Wine Event- Fork and Cork, Blacksburg, VA

Fork and Cork! The ultimate event to end a semester of wine tasting! With 23 wineries in attendance, there was more than enough wine to try. Every winery was from Virginia, so instead of taking a four hour drive up to Loudon County, I could taste wine from North Gate Vineyard, right in my backyard. The only downside? The lines! I spent four hours at this event and I'm pretty sure 85% of it was spent in line waiting.  

Waiting and Waiting. 

And more waiting. 

My "I'm tired of waiting! So sunny!" Selfie

Below is a list of my reviews of seven wines from seven different vineyards:

Ramulose Ridge Winery, Chardonel, $14

Varietal: Seyval Blanc and Chardonnay Blend

Winery Review: Smooth crisp citrus and minerality dominate this white, adding light toasty notes to the slightly acidic finish.

My Review:  This wine was much too sweet for me. The nose had hints of vanilla, citrus and oak. The overall flavor of this wine was vanilla. The finish was full of sugar! I would not try this wine again. 

Beliveau Estate Winery, Silhouette, $20

Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon

Winery Review:  This dry lightly oaked Cabernet Sauvignon is medium-bodied with a mellow blend of berry flavors.

My Review: This wine was not very bold. The nose had hints of cherry and the body had a medium weight. The finish was very light with minimal pepper and acidity. I did not care that much for the wine. I would have preferred a bolder wine. 

Lazy Days Winery, Sweet Lazy Days White Wine (Peach), $18

Varietal: Peach (A fruit wine!)

Winery Review: Sweet peaches! This peach wine is peach at its finest! Mildly sweet with a crisp finish, this wine feels like summer is here!

My Review: This wine smelled like peaches, tasted like peaches and finished like peaches. I might as well have been eating a peach, a very sweet peach covered in sugar. While I like peaches, there was something a bit too sweet about this wine. I think this wine would be a great base for sangria and would love to try it as such. 

Lexington Valley Vineyard, 2010 Norton, $18

Varietal: Norton (A grape native to Virginia!)

Winery Review: Tired of wimpy red wines?  This original Virginia varietal has a great taste with black cherry flavors and complimentary tannins for a truly satisfying glass of real wine.  Try Norton with chocolate, wow!  Also pairs with a juicy steak, lamb, game meats and sharp cheddar.

My Review: This wine was really a surprise. When wineries say that you will taste chocolate in a wine, I always think they mean, "If you use your imagination, you can taste chocolate in this wine." I really did smell and taste chocolate in this wine. Coffee, licorice and blood were also components I tasted in this wine. I really enjoyed this wine and would love to taste it with steak. 

 Vincent's Vineyard, Cabernet Franc, $16

Varietal: Cabernet Franc

Winery Review: A slightly oaked dry red wine. The full bodied wine has rich flavors of black cherry and plum complimented by elegant armoas of toasted oak.

My Review: The nose on this wine was bold and it had notes of cherry and oak. The mouth feel was very enjoyable and the overall taste was smokey. The finish on this wine had just enough pepper and acid. I really enjoyed this wine.  

Fincastle Vineyard and Winery, Traminette, $18

Varietal: Sevyl and Gewürztraminer Blend

Winery Review: Sweet white with intense floral aromas of honeysuckle, violets, and roses.

Traminette is a cross of the French American hybrid Joannes Seyve and the German Vitis vinifera cultivar Gewürztraminer made by Herb C. Barrett ca. 1965 at the University of Illinois, Urbana/Champaign. His intention was to produce a large clustered table grape with the flavor of Gewürztraminer. Traminette was found to have excellent wine quality, combined with good productivity, partial resistance to several fungal diseases, and cold hardiness superior to its acclaimed parent, Gewürztraminer, while retaining a similar character.

My Review: The nose on this wine was very sweet and floral. It seemed to smell overwhelmingly like fruity candy and sugar. The finish on this wine was overly sweet. I felt like this wine left my teeth were coated with sugar. I would not try this wine again. 

Peaks of Otter Winery, Kiss the Devil, $15

Varietal: 30 Peppers including Ghost Pepper

  

Winery Review: Better for tasting than for basting. 

My Review: The nose on this wine could have burnt your nose hairs off. Pepper were present in the nose, the body and the finish. This wine burned all the way to the water cooler. Why the hell would anyone use this for a tasting line up? They said they would give you a chaser, but it was just more wine. A real chaser would be milk or the cheese whiz they gave us with their 'Chili Dawg' wine. I would only try this wine again if it was in food. This wine would be great to mix in chili. 

Since the event is FORK and Cork, I had to have some food while I was there. My meal was a BBQ sandwich with chips from Bull and Bones. I had a glass of Johnson Mountain Dry White wine from Savoy-Lee Winery with my meal. (Yes, I know. Red meat and white wine, such a no no!) The wine on its own was very acidic and had hints of melon. When I tried the wine with food, it became less acidic and rather sweet. Before food the wine was similar to acidic salty citrus melon. With food the wine tasted like sweet honeydew melon and was much more refreshing. The salt I originally tasted in the wine was replaced by the salt in the food. I really enjoyed this summertime meal! 

After I took the first bite...

My favorite wine that I tried at Fork and Cork was the Cabernet Franc from Vincent's Vineyard. It was one of the few bold red wines at the winery. It was not sweet and for this I enjoyed it. The tannin and acid balance was perfect! The overall taste of cherry and oak were magnificent! This wine was definitely one of the best wines at the festival. 

Lukas, the boyfriend, and me before we were too sun burnt. 

A Glass of Sangria to Cool Off!

Look who was doing the Sniff and Swirl!

Tasting- Decoy Cabernet Sauvignon

Name: Decoy Cabernet Sauvignon
Variety: 82% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot
Region: Sonoma, California
Country: USA
Year: 2012
Price: $33

Winery review: The 2012 vintage has yielded a lush and appealing expression of Decoy Cabernet with alluring black cherry and raspberry jam aromas, as well as more subtle notes of nutmeg, spice and chocolate. On the palate, lovely layers of raspberry and plum are supported by excellent structure and seamlessly integrated oak.

My review: This wine had a very sweet nose with hints of strawberry licorice. The overall taste of this wine was licorice and plum. The finish of the wine was EXTREMELY dry. If I try this wine again, I would like to try it with cheese, to ward off the dry finish.

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Decoy Napa Red

Name: Decoy Napa Red
Variety: 47% Merlot, 36% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Cabernet Franc, 7% Petit Verdot
Region: Sonoma, California
Country: USA
Year: 2011
Price: $33

Winery review: The 2011 vintage yielded a supple expression of our Decoy Red Wine with abundant layers of dark fruit and well-developed tannins. On the nose, layers of blackberry and blueberry mingle with hints of herbs and black olives. The rich fruit notes continue on the palate, and lead to a long, structured finish.

My review: This wine was like strawberry flavored water. It was too light in flavor and mouthfeel. The finish did not help my opinion of the wine. Small hints of pepper on the end did not create enough of a finish for me. I would not try this wine again.

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Decoy Merlot

Name: Decoy Merlot
Variety: 85% Merlot, 11% Cabernet Sauvignon, 4% Cabernet Franc
Region: Sonoma, California
Country: USA
Year: 2011
Price: $33

Winery review: Aromas of strawberry compote, plum and cherry wood are supported by hints of clove and cinnamon from the well-integrated oak. The red fruit continues on the palate with layers of fresh strawberry and raspberry. Bright acid lengthens the finish, which concludes with soft, mature tannins.

My review: The nose on this wine made me feel like I needed to sneeze despite the high intensity of strawberry scent. The mouthfeel of this wine was enjoyable. It was high in tannins and had a medium weight. The finish was short and very dry.

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Urban Tinta del Pais Ribera del Duero

Name: Urban Tinta del Pais Ribera del Duero
Variety: Tempranillo
Region: Ribera del Duero
Country: Spain
Year: 2009
Price: $15

Winery review: The 2009 Urbana Ribera, from what looks to be a great vintage, was aged in French oak for 4 months. Deep purple in color with an inviting perfume of violets, Asian spices, black cherry, and blackberry, on the palate it is layered, plush, and intense. While likely to evolve for 1-2 years, this outstanding value can be enjoyed now and over the next 5-6 years.

My review: I did not enjoy this wine. It was too oaky and acidic for my taste. The mouth feel was too light for all the flavor in this wine. The overall flavor was just oak. I would not try this wine again.

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Decoy Pinot Noir

Name: Decoy Pinot Noir
Variety: Pinot Noir
Region: Sonoma, California
Country: USA
Year: 2011
Price: $33

Winery review: Lovely aromas of ripe strawberry and raspberry, as well as subtle notes of sandalwood and spice. On the palate, it is elegantly structured with abundant red fruit, excellent mid-palate weight and lingering finish with a hint of fresh Earth.

My review: This wine was enjoyable. The nose had hints of ash and plum. Overall the wine was a bit too acidic and burned my mouth some. The finish was peppery and had a fair amount of tannin feel. I somewhat enjoyed this wine. It's not something that I would buy but its also not something I would turn down.

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Decoy Chardonnay

Name: Decoy Chardonnay
Variety: Chardonnay
Region: Sonoma, California
Country: USA
Year: 2011
Price: $28

Winery review: This fresh and attractive wine displays aromas of whiteflowers, green apple with hints of exotic grapefruit, guava, flint, and wet stone. There is great flavor impact on the palate with fresh and lively acidity, it is ideal for youthful enjoyment.

My review: I did not care for this wine. It smelled like a fireplace and tasted like one too. I feel like it was too heavily oaked and that is NOT a taste that I go for. Overall the wine just tasted like ashes, which makes me think of cremation, which makes me think of death. Death is not something I think people should be thinking about while drinking. I would not try this wine again.

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Decoy Sauvignon Blanc

Name: Decoy Sauvignon Blanc
Variety: Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Sonoma, California
Country: USA
Year: 2011
Price: $28

Winery review: Decoy Sauvignon Blanc offers a beautiful combination of freshness and complexity. The aromas are rich and layered with elements of pineapple, guava, peach and lemon zest. On the palate, the entry is crisp and inviting with good acidity supporting flavors of lemon meringue, grapefruit, pear and flint.

My review: I really enjoyed this wine. The nose was very floral and had hints of carnations. The wine was very dry, a quality I've come to enjoy in white wines. The finish was very citrus oriented. I actually bought a bottle of this wine and would buy another if I wasn't facing massive student loan debts.

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Manfred Breit Piesporter Goldtropfchen Riesling Kabinett

Name: Manfred Breit Piesporter Goldtropfchen Riesling Kabinett

Variety: Riesling
Region: Mosel
Country: Germany
Year: 2012
Price: $15

Winery review: This Kabinett is a sweeter one yet nicely balanced with spicy acidity. Complex and refreshing with so little alcohol. If you prefer sweet for your meals you can truly enjoy this one with white meat dishes or fish.

My review: The nose of this wine smelled like pineapples, a scent I've come to hate in wines. For some reason, even though I like pineapples, I hate tasting them in wines. The pineapple nose let me know that the wine would be overly sweet. I might as well have stuck my tongue in a jar of sugar. At least the finish was light and not too harsh. I would not try this wine again.

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Santa Duc Gigondas

Name: Santa Duc Gigondas
Variety: 75% Grenache, 10% Mourvedre and 15% Syrah/Cinsault Blend
Region: Rhone Valley
Country: France
Year: 2011
Price: $44

Winery review: A more limited cuvee, the 2011 Gigondas Prestige des Hautes Garrigues is a blend of 80% Grenache and 20% Mourvedre. Yves Gras implemented a strict selection in this more challenging vintage and the result is an intense, full-bodied wine boasting abundant blue and black fruit notes intermixed with hints of camphor, incense and lead pencil shavings. Surprisingly full for a 2011, it achieved 16% natural alcohol.

My review: The nose of this wine smelled like dry potting soil and pure alcohol. It definitely did not have an "inviting" scent. Surprisingly, the acid content was low and the mid pallet was almost enjoyable. The finish was over peppered and made me wish my tonsils could sneeze. Perhaps this wine would have been better had I tried it with a steak. (Side note- I feel like all wine tastings should include free steak.)

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Burgess Syrah

Name: Burgess Syrah
Variety: Syrah
Region: Napa Valley, California
Country: USA
Year: 2009
Price: $20

Winery review: Inviting color of dark purple garnet leads your nose to very pretty aromas and flavors of plum, blackberry, and spice. A rich, round mouthfeel and long, smooth finish confirm why we love Syrah so much.

My review: I hate when wines smell like grapes because then you sound like a smart ass saying, "This wine smelled like grapes." However, in the case of this wine, it really did smell like big purple grapes. The mid pallet tasted like strawberry shortcake which I would have adored had the wine not had such a high tannin content. Even the light finish was not enough to make me like this wine after the tannin explosion.

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Santa Duc Cotes du Rhone Les Vielles Vignes

Name: Santa Duc Cotes du Rhone Les Vielles Vignes
Variety: 60% Old Grenache vines, 20% Syrah, 10% Mourvedre, 10% blend of Cinsault, Cournoise, Carigan
Region: Rhone Valley
Country: France
Year: 2010
Price: $16

Winery review: This cuvée sees no oak with no destemming, and is bottled unfiltered. Big and full-on flavours – ripe sweet cherry, stewed prunes with spices, earth and wild herbs – the palate is full and ripe, showing great concentration. The dark berries fruit and gamey flavours are followed by chewy but ripe tannins

My review: Acid attacked my dainty nose as I tried to politely approach this wine for a little sniff sniff. This is not how a wine should greet a lady. In an attempt to become friendly, the wine offered a strawberry candy pallet. I was not having it. Completely off put by the atrocious greeting, I said goodbye to this wine, never to meet again.

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Picket Fence Pinot Noir

Name: Picket Fence Pinot Noir
Variety: Pinot Noir
Region: Russian River Valley, California
Country: USA
Year: 2012
Price: $18

Winery review: Aromas of brandy-mascerated red cherries, bay laurel, duck fat, forest floor, toasty baking spices and warm vanilla. The chewy red and black fruits come through in the mouth with layers of fine tannins and just a whisper of smoldering French oak. A delicious finish ends this wine on a lush note of creme brulee topped with plum compote.

My review: The nose on this wine smelled like the mouth of an alcoholic: it was stale and you could not escape the distinct slap of alcohol. Overall this wine tasted like raspberry. Due to the lack of luster I found in this wine, I would not try it again. Instead, I'd make out with an alcoholic who had just eaten raspberries. That would be much more fun and I'd get the same taste sensation.

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Picket Fence Chardonnay Russian River

Name: Picket Fence Chardonnay Russian River
Variety: Chardonnay
Region: Russian River Valley, California
Country: USA
Year: 2011
Price: $15

Winery review: Citrus blossom, hints of ripe stone fruit, creme brulee, and a bright balanced acidity. Lightly toasted french oak enhances the structure and spice, coalescing into a round juicy wine with an attractive lingering finish.

My review: The nose of this wine smelled like musty lemons. Overall this wine was very fruity. It tasted like the canned fruit cocktail from Dole. The finish was very soft with little acidity. I enjoyed this wine but was a little off put by all the fruit in the mid pallet.

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Casas del Bosque Sauvignon Blanc

Name: Casas del Bosque Sauvignon Blanc
Variety: Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Valle de Casablanca
Country: Chile
Year: 2012
Price: $13

Winery review: Gorgeous nose, pungent and complex with layers of aromas that transfer into the palate. Notes of gooseberry, key lime and herbs and jalapeno pepper hints give way to grapefruit and more tropical fruit richness, followed up with a touch of minerality. The palate gushes with pink grapefruit, gauava and a sweet, tart interplay that is fresh and vibrant. This has exceptional length and for the price this is a screamer. It is reported that Casa de Bosque makes one of Casablanca’s best Sauvignon Blanc (actually Chile’s best) and supplies Sauvignon Blanc grapes to some well known wineries with big names who know this to be true. Exceptional value, this wine has great purity and vibrancy that gushes with crisp fruit, with a finish you could keep time with.

My review: The nose of this wine smelled like blackberries, a scent that I found very pleasant. The body was very light. The wine had floral notes as well as honey and gooseberry. The finishes was very sweet and attacked my throat with sugar. Had it not been for the finish, I would have enjoyed this wine very much.

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Alvaro Domecq Cream Sherry

Name: Alvaro Domecq Cream Sherry
Variety: Pedro Ximenez
Region: Jerez de la Frontera 
Country: Spain
Year: 2008
Price: $16

Winery review: The soleras at Alvaro Domecq date back to 1800, when Antonio María de Aranda started a bodega in Jerez. His son, Fermín Aranda, a famous medical doctor, inherited the business, which subsequently became “Fermín Aranda”. Fermín, in turn, passed the bodega on to his daughter, Pilar Aranda, who inherited the business in 1946. She was a very successful Almacenista, holding her own in a man’s world and producing outstanding wines and vinegars. Almacenistas (from “almacenar”, which means “to store”) are very rare now, but in former times were a major part of the sherry trade. They aged wines in their cellars and then sold them on to the shipping bodegas. In those days, Fermín Aranda tended to sell their wines to Gonzalez Byass.

My review: This sherry tasted like vanilla extract straight out of the spice cabinet mixed with maple syrup that had been sitting out for days. The sugar was overwhelming and made me want to call my dentist immediately after the tasting. I felt like just smelling this sherry could give me a cavity. On top of the overwhelming sweetness, all of the alcohol in this sherry was at the end and I do not care for an acidic ending. I did not enjoy this sherry and would not try it again.

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Plungerhead Cabernet Sauvignon

Name: Plungerhead Cabernet Sauvignon
Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon
Region: Napa Valley, California
Country: United States
Year: 201
Price: $15

Winery review: The inaugural 2011 Plungerhead Lodi Cabernet Sauvignon is dark ruby in color with aromas of blackberry, plum, spearmint, roasted red pepper, and fire toasted oak. Flavors of black currant, sweetened dried cranberry, dark chocolate, and black raspberry jump from your mouth finishing with notes of vanilla, espresso, dried cherry, caramel, and hints of mint.

My review: The nose of this wine smelled like blueberry jam, strawberry jam and grape jam. The mouth feel was light and the wine had an overall light body. The main flavor of the wine was strawberry. The finish was much too dry for me. I would try this wine again but with food to curve the edge of the harsh finish.

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Foxglove Paso Robles Zinfandel

Name: Foxglove Paso Robles Zinfandel
Variety: Zinfandel
Region: Central Coast, California
Country: United States
Year: 2011
Price: $16

Winery review: Superb, with loads of character, the 2011 Zinfandel delivers beautiful bramble, potpourri and spice-driven aromatics, medium-bodied richness and real depth and class; the fact that it sells for a song is just icing on the cake.

My review: For how grassy the nose of this wine was, I was surprised to find that the overall taste of this wine was ash. When this wine was swishing around my mouth, all I could think of was that it tasted as if I'd pulled the ashes out of my grandmother's wood stove and eaten them. I do not know why people enjoy this taste. I did not and will not try it again.

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Patricia Green Lia's Vineyard Pinot Noir

Name: Patricia Green Lia's Vineyard Pinot Noir
Variety: Pinot Noir
Region: Willamette Valley, Oregon
Country: United States
Year: 2012
Price: $38

Winery review: One of the best value Oregon pinot noirs for 15 years, fresh and mouthwatering with sweet black berry/cherry fruit flavors and Patty's trademark full-bodied style. There's a bit of very appealing field herbs and earth in the mix and a smooth silky finish. It's ready to drink but is so well balanced I'd treat it like a higher priced wine and cellar it for 2-5 years.

My review: The nose on this wine smelled like grape jam. The wine had a heavy body with nodes of cherry. The finish was extremely dry. I did not enjoy the finish, my pallet prefers to stay wet. I would not try this wine again.

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Moulin de Gassac Rose

Name: Moulin de Gassac Rose
Variety: 55% Syrah, 45% Grenache
Region: Southern Rhone
Country: France
Year: 2013
Price: $11

Winery review: This delightful salmon-pink wine is produced using the traditional saignée process. After macerating on the skins for approximately 10 hours, the juice is then pumped off and fermented in temperature-controlled, stainless steel tanks. Aromatics of strawberries and crushed red fruit leap from the glass. In the mouth, it is fresh with excellent acidity, some mineral components and good length. Very food friendly, it is a great companion to just about anything you want to throw at it.

My review: The nose on this wine was overwhelmingly grapefruit scented. The taste of the wine reminded me of sour patch kids. First it was sour, then it was sweet. The finish was extremely tart. This is definitely a wine that needs food and a person who loves candy.

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Foxglove Chardonnay

Name: Foxglove Chardonnay
Variety: Chardonnay
Region: Central Coast, California
Country: United States
Year: 2011
Price: $16

Winery review: The 2011 Chardonnay is a beauty, as well as an absurd value. Very clean and lively, with classic Chardonnay notes of juiced apple, citrus and minerality, it is clean and focused on the palate with the richness of the variety, yet also beautiful precision and focus. Classy and well-made, without any apparent oak, it should be purchased by the case and consumed over the coming 2-3 years.

My review: This wine was a buy. I really enjoyed it. The nose had nodes of citrus without the overly sweet pineapple scent. Overall the wine tasted like sour green apple. The finish was smooth. I would try this wine again.

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Moulin de Gassac Blanc

Name: Moulin de Gassac Blanc
Variety: 40% Grenache, 30% Savignon Blanc  and  30% Claritte Blend
Region: Languedoc
Country: France
Year: 2011
Price: $10

Winery review: Variously described as "Lafite in the Languedoc" (Gault & Milau), "the only Grand Cru of the Midi" (Hugh Johnston) and "exceptional" (Robert Parker), Mas de Daumas Gassac has consistently been the Languedoc gold standard for the past four decades. The 80-hectare, organically farmed estate is located deep in the sultry Midi, but enjoys a temperate microclimate as a result of altitude, which gives the wines a lovely deftness of touch. Try with coconut fish curry, penne al pesto, seafood gratin or cheese souffle.

My review: The nose on this wine was tiny. However, I could detect small notes of coconut. The mid pallet was unremarkable and the finish was also very unnoticeable. I could have just been drinking coconut water. This is not a wine that I would bother buying.

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Jam Jar Sweet White

Name: Jam Jar Sweet White
Variety: Muscat
Region: Paarl
Country: South Africa
Year: 20
Price: $9

Winery review: Soft floral hints add depth to the otherwise straightforward ripe peach and nectarine aromas. There's a good balance in the mouth, with a nice acidic lift and slightly lime edge to cut the sweetness on the finish and close with the faintest hint of honeydew melons.

My review: This wine smelled like honey and honeysuckle. The flavor overall was of raspberry and pineapple. On the finish, this wine was much too sweet. I did not enjoy the finish at all. With a bit more acidity and dryness in this wine, it could be very enjoyable.

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Entrada Malbec

Name: Entrada Malbec
Variety: Malbec
Region: Mendoza
Country: Argentina
Year: 2010
Price: $6

Winery review: Firm and structured, this is a solid wine, laced with mineral acidity and tight tannins. It has a juicy, blackberry fruit component cutting through the texture.

My review: This wine smelled like Dr. Pepper, which I found extremely intriguing. The nose also had a few hints of curry. There was a large tannin feel to this wine. Overall the body of this wine was very watery. I did not enjoy this wine because it did not have any real flavor for me. This wine was more of a feel and I prefer to taste something.

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Vina Borgia Borsao

Name: Vina Borgia Borsao
Variety: Grenache
Region: Campo de Borja
Country: Spain
Year: 2012
Price: $7

Winery review: The 2012 Vina Borgia was fermented and aged in stainless steel. Its medium dark ruby color followed by abundant notes of strawberries and black cherries offered in a straightforward, medium-bodied, soft,  hedonistic, round style.

My review: This wine had strong notes of vinegar on the nose. The tannin concentration of the wine was very high and the finish lasted for a full minute. My mouth was extremely dry after tasting this wine. I did not enjoy this wine.

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Peter Lehmann Chardonnay

Name: Peter Lehmann Chardonnay
Variety: Chardonnay
Region: Barossa Valley
Country: Australia
Year: 2010
Price: $20

Winery review: The 2010 Chardonnay presents subtle notes of spiced apple slices and ripe peaches with hints of freshly baked bread and melon. Light bodied, clean and refreshingly crisp in the mouth, it offers just enough apple and pear flavor concentration, finishing with medium-long persistence.

My review: The nose of this wine was very woody and oak-ish. There was a lot of acid in this wine that caused major lip puckering. Overall the wine tasted like lemon and soap. I do not plan to taste this wine again.

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Protocolo Vino de la Tierra de Castilla

Name: Protocolo Vino de la Tierra de Castilla
Variety: Airen/Macabeo Blend
Region: Castilla
Country: Spain
Year: 2010
Price: $7

Winery review: Subtle aromas of mint, lemon and orange with a hint of honeysuckle. Dry understated and focused, offering clean citrus and melon flavors and slow building sweetness. Finishes dry and brisk, with an echo of lemon. As usual, this is an outstanding value.

My review: This wine smelled like lemon grass. It tasted like sweet tarts. The finish was high in acidity and was extremely sour. My mouth puckers just thinking about it! This wine would be better with food but for a casual drink, it is a definite pass.

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Le Roc des Anges Segna de Cor

Name: Le Roc des Anges Segna de Cor
Variety: 50% Grenache, 30% Carignan and 20% Syrah
Region: Cotes du Roussillion
Country: France
Year: 2012
Price: $24

Winery review: The relation between the Grenache and the terrior of Roc des Anges gives fruity and fleshy grapes. To balance this generosity, they are blended with old Carignan and Syrah giving firm structure and dark colour and resulting in a tender and fruity wine sustained by a real texture of tannins. Four S's: Soft, Smooth, Silky and Smokey! Lively and fresh in the mouth, gentle flavours of red grape and berry, dried sprices and roasted herbs.

My review: This wine was nothing special. The nose was unremarkable and the body had very little traits. Overall the wine just tasted like sweet water with an extremely dry finish. I would rather buy water than this imitation water.

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Dom La Blaque Provence

Name: Dom La Blaque Provence
Variety: Grenache/Syrah Blend
Region: Provence
Country: France
Year: 2010
Price: $15

Winery review: Explosive blackberry and blueberry on the nose. Very ripe with blueberry, mulberry, raspberry, some mineral character, layers upon layers of fruit, good texture, and with some backbone that should help it age well. This is definitely more serious than its price tag.

My review: The alcohol in this wine was very noticeable in the nose. This in not a quality I appreciate. The mid pallet had a fair amount of tannin feel and tasted of plums and cherries. On the finish, the wine was very dry with only a small pepper component. I did not enjoy this wine.

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Gres St. Vincent Cotes du Rhone

Name: Gres St. Vincent Cotes du Rhone
Variety: Grenache Blend
Region: Southern Rhone
Country: France
Year: 2010
Price: $14

Winery review: From a unique, organic co-op in the Rhone valley, this delicious, Grenache based blend delivers satisfying weight and earthiness but stays light on its feet. Unlike many co-ops that blend growers' fruit into one wine, here each makes their own. Though the blend is dominated by Grenache, the Syrah takes center stage on the nose, with classic notes of liqourice, black fruits, and a wonderful whiff of violets. The tannins and acidity are in wonderful balance here, and on the palate the juicy, exuberant fruit from the Grenache takes over, building to a chocolate note on the finish. A great example of the class and sophistication showing in the 2010 vintange and of the wide range of great values available in the Southern Rhone.

My review: The nose of this wine was reminiscent of blueberries. The wine had a very smooth transition from nose to primary to mid. The finish started off slow but then brought in heat with an arid pepper finish. Had it not been for the harshness of the finish, this would have been a buy.

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Coto de Hayas Garnacha Syrah

Name: Coto de Hayas Garnacha Syrah
Variety: 70% Old Vine Garnacha, 30% Syrah
Region: Aragon
Country: Spain
Year: 2012
Price: $9

Winery review: Ruby red color. Pronounced red fruit and spice aromas. Medium bodied, dry and easy going. Fresh, fruity, and lightly peppery with mild acidity and soft tannins.

My review: This wine had a very small nose. The mid pallet was filled with the delectable taste of cherry pie. The finish was extremely dry with only a small hint of pepper. I preferred this finish over many of the bolder finishes I have experienced with red wines from Spain.

I tried this wine without food.

Tasting- Vincent Dampt Chablis

Name: Vincent Dampt
Variety: Chardonnay
Region: Burgundy
Country: France
Year: 2012
Price: $22

Winery review: The 2011 Butternut is a wine that lives up to its name. It has round, creamy notes, hints of hazelnut and a finish that doesn't want to quit. Grapes from the regions of Carneros and Coombsville in Napa and Santa Lucia and Arroyo Seco in Monterey broaden the flavor profile of Butternut. The 2010 Butternut spent 14 months in 100% new French oak. From a group of savvy wine blenders based in St. Helena, Napa Valley.

My review: This wine is nothing to write home about. The nose was tiny and only had a tiny hint of pear. The mid pallet was watery and light. The finish was very long and tart. It was much too oak-y for my enjoyment. 

I tried this wine without food. 

Tasting- Butternut Chardonnay

Name: Butternut Chardonnay
Variety: Chardonnay
Region: Napa Valley, California
Country: United States
Year: 2011
Price: $15

Winery review: The 2011 Butternut is a wine that lives up to its name. It has round, creamy notes, hints of hazelnut and a finish that doesn't want to quit. Grapes from the regions of Carneros and Coombsville in Napa and Santa Lucia and Arroyo Seco in Monterey broaden the flavor profile of Butternut. The 2010 Butternut spent 14 months in 100% new French oak. From a group of savvy wine blenders based in St. Helena, Napa Valley.

My review: I really enjoyed this wine. It had tones of vanilla and butterscotch. The oak was not heavy or too bold. The feel of the wine was smooth with a slightly dry finish. This wine was very well made and delightful. 

I tried this wine without food. 

Tasting- Eudald Cava Brut Familia

Name: Eudald Cava Brut Familia
Variety: Blend of Macabeu, XarelAlo, Parellada and Chardonnay
Region: Cava
Country: Spain
Year: 2011
Price: $16

Winery review: From a 9th generation winemaker who is pushing the envelope for quality and value.  This traditional-styled Cava is a blend of Macabeu, XarelAlo, Parellada and Chardonnay all grown in organic/biodynamic vineyards.  Our first reaction to tasting it was, “Wow – this is really good!”  There’s plenty of elegant white and even some red fruit set off by a fine yeasty/bready character and a dash of seaside minerality.  Creamy, with small, refined bubbles, and ready to enjoy anytime you need a little lift. 

My review: The nose of this wine reminded me of apricots. I really enjoyed the bubbly mouth feel of this wine. The finish was reminiscent of sour grapefruit. I actually really enjoyed this wine. 

I tried this wine without food. 

Tasting- Rioja Antanio Reserva

Name: Rioja Antanio
Variety: Rioja Blend
Region: Rioja
Country: Spain
Year: 2008
Price: $18

Winery review: Antaño Reserva is a ruby red cherry wine of Rioja, with iridescences in tile color, shows an intense aroma of vanilla, mature fruits and leather. In the mouth is very soft, tasty and easy to drink. The retronasal sensation is complex and persistence.

My review: The nose on this wine was not very bold but it had subtle hints of cherry. The body of this red was very light and watery. On the finish, the wine was extremely dry. It left me wanting for something else. The server suggested that it may be better if paired with steak and I agree. 

I tried this wine without food. 

Tasting- Alamos Torrontes

Name: Alamos Torrontes
Variety: Torrontes
Region: Salta
Country: Argentina
Year: 2012
Price: $11

Winery review: A delightful representation of the high elevation Salta region, the Alamos 2012 Torrontes has bright floral aromas of orange and jasmine blossom. On the palate, this wine is as pleasant as a sunny spring day with citrus and peach flavors that lead to a crisp finish

My review: When I smelled the nose of this wine, I knew I would not like it. There is a sweetness to the nose that is overpowering. This mouth puckering sweetness follows through the mid pallet all the way to the finish. At the finish, it sits right behind your molars reminding you that the nose doesn't lie. This wine tastes like candied pineapples coated with more sugar than a person should eat for a month. I did not care for this wine. 

I tried this wine without food. 

Tasting- Ryan Patrick Red Head Red

Name: Ryan Patrick Red Head Red
Variety: 88% Merlot, 10% Primitivo and 2% Malbec
Region: Columbia Valley, Washington
Country: United States of America
Year: 2012
Price: $11

Winery review: A blend of 88% Merlot, 10% Primitivo and 2% Malbec that is smooth and inviting.  Ripe raspberry and bright strawberry lead to a lush juicy mid-palate and an enticing finish.  First sip could lead to an empty bottle and for the price, lead to another one.

My review: I enjoyed the nose of this wine. It smelled just like cherries jubilee. The mid pallet was very enjoyable with hints of peach and an overall sweetness. The finish had a mild pleasant spice. I really enjoyed this wine. 

I tried this wine without food.