutty finish. 

My wife hid some wine surprises in my cellar for Resurrection Sunday. This 375ml bottle ws part of a returned case someone bought and didn't use it all so the price of $6 was a decent deal while the full bottle tended to run around $15 price point. 

At 5 years old, it is expected to begin showing some age and it does. That does not mean it is bad. To the contrary, some people love the unique "nutty" flavor of aged chardonnay. This is a nice Sonoma Chard and a value at the prices stated.

This will be paired with our Easter ham. Here's to the Savior of mankind!  Raise a glass!

 

Bogle Old Vine Zinfandel 2019 (Freshly opened bottle compared to 3 day old bottle)

Question: How long should you drink a wine that has been opened?

Answer: Depends for how long it has been opened and how it has been stored.

I compare two bottles of the same wine but one was opened three days ago and the other just uncorked.

3 day old was on the kitchen counter and kept at room temperature: There are aromas of Jellied cranberry sauce, some spices, dark berries, a little more alcohol in the bouquet. A touch of cocoa in the bowl.

Palate--rather flat, bitter, nearly unpleasant and strained with all fruit being subdued.

Freshly opened:  The bouquet has a fuller bowl with a melange of mixed berry aromas versus more of a singular dark berry fragrance with a touch of fresh asparagus in the opened wine. A hint of vanilla and  chocolate berry cream candies permeates the bouquet.  Overall there is just more depth of what is there, compared to the wine opened for 3 days. 

Palate--A touch "sweeter" more balanced, vibrant dark berry flavors are more intense and no sense of bitterness in the mouth. Just drinks easier...

*Wines begin to go downhill as soon as they are opened. If you refrigerate them, they might last a day or two longer. Fortified wines like Port and sherry will last a bit longer! 

This Bogle Zin was drinkable even after 3 days at room temp but it was clearly on its way out. If you plan to use an old wine in cooking --Do Not-- unless it is still drinkable. 

This Zin is around the $12 price point but I found it for $7.99 and I bought the last 6 bottles they had. Bogle makes solid value wines so raise a glass!

"Collection Rhone" Cotes Du Rhone 2020

 

Sweet cherry above the rim of the garnet hued quaff. Rose petal and gentle spices and more berries.

Palate--Lies very gently on the tongue with a soft structure and sweet spices with cherry hard candies. Finishes with a subtle reminder of all that is there.

This wine is made with 55% Grenache (hence the bright cherry) 30% Carignan and 15% Syrah with the fruity presence on the rim and darker hue. At the $10 price point this is a remarkable wine that it ready even in its youth to enjoy now. It is delicious by itself and will pair well with most anything you want (except Asian and Indian cuisine)  Raise a glass!

Mark West Pinot Noir 2019

Lighter ruby hue with aromas of light strawberry, a hint of sweet raspberry, sweet pie spices

Palate--Lively structure, fruity full flavored Pinot with spicing and a slight steely middle with a light lingering finish.

This  previously reviewed Pinot sourced from California is always well made a good value from Mark West.  At the $10 price point you really can't go wrong so why pay 3 to 50 times that price for a classic, Burgundy that few can afford?  Raise a glass!

Badenhorst The Curator "Red Blend" 2020 (South Africa)

Purple hue with a ruby-ish rim and aromas of ruby red grapefruit at the rim punctuated with sweet spices, and juicy fruit pie red berries and mulberry.

Palate--Steely front with an austere first impression but opening quickly with a unique old world flare of Cabernet Sauvignon,  Shiraz, Cinsault, and Grenache Noir. Lip smacking tannins, might ease up with some air time, and finishes with a darker berry ending and lingering notes of rustic spice.

It has been a LONG time since I ventured to taste a S. African red.  Years ago I was infatuated with S. Africa's up and coming red wines especially Cabernet Sauvignon but it turned badly when old band-aid flavors started to appear. Normally this could be a flaw in production but it went on for so long I deemed it to be "terroir." Yeah not enticing... 

All and all at the $8 price point, this is easy to drink, popular style so raise a glass.

Maison Barboulot Cabernet-Syrah 2020

This young Languedoc blend has an inky almost black hue thanks to its youth and the Syrah grape of this 50/50 blend. Aromas of bright ripe red berries, crusty baguette at the rim,  a touch of candy and vanilla with a splash of cinnamon.

Palate--In the mouth it is tasty, with loads of fruity spices, a hard candy vanilla at the back of the mouth and drinks easily. 

This has been made in to be drunk upon release which is the "new" wave of wine making just about globally.  Iconic wine consultant, Michele Roland, began a revolution around the globe helping wine makers how to make wine that the masses can enjoy NOW.  The wine industry was hurting with the new generations unwilling or unable to 1. pay large money for decent wines and 2. that you had to lay down for years before drinking.  His finger prints go far and wide.  While it hasn't all been great for the industry, it saved many wineries from folding as the appeal for approachable and delicious wines ready to drink when offered.

Yes it has been controversial but if sales matter, then Roland is a success.

This wine is offered by a chain of stores in America called Trader Joe's at the $6 price point! Does it taste like Syrah or Cabernet? well.........not really but I will admit it is tasty, easy to drink and enjoyable. Will it turn heads of those who know GREAT wine?  No.  But to each his own and raise a glass!

Mencio Roble Alvarez de Toledo 2015 (Bierzo)

 

Egg plant hue looking very young even thought it's 7 years old. Aromas of sweet funky mushroom, fresh fruit on the edge, savory spices, white pepper and black pepper the end.

Palate-Some dried black berries, and salted crackers, with penetrating flavors of a mixed berry pie, plum, lip- smacking structure and a finish that says, take another sip! 

This northern Spain wine comprised of the Mencia grape is well made, and at the $14 price point is a ridiculous value quaff.  The Wine Enthusiast made this #8 of their top 100 wines of 2018 and a "Best Buy" designation.  I cannot argue!  Grab this and raise a glass as it is drinking really well right now but will hold for another 5 years.

Winemakers Selection "Classic Series" (Red Blend) California 2019

Really light hue on the pour with aromas that are reminiscent of Beaujolais Nouveau,  or fruity red jug wine, and while not exciting it is actually quite pleasant.

Palate--Surprisingly full of crazy fruity flavor, decent mouth feel, dark ripe berries, some bright cherry, and a quick finish.

This California blended wine is made for Walmart and if I were a wine snob I would not even be reviewing this.  But, I believe in the "get a grip factor." Meaning what?  Meaning this wine is $4! FOUR DOLLARS.  Even Brandon couldn't mess this up. 

So use this to make Sangria, drink it alone, pair it with your favorite foods and you really can't go wrong at this price.  Seriously tasty! Seriously simple, and yet a solid value so "Raise a glass!" 

Castello Di Querceto Chianti Classico Riserva 2017

Querceto   Chianti Classic Riserva 2017Bricking red at the rim with  a blast of super nice fresh cherry with the pull of the cork. Sweet candied spice, a touch of rose petal and violets. Amazing!

Palate--Integrated, steely, bright cherry pie with loads of spices both sweet and savory. Finishes fairly abruptly but still reminds you of summery, bright red fruit.   

This is always a solid representation of the signature grape of Chianti--Sangiovese--with its acidic charm, lovely fruit with a backbone of red ripe cherries. 

I have had Querceto over the span of decades probably more than any other Tuscan wine. Having been to Greve, Italy I am transported back to the time and place as I sip this Sangiovese classic again. This is the charm of good wine. It is more than a drink, it is an experience that conjures up wonderful memories of sights and smells and the beautiful Tuscan countryside.  

I paid $13 for this Chianti bargain and as always with this wine, I say, "Raise a glass!" 

Broken Earth Winery Grenache 2016 (Paso Robles)

 

Pours with a really light hue that looks rather like pinot Noir. Aromas of fruity sweet cherry hard candies, with a delicate sugary hint of red grapefruit.

Palate--Lively first impression full of vibrant fruity cherry, spice, reminiscent of pinot noir?  Seriously a unique Grenache presentation and an absolutely delightful "happy" profile that makes me want to celebrate Spring!

This is delicious, and full of flavor and well made so even at the price point of $28 thjis is a stellar Grenache so raise a glass!

Mark West Pinot Noir 2019 (California)

Light ruby hue with aromas of strawberry, vanilla and spice.

Palate--watery mouth feel, confused palate, under-stated fruit, and a touch of vanilla; a peculiar impression... 

Sourced from grapes anywhere in California, such wines can be a real crap shoot ranging from utter plonk to an "Oh magosh" experience in those years when there is a bumper crop of great quality grapes and they are being dumped on the wineries that depend on surviving off such grapes. 

Unfortunately, those OMG years are few and far between.  That being said, sourced wines are inexpensive, and can be a real crap shoot depending on the crop in any given year. Mark West is one of the vintners however, who take care in what they choose to invest their money.  

This selection is not one of their best but is still a pleasant enough quaff with some nice Pinot fruit suggestions and after all, you're talking about an $8-$10 Pinot Noir. 

The non-discriminating palate which is most of us, will enjoy this and that is the bottom line.  

Corvelia Cabernet Sauvignon Lot 19

Lovely Cranberry jelly hue with aromas of wild berry pie filling, strawberry-cherry gum notes with sweet spice and honeysuckle with a maple syrup nuance!

Palate--A vibrantly lively and fruity first impression with loads of delicious fruit yet not a fruit bomb! Balanced, structured to drink NOW, yet with a vibrancy of acid to make it both a lone quaff or a dinner wine.

Corvelia has become one of my fave wine makers in both their Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon. Do not approach this wine as you would a $70 Napa Cab. But if you want a very drinkable, well made super value Cabernet that isn't trying to be a Screaming Eagle, at the $10 price point raise a glass!

Corvelia Zinfandel Lot 20 (Paso Robles) (

 

Deep aubergine, hue with aromas of tar, sweet black berry, an almost eucalyptus note-- but not quite-- with a big dash of savory spices.

Palate--Gargantuan, black berry front with some tannic back bone. Rear palate brings vanilla dark chocolate cream bon bons with a lasting finish.

Another tasty fruit bomb Zin from Paso Robles, Ca. from the folks at Corvelia. Sold at Trader Joes and I don't know if elsewhere, it is a fave of mine because at $10 it defies the price tag consistently. There is no vintage on the label and I tried to find the "Lot 20" to see if that helped but to no avail.  

At any rate, give this a shot if you like the big fruit bombs and raise a glass!

Gnarly Head Chardonnay (Central Coast) 2020

Nice lighter golden hue with aromas of cantaloupe, wet stones, vanilla, tropical fruit and citrus.

Palate--Nice structure with a minerally foundation, nice mouth watering acidity, loads of tropical fruit and a silky mouthfeel.

The Central Coast (AVA) American Viticultural Area, is a large region of California from Santa Barbara north to San Francisco.  So a wine so labeled means the grapes used in the wine came from that area of the state.

Gnarly Head is producing some really consistent value wines at the $10 price point.  This is no exception. Pair this with buttery dishes be it pasta, seafood, or even a lighter fare of pork or smoked meats. Another well done wine from these folks so "Raise a glass!

The Wanted Zin 2018 (Puglia)

Black cherry hue with aromas of rose petals, sweet spices, 

Palate--Sweet first impression with hefty dark berry flavors with a huge burst of savory spices mid-palate on a new world structure, finishes with the remnants of dark berry and their skins.

Here's the weird thing: This hales from Puglia, Italy!  Now Zinfandel "was"unique, and totally American. BUT--it's genetic progenitor is from the primitivo grape that lives in Italy. I have had several primitivos none of which tasted at all like Zinfandel which happens to be my all time favorite varietal that I can afford...

So when I saw this recently labeled Zinfandel but coming from Italy, I had to snatch it up and see what it's all about.  YES--it tastes like Zin and frankly not at a bad quaff. It was purposely vinified to be like the American Zins we are used to and aged in American Oak. I have to hand it to them; they succeeded!

At $12, I glad I tried it and perhaps it will be a new day for Zinfandel over seas.   Raise a glass!

 

M. Chevallier Carte Noire "Brut"

Very pale straw hue with lovely pin prick bubbles, releasing their bouquet of lime and white melon.

Palate--A seductively dry bubbler with a quickly fleeting profile on the palate but what is there is fresh and fruity with lychee as the predominate flavor and a very subtle nutty end.

Cava is a Spanish sparkling wine made in the methode de champanoise style meaning the wine is fermented in the bottle developing its wonderful bubbles.  Cavas are easy drinking and inexpensive but ever so enjoyable.  My preference is I will take Cava over Prosecco every time but that's just me.  At around $9 it's a great buy so raise a glass!

Les Roches Touraine Sauvignon Blanc 2019

Light golden hue with aromas of vanilla, papaya, mango, ripe pineapple, baked green apple pie and pie spices. 

Palate--Nice acidity, on a vanilla cream foundation, a subtle grassiness, more vanilla, and a touch of wood and stone on a creamy finish. 

This Loire, France Sauvignon Blanc is a really nice bargain at the $10 price point. S. Blanc seems to have lost it's cache over the past couple decades.  This is a shame as it can be vinified in numerous styles ranging from lightly sweet to bone dry but always very fruity and easy to drink. A cheese wine for sure but tonight I will be making an impromptu shrimp and pasta creation of a yet to be determined spices and sauces.  At $10 Raise a glass!!!

True Myth Cabernet Sauvignon 2018 (Paso Robles)

 

Very classy, deep dark nearly black hue with aromas of cigar ash, blackberry pie, baked pie crust, sweet fruit above the rim, a touch of eucalyptus.

Palate--Nice first impression, rich dark berry fruit, tar, supple texture, mouth filling flavors, and a loooong, lingering black tea finish.

This is a very stately structured Cab. with surprising mouth feel, and profile. While being uncomplicated, it is never-the-less interesting and should be even more so as it breaths more. I see it selling on line around $24 but I know I didn't pay near that. This wine has the back bone to stick around for another 8-10 years only improving along the way. So I say--Raise a glass!!!

Scotto Family Vineyards Zinfandel 2017 (Lodi)

Lighter cherry juice looking hue with aromas of sour cherry, lovely spices, 

Palate--deliciously spiced on a gentle frame with a nice spread of red berries both slightly tart and sweet. Gentle finish lingers a bit.

This previously reviewed Zin from California (Lodi) was not quite up to it's usual performance (see Feb. 17 post) so I wrote that I would re-review another. This one is what you would expect as I have finished off about two cases of this value zinfandel. At a price point of $8.50 you really can't go wrong.  

Pair it with everything from pizza (which is waiting for me) to beff or wld game stews, chili with a little heat in it and see how versatile this Zinfandel can be. Raise a glass!

Gnarly Head Zinfandel 2020 (Lodi)

Darker garnet hue with aromas of sweet red fruit and cucumber-laced pomegranate juice!  (I know right?)  

Palate--Zesty, fruity, darker berry backbone with a liveliness that makes you want to just swallow a little more and a little more. 

I have had a lot of this wine over the past year paying around $8 a bottle for it most everywhere. It is readily available and is one of my favorite pairing with my super venison chili which I'll be preparing in about an hour.

Lodi--an AVA (American Viticultural Area) is not one of my most explored AVA's but their Zins are growing on me. At this price, raise a glass!

Villa Cerrina Montepulciano D'Abruzzo 2020

Vibrant jellied cranberry hue with aromas of subtle, floral fragrant rose petal with a sweet cherry cream hint. Rustic, savory dried spices.  Nice!

Palate--Juicy acidity, with lip smacking tannins, tart cranberry, and a very quick finish. 

I opened this last night and purposely waited for it to breath over night in light of its youthfulness. It paid off.  My first impression last night was not very favorable being ill-defined, confused, a wine in search of an identity.  20 hours of airtime and it is hard to beat a wine like this that sells for around--sit down--$6 at one of our local mega chains called Trader Joe's.

For reference--Two nights ago I reviewed another Montepulciano D'Abruzzo  from "Podere" which I personally enjoyed much more. But that is just a matter of preference so remember that you like, what YOU like. There objective elements of good wine but in the end it comes down to YOUR preference. Just don't get stuck because you found something you like and tay glue to what you know. There is such a bounty of wine profiles at all price points discover what you like and keep on discovering and while your at it, "Raise a glass!"

Casa Santos Lima "Confidencial Reserva" 2017

Deep and rich intensely purple hue right to the rim.

Aromas of rich, savory spiced dark berry, and twinge of salami at the edge.

Palate--Mouth watering acidity, minerally front, rich, flavorful, steely spiced berry middle, with a lingering finish of perfumy black pepper that is fleeting.

This is a full bodied red with a ton of gusto! You're not going to trounce this wine into obscurity by pairing it with a bold entree or rich, spicy tomato based sauces so throw caution to the wind and make a pasta course with big, bold, ultra rich pomodoro tomatoes and sautéed garlic or even a more subtle cut of beef grilled to medium rare. Give it a good hour at least to breath and then enjoy!

At the $9-$15 price point this is another super value creation worthy of your attention so raise a glass!

Podere Montepulciano D'Abruzzo 2019

 

Crazy dark black cherry hue with aromas of a savory yet sweet, berry cream bonbons with a rustic edge.

Palate--Even keeled with a burst of bright flavorful cherry berry fruit with a lovely structure for a very food friendly quaff.  A nice gentle finish rounds out this value presentation.

Pairing tonight is homemade lasagne and it will be perfect. At the $10 price point raise a glass.

Gnarly Head "Authentic Black" 2019

 

This wine presents as a brooding, dark, nearly black wine with big jammy aromas of ripe black cherry, savory spice, cigar ash, and a slight twinge of blueberry.

Palate--KaBoom out of the gate the thickish structure, velvety tannins, loads and loads of jammy blackberry with a touch of espresso mid-palate, and a finish that just assaults the palate with enduring dark fruit.

I call this style a 20 megaton fruit bomb! Not everyone likes this type of wine but I love them as well as the more austere, old world breed.  People think these are hard to pair with food but I disagree. You might have to be a little sensitive to what you pair with it but just delay taking a drink after eating something on your plate that wouldn't quite work with this.  Minutes later and it is still lingering on my palate. 

My first thought was Syrah and/or Petite Sirah blend (maybe Zinfandel and a touch of Cabernet).

I paid $8 for this at a local grocery store and I am loving it paring it with my wife's and my Sunday night tradition of pizza.  It will do nicely so raise a glass!

Chateau St. Michelle Gewürztraminer 2020

 

Spiced pineapple rings, a tropical fruit melange, wrapped in a pale golden hue.

Palate--Lovely peach nectar, sun ripened fresh pineapple, sweet pie spices, on a fresh foundation with a really nice lingering finish that takes you to a tropical paradise.  This wine is hard not to chug!

Gewürztraminer--meaning "spicy Traminer" where Traminer is the premier grape of Alsace and northern Germany, but has been crafted in a delightful way by a few vintners in North America.  North American varieties tend to be a bit sweeter than the Alsatian and German creations but done right, they are all wonderfully fresh quaffing wines great as an aperitif, or chilled down for a patio glass on a hot summer day. 

While you're at it, try St. Michelle's Riesling as well; you'll love it!

At the $10 price point I recommend you seek one out and give it a whirl. Raise a Glass! 

Il Roccolo Rubicone (NV)

Lighter hued garnet with aromas of slight mentholated hard cherry candies, a perfumy floral edge, with sweet scented body powder. 

Palate--watery texture, steely, red fruit, tart foundation.

My wife brought this home tonight and what is odd is that I find no vintage on the bottle. This is not a typical finding which means the wine is probably a blend of leftover batches(?) of numerous vintages and all thrown together. While it is listed as "Sangiovese" which is the specific grape and that this is an 

*"IGT" wine, it is a marginally drinkable. I think my wife paid perhaps $8 for it which was about $5 too much. I'll let her drink it while I open something else. 

*Indicazione Geografica Typica--IGT-- means the wine meets the requirements of the region in which the wine was produced. Sangiovese--the all star grape of Tuscany, (think--Chianti) can be fantastic when made well. Don't let your experience with this wine put you off from trying many other Tuscan delights!

Scotto Family Cellars Old Vine Zinfandel (Lodi) 2017

Crystalline ruby hue with aromas of spicy canned apple rings, tart cranberry, and savory spices.

* Palate--unimpressive first impression, with a lip smacking foundation, zesty spices mid-palate, with a clunky fruity rear. 

While my favorite Zins tend to come out of Sonoma, much has changed in the wine world. The mega conglomerates like Bronco, Deagio, and Constellation have taken over many independent wineries not infrequently it seems shredding some of the best those independents did in the name of profit. Mind you I have NO problem with someone selling their company I am simply lamenting the tragedy--in my opinion, of what gets lost in the process.

At any rate--Scotto is a value Zin which costs a bargain price of $8.50. I have consumed a couple cases of it and will continue.

*Full disclosure: The above wine was open for nearly 24 hours when I did this review. That's not really fair so I will be re-reviewing this value Zin again!  

Epicuro Nero D'Avola 2020

 

Lighter garnet hue with aromas of cinnamon laced cranberry juice, Halls mentholyptus cough drops, red berry cream candies.

Palate--Steely front, with relaxed tannins, summery red-berry fruit, a minerally finish.

I have had this wine many times over the years. Nero D'Avola is the signature grape of Sicily and they do it right.  and it tends to be a good value running about $8 a bottle. The structure of this one seems a bit awkward, and my least favorite of all the vintages I have had of this wine. 

It could be a one off which happens (called bottle variation) So I would still give it a shot. At this price point it's worth a try. 

Innocenti Brunello Di Monalcino 2015

 

Medium garnet hue with bricking at the rim.  Aromas of sweet spring flowers at the rim, cigar ash, sweet cherry confectionary.  There's more fighting to the surface but this is right  upon opening.

Palate-- Mouth filling, juicy acidity, slightly bitter tannic note (a nice kind that I love!) pie cherry filling. 

This was the perfect pairing with our rib roast, roasted root vegetables, mashed potatoes and gravy. It will continued to open as the dinner went on and of course there was nothing left to cork... This was a house warming gift from a special guy and very appreciated. Raise a glass! 

Masciarelli Montepulciano D'Bruzzo 2018

Pretty Dark Garnet with aromas sour cherry, rustic spices, with touches of sweet forest floor scents

Palate--Sweet/tart front with sharply acidic foundation, beautiful cherry foundation, with gentle tannins and a finish that lingers a bit. 

Masciarelli knows how to make wine and this one is value keeper!  I paid around $11 I think and it is really delicious. My wife is making potato/Italian sausage soup and it will be a perfect pairing so raise a glass!

Peachy Canyon "Incredible Red" Zinfandel 2016 (California)

Nice darker garnet hue with aromas of sweet berry fruit,  cigar ash, sweet tomato paste

Palate--Nice big fruity, spicy, savory, rich Zinfandel flavors with a somewhat lingering finish.

This is a crazy value Zin for which I paid around $6 due to a couple of different discounts at the store but even without the discounts this is a $10 price point wine and always a nicely done creation for the price.

Having rilled burger tonight with mac and cheese and it will be great so raise a glass! 

Aerena Cabernet Sauvignon (Red Hills Lake county) 2017

 

This is a first for me regarding the AVA listed on the label.  Red Hills Lake County I didn't even realize is an AVA.  

Nicely pigmented darker hue purple with aromas of milk chocolate, a distinctive "something" at the rim which I am struggling to find a descriptor for, and nice fruit, savory spices galore and lovely!

Palate--Expressive palate with loads of flavors all mashed together which will gain separation with some age and maybe even some breathing. Finishes with a lingering complex finish.  

I am not familiar as I said with this American Viticultural Area (AVA) but I am loving this first experience.  I paid $14 for this though it lists at $24 and honestly, I would love to several more to lay down for a couple years although this is drinking nicely even now.  

Pair it with a good hefty dish and you'll love it so raise a glass!

LeCole #41 Chenin Blanc wine review by (PB)

Pale gold with aromas of creamy tropical fruit and a light citrus beam; slight nuance of pear and golden apple.

Palate--Lively acidity, with tropical fruit flavors of ripe pineapple, lemon, mouth watering and a hint of vanilla. Finish leaves you with a hint of pear.

This is a Columbia Valley (Washington state) wine and LeCole is one of the top performers in this vibrant (relatively new) wine region.

I paid $13 for this, will pair it with my French Onion Soup for dinner. Raise a glass!

Cambria Pinot Noir "Julia's Vineyard" 2012 Wine Review by (PB)

Lighter cherry hue with aromas of strawberry and cream.

Palate--silky with cocoa/strawberry, straight forward and uncomplicated;

This Santa Maria Valley AVA is pure pinot that is easy drinking and delicious. I paid $21 for this at the Spasso restaurant in Minnetonka, Mn. Raise a glass and be sure to read my entry on this unique restaurant; would that ALL restaurants were as consumer conscious as this restaurant when it comes to wine pricing! Raise a glass.

Waterbrook Columbia Valley Merlot 2011 Wine Review (NW)

Tasting notes:

Black cherry, dark chocolate, and aromatic oak on the nose

Full bodied on the palate

Cedar, eucalyptus, and raspberry layers on the finish

Summary:

This Merlot from the Columbia Valley in Washington shows interesting layers on the nose and finish, bordering on exotic. There's density and richness along with good texture. Expect to pay around $15 or so, and raise a glass!

Petite Petit 2012 wine review by (PB)

Deeply pigmented blackberry hue with aromas of jammy earthy blackberry with a hint of blueberry with the slightest suggestion of mocha and nice spice.

Full fruit bomb presence with big plump berry flavor with a finish of clear milk chocolate. Lingering finish that reminds you of fresh blackberries bursting in your mouth.

This wine from the Michael David Winery with the unique name is not a typo; it is comprised of 85% Petite Sirah and 15% Petit Verdot (both spelled properly) with Lodi fruit.

My wife grabbed this because she was looking for a clown label and this was as close as she could come. At $15 it's a decent fruit bomb kind of wine which if in the right mood is just good drinking.
Raise a glass!

Pietra Santa Zinfandel 2008 wine review by (PB)

Garnet hue with aromas of robust spiciness with a unique odor that I can't pin down that seems to dissipate leaving light blackberry notes remaining

Palate--tightly wound with staid fruit which I think just needs some time to open up and warm up; my cellar this time of year is right around 54 degrees which is perfect storage temp but I find a bit too cold to appreciate the nuances in a wine.

After breathing and warming up the bouquet remains pretty much as reviewed but the unique odor has dissipated. The palate is bigger than initial tasting. There is a clear beam of cocoa underneath the fruit and a finish that lingers for sometime.

This is my first experience with Cienega Valley Zin. My wife paid $16 for it which is a fair price for the wine so raise a glass!

Block Nine Caiden's Vineyard California Pinot Noir 2013 Wine Review (NW)

Tasting notes:

Cherry and red berries with spice  on the nose

Light bodied on the palate

Pomegranate, cherry, spice, and herbal tea layers on the finish

Summary:

Here's a nicely made Pinot Noir at a value price of $12. It has a beautiful color and shows well integrated layers throughout. Pair with lighter fare, and raise a glass!

2012 Educated Guess Napa Cabernet Sauvignon

Nose: Vanilla and young fruity berries
Palate: strong interplay of tannin and acid. Not bad but not subtle.
Finish: Lovely finish of blueberry and cherry notes.
Overall: we tasted this at a friend's house. They paid $24 for it at a local wine store. It is overpriced at this price point.

2011 Bruno Giacosa Barbera Casa Vinicola wine review by Billy

Nose: Young plum, spice and clove
Palate: strong warm tannins,  playful acids. Good construction that promotes the tannic structure
Finish: red stonefruit notes and coffee. Hints of cherry.
Overall: Let it breathe. Air softens the strong tannins and lets the structure support the wine.

Pierre Usseglio & Fils Chateauneuf du Pape 2003 wine review by (PB)

Prune juice hue with aromas of cigar box, and a touch of cedar. Nuanced cherry fruit underneath.

Palate--Mature beyond peak, subdued cherry berry fruit, rustic undertones, finishes sharply.

Our 2nd wine opened for Thanksgiving which surprisingly is also showing its age. Old world style wines go with food better than by themselves as a very general rule so this will again pair well with our bounty.

At the $50 and up price point, this needs to be drank NOW!

Chateau Malescot St. Exupery 2006 wine review by (PB)

Dark black cherry hue showing some age;

Bouquet--sweet, stewed brandied blackberries,a hint of licorice or spice;

Palate--Mature wine going over the hill but characteristic, mature fruit flavors of dark berries and spices with an earthy touch. Finish lingers with a gentle reminder of mature Margaux Grand Cru Classe.

Chicago guest brought this for Thanksgiving and it will be a wonderful pairing. It is ready NOW and needs to be drunk immediately so don't tarry! Expect to pay over $50 if you can even find it. A perfect Thanksgiving pairing!

A nice treat to highlight a nice day of giving thanks to the One from whom all blessings flow.

What Thanksgiving wine to serve?

A Thanksgiving Day meal with friends and family provides a perfect opportunity to enjoy nice wine. Because so much fuss is made over food and wine pairings in general, I find people get a little stressed out about what to serve guest on this special day. Fortunately, many wines have a much broader range than they get credit for. With that in mind, I have some basic suggestions that might help.

If you are planning a very traditional Thanksgiving meal, complete with Turkey and all the assorted sides, a number of red wines can work well like Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir, Zinfandel, and Merlot. All of these varietals have a pretty broad range, except maybe the Zinfandel. However, I put Zinfandel on the list because it works well with cranberry sauce and heavy starches like mashed potatoes and sweet potatoes.

In order to make things even more festive at the table, I suggest you offer guests two wines. This is especially easy if you are able to provide you guests with two wine glasses and allow them to pour and sip as they like. Simply place the bottles on the table and allow your guests to discover the different pairings as they please.

As a rule of thumb, plan for at least a half bottle per person while at the table. Which two wines? Try offering one Cabernet Sauvignon and one Pinot Noir, perhaps both from American wineries in the spirit of the holiday. 

While wines at the dinner table are often the focal point, don't forget that you can create a special experience with wines before and after the meal. A nice bubbly is a great way to start the festivities, especially with assorted appetizers or finger food. To finish things off, try a nice dessert wine. Something sweet but light, for example a muscat or icewine, should help wash down the pie. Do this before the coffee.

Raise a glass to a Thanksgiving table complete with wine!

Geyser Peak Cabernet Sauvignon 2012 wine review by (PB)

Black cherry hue with an off putting aroma at first sniff like "cheap" fruit. I know that's not very helpful but it just reminds me of a $3 wine which is made up of whatever the maker could find.

Palate--Very steely, fruity front with juicy berry flavor. Fleeting finish.

I can't figure out why I bought this in the first place but I paid $13 for it which was about $8 too much. Look for something else.

Cotes Du Rhone 2010 E. Guigal wine review by (PB)

Slightly browning on presentation; with aromas of mature cherry with a tinge of aged bouquet.

Palate--Mature, juicy acidity, with fruit that is starting to head south. Older cherry notes with a touch of spice and wood.

I am surprised that this is heading south but it is a good quaff at the moment. If you have a bottle laying around it is time to raise a glass!

OZV (Old Zin Vines) 2012 Sponsored wine review--by (PB)

This Zin presents with an eye catching crystalline ruby/garnet hue.

Aroma--Cinnamon "red hots" candy over cocoa and the more gentle, strawberry, Bing cherry fruit. Under neath it all there's a creamy vanilla nuance.

Palate--Almost silky mouth feel, with relaxed tannins and loads of cocoa on top of the gentle, vanilla laced, juicy red fruit.

This is not what I expect when I taste a zin because the characteristic, wild or brambly fruit foundation is not there. Meaning what? Meaning this is a mind blowingly different Zin that is more refined than ghetto.

I've visited Lodi on my wine explorations and it is an up and coming AVA in California just starting to come into its own. This wine is made from Zinfandel grapes grown on 50-100 year old vines which according to those who know, lends a special "something" to the fruit produced from such aged vines. (Blended with a touch (4%) of Petite Sirah)

Bottom line--would I buy it again? Absolutely; Zinfandel is my specialty grape and I love unique! This fits the bill as a big "tasty," "juicy" and easy drinking quaff so raise a glass!

Antigal "Uno" Malbec 2010 wine review by (PB)

Nice black cherry hie deeply pigmented right to the rim:

Aromas of robust, blackberry and dark berry aromas with cigar box and vanilla touches. Really beautiful herbal spicy bouquet that is finessed and borders on elegant.

Palate--Big, rich berry flavors with a touch of licorice. Finish is rather short but well done construction.

2010 was a great vintage for Malbec and the Mendoza region of Argentina if my memory serves me right. I am not a big fan of Malbec but I could become so with this wine! This is a classy, NICE wine and at $14 a great value so raise a glass. This bad boy will be hanging for years to come!