Tasting - Ruta 22 Malbec

Name: Ruta 22 Malbec
Variety: Malbec
Region: Patagonia
Country: Argentina
Year: NV
Price: $7.95

Winery Review: "Stout and dense from the beginning, with blackberry and violet aromas. Despite being a bold and dark Malbec, this is fresh and composed, with sweet blackberry and cassis flavors. Good on the finish, with candied fruit and caramel sweetness." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: For only 8 bucks this South American beauty is a steal! Phenomenal bouquet that sends rich blackberry, blueberry, and strawberry flavors. Great balance between light tannins, semi-dry, big tannins, and big alcohol! Some vegetable hints through the tasting sequence that left a refreshing natural taste to go along with the fruit. Little toasty vanilla on the finish lead to a great wine from sniff to swallow!

I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Reserve Grand Veneur Côtes du Rhône

Name: Reserve Grand Veneur Côtes du Rhône
Variety: 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah and 10% Cinsault
Region: Rhone Valley
Country: France
Year: 2010
Price: $14.95/ 750mL or $38.95/ 3L

Winery Review: "As for their other values, the 2010 Grand Veneur Cotes du Rhone Reserve displays loads of ripe flavors. It is very concentrated for a Cotes du Rhone, and is actually an amazing wine. Classic garrigue, black cherry liqueur, lavender, licorice and spice box are all present in this fullbodied, intense, and rich Cotes du Rhone. This is a sensational effort to drink over the next 4-5 years," Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: Ah back to the French blends after a rough first encounter. On the nose; very musty and natural smelling with some autumn smoke and barnyard hiding in the background. Great ruby red color accentuates a full bodied, aggressive wine that is definitely age worthy. Terroir making itself known on the pallet in the form of a minerally, rocky after taste. Once again, not really my cup of tea but keep trying until you can figure out these strange, oddballs!

I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Lobetia Tempranillo

Name: Lobetia Tempranillo
Variety: Tempranillo
Region: La Mancha
Country: Spain
Year: 2011
Price: $9.95

Winery Review: "Organically and naturally grown and made, this wine allows the varietal and the terroir to stand out cleanly. It shows a nice cherry color with a violet shade because of its youth. Red berries and cherries on the nose. On the palate it is fresh, slightly astringent, and harmonious with a long finish." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: Round two of Lobetia organic wines was just as good as the first! I was initially impressed with the deep red hue of the temp, definitely couldn't see through it. Berries on berries on berries on the nose with the nice addition of cherries and plum to the pallet upon tasting. I sensed a little bit of the earth, Spanish terroir, which I enjoyed, and the combination of earthiness and fruit created a well balanced flavor blend. Mild tannic structure made this wine very approachable for new drinkers, and a spicy, peppery finish appeals to those experienced.

I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Lobetia Chardonnay

Name: Lobetia Chardonnay
Variety: Chardonnay
Region :La Mancha
Country: Spain
Year: 2011
Price: $9.95

Winery Review: "Organically and naturally grown and made, this wine allows the varietal and the terroir to stand out cleanly. Clean, bright color with a greenish-yellow tone. On the nose, exotic fruits like pineapple. Full flavored, fresh, with good acidity in the mouth, it finishes with tropical fruits." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: My interest in the wine grew exponentially once I found out it was made with all organic grapes, and I was eager to compare it against other (non-organic i guess?) chards. Props to Espana for pulling off a kick butt wine with being green! Which ironically enough there was a little green shimmer in this wine. Good bye California oak monster and hello druity paradise! Mangoes, apricots, and  kiwi highlight this fruity studded cast with crisp acidity and a fabulous finish as their co-stars. Slightly hallow on the mid-pallet but an overall satisfying wine!

I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Trattoria Busa Alla Torre Da Lele

Name: Trattoria Busa Alla Torre Da Lele
Variety: Pinot Grigio
Region: Veneto
Country: Italy
Year: NV
Price: $7.95

Winery Review: "Named after the famous restaurant in Italy! This is their house white wine! Coppery color from extended skin contact, round and rich texture with juicy melon aromas and flavors with a sweet fennel note on the ultra smooth finish. Great value Grigio! Drink now." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: I believe this is the first Pinot Grigio we've at the VC this semester, and what a better time for one! Very light, crisp spring wine that would pair well with a picnic and a warm day. Very fruity from the nose to the finish with an emphasis on peach and apple flavor profiles. Medium bodied with a little more color than most whites but I enjoyed the strong acidity and distinct flavors of the Gris. Score one for Pinot Grigio!

I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Concannon Shiraz

Name: Concannon Shiraz
Variety: Shiraz
Region: Central Coast, California
Country: United States
Year: 2008
Price: $7.95

Winery Review: "This is an extremely rich, full-bodied wine with a dark fruit core. Aromas of blackberry, blueberry, cassis and dark cherry are followed by more berry fruits and chocolate and mocha on the palate." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: This might have been one of the strangest noses I've picked up one yet: new shoe smell? For some reason I felt like I was standing in a Foot Locker during this sniffy sniff but someone must have mashed some raspberries and and plums in with those fresh pairs of Jordans. Great balance with a slightly chewy texture and a lively/spicy, earthy finish. Pretty hollow mid-pallet but all in all I really enjoyed with Shiraz and its semi-dry appeal.

I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Ksana Bonarda

Name: Ksana Bonarda
Variety: Bonarda
Region: Mendoza
Country: Argentina
Year: 2008
Price: $9.95

Winery Review: "The bouquet is floral and lightly jammy, with berry aromas and a savory note or two. To the uninitiated, this is a great introduction to Bonarda. Finishes solid. Very sweet, berry smell with some rooty undertones. Kind of dry, makes your lips pucker." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: Fantastic deep red hue accompanied with a bitter grapefruit smell on the ol' nose. Boysenberry and pepper initially jumped out on the pallet followed by some of its toasty coffee friends. Long strawberry finish with a light puckering tannic structure. Rich aromas supported by an equally agreeable and friendly South American terroir. Great gem form the other America!


I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Black Ridge White Zinfandel

Name: Black Ridge White Zinfandel
Variety: Zinfandel
Region: Central Valley, California
Country: United States
Year: NV
Price: $3.95

Winery Review: "This fruit forward White Zinfandel displays fresh aromas and crisp flavors of strawberry, raspberry, and cherry. It is incredibly food friendly and will pair well with burgers, sandwiches, fruit salad, and more." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: As you may expect with an American Zin this puppy was bursting with spicy, fruity flavors from the get-go! Great West Coast fruit flavors coming on the nose, cherry, plum, and even some ripe apples. You get the great jammy components of a red Zin without the powerful tannic punch to the face. More tame than its siblings, it delivers great balance with a slight body due to its semi-sweet nature. Great after taste and an overall chill wine to drink.


I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Chandon Sweet Cuvée

Name: Chandon Sweet Cuvée
Variety: Blended Sparkling Rose, infused with Pinot Noir
Region: Napa Valley
Country: United States
Year: NV
Price: $9.95

Winery Review: "This wine is an innovative sparkling wine style revealing vibrant stone fruit and floral aromas with rich, luscious mouthfeel. This wine enlivens the senses and sparks spontaneous moments, complementing your passion for a good life." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: This Californian spritzer has a very unique color for a rose; tangerine orange. A bit odd from what I'm used to but it delivered none the less with zesty dark berry flavors and a little hidden spice. The bubbles were very subtle, not overpowering the pallet but making their presence known while providing a crisp, fresh finish. My only complain is that it seemed a little flabby. But how can a sparkling wine seem flabby? Great question, but once the bubbles quickly disappear a lack of acidity reared its ugly head. Such soft fruit flavors and an enjoyable effervescent start tarnished by a dull, flat finish. Not too bad overall but nothing to write home about.


I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Wilson Daniels Sauvignon Blanc

Name: Wilson Daniels Sauvignon Blanc
Variety: Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Central Coast, California
Country: United States
Year: 2010
Price: $7.95

Winery Review: "Orange blossom and citrus permeate the aromas. Alluring flavors of orange and grapefruit dominate the palate. Bright acidity balances the plush mouthfeel, resulting in a clean finish." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: A great straw yellow color with a potent lemony/fruity bouquet. I got a little bitter pear on the mid-pallet with some light acidity after kick. Very light bodied and refreshing with its summer-esque qualities and strong backbone. Low complexity, approachable Sav Blanc that flourishes on the florals and elegant simplicity. 


I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Caprice de Bastor- Lamontagne

Name: Caprice de Bastor- Lamontagne
Variety: 60% Semillon, 36% Sauvignon Blanc, 4% Muscadelle
Region: Sauternes
Country: France
Year: 2004
Price: $7.95

Winery Review: "Very clean, with lemon, mineral and honey aromas that follow through to a medium body. Shows vanilla, apple and melon flavors, with a medium finish. Lightly sweet." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: On the nose I got a weird combination of yellow mustard and rubbing alcohol so I can't say I was particularly pumped to try this wannabe dessert wine. Very hollow and hot with weedy, dandelion flavors. Way way way way way too over the top sweet, the wine was chewy just because of its ridiculous sugar content, seemed more like corn syrup than anything else. Definitely picked ip on the honey flavors and it left a honey-esque  feeling in my mouth too, that coated kind of "dog with peanut butter on the roof of its mouth" kind of thing. Light and crisp, prefect combination for for a white wine but out of balance with the sugar overload.


I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Torre Castillo Alegre

Name: Torre Castillo Alegre
Variety: 100% Monastrell
Region: Jumilla
Country: Spain
Year: 2010
Price: $9.95

Winery Review: "4 months in new American oak barrels Bright ruby-red. Dried cherry, pipe tobacco and rose aromas, with a hint of woodsmoke. Sweet and fleshy on the palate, with blackberry and cherry flavors complimented by licorice and a suggestion of dried herbs. The cherry and smoke notes repeat on the finish." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: And the Spanish wines continue to impress. A nice vibrant red color with a strong dark berry nose and a hint of some autumn leaf smell (via barrel aging) showing itself. Semi-sweet and earthy with a medium body and very smooth, delicate finish. Really showing some of that Iberian Peninsula terroir in an elegant compilation of Monastrell and it's best friend American oak. 


I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Wilson Daniels Merlot

Name: Wilson Daniels Merlot
Variety: Merlot
Region: Central Coast, California
Country: United States
Year: 2010
Price: $7.95

Winery Review: "Made predominantly from Paso Robles grapes, the wine is fullbodied and silky yet robust, with aromas of black cherry and plum and a palate of blackberry, raspberry and blueberry jam laced with vanilla and toast." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: Wham bam thank you ma'am, if you got the jelly, this wine will bring the jam! POW! Plenty of jammy, fruity action all up in your mouth. Dark berries create an immense flavor profile that is both complex and desirable. Long finish with plenty of penetrating peppery spice action on the mid pallet. I could smell the oak and taste the oak bringing some toasty goodness to round out this medium bodied, well balanced tannic wine. Classic California Merlot that I wouldn't mind laying around the house.


I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Bricco Dei Tati Rosè

Name: Bricco Dei Tati Rosè
Variety: 100% Barbera
Region: Piedmont
Country: Italy
Year: 2012
Price: $6.95

Winery Review: "Fresh with aromas of strawberries, cherries, and rose petals, this an ideal wine with shellfish, salads, chicken, and appetizers" Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: If I didn't know any better I could have sworn I was walking through a blossoming spring strawberry patch, not smelling wine in the VC. Explosion of lovely strawberry and plum components on the nose, very floral, light, and delicate. A little bit hotter than I would have liked but the sweet berry flavors blended together very well. However this was a pretty bland wine, low complexity, low tannins, low excitement. Maybe a touch too much sugar for my pallet, left that sugar coated feeling on my teeth. Overall I enjoyed this rose but it left me looking for just a little more pep and zing that I wasn't finding under a heavy strawberry blanket. Definitely a solid spring/summer picnic or cookout type of wine.


I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Smoking Loon Sauvignon Blanc

Name: Smoking Loon Sauvignon Blanc
Variety: Sauvignon Blanc
Region: California
Country: United States
Year: 2009
Price: $7.95

Winery Review: "This bleached blonde beauty is reminiscent of fresh green apples, pineapple and has hints of hibiscus blossoms. The concentration of zesty lemon and gooseberry fills your mouth leaving notes of thyme and melon behind. The bright acid in this wine gives you a zing while the fruit keeps your mouth watering for more. This wine pairs beautifully with a grilled prawn salad with a grapefruit vinaigrette, veggie spring rolls or grilled tilapia with mango salsa." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: I think this might have been my least favorite wine I've sampled thus far at the VC. Nose was heavy on citrus, particularly lemon, and grass giving it a little zesty pep. This wine must have been hibernating this winter though because it was the flabbiest flab wine I've had, so if anyone doesn't know what that means and wants to find out how important acidity is to wine, go grab a bottle of this. Smooth, light bodied, and semi-sweet with a light vanilla, tobacco taste with some hints smokiness in the background. I believe this was my first experience with Sauvignon Blanc, off on the wrong foot but always time to win me over.


I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Emeri de Bortoli Sparkling Shiraz

Name: Emeri de Bortoli Sparkling Shiraz
Variety: Shiraz
Region: Southern Eastern Australia
Country: Australia
Year: NV
Price: $9.95

Winery Review: " A relatively light, fresh style of sparkling Shiraz, with berries and hints of chocolate picking up just a touch of sweet vanilla on the finish."

My Review: This sparkling Shiraz was a whole new experience for me… an oaked sparkling? Dark berries really came through on the nose for me along with a little bit of the fizzy piece. Right when the wine hit the tip of my tongue the bubbles made their presence known. I was most thrown off thought but the subtly toasty, sawdust flavors hidden in the background. Definitely wasn’t expecting that but you never know with those experimental Australians. Drier than most sparkling wines I’ve had, left a nice, refreshing, crisp feeling in my mouth.


I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Tres Ojos Garnacha

Name: Tres Ojos Garnacha
Variety: Garnacha
Region: Calatayud
Country: Spain
Year: 2011
Price: $6.95

Winery Review: "This wine has a brick red color with a bougquet of red raspberries, spice and white pepper.  The palate is incredibly concentrated and rich.  The modern styles of Garnacha in Spain are continuously being perceived worldwide as wines of extraordinarily good quality.  This wine is fruity, juicy and shows great depth, ripe tannins, length but yet with wonderful elegance and lightness. Enjoy with sausages, roasted meats, aged cheeses etc."
 
My Review: It’s weird to actually think of putting spices and pepper on your fruit but somehow they balance so nicely in a glass of wine. Very jammy/fruity with plums, black currant, and black cherry hints. Fantastic balance between acidity and tannins, I fight so evenly matched that I couldn’t even taste the alcohol. Spain just seems to be my wine money spot but this Garnacha was right on point, delivering great complex flavor profiles and deep aromas.


I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Montebuena

Name: Montebuena
Variety: 100% Tempranillo
Region: Rioja
Country: Spain
Year: 2010
Price: $8.95

Winery Review: "Brilliant deep ruby red color, fruity aromas . Montebuena Red has a spicy vanilla bouquet and is smooth and fruity in the mouth with some well-integrated secondary nuances, full-flavored and a persistent pleasant finish. Produced from 100% Tempranillo grapes, which are hand harvested from the Montebuena vineyard."

My Review: Bone, bone, bone dry! But I like it. Slightly hot on the nose with wafts of cherry, blackberries and plum wrapped in a great tannic structure to provide a medium body beauty. Had a spicy mid-pallet and a very peppery, leathery finish that lingered for a long time. Solid wine and I’m finding that I’ve really enjoyed every Tempranillo I’ve had.


I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Sainte Victoire Cotes de Provence

Name: Sainte Victoire Cotes de Provence
Variety: Grenache, Syrah, Cinsault
Region: Provence
Country: France
Year: 2011
Price: $8.95

Winery Review: "Bright salmon pink; typical of the fresh but warm Provence style. Refined and complex on the nose, with summer fruit and floral notes. Dry and crisp, with a delicate flavour and full texture."

My Review: I really wasn’t very impressed with this blended wine, I would say it tasted a lot like the Canyon Road Chardonnay, but lacking some serious flavor. Slightly sweeter with a lighter body and more floral nose but just wasn’t doing much for me. Lack of acidity left it slightly out of balance, but overall it’s a very approachable, light wine.


I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Canyon Road Chardonnay

Name: Canyon Road Chardonnay
Variety: Chardonnay
Region: California
Country: United States
Year: 2011
Price: $6.95

Winery Review: "Medium- bodied wine with notes of crisp apple and ripe citrus fruit with a hint of cinnamon spice. Delicious complement to grilled chicken, lighter pasta dishes or mild cheeses. Medium- bodied wine with notes of crisp apple and ripe citrus fruit with a hint of cinnamon spice."
 
My Review: As expected this Chardonnay from Californ-i-a spewed oaky characteristics from sniff to swallow. Hidden behind that initial woody, spicy was a citrusy, lemony component that I particularly enjoyed.  Despite having a stronger body than most white wines it was still crisp and acidic leading to a smooth finish. A nice gold color and fairly dry wine, my first experience with a West Coast Chardonnay gets two thumbs up.


I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Potluck Sweet Malbec

Name: Potluck Sweet Malbec
Variety: 100% Malbec
Region: Mendoza
Country: Argentina
Year: 2010
Price: $7.95

Winery Review: "Deep red brilliant with violet hints. Complex, fruity, and predominant red fruits. Easy to drink, round with persistent sweetness, very well balanced with sweet tannins." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: The darkest of the bunch this week, plum color distinguishes this plum dominated sweet wine, who woulda thought? Even those they advertise this wine as sweet I didn't really taste it, I thought it was as sweet as some of the other red wines, most notably the other wine from Mendoza, the rose. Probably the hottest sweet wine I've ever had, not too sure it was floating my boat. I prefer dry wines usually and flavors were clashing and balance was pretty off.


I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Domaine de Grange de Payan

Name: Domaine de Grange de Payan
Variety: Blend, around 80% Grenache
Region: Côtes du Rhône
Country: France
Year: 2011
Price: $8.95

Winery Review: "Intensely spicy and precise, with lively red berry flavors and a hint of black pepper. The Grenache, which makes up the majority of the wine, is deeper and more powerful, offering cherry and black raspberry qualities lifted by zesty minerality." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: Skating on the Red-Ruby border, this wine screamed strawberrieys, raspberries, and blackberries. Bone dry with a little higher alcohol than I'd like but the puckering tannic component was rather tame with a spicy, peppery kick to start the after taste. Plenty going on in this complex wine, almost as much as its tongue twisting name. The heaviest body of all the wines today, I embraced all the flavors and earth tones.


I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Tinto Figaro

Name: Tinto Figaro
Variety: 100% Garnacha
Region: Calatayud
Country: Spain
Year: 2009
Price: $6.95

Winery Review: "Figaro is 100% Garnacha, made from a selection of the best grapes grown in the oldest vineyards. While not truly an "oaked wine", a short stay in oak barrels provides a nice spicy flavor boost. Bright violet. Dark berry and cherry aromas show a jammy aspect. Supple and gently sweet, with good lift to its black raspberry and boysenberry flavors. Smooth and broad on the finish, leaving behind a hint of spiciness. Extremely easy to drink and an excellent value." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: This was my first adventure with the Garnacha, or Grenache as the French call it. On the nose it was evident that this Spanish wine has some degree of barrel aging when I picked up on a smokey, leathery hint. Got a strong cherry component with a raspberry side kicked that both ganged up for a strong backbone and lighter tannins than I would have thought given the darker red color. I'd call it medium-dry with a medium body and just a very approachable red wine overall.


I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Maipe Malbec Rosé

Name: Maipe Malbec Rosé
Variety: 100% Malbec
Region: Mendoza
Country: Argentina
Year: 2011
Price: $7.95

Winery Review: "Intense pink color with violet hints. Fresh red fruit bouquet, strawberry and cherry flavors, balanced acidity, dry and lingering finish. Excellent with tuna or green salad, pasta, spicy Asian dishes." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: This elegant rose had a very cherry and plum heavy bouquet, I could even sense a little alcohol heat on the nose, which was followed up by a little heat and kick on the taste. Semi-sweet, medium-dry with light tannins and a slight spicy kick to finish off the taste! Beautiful light pink wine with a generic berry flavor, light body, and great balance of sugar, acid, tannins, and alcohol.

I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Cortenova Pinot Grigio

Name: Cortenova Pinot Grigio
Variety: 100% Pinot Grigio
Region: Veneto
Country: Italy
Year: 2012
Price: $7.95

Winery Review: "Brilliant straw color with emerald reflections. Fresh and floral bouquet with a hint of pears, apricots and bananas. Fresh and inviting with bright fruit and an easy drinking style with a pleasing hint of almonds in the aftertaste. Pairs well with seafood dishes, risottos with scampi, spaghetti with clams, sole in white wine Perfect also as an aperitif." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: My first tasting back from break and I think I'm starting to pick up on this whole tasting thing. Without looking at the tasting notes, I wrote down floral, grassy nose with a pear/apricot mid pallet , nice and tart with a smooth, light finish. Pairs up pretty well with what the "pros" had written, who said write critiquing was tough? We must just have similar tastes but I would definitely like to try this wine with some summery, picnic foods in a couple weeks when things warm up. Great acidity and balance with a pale yellow hue.


I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Cabernet Sauvignon

Name: Rex - Goliath Cabernet Sauvignon
Variety: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Region: Coonawarra
Country: Chile
Year: 2012
Price: $7.95

Winery Review: "This is a hearty Cabernet Sauvignon with structure and concentration. Dark and intense in color. Hints of cedar and oak, with layers of raspberry, plum, mocha, and currant. Firm tannins with big fruit flavors lead to a lengthy and persistent finish. I love taking this wine to get together with friends. It always seems to help inspire good conversation. I probably don't need to say that a wine like this will work best with a hearty red meat dish, but I will any way."

My Review:  A swath of pleasant floral aromas dance along an enjoyable robustly bodied brew. For a baby wine this succulant concoction has a lot of deep root inside the French oak barrels. Fantab-ulous tasting with some majestic plum pulp fiction... potentially with some sublime?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c78uEWJKl2A


I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - YellowTail Shiraz

Name: YellowTail Shiraz
Variety: 100% Shiraz
Region: Coonawarra
Country: Australia
Year: 2012
Price: $7.95

Winery Review: "Yellow Tail Shiraz has berry and vanilla aromas. Subdued earthy tones with soft ripe sweetness are displayed in perfect harmony with fine tannins. This classic red wine that goes well with a good steak or in front of a roaring fire. It's pure red goodness in a glass!"

My Review: Holy juan guacamole is this wine tasty! I didn't enjoy it at first but the flavors and tannic structure won me over in the long run! Blueberry and vanilla made a drastic punch on the bouquet and the mid pallet followed through despite the high heat of the succulent drink. Medium bodied with a fantastic balance, accentuated with great acidity. Please enjoy with "I can't Quit you Baby" by The Zep.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OcbTv_zNtvs

The song is just as bluesy and soulful as the wine itself, enjoy with a full dose of jammage and a full filling of great grape juice.Definitely barrel aged with a lovely hint of smokey caramel and sweet vanilla.


I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - YellowTail Merlot Reserve

Name: YellowTail Merlot Reserve
Variety: 100% Merlot
Region: Coonawarra
Country: Australia
Year: 2009
Price: $6.95

Winery Review: "This generous Merlot shows luscious and supple texture with blueberry, blackcurrant flavours and soft, dusty tannins giving structure. An elegant wine. Serve with casseroles like chicken cacciatore or veal ragu."

My Review: I'm going to throw a new idea out there that great wines don't just pair with fantastic cuisines, but they also match up (or should I say mash up) with groovy tunes. Musical wizard Carlos Santana inspired this tasting that provided the driest wine I've sampled thus far, bone, bone dry. Extremely fruity bouquet displaying hints of raspberry and blueberry from down under. I was most caught off guard by it's lingering tannic taste. Sits well on the pallet with a powerful balance and very full, big body. Very smooth, drinkable vino, especially for a massive producer. Definitely taste the wood-aged characteristics. Superb  Sunday sippin'.


I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Monte Aman

Name: Monte Aman
Variety: 100% Tempranillo
Region: Arlanza
Country: Spain
Year: 2009
Price: $5.95

Winery Review: "Fermentation of selected grapes in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperature. Aging in American oak casks for 5 months followed by 3 months in the bottle before being released in the market. Inky ruby. Ripe cherry and plum on the nose. Smooth and fleshy, with deep dark fruit flavors complicated by bitter chocolate and anise. A spicy quality adds lift and focus to the weighty fruit. Offers an appealing mix of power and energy and drinks very well right now." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: The sweetest of this weeks red wines flaunts potent cherry through and through from nose to finish. Complimented with a stout tannic structure that alludes to eating a fruit that still needs a little more time to ripen. The okay goodness is also apparent on the long, toffee/toasty finish that seems to sneak in out of right field. Smooth with a stellar red color that soothes the pallet and escorts its to a  full bodied, well banalced Spanish wonderland, ándale!


I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Cortenova Montepulciano d'Abruzzo

Name: Cortenova Montepulciano d'Abruzzo
Variety: 100% Montepulciano d' Abruzzo
Region: Montepulciano d' Abruzzo
Country: Italy
Year: 2010
Price: $6.95

Winery Review: "Deep ruby red color with violet highlights and a pleasant and fruity bouquet. Full bodied, soft tannins and good acidity. Excellent with pasta dishes and red meats." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: If you can pronounce the name of this wine that victory number one, but victory number two comes if you own a bottle! Hands down, this week's "pucker up" winner boasts complex tannic structure and an aromatic pear and apple bouquet. Brash and bold, fully bodied and bone dry, a classic big red. Maybe even a couple berry tones hiding underneath it all? Great balance and overall my favorite wine of the week.


I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Maipe Chardonnay

Name: Maipe Chardonnay
Variety: 85% Chardonnay and 15% Viognier
Region: Mendoza
Country: Argentina
Year: 2012
Price: $7.95

Winery Review: "30% malolactic fermentation, 30% was aged in French oak barrels. Brilliant yellow golden color with green hints. The wine is crisp and filled with white peach, pear, green apples flavors, toasty vanilla. Elegant and luscious wine, well balanced. Crisp and long finish. Pairs well with creamy soups, pork, veal, vegetables." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: I know it's not from California but this oaky Chardonnay sure tastes like it! Accentuated by its deeper yellow hue, I picked up on a sea of apricots on the nose with a slight hint of cream. Very smooth drink that tickled you tongue as it went down. Fuller bodied white wine with great balance of acid and sugar. Flavorful but not overpowering the South American gem is probably my favorite Chardonnay I've tasted yet.

I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Villa d' Orvieto

Name: Villa d' Orvieto
Variety: Grechetto, Procanico (Trebbiano), and Malvasia
Region: Umbria
Country: Italy
Year: 2011
Price: $6.95

Winery Review: "It’s a blend of Grechetto, Procanico (Trebbiano), and Malvasia. Fresh and crisp, it has a beautiful, floral bouquet. It is wonderful with appetizers, fish, chicken, and salads." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: I can honestly say that this is the first time I tasted a wine and thought... Where's the flavor? Did they accidentally serve me water? Very, very light, delicate wine with a semisweet vibe. Could pair nicely with some appetizers on a spring or summer picnic but just not my cup of tea. Thin body with a slight yellow sheen.


I sampled the wine without food.

Tasting - Morada Sangria

Name: Morada Sangria
Variety: Sangria Blended
Region: Unable to find information
Country: Spain
Year: NV
Price: $4.95

Winery Review: "Morada Sangria is a traditional Spanish drink made with red wine and citrus extracts. Garnet color and fresh on the palate. Pasteurization preserves the color, aromas and flavors. 7% Alc. It is a very refreshing Sangria with around 85 grams of sugar. Sangria is now one of the hottest items in the beverage industry and it's growing exponentially year to year. Serve well chilled, on its own or with lemonade and slices of fruit like peach, banana or apple." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: If you have a hankering for your sweet tooth this is the drink for you! Extremely, possibly even too sweet for my liking, explaining its very low ABV. Very summer vibe to it with a slew of citrus on the nose, notably lime and orange. The initial taste reminds me of Fruity Pebbles and that fruit storm perpetuates through the whole tasting experience. Lacks back bone however, providing the second flabby wine of the tasting, slightly unbalanced. This time I feel like I need to brush me teeth because they're coated in sugar but it would definitely be enjoyable with desert. An interesting twist on red wine that everyone can like!


I sampled the wine without food. 

Tasting - Lost Vineyards Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon

Name: Lost Vineyards Shiraz/Cabernet Sauvignon
Variety: 60% Shiraz, 40% Cabernet Sauvignon
Region: Unable to find information
Country: Argentina
Year: NV
Price: $4.95

Winery Review: "It is dry and contains subtle tobacco undertones with a black licorice, cherry, scent. The oak is in the background. Would pair well hamburger or a steak rather than stand alone." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: Hot, hot nose very a very oaken must. A very heavy, big bodied wine a lot going on from start to finish! Very nice, dark red Argentinian. The driest of the bunch left me with that almost "I need to go brush my teeth because there's a film all over them" feeling. Not sure I picked out any tobacco but I sensed a strong dark berry flavor. I agree that it would go well with a tapas meal but then again what wouldn't?!

 I sampled the wine without food. 

Tasting - Villa Pozzi Nero D'Avola

Name: Villa Pozzi Nero D'Avola
Variety: 100% Nero d’Avola
Region: Sicily
Country: Italy
Year: 2010
Price: $8.95

Winery Review: "Very dark purple, with a reddish-violet edge, typical of this grape. Black plums, a hint of licorice and subtle spice, not overly complex but appealing. A big mouth full of juicy black fruit is well structured by tart acidity and soft but distinct tannins." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: Of all the wines on this weeks slate, this D'Avola was definitely the most  distinct. It's deep red was the first sign of high tannins and boy did the taste back that up! The tart pucker face came out for a few seconds but it finished very well with a pleasant summer fruit kick. Very dry with a big, bold body.

 I sampled the wine without food. 

Tasting - Tres Ojos Rose

Name: Tres Ojos Rose
Variety: 50%Tempranillo, 50% Garnacha
Region: Calatayud
Country: Spain
Year: 2009
Price: $1.95

Winery Review: "This medium rose-colored rosado boasts a spicy red cherry/plum nose with a soft lush attack of red berry fruit flavors and a crisp dry finish. Simple and refreshing and a natural for tapas." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: Although this rosé concoction might have been a little past its prime, I think it's age actually give it a little character and pizazz. The nose was very heavy on the cherry and it had a little kick on the mid-pallet, maybe exposing some of those spices. It was slightly dry, providing a nice crisp finish, very enjoyable, despite being a little flabby.

 I sampled the wine without food. 

Tasting - Les Perles Piquepoul

Name: Les Perles Piquepoul
Variety: 100% Piquepoul
Region: Languedoc Roussillon
Country: France
Year: 2011
Price: $7.95

Winery Review: "Light and young, this is a straightforward but enjoyable selection that would be an ideal match for light fare such as grilled chicken salads or fluke. Apple flesh, nectarine, and sweet citrus oil aromas and flavors appear on the nose and palate, while the short finish is infused with a flavor of green melon rind." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: Welcome to a fruity paradise! The nose on this wine was bursting with citrus and tropical fruits, along with a very soothing acid component. It had a very light body well paired with a dry fruity flavor. One of those classic just because it's fruity doesn't mean it's sweet scenarios Boyer was talking about. Very solid wine, would drink again!

I sampled the wine without food. 

Tasting - Gabriella Chianti

Name: Gabriella Chianti
Variety: 100% Sangiovese
Region: Tuscany
Country: Italy
Year: 2008
Price: $7.95

Winery Review: "This beautiful wine has the very deep red, almost purple, color that you would expect in a Chianti. The first thing you notice is the fruit, balanced by a bit of spice. It’s a good dry wine with a bold flavor. Even with it’s boldness, this Chianti is velvety smooth." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: Blood red, very dry and chalky tasting, a true classical Italian wine. Fruity flavors are kicking from start to finish with black cherry really taking over the front end of the tasting experience. Let my mouth with that "I need to brush my teeth" feeling and I really like that end of the dry-sweet spectrum. Great Mediterranean wine that could really one-up some already rocking meals.

I sampled the wine without food. 

Tasting - Lavarini Valpolicella Classico

Name: Lavarini Valpolicella Classico
Variety: 65% Corvina Veronese, 25% Rondinella, 10% Molinara
Region: Veneto
Country: Italy
Year: 2010
Price: $6.95

Winery Review: "The red ruby color and the dry taste give this wine joviality and cordiality. It is fresh and fruity, with lovely strawberry and cherry aromas and flavors, with nice spice and a silky texture." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: This has to be, by far, the most interesting, robust wine I've tasted thus far. The nose almost smelt like a smokey campfire but the taste is where things get strange. I thought the mid-pallet almost tasted like some kind of burnt rubber? Very though to put a finger (or tongue) on this taste but the accompanying dryness and cherry aftertaste made it an enjoyable new experience. Very diverse, complex wine.

I sampled the wine without food. 

Tasting - Dom de Mirail Cabernet/Merlot Rose

Name: Dom de Mirail Cabernet/Merlot Rose
Variety: 50% Cabernet, 50% Merlot
Region: Gascony
Country: France
Year: 2011
Price: $5.95

Winery Review: "There is a fresh, crisp character to this light rosé. It is eye-watering in its refreshing character, with balancing acidity, smoothing out the edges with a touch of caramel." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: A fantastic pink-ish hue for a Valentin's Day sampling, this Cabernet/Merlot tag team had a berry filled nose and a slightly sweet taste. The mid-pallet was very mild and the wine left just enough aftertaste to leave the taste buds happy but not overwhelmed. Good job France.

I sampled the wine without food. 

Tasting - Norton Torrontes

Name: Norton Torrontes
Variety: 100% Torrontes
Region: Luján de Cuyo
Country: Argentina
Year: 2011
Price: $5.95

Winery Review: "Greenish yellow with hints of gold, this Torrontés has intense aromas of white peach, rose petal, and jasmine. Norton Torrontés 2011 is pleasant and well balanced on the palate." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: I believe this is the first Argentinian wine I tasted at the Vintage Cellar this semester and boy was it a winner! Extremely fruity nose particularly on the peach, a looooot of peach going on. This beautiful yellow/gold Torrentes had a great smooth finish and is overall just a very agreeable wine and won the pick-a-bottle-to-take-home sweepstakes this week.

I sampled the wine without food. 

Tasting - Dibon Cava

Name: Dibon Cava
Variety: 45% Macabeo, 25% Xarel-lo, 30% Parellada
Region: Catalunya
Country: Spain
Year: No Vintage
Price: $9.95

Winery Review: "Xarel-lo, Parellada and Macabeo. The nose offers regal yeast and richness, while the palate has complexity to prop up apple, citrus and grapefruit flavors. Solid from front to back, with health and freshness." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: This Spanish beaut has a very mild noise that is accented by some crisp apples and fruit. Both the nose and taste agree, there's something "beer-y" to this wine, must be that yeast the review was talking about! I'm more of a beer fan myself so it was easier to pick up on these flavors than most wines. Had a nice acid backbone to drive the flavors home.

I sampled the wine without food. 

Tasting - Opera Prima Pink Moscato

Name: Opera Prima Pink Moscato
Variety: 97% Muscat, 3% Tempranillo
Region: Castilla La Mancha
Country: Spain
Year: No Vintage
Price: $5.95

Winery Review: "This fine sparkling presents and intense aroma of fresh berries and tropical fruits with hints of white flavor petals. Delicate bubbles caress the palate offering a silky and pleasant sweetness well balanced by a crisp, refreshing finish. Ideal on it own, as an aperitif or with all types of sweets and desserts." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: Holy lime-a-rita was this nose full of citrus! Extremely fruity, sweet smell that translated into a crisp, "ahhh" sort of finish. Definitely not the most wine-ly wine I've ever tasted but unique to my fairly empty palate repertoire. The bubbles were a nice touch to this sweet effervescent treat that left me with a nice fizz on the tongue. Don't think I could drink too much of this without getting sick of the high sugars and potent fun, fruity, flavors.

I sampled the wine without food. 

Tasting - Black Opal Shiraz

Name: Black Opal Shiraz
Variety: 100% Syrah
Region: Barossa Valley
Country: Australia
Year: 2011
Price: $5.95

Winery Review: "The Black Opal wines are sourced from vineyards found in South Australia along the Limestone Coast, at Langhorne Creek and in the infamous Barossa Valley. Black Opal Shiraz is rich red in the glass. Aromas of blackberry, pepper and spice followed with rich plum flavors round out the palate. Soft tannins give structure to the fruit-driven palate" Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: Owwww, pepper up the nose! Before I even took a sip I could tell this would be a spicy, peppery concoction. This is how I tasted the wine; fruity explosion, dry pepper on the mid-palate, then a swift spicy kick to follow up. Full bodied to the max with some serious tannins. Little too much umph for me at this point but I'd like to give it another shot sometime soon.

I sampled the wine without food. 

Tasting - Sokol Blosser Meditrina NV

Name: Sokol Blosser Meditrina NV
Variety: 50% Syrah, 28% Pinot Noir, 22% Zinfandel
Region: Oregon
Country: United States
Year: No Vintage
Price: $7.95

Winery Review: "It's created from the finest Pinot Noir, Syrah, and Zinfandel. The taste is lush and velvety with expressive notes of raspberry and cherry. It pairs nicely with pasta and anything off the grill." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: This big bold red packed a string punch of cherries to the schnoz with its interesting varietal blend. Sweet cherries dominated the initial taste punch followed by what I thought to be an apple accented mid-palate. Very vibrant and all around fruity, very savory and easy to sip.

I sampled the wine without food. 

Tasting - Wine Men of Gotham Chardonnay/Semillon

Name: Wine Men of Gotham Chardonnay/Semillon
Variety: 80% Chardonnay, 20% Semillon
Region: Barossa Valley
Country: Australia
Year: 2008
Price: $5.95

Winery Review: "Gotham’s 2008 Wine Men of Gotham Chardonnay Semillon is a blend of 80% Chardonnay and 20% Semillon. It gives a moderate intensity of melon, guava, apricot and butterscotch aromas. The medium bodied palate provides attractive acidity along with plenty
of tropical fruit flavors and a medium-long finish" Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: Considered a fairly unorthodox blend or grapes, I sensed a very strong citrus presence on the nose of this down-under wine. It was dry on the palate with a clean finish that accented the fruity flavors very nicely. With the citrus vibes was also a nice acidity that kept the wine balanced and fresh. Favorite white of the night and probably the most interesting and intriguing label work yet.

I sampled the wine without food. 

Tasting - Beringer Riesling

Name: Beringer Riesling
Variety: 100% Riesling
Region: Napa Valley
Country: United States
Year: 2009
Price: $5.95

Winery Review: "This wine is the perfect balance of honeysuckle and bright peach flavors. A perfect compliment to light fare, appetizers, or just sharing with friends." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: I thought this Riesling had a rather harsh, alcoholic smell that almost shot a tingle through my nose. I could easily taste the apricot flavor and found its crisp finish enjoyable. A medium body white wine that I personally wasn't crazy about but still a decent wine.

I sampled the wine without food. 

Tasting - Finca del Castillo Tempranillo

Name: Finca del Castillo Tempranillo
Variety: 100% Tempranillo
Region: La Mancha
Country: Spain
Year: 2011
Price: $4.95

Winery Review: "Rooty, spicy and baked on the nose, with aromas that lean towards raisin. The palate is more gritty and acidic, with raisin, cola, and spic flavors. Darkens up on the finish, which is long and peppery, with adequate juiciness and a final note of tomato." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: The darkest of em all, the Tempranillo was a really unique drink. Very fulled bodied, it left almost a coated feeling on my tongue afterwards which I wasn't crazy about. The mid-pallet was very interesting as a battle between some semi-soft cherries and pepper waged war with the spicy kicked ultimately winning and sticking around for the aftertaste. Probably a little too diverse and bold for my newbie taste but I'd like to try it again after I up my tasting skills.

I sampled the wine without food. 

Tasting - Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau

Name: Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau
Variety: 100% Gamay
Region: Beaujolais
Country: France
Year: 2012
Price: $3.95

Winery Review: "Bright and tangy, offering a classic banana note on the nose, with flavors of raspberry, wild strawberry and light spice. Modest finish." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: Pronouncing this wine is harder than any review I could write but right off the bat its rich, deep red color indicated a very fully bodied wine. I might as well have stuck my nose in a banana when taking my first whiff, very strong. It was kind of one-dimensional, nothing really going on after that initial fruiting blast. But for under four bucks this wine is a steal, I even invested in one for myself!

I sampled the wine without food. 

Tasting - Mars and Venus Chardonnay

Name: Mars and Venus Chardonnay
Variety: 100% Chardonnay
Region: Central Valley
Country: Chile
Year: 2011
Price: $5.95

Winery Review: "A very nice value Chardonnay that comfortably over-delivers vs. its modest price tag. No oak here, just bushels of clean, crisp, Chardonnay apple and stone fruit with a hint of caramelized pineapple. Juicy and clean, this is a mid-weight white that's just perfect for parties or weeknight sipping." Vintage Cellar wine notes

My Review: I found this Chardonnay and the La Cappuccina Soave to taste pretty similar, except this wine packed a little more punch in the fruit department. The nose was very strong on the apple with a little bit of citrus hiding behind it. Once again though, I felt some heat coming through but gave the crisp, dry taste a thumbs up. Not crazy about it but wouldn't mind grabbing a bottle!

I sampled the wine without food.