Mark West Pinot Noir 2021

 

Light, bright, happy "spring fruit" with a sweet, beautiful bouquet of spiced apples on a hue of crystalline garnet.

Palate--Sweet with red berries, strawberry, spice, mild beam of cocoa. finishing with a hint of smoke.

This  "sourced" Pinot from California is usually a reliable quaff at the $10 price point. It is at its best when slightly chilled.  This will pair with all kinds of cheeses and dishes as long as they tend to be on gentler side of the "taste spectrum."

Pinot Noir is such an iconic grape I would suggest you splurge and look for an Oregon or regional California Pinot at the $15 and up price point. The slight difference in cost may pay off big dividends.

Cecilia Beretta {Freeda} Rosé Trevenezie 2022

Orangeish, pinkish, golden hue with lovely aromas of white grapefruit, pomegranate, and hints of citrus.

Palate--Juicy profile with mouth watering acidity, off dry sweet/sour, with lip smacking structure and a crisp finish with more grapefruit. 

This is one of the most intriguing Rosés I have had in ages. I am making cod with a creamy Spaetzle and tomato sauce. At the $10 price point this is a rosé to be on the lookout for as it is far and away the rest of myriad plonk seems to be overtaking the market once again. Raise a glass!

Western Edge "Red Blend" 2017 (Columbia Valley)

 

Dark purple nearly black with aromas of jammy fruit, black berries, plum, a touch of prune, a hint of wood.

Palate--Relaxed tannins with a big fruit bomby front but loaded with all kinds of juicy, mouth watering rich ripe dark berries and other savory fruit.

Purchased at a N.H. Liquor store on sale for around $8 I believe and this is a big wine that drinks easily. It has a fleeting finish but is a nice accompaniment to the pizza I have going right now in the oven from Chicago--deep dish of course.   This drinks nicely all by itself if you are a fan of this style--which I am...

I am unable to find a single reference on line for this wine which is odd. At any rate, raise a glass!

Rioja Burgo Viejo 2019

Purple/garnet hue with aromas flowing far from the glass of sweet lovely red berry fruit, and savory spice.  In the bowl, nice sweet and savory spices overall, with compelling nuances of mixed berry compote and a hint of cola.

Palate-- Nice first impression of well made, structured, artful presentation of Tempranillo the signature grape of the Rioja (Spain). Finishes surprisingly quickly for the robustness of the initial taste. 

This is a juicy, flavorful lovely Rioja begging to be sipped one mouthful after another.  The Wine Enthusiast gave this wine a crazy low score of 84 points out of 100.  James Suckling gives it a 91. I am more in the camp of Mr. Suckling.  

At around $10-$17 this Rioja is a good example of the region's wine. I am attempting to pair it with a hot-ish spiced (Ancho chili powder) charcoal grilled chicken. *I am not certain..... I'll let you know! Raise a glass. 

*It paired quite well!

Alta Alella "PB" 2019

Very light golden hue with aromas of green melon before the swirl for after the swirl it is a different profile. Lemon and vanilla notes; *fresh laundry just out of the washer. (smells like our detergent.)

Palate--Razor sharp acidity is what smacks you out of the gate. Quince, and bitter almond hints with juicy lemon and vanilla with a fleeting Finish.

I LOVE a big acidic white but this is a bit over the top. It does mellow out once you have had a few tastes of it. The Xarello (pronounced--Sharello) grape is the first time I have had a Spanish wine as a varietal.  It has been a blending grape in some Spanish Cavas. I paid $15 for this and I admit the classy label and particularly the name of the wine is what grabbed me. I was a pastor for 40 years and went by the moniker of "PB" so I kinda had to buy this.  The Wine Enthusiast gave this an 88 point rating which I believe is generous.

The jury is still out on this one.  I will be pairing it with homemade chicken pot pie. We'll see if it gets redeemed.

*First time i have used this aromas comparison in 40 years of wine tasting. LOL

Alexander Valley Vineyards Chardonnay (Alexander Valley--Sonoma) 2017

 

Slight amber hue with a spectacular golden hue from age accompanied by aromas of burnt orange, fresh notes of tangerine, hints of caramel.

Palate-- Previously reviewed back in April, I opened my last bottle tonight. Still lively though with muted fruit, lively acidity, a citrus beam still prevalent, and actually quite enjoyable even more so than the other 2 or 3 bottles I reviewed previously.  

I paid $15 for this Sonoma Chard and the first bottle was "ok" as was the 2nd and third.  This one was really quite amazing and a value at $15 for the 375ml (a full bottle is 750ml).  Aged wines--and while this isn't all that old, most wines are not made to "age!"  In fact most aged wines are pretty crappy.  But this one is appropriately priced and in my estimation is a value that I was even able to find a few. 

Would be great with buttery sauces, lobster, French onion tart--which is what I had it with a moment ago and it was perfect. If you manage to find one, grab it and expand your horizons and raise a glass.  

Bogle Petite Sirah 2020

Classic inky, intense purple--nearly black--hue with aromas of big fruit above the rim-- dark plum, a touch of cigar ash,  and more as it opens

*Palate--Silky texture with lovely immense, ripe mouth filling dark dark berry flavors, lip smacking tannins,  warm, lingering finish with more dark berry pie on the end.

This wine runs around $10 normally but is $8 on sale at my local super market and I will be buying more. Petite Sirah is such an unknown grape variety to most people that this kind of wine just sits around which means a great opportunity for us!  It is a wonderfully big fruit bomb of a wine but Bogle structures their wines well and this will be great all by itself, with robust cheeses, or with a big grilled steak or even grilled venison which I will be cooking tonight.

BTW--it was wonderful with my venison! All and all this wine will be drinking well for the next 8 years! So raise a glass!

*I just read another review which panned this wine. I didn't even recognize a single portion of the person's review. It may be they don't know wine, or it may be they just do not like this particular type of profile in a wine. This is why it is important to follow several reviewers and when you try some the wines reviewed, see which one you tend to agree with after experiencing the particular wines reviewed. Then you know you can buy a wine with some confidence that you'll not be disappointed.

Corvelia Cabernet Sauvignon Lot 21

Very nice garnet/purple hue solid to the rim with aromas of blackberry cream cordials, slightest hint of eucalyptus with light touch of savory spices on the edge.

Palate--Nicely made with standup blackberry fruit with savory touches and a light finish of the lovely blackberry beam.

This is a great value Cabernet that actually tastes like the varietal which is unusual for a Cab at the $10 price point. I have reviewed three other vintages of this wine each one nuanced a touch differently but each one just a stellar value. A trader Joe's bargain so raise a glass!

Louis M. Martini Cabernet Sauvignon Sonoma County 2018

 

Nice dark, aubergine hue with aromas of dark black berry, a hint of raisin, a touch of mint and smoke.    

Palate-- Mellow structure with relaxed tannins, stewed prune in a flash, tar, currant, and a lingering finish.I paid $16 for this Sonoma Cab and it's pretty decent but not remarkable. 

I grabbed this evening while grabbing a rib eye to grill since the restaurant my wife and I were going to was closed because of a shooter who has killed 18-20 people last night and is still on the run. So my little disappointments are nothing compared to the people whose lives have been changed because of madman. So I pray for the victims and the sorrow and comfort that only the Lord Almighty can bring at such times. So grab your loved ones, tell them how much you love them and count your blessings!

Les Portes de Bordeaux "Bordeaux" 2022

 

Nearly cola colored hue with nice bouquet of crushed dried red berries, and cola on the edge.

Palate--Unpleasant first impression but big flavors of red fruit, young tannins, and a lingering finish that is beyond expectations for this cheap Bordeaux.

A Trader Joe's wine this Bordeaux cost $7.50 and how can you go wrong at that price point?  Well actually you good but this isn't the case here. It is a bit stern and lacks finesse but is a serious wine that should pair well with robust foods and cheeses.  Not the best "all by itself" wine but should be great with my grilled Chicken thighs.  If it turns out differently, you will read it here!  Raise a glass.

Bosman Family Vineyards "Generation 8" Shiraz 2020

 

A much lighter crimson hue than what one would expect from a Shiraz with a very slight brownish tinge to it supporting aromas of fresh berry fruit laying on top of aged fruit, sweet and savory gentle spicing, lovely floral notes, a suggestion of menthol, and a blast of dark cocoa taffy on the end.        

Palate--a bit thin in texture for my expectation of Shiraz, there's alot going on here, and a bit confusing. I am going to let it breathe more and we'll see.  This is a wine with robust structure, able to accompany a variety of dishes, or enjoyed all by itself. Definitely not at all like the fruit bombs I have come to expect from other parts of the "new world."  

This South African creation is unique, pleasant, crafted with care but just not what I expect from Shiraz.  That is not a negative!  It is just the reality of the creativity of vintners.  At the $15 price point I would give it a shot, but probably not my cup of tea; I mean wine. Raise a glass!

Villa Borghetti Pinot Grigio Delle Venezie 2022

 

Nearly clear with aromas of citrus, Lime notes, sweet vanilla at the rim.

Palate-- Vibrant acidity leads off the first impression of this mouth filling lemon/lime Pinot Grigio with ultra tart green apple nuances to the rear.

I had planned this wine for a dinner a couple nights ago where the base dish was a home-made squash soup but I knew it was not going to work so I screwed the cap back on immediately and refrigerated it.  Not a recommended protocol but it worked well.  Tonight this wine was perfect with our steamer clams and Maine lobster. 

I don't remember what I paid for it gut I believe it was probably $8 if not less.  At this price, serve it chilled with creamy, buttery sauced dishes, and raise a glass!

M. Chevallier Carte Noire Brut Cava *(NV)

Yellow/golden hue with aromas of cinnamon, creamy butterscotch, and a touch of lemon.    

Palate--Unremarkable first impression with very little taste, but the pin prick bubbles are quite nice in mouth feel and appearance. What flavor is there is subtle with light notions of apple, and cream.

This is a Trader Joe's perennial at a budget level price of around $8 and if you ice it down enough it will be a fresh palate cleanser with greasy foods, and/or harder to pair foods like the Polish sausage I am having with it tonight. If you're on a budget--and who isn't these days-- $8 raise a glass.

*NV means Non Vintage--meaning it is made from grapes sourced from various years' productions.

Marqués De Toro Cabernet Sauvignon Finca La Moura 2020

 

Very nice dark purple/garnet hue with aromas of tightly wound red fruit with tightly wound spices and ash. (Obviously needs to be breathed!) After some air--tart pie cherries emerge. 

Palate-Scintillating mouth feel on opening with a near "sparkling" effect but is from the vibrant structure rather than actual bubbles. (Unique)  Big flavor profile but again needs time to open up and reveal all what is there.  With air it is full of lovely cherry and red berries with a nice beam of food friendly acid. Finishes very quickly!

This previously reviewed value wine has a lot going for it but has just been opened and needs time to let itself go. This is a single vineyard Cabernet from Spain...

I paid $9 for this normally found around $15.  I paired it with with my carbonara and it was lovely so raise a glass!

Bogle Old Vine Zinfandel 2021

Nice deeper garnet hue with aromas of cola (that's a new nuance) licorice, and spicy big fruit.

Palate--Good first impression with a load of rich berries, brooding flavors of more dark berries, and lip smacking structure.

This oft reviewed Zinfandel--albeit a different vintage-- is a reliable production and if you love Zinfandel it can be found very reasonably for $8.00-$12.00. I buy it when it's at the lower range.

Tonight I make my wonderful Venison chili and the spices of toasted cumin, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, garlic and onion works very well with this nice wine so raise a glass!

GPV Grady Family Vineyards Petite Sirah (Lodi) 2019

 

Inky dark, nearly black hue with aromas of licorice, eucalyptus, rose blossom above the rim, espresso, and more!

Palate--Hefty profile with thick texture, deep brooding rich dark fruit, tar, and this is all on opening. I wonder what breathing will do!

I bought this at a nice wine shop in our area for $17.00. It is the best and most complex wine I have had in a long time since I tend to stay around the $10 price point for my wines.  This wine, at this price is a powerhouse treat and great value that some will not appreciate as it is a 20 megaton fruit bomb--my term for the style. Snobs tend to prefer the more austere, food friendly old world wines which need 10 years or more to really appreciate. Don't get me wrong; I do as well, but being retired now I have be a bit more frugal. 

When this wine warms up a bit from my cellar temp (55 degrees) and has had time to breathe, it should yield more delight. I will be pairing it with grilled lamb chops.  If you're interested, this wine could improve over the 10 years so raise a glass and if you can, lay a couple down for the future. 

Wente Cabernet Sauvignon (Southern Hills) 2020

Nice dark garnet hue with aromas of cranberry and pomegranate, red berries, and gentle spice.  

Palate--First impression--tannins dry as dust, decent fruit, prominent classy fruit, with a finish that lingers mite.

The Southern Hills *AVA is a Central coast (California) grape growing region. I paid $13 frpo this wine listed at $17.  It is an "OK" cab especially at the $13 price point and Wente has a special place in my heart as I cut my teeth over 40 years ago on Wente wines.

I will pair this with charcoal grilled "short cut" steak. 

*AVA = American Viticultural Area--which has been granted "special" recognition for its grape's quality and character and must meet certain standards to claim the AVA classification..   Raise a glass!

The Wine Enthusiast rated this a 90 point wine. That's a leap although 88 would be more appropriate!

Pairing with my charcoal grilled short cut steak so raise a glass!

Giardano Pinot Grigio delle Venezie Rosé 2021

The classic "blush" hue (a hint of pink) in this sparkler with aromas of gentle pink grapefruit with a musty edge, a light hint of cinnamon red hot candies, and bright cherry.

Palate--Lively sparkle tingles tha palate giving a lively sensation which can only help this generally lack luster grape.  Presents with an off-dry fruitiness and a surprising hint of *structure. Is generally pleasant, with very light pear fruit. Finishes very quickly on the palate.

Prosecco, White Zinfandel and Pinot Grigio tend to be much favored wines at the local restaurant especially among the feminine gender.  This is unfortunate as they tend to be *poorly made wines overall, lacking anything worth their price especially at the routine, insanely marked up prices at restaurants. At many restaurants a single glass of one of these costs you almost as much as you can buy a bottle for at your local supermarket. But they are easy to drink, and relatively low in alcohol.  That being said I actually like this one!  It seems conscientiously vinified with an air of pride.  

I will be pairing this with my wife's homemade chicken chili soup and it will be a perfect pairing foil to the hot peppers in the soup.  At Trader Joe's for around $7 it is a definite buy again kind of wine! Raise a glass!

Cecilia Beretta Valpolicella "Ripasso" Superiore 2021

 

Pretty garnet hue with aromas with floral notes, touches citrusy red fruit, sweet cherry above the rim.         

Palate--Juicy, mouth watering structure with spicy fresh fruit and a nice food friendly structure. Finishes fairly quick but all around a winner.

I paid $12 for this very nice Valpolicella.  Ripasso is a method of wine making wherein grapes that have been semi-dried are used in making a wine called "Amarone" and is pricey and delicious.  Those grapes once used are then used again to make "Ripasso."  They are distinctive, and some of my favorite Italian wines.  

You really should seek some of the se out and give them a try. They are easy to like and are very food friendly so raise a glass!

Embroidery Zinfandel (Paso Robles) 2021

 

A lighter pour than expected but somewhat irrelevant. A gentle presentation of Zinfandel fruit with touches of briars and ripe berries.    

Palate--Mouth filling flavors and body with robust Zinfandel fruit that is classic, voluptuous and large and finishes rather quickly.  

I don';t remember what I paid for this but it was about $12. It specs out for more than that but it is a nice Zin and full bodied. I like it, so raise a glass!

Hook or Crook 2018 Reserve Old Vine Zinfandel

 

Deeper magenta hue with big time cigar ash aromas consisting of rustic of dark berries, hints of red grapefruit, and a touch of daffodil.

Palate--Youthful zippiness and clean, first impression with well structured big time dark berry fruit and a blast of smoke and wood. 

You can find this for about $12 and it is a very nice expression of my favorite grape--Zinfandel!  This Lodi creation is very well made and a bargain at the $12 price point so raise a glass!

Belhara Estate Single Vineyard Malbec 2021

Deep dark purple nearly black hue with aromas of ripe plum, luscious sweet black berry, sweet smoked dark berry fruit, 

Palate--Incredibly intense, dense flavors of rich, ripe dark berry fruit with tar, rich sweet spice, textured thick structure, and a finish that won't stop.

Another Trader Joe's show stopper at $10 that will blow your socks off! I only bought one bottle but will definitely be buying MANY more!   Raise a glass!  

The Restaurant Wine Menu Challenge

Hints for an upscale restaurant with a voluminous wine list:

The wine "catalogue" is brought to your table and your first thought is, "Is there a Cliff's Notes version of this encyclopedia of fruit of the vine? You pass trying to figure it all out by choosing a $10 glass of wine you "think" you may have heard of.

Trying to keep this brief but meaningful here are some rules of thumb:

1. decide--if you can--whether you might want, red, white, rosé or sparkling.

2.  If you have a preference for a particular country, look for such a highlight. 

                                    --You're narrowing the mysteries down--

3.  *In a list of wines, the better "value" wines tend to be listed in the middle!

                        --Better value means the markup is less than on other wines.--

4.  I have found that most "nicer" restaurants that have a "designated wine person" are excited to make a recommendation for you base on what you tell them. Be honest about your wine IQ, tell them your price range (speaking of by the bottle here) and I have always been impressed how well they do! 

Hints for a routine, limited wine list in a "normal" restaurant:  

Look at the price of your wine by the bottle versus by the glass (if offered).  Wine by the glass is PRICEY! A bottle (750ml) of wine yields 5- 4 ounce pours        or 4-5 ounce pours. So if you are planning to have two glasses of wine each for you and your company, do the math!  A $32 bottle of wine, is cheaper than buying 4 glasses of the same wine for $9 a glass.

Another rule of thumb is that a bottle of wine that costs double what you could buy the wine for in a store is a pretty decent value! Restaurants make big money off their alcohol sales sometimes pushing their markup to 150% over retail.  

Needless to say, I rarely buy wine when I go out to eat. I can't stand being gouged, paying for 1 glass of wine for what I KNOW I could buy the whole bottle for from my local supermarket!

Storm Point Chenin Blanc 2022

 

Very pale straw hue with aromas of gentle lime, vanilla, and green apple.

Palate--Off dry, with fruity core and creamy beams of vanilla bean, lime, citrus and a peppy finish that lingers.

I grabbed this at a local wine shop for $14. I have not had a Chenin Blanc in ages and now I wonder why not.  I LOVE Chenin Blanc! This is a South African version which they do very well. 

Chenin Blanc had a metamorphosis about 20 years ago going from a crappy, cloying jug wine to an admirable white wine pairing well with lobster, seafood, some white cheesy pastas, and even some Asian fare. Give it a shot and raise a glass!

Ice in your wine???

You've probably seen it if not even requested it, you order a white wine and you have a couple cubes put in it.        Warning--Professional opinion only: Drinking anything is a personal choice. Every person likes what they like! There is NO authoritative "right or wrong" when it comes to matters of personal preference. 

I have seen people push away a glass of very pricey wine saying, "I don't care for it." That's fair! But that doesn't equal, "it is an inferior wine." So what about adding some ice to a glass of bubbly or Prosecco, or Chardonnay?  Well, there have been a few times--very few--when a wine was served so warm that it was hardly potable. No time to throw it in the freezer for 20 minutes so in goes the ice. 

You have just altered what you actually purchased by watering it down and all the "master" and craft that went into the production of that wine is now destroyed.  BUT--YOU like what you like, so drink up.

Let me use this as an illustration: Living in Maine we enjoy lobster and we served our children lobster when they old enough to make decisions about such matters. Our daughter put ketchup on hers; a lot of ketchup... so we never served her lobster again. She is an adult now and I don't think she has ever bought lobster for herself. But if she did and she paid for it, have it at! But not on my dime. 

One last tip--if you order a bottle of wine at a restaurant ask them how the wine is being stored. Both red and white and rosé should be temperature controlled but that costs money. (Good restaurants will do this but honestly I go to very few "good" restaurants where this would be the practise.) So I rarely order wine when dining out.  

Stay tuned for more information about buying wine when you're out! 

Torre Zambra Montepulciano D'Abruzzo 2017

Very nice dark, garnet with intensity, aromas of beautiful seet red and dark berries above the rim, the slightest suggestion of mint, and savory spices.

Palate--Full bodied, delicious berry flavors in balance with savory spices and a ristic note.  The finish lingers for a good while with surprising heft.

I reviewed this wine just a couple months ago and I don't remember it this way but I know I liked it.  

Here is my quote from my initial review--"I'll reserve my assessment for another bottle which I have laid down for a bit. Even at $9 the jury is still out."  Well I LOVE this wine and it is absolutely the 92 points Mr. Suckling gave it when he reviewed it.  I paid $9 for it and will grab more if I have the chance.  Raise a glass!

"Vino" Rosé 2020 Washington State

Straw hue with a sweet edge in the bouquet with a touch of pine pitch and citrusy melon.

*Palate--Not a great first impression with sour, awkward, bland taste, clunky structure.  All in all--this is PLONK!  Dump it...  

*Ok--PLEASE read THIS!  This is a Charles Shaw wine and he makes excellent wines. So this HAS to be a flawed bottle for reason I cannot fathom since it has a screw top. Additionally, I found that the great James Suckling rated this a 91 point wine and after following his career and reviews with the Wine Spectator for more than a decade, I trust his reviews. So however it happened, this is NOT a fair review of this wine.

M. Chevallier Carte Noire Brut Cava (NV)

Pin prick bubbles on a gentle light golden hue.  Aromas of vanilla and lime.

Palate--Pretty scant on flavor but nicely constructed with a fleeting lemon lime-finish.  

This Trader Joe's exclusive (I believe) is $7 and I mean what do you want for $7?  Truth is, it is crisp, lively, fun in the glass and if you ice it down, it is refreshing and easy to quaff.  

One interesting side note--my wife made Hooters' Hot Wings last night which you would normally think BEER or even a gin and tonic. But wine? Well the truth is, this Spanish sparkler was pleasant in tamping down the heat without any strange mouth feel with such a pairing. So at $7, on balance, I have to say, raise a glass!

Wente "Morning Fog" Chardonnay 2021

 

Nearly translucent hue with aromas Lemon rind, sweet melon with a spicy kick

Palate--Slow out of the gate, with subdued fruit but lively acid and more fruit emerging as it warms up. Thinner kind of structure, with more fruit--Granny Smith apple- and a touch of tropical fruit salad.

This is a bit of a disappointment from Wente, a producer with whom I began my wine journey back in the mid 70's. I am not tasting the 90 - points the Wine Enthusiast gave this wine nor the profile.  At $14 this is a pass for me!

Cline Old Vine Zinfandel 2021 (Lodi)

Garnet hue with aromas of Zinfandel wafting over to my nose that is 3 feet away.  Spicy raspberry, 

Palate--"Sweet" first impression but it is NOT sweet, but fruity!  Nicely crafted with loads of perky Zinfandel grapes, dark berry nuances, with vibrant structure and a lovely finish.

Reviewed many times because I drink a lot of it because it is a value--$10--and a great bargain for the price.  Pair it with any thing on the grill! And raise a glass!!!

Lupaia Toscana 2014

Hue is totally "bricked" with a subdue bouquet of aged dark berries and with yet still lingering bright berries over the glass with a melange of aged related goodness.  :) 

Palate--Tart, thickish mouth feel, dark berry and bright cherry. 

This is a "Super Tuscan" created by the legendary "La Lecciaia!"  (Super Tuscan ia a wine that does not adhere to the regulatory laws of Tuscany regarding grape composition etc.) This is a blend of Sangiovese--"the" grape of Tuscany--Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

Super Tuscans can get quite pricey especially from this producer heading north of $100 a bottle.  This was $10 in 2014 on release.  Normally an inexpensive wine like this does not have the potential to age beyond 4-5 years but when your "must" is in the hands of a master, anything is possible. This was a wonderful treat found in my daughter's humble inventory. We had it with homemade pizza in a pizza oven and we raised a glass!

Bogle Pinot Noir 2021 (California)

 

Medium bodied, lovely garnet hue with aromas of red berries straw/raspberries and bright red candies.    

Palate--Lively acidic structure--a bit harsh perhaps--with mouth filling flavors of tart red berries and mellower berries mid palate and a quick finish.  

This offering from Bogle--generally a value wine would have benefited from 1/2 hour in the fridge.  It is simply too warm to present its best.  This sourced wine from "California fruit" is "ok" but needs to be slightly chilled. Expect to pay a bout $10. But you find better for the same price point.

Tortoise Creek Zinfandel (Lodi) 2019

Garnet hue with aromas of rich berries, laced spice on the edge, and a density of fruit at the rim. 

Palate--Nice mouth feel and first impression of notable Zinfandel fruit with structured mid-palate with everything quite integrated with a nice finish that lingers.

This multiply reviewed Zin at $7 is absolutely ridiculous. I bought a case plus and if any are left when I return (this is out of state) I will buy another case.  Raise a glass!

VINTJS Redwood Valley (Mendocino Co.) Zinfandel 2021

Cranberry jelly hue with aromas that are a bit unusual with muted fruit and awkward spice at the rim. 

Palate--Again--a bit unusual first impression with strained Zinfandel flavors with uni-dimensional profile that seems like it may be improving with some air. The finish is essentially non-existent.

I don't believe I have ever had this particular Zin (obviously bottled for Trader Joe's exclusively) and it is unimpressive when compared to the numerous other offerings now at the same price point. For the time being I am giving this a big PASS! *If it improves with air, I will update this. It did not improve and in fact became bitter.  Dump down the drain... 

Hmmm...At Trader Joe's today and I am bewildered by the price hikes on many of the wines I generally buy there.  Their Scotto Zin--which I have reviewed many times and is a bargain-- at $8 is now $10. Zins I just paid $10 for there are now $11 and $12.  So instead of buy 6-12 bottles of their zins which is pretty much my norm, I bought 2. 

Tuatea Sauvignon Blanc 2022 (Marlborough)

 

Light straw hue with aromas of lovely mown grass, citrus, lime, kiwi.

Palate--Vibrant, grassy front palate with lovely lemon/lime mid-palate, with off-dry fruitiness, and a nuance of vanilla curd in the finish. Structure is wonderfully acidic to cleanse that palate after rich, fatty sauces, gravies, etc.

I used to drink a lot more New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc and I don't remember why I dropped off. It fills such an important food pairing purpose with rich buttery sauces and the goodness of fresh Maine lobster with "Steamer Clams" which is what was on my menu tonight. It is clean, tasty, balanced and at $7 how can you not buy it up!  Raise a glass. 

Post Card "Love, Oregon" Pinot Noir 2020

A heftier garnet hue than most Pinot Noirs with an interesting and unique aroma of Spruce above the rim in passing, with red raspberry fruit, and a not quite "minty" presence--again unique!

Palate--Very first impression is of seasoning wood. (I just came in from putting a tarp over our 4 cords of wood for the winter) Raspberry and slightly tart structure finishing with a a fleeting reminder of what you just drank.

This is truly an unusual style of Pinot for me.  I "think" I like it but not quite sure.  Perhaps it will change on breathing. I paid $22 for this Willamette Valley Pinot and I'm still uncertain.  I will add to this review when I have it with dinner (stir fry)  and it has had more time to open. 

Castle Rock Pinot Noir (Mendocino) 2021

Classic light crystalline magenta hue with aromas of truly beautiful hard cinnamon candies, milk chocolate on the edge--again very subtle, sweet pie spices.

Palate--elegant first impression with a zesty spicy mid palate with an integrated loveliness of crafted fruit, nuanced ruby red grapefruit and a warm inviting finish that lingers and screams MORE!

Castle Rock is one of my fave Pinots they do it so well and at a bargain of $10 it is a must to have on hand ALL the time!  Raise a glass!

Scotto Zinfandel 2017 Lodi

 

Cherry hue with bricking at the rim showing its age! Aromas of spicy lighter red berries, with and edge of red grapefruit!

Palate--Lovely, integrated front palate with loads of luscious red berry and spice Zinfandel fruit.

This wine is trending out with age but is still lovely now and drinking very well. Don't hold onto this and at $8 it is fabulous so raise a glass!

Montes LTD Selection 2017 Cabernet Sauvignon 70% Carmenere 30%

 

Deep nearly black hue with aromas of deep dark blackberries with a twinge of gree at the rim and very light savory spice.

Palate--Smokey first impression, robust structure, loads of rich ripe dark berries and black pepper and smoke on the finish.

Previously reviewed just a month ago with similar notes, this Chilean blend is quite nice even at its "too warm" serving temp which is my fault. I will chill it down some before another glass. Remember that the adage about red wines should  be served at "room temp" was a carry over from the days of yore when "room Temp" meant around 55 degrees in some big old castle or Chateau. So unless you have a temperature controlled cellar don't hesitate to chill your reds down before serving.  (20 minutes before serving or 30 if your wine has been sitting in an 85 degree kitchen.)

$9 marked down from $26 it's a no brainer--Raise a glass!

Orenellaia Del Cripini Sparkling Apple (Ltd production)

Lovely golden hue with pin prick bubbles and aromas of fresh autumn apples and a touch of pear.

Palate--Lively bubbles with a nice crisp presentation of sweet/tart apple and a clean finish.

This is my own production consisting of 16 bottles. For years I had a hobby vineyard (12 vines) of Marachel Foch wine grapes. After 17 bottlings of plonk I found two wineries that produced this obscure, cold weather hearty grape and they were both terrible. Mine were actually better but still pretty bad so I switched to apple wine since I had apples available to me. I have produced roughly 1-2 cases per year and they are delicious.  So I continue to this day.  Raise a glass!

Chateau Ste. Michelle Gewürztraminer 2021

 

Very pale straw hue with sweet baking spices, pear, green apple

Palate--Fruit filled, off dry first impression with a rather fleeting mid palate and finish. It could benefit from a bit more acid, but it is not off putting.This is not the best offering Ste. Michelle has produced and is rather disappointing. It finishes with a slight peachy ending which is very nice but still lacking from what they used to produce.

This runs around $12 and is "OK" but it could be much better. I am paring it with charcoal grilled bratwurst and it will be a nice foil to the stone ground mustard, sauteed onions and green peppers.  Give this grape another chance and then compare it with one made in Alsace!  Two very different styles, both wonderful when done well! 

Stark-Condé Pinot Noir (Elgin Vineyard) 2021

Muted, light ruby hue with a touch of brick-red at the rim with aromas of strawberry juice.

Palate--Perky front palate with lively structure, biting strawberry and gentle spice. 

This Pinot from South Africa is a stand out with a unique profile that is inviting and amusing. I will pair this with baked chicken legs and sauteed garden fresh beans from our own garden. Raise a glass!

Promesses De France Pinot Noir 2021

Rather dark ruby hue for Pinot Noir with lovely aromas of raspberry, strawberry, with a gentle savory spice on the end.

Palate--Classic Pinot first impression with a steely front palate, robust structure, a bit angular, and a really quick finish.

Honestly I find this Pinot lacking when compared to the many domestic Pinot noir's coming out of America and other new world expression.  I am going to put a slight chill on this and hope that it will improve. We'll see. OK, no change really, and even though tis is a really inexpensive Pinot Noir for the same price point I prefer a domestic Pinot with character and leaves you wanting a refill!  So this is just "Meah..."

Torre Zambra Montepulciano D'Abruzzo 2017

Dark berry hue with aromas of fresh, lively, spicy fruit. 

Palate--A richness precedes the actual flavor profile with lively mouth feel, lip smacking tannins full of red cherry berry flavors and a hint of rose water. Ends with a finish that is full of sweet and savory spices. 

I love the fruity simplicity of Montepulciano but this one just kind of leaves me puzzled. James Suckling gave this wine 92 points which is a big score for any wine. I reluctantly wonder about this score on this wine. I'll reserve my assessment for another bottle which I have laid down for a bit. Even at $9 the jury is still out. 

Marques de Colbert Utiel-Requena Reserva 2017

Garnet/cranberry hue with lovely aromas wafting above the rim as I sit at my computer. There's almost a candy like quality of the bouquet, filled with cherry, red berry, and just a twist of spice on the end.

Palate--Lively structure with an acidic beam mid palate with a bungle of fruit/spice/ash all jumbled together in the mouth. It needs to breath and I believe it will open up. Indeed it did.

This previously reviewed quaff (February) is comprised of 50% Bobal grape and 50% Tempranillo, the signature grape of Spain.  Now here is the get a grip factor: I paid $6 for this at Trader Joe's and it is a crazy value!  Raise a glass!

Loudenotte Pinot Noir 2021

Lighter cherry hue with aromas of strawberry and spice and a light touch of cinnamon.  

Palate--Sits lightly on the tongue with medium body, intense spiciness, cherry and strawberry fruit.

This is one of those exclusive Trader Joe's buys and at $7 it is a BUY!  The Pay's Doc (pronounced "PAY Dawk") In the south of France the large region comprises many vineyards which produce solid fruit and make superior quality wines at super-value prices. Distinctively different than the domestic value Pinot Noirs of the United States --West and Pacific Northwest--are fresh, fruity, with nice structure and just shouldn't be passed up. 

I will be paring this tonight with a French onion tart which is basically pizza dough with onions tenderized in sour cream and cottage cheese, then topped with loads of bacon! Raise a glass!

 

 

Tortoise Creek Zinfandel "Lodi" 2019

 

Zesty Zin aromas of stewed berries with spicing on a purple hue.

Palate--Mouth filling flavors of spicy Zinfandel, ripe and ready to go out of the gate. Mid-palate-- zesty tongue feel with stewed fruit and a fleeting but nice finish.

Reviewed previously, I just grabbed another case of this $7 Zinfandel so I will be repeating reviews as I go along looking for consistency in my own reviews as well as how temperature and age affect this wine.  

Until then--raise a glass!

Perseverance Rioja Reserva 2018

Cherry hue with what looks like bricking at the rim. Aromas of nice fruit with yeast notes in the background, subtle root beer suggestions, with snappy spices. 

Palate--Cherry/berry front palate with bold structure and loads of mouth watering, sustaining influences for a number of years of improvement. 

I paid $11 for this bargain Rioja ($23) made from 100%Tempranillo (pronounced Tem-pra-NEE-O and is a nice compromise between "Old World--must be aged a decade" and "New World-- at it's prime close to release." It is juicy, classy and will accompany my charcoal grilled prime rib celebrating my wife's and my 50th anniversary. 

Sweetheart--the moment I laid on eyes on you in high school, I knew you were the ONE. "Forever, for always, no matter what!"  Raise a glass!

Corvelia Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 Side by side review of Scotto Old Vine Zinfandel 2017

Dark magenta hue with lovely aromas of ripe, late season plum, sweet and savory spices.

Palate--Nice even first impression with loads of fruit leading the way, on a relaxed foundation of tannins, lovely dark berry and perky mid-palate, with a lingering finish that makes you want more. 

Darker deep burgundy nearly black hue with aromas of spicy Zin fruit and wild blackberries

Palate--Balanced, supple, straight forward, loads of Zinfandel goodness, spice, and a nice smoky finish.

These two wines "should" be as different as night and day yet they are remarkably similar. Why?

Well for one thing the price point of each wine is about the same, ($10) and what happens is that all the compelling characteristics which are unique to each of these great grapes just aren't there.  This is a result of the quality of the grapes. This is why one Cabernet may run you $150 and a hallmark single vineyard Zinfandel pushing $50. You can only get as good a wine as the quality of the grapes you use. What these wines testify to is the artistry of the winemakers who can use "ok" grapes and make such delicious, even if simple, varietals for this price.  

To be candid, unless you have an experienced palate, you are rather throwing your money away spending $150 on a Napa Cabernet if you have no real idea about the intricacies and complexities of wine. 

Bottom line--These two wines are well made, delicious, and my hat's off to the makers of both!  Raise a glass!