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March 10, 2007
A variety of varietals
Exam preparation has taken me away from all kinds of other reading, including wine reviews. Here's a bit of a catch-up from a tasting last fall:
Estancia Pinot Grigio, 2004, California
The 2004 includes 13% chardonnary, which gives it a full body. It's a pleasant sipping wine. Reportedly served by the glass as Carrabas.
Estancia Cabernet Sauvignon, 2003, Paso Robles
The 2003 was a bit young at this point, and I found it a little tart and a bit thinner than I usually like in a cab. The tasting notes said "fleshy, succulent, & crafted to be approachable upon release." I found it to be very drinkable, if not as full bodied as some others (or as it might potentially become).
Franciscan Merlot, 2003, Napa Valley
"Elegant & velvety. Lush & Supple." they said. I found it quite dry (which is kinda nice in a Merlot sometimes.)
Simi Russian River Chardonnay, 2004
This wonderful chardonnary comes from a single vineyard in the Russian River valley. The grapes are harvested from six different parts of the Goldfields vineyard, each with different characteristics. The wine aged 14 months in oak, with result that is "rich, ripe & exotic." Tasting it was like drinking wine by a campfire on a starry summer night - fruit up fron, a little smoky, with a beautiful caramel finish. I loved this wine. Retail is about $26, and worth it, but be sure to get the '04.
Estancia Stoneweel Pinot Noir, 2004, Paso Robles
A really nice, lush and fruity pinot noir. I don't normally go for the fruity ones, but once in a while big fruit is the answer.
Mount Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon, 2002, Napa Valley
The tasting notes say, "very concentrated fruit with deep blackberry and dark plum flavors." I found it very tannic, but still soft - balanced, if you see what I mean.
Albet I Noya Xarello Classic, 2004
I'd never heard of Xarello before, but it was a nice discovery. This white wine from the Penedes region of Spain is made from organically grown grapes. It has a delicate nose, with some floral tones, but is very crisp. It's a nice alternative to pinot grigio.
Due Torri Pinot Grigio, 2005
Speaking of pinot grigio, this surprise find from the Veneto region of Spain was beautifully balanced between fruit, softness, and dryness with a lovely straw color.
La Colombaia Pinot Grigio, 2005
Also from the Veneto region, this one is a little fuller than the Due Torri, with more "mouth feel" countered by less distinct fruit.
Rex Goliath Pinot Grigio, 2005, California
This wine enjoyed a significant marketing campaign in New York City (and presumably other places) recently, so it's a bit of surprise now that it hasn't shown up in more places. The tasting notes said, "bright, juicy flavors of citrus and apples with a sweet mineral core." I said, Yup! Nice and clean, a nice pinot grigio at a good price.
Hardy's Stamp Riesling, 2005, Australia
I am not a Riesling fan. Even the dry ones are too sweet for me most of the time. This one was a delicious surprise. It's good a good amount of citrus to complement the tropical flavors, so it's nice and fruity with a crispness about it. It would be great on a warm summer day or with grilled anything. Also an excellent choice for Thanksgiving dinner.
Nottage Hill Pinot Noir, 2005, Australia
I'm a Willamette Valley (Oregon) Pinot Noir snob and the first to admit it. I don't think they are made better anywhere on earth (though the recent ones from France are delightful). So, naturally, I was suspicious of this new entry from down under. I was surprised. It's made in an Oregon style (please don't ask me to describe that just now) with lovely crimson and red hues, and a very nice flavor. Worth a try.
Masi Masianco
This blend of Pinot Grigio and Verduzzo is a dry white that seemed a little citric to me, but one I thought would pair nicely with food.
Yellow Tail Rose, Australia
Another surprise. Rose is just beginning to make a comeback, and this is a very nice version. Another wine that would be great for Thanksgiving, or a summer picnic.
Ca' Bolani Pinot Grigio Aquileia, 2004
This Italian entry has a bright straw yellow color and an equally fresh bouquet. It has a little apple, a little citrus, but no melon, resulting in a full and well-balanced wine. I liked it.
Posted by cageyer at March 10, 2007 08:16 AM