Tasting - Stanburn Winery Bull's Blush

Stanburn Winery Bull's Blush

Variety: Cabernet Franc Rose, Chambourcin, and Viognier

Region: Virginia

Country: United States

Year: 2010

Price: $14.99

Shop review: The blend creates a sweet rose fermented in stainless steel and finished in neutral oak. Light, yet fruity with hints of strawberries, pineapples, and apples. Pairs well with ham, pizza, spicy foods and angel food cakes with fruit. Great for picnics. It's like summer in a bottle!

My review: Sweet blend of red summer berries on the nose. You can smell the sweetness come through easily. On the palate, a delightful blend of sweet fruit, reminded me of a fresh cut bowl of fruit. A fun and very sweet wine. I probably would only be able to drink a glass of this at a time.

I did not have food with this tasting.

Tasting - Stanburn Winery Traminette

Stanburn Winery Traminette

Variety: Traminette (100%)

Region: Virginia

Country: United States

Year: 2010

Price: $14.99

Shop review: Fermented in stainless steel, then finished in neutral oak barrels. It has a floral aroma with a light but distinctive flavor. The wine is finished semi-dry, with about 2% residual sugar which balances the acid. It pairs well with fruits, pastas with white sauces, and zesty recipes. Perfect on a hot summer afternoon.

My review: I had never tried a Traminette varietal wine until this one and I really enjoyed how it was made. It was the perfect amount of sweet to make it a fun wine to drink. There is a honey-suckle scent on the nose. I would have liked to have purchased a bottle.

I did not have food with this tasting.

Tasting - Vina Aljibes Bordeaux Blend

Vina Aljibes Bordeaux Blend

Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon (40%), Merlot (35%), and Cabernet Franc (25%)

Region: La Mancha

Country: Spain

Year: 2007

Price: $19.95

Shop review: It exhibits a similar aromatic and flavor profile to its older sibling but appears to be a bit fresher due to its relative youth. It is also an outstanding value for drinking from 2012 to 2022. These new releases from Bodega Los Aljibes demonstrate what can be achieved by talented vignerons working in selected regions of La Mancha. Bodegas Los Aljibes is one of the up-and-coming stars of La Mancha.

My review: Very peppery and sandalwood-like mixed with dark fruit on the nose. I got a strong rush of heat tasting this wine. Reminded me of a leather couch. An intense wine.

I did not have food with this tasting.

Tasting - Duck Duck Goose Chardonnay

Duck Duck Goose Chardonnay

Variety: Chardonnay (100%)

Region: Barossa Valley - South Australia

Country: Australia

Year: 2009

Price: $7.95

Shop review: Pale golden straw, highlighted with vibrant lime hues. The bouquet is flowing with ripe peach and nectarine which leads to the mouth-watering palate. Fresh fruit driven with melon and citrus overtones. The fruit was gently pressed to allow full expression of flavors and then fermented dry under strict temperature control. Storage in temperature controlled stainless steel and bottled soon after fermentation to maintain freshness. Goes beautifully with light foods such as fish, shellfish and cheeses.

My review: I bought this bottle because it was a good deal at the store and I was drawn to the label and name. To my delight, I really enjoyed this wine! Such a lucky out-of-the-blue purchase! On the nose, it is very clean but at the same time there is a hint of sweetness, like a very light citrus or lime scent. It drinks very easily. Just the right amount of sharp cleanness elegantly blended with a light creaminess. There is no harsh burn or lingering bitterness on the finish. Thoroughly enjoyed this wine. Looking forward to purchasing my next bottle!

I did not have food with this tasting.

Tasting - Tochuelo Malvar White

Tochuelo Malvar White

Variety: Malvar (100%)

Region: Madrid Country

Country: Spain

Year: 2010

Price: $12.00

Shop review: Delightfully dry, refreshing, slightly earthy but not heavy or rustic with attractive citrus and orchard fruit flavors. Excellent value.

My review: On the nose, very light and nectar-like. Drinking the wine felt very creamy and light at the same time, with soft sweet notes to it.

I did not have food with this tasting.

Tasting - Vina Aljibes Tinto

Vina Aljibes Tinto

Variety: Petit Verdot (38%), Cabernet Sauvignon (24%) and Tempranillo (24%)

Region: 

Country: Spain

Year: 2009

Price: $13.95

Shop review: A blend of 38% Petit Verdot, 38% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 24% Tempranillo, is aged for 6 months in seasoned French and American oak. Deep purple in color, it sports an alluring bouquet of Asian spices, underbrush, mineral, lavender, black cherry, and blackberry. Dense and plush on the palate, it reveals excellent volume, concentration, and a fruit-filled finish. It lacks complexity buy at this price, who's complaining. it is an outstanding value meant for drinking over the next 4-5 years.

My review: On the nose, very peppery, earthy, strong, and reminds me of tobacco. On the mid-palate, tastes ashy and dry. Reminds me of a big rarely used fireplace and black dark fruit notes.

I did not have food with this tasting.

Tasting - Hacienda del Plata Zagal Malbec

Hacienda del Plata Zagal Malbec

Variety: Malbec (100%)

Region: Mendoza

Country: Argentina

Year: 2009

Price: $14.95

Shop review: Organic. Our favorite wine, the 2004 Zagal from Hacienda del Plata was also our best value, dense and fruity yet well balanced and structured, avoiding the too common pitfalls of sweetness and flabbiness. Hacienda del Plata is a fairly new winery, one we were unfamiliar with, but the rest of our top five comprised fairly well-known Argentine names. Screams out for grilled beef.

My review: An interesting mix of copper and metal with floral notes on the nose. On the mid-palate, a very strong and intense flavor. Reminded me of ashes.

I did not have food with this tasting.

Tasting - Jean Leon Rosaleda Chardonnay

Jean Leon Rosaleda Chardonnay

Variety: Xarello and Chardonnay

Region: Torrelavega

Country: Spain

Year: 2010

Price: $11.95

Shop review: Pale yellow brilliant color. On the nose has a prominent presence of white fruits and anise, together with the tropical fruits typical from the variety (peach, apricot). On the palate it has a balanced acidity, with a long and silky aftertaste.

My review: On the nose, it is very bright and fruity, nectar-like. Tart and fruity on the mid-palate, reminds me of apples and pears. Quick finish.

I did not have food with this tasting.

Tasting - Fondo Antico Bianco

Fondo Antico Bianco

Variety: Inzolia (50%) and Grecanico (50%)

Region: Sicily

Country: Italy

Year: 2010

Price: $9.95

Shop review: A 50-50 blend of Inzolia and Grecanico - two indigenous Sicilian grapes. Dry and light-bodied, with a bright crisp finish. Tropical aromas and flavors of orange citrus and peach. Unoaked. A great aperitif wine, or paired with appetizers or seafood dishes.

My review: Very oaky on the nose. Taste is more on the woodsy side and not the sweet more fruit-like wine I was expecting.

I did not have food with this tasting.

Tasting - Vina Aljibes Cabernet Franc

Vina Aljibes Cabernet Franc

Variety: Cabernet Franc (100%)

Region: 

Country: Spain

Year: 2007

Price: $26.95

Shop review: The 2007 Aljibes Cabernet Franc is slightly better; more perfumed, rounder, a bit more complex, and with extra length. It is an awesome value in pure Cabernet Franc that will evolve for 2-3 years and offer prime drinking from 2012 to 2022 if not longer.

My review: Rich dark cherries with a peppery undertone on the nose. The mid-palate is very smooth with a soft kick/spicy undertone. The perfect balance of smooth and spice. Very enjoyable. It was probably my favorite wine I sampled during this tasting (my first red wine I have come to truly enjoy!). I would have bought a bottle if it were not for its price tag :(

I did not have food with this tasting.

Tasting - Villa da Filicaja Chianti

Villa da Filicaja Chianti

Variety: Chianti (100%)

Region: Tuscany

Country: Italy

Year: 2009

Price: $12.95

Shop review: Sustainable. Black cherry, earth, tar and licorice aromas and flavors mark this gutsy red, whose tannins mesh well. The finish lingers nicely, with tobacco and spice notes. Drink now through 2022.

My review: Smells of pepper an dark cherries on the nose. Very enjoyable and not overpowering on the mid-palate. One of the more enjoyable wines I sampled during this tasting.

I did not have food with this tasting.

Tasting - Santa Digna Sauvignon Blanc

Santa Digna Sauvignon Blanc

Variety: Sauvignon Blanc (100%)

Region: 

Country: Chile

Year: 2011

Price: $9.95

Shop review: Fair trade. 91 points, Michael Franz. Lean and refreshing, demonstrating real stylistic versatility...intensely varietal in character, showing piercing aromas and driving, persistent citrus fruit. Remarkable!

My review: On the nose, very sweet, bright, and fresh. Smells of pear and fresh, crisp bell peppers. Tastes a lot like grapefruit blended with other citrus notes. A big green bell pepper taste and smell. Very interesting.

I did not have food with this tasting.

Tasting - La Croix Peyrassol

La Croix Peyrassol

Variety: Merlot (75%), Cabernet Sauvignon (15%), and Syrah (10%)

Region: Provence

Country: France

Year: 2010

Price: $15.95

Shop review: Organic. This is an interesting wine from Provence that is a perfect segue from white and rose wine to red wine in the cooler months of late September and early October. The blend is vinified without any oak. It is pure, fresh and lively with lavender aromas, black currant and raspberry fruit that bears a meaty peppery quality reminiscent of fine Syrah. It is medium bodied with a lovely quality that goes nicely with roasted chicken and meaty fish.

My review: Peppery on the nose, reminds me of a horse's saddle. On the mid-palate, tastes dirty and earthy, almost like being in an old barnyard.

I did not have food with this tasting.

Tasting - Vina Aljibes Rosado

Vina Aljibes Rosado

Variety: Rose (100%)

Region: La Mancha

Country: Spain

Year: 2011

Price: $11.95

Shop review: 88 points, Robert Parker. The 2010 Vina Aljibes Rosado was produced from 100% Syrah. Rose petals, cherry blossom, and strawberry scents lead to a concentrated, savory, ripe Rose with excellent balance and a seamless finish. It will pair nicely with sushi.

My review: Smells distinctly of strawberries, in a sorbet, yogurt, or popsicle form. On the mid-palate, tastes of tart strawberries. Very clean with a quick finish.

I did not have food with this tasting.

Tasting - Chateau de Vaux Alerions Brut

Chateau de Vaux Alerions Brut

Variety: Pinot Gris ...

Region:

Country: France

Year: Nonvintage

Price: $17.95

Shop review: Fine, brilliant light yellow in color. Fine floral, fresh nose of white flowers interspersed white vineyard peach and pear. On the palate, fresh aromas of yellow fruit, toast and Weinbergspfirsisch, creamy, very fine bubbles. Very elegant, dry, stimulating, a classic "wine-Cremant" in a very high level.

My review: On the nose, sweet, with an elegant blend of nectar and pear. An enjoyably bubbly sparkling wine. A uniquely sweet and slightly tart mid-palate.

I did not have food with this tasting.

Tasting - La Sera Red Malvasia

La Sera Red Malvasia

Variety: Red Malvasia (100%)

Region: Piedmont

Country: Italy

Year: 

Price: $13.95

Shop review: A specialty of Italy's Piedmont region, Red Malvasia di Casorzo is fragrant and fruity, moderately sweet wine. It has strawberry and fresh grape flavors, with a zesty frizzante (fizz). It is low in alcohol (5.5%) and best served slightly chilled. Enjoy as an aperitif, matched with spicy barbeque or Oriental dishes. It is also excellent with rich chocolate cake or a fruity sorbet.

My review: Sweet on the nose, smells like fresh berries (strawberries, raspberries, etc.). On the mid-palate, very sweet! Tastes like pure berries, reminds me of the taste of strawberry jam. Very interesting.

I did not have food with this tasting.

Tasting - Foggy Ridge Hard Cider First Fruit

Foggy Ridge Hard Cider First Fruit

Variety: Hewe's Crabapple

Region: Virginia Blue Ridge Mountains

Country: United States

Year:

Price: $17.25

Shop review: Cider blends early season American heirloom apples to create a rich fruity cider with acidity to drink, like Thomas Jefferson, on its own or with a meal.

My review: Not a terribly crisp apple taste like I was expecting, a bit more mellow. A good body to it on the mid-palate. A comfortable hard cider.

I did not have food with this tasting.

Tasting - Four Bears Sauvignon Blanc

Four Bears Sauvignon Blanc

Variety: Sauvignon Blanc (100%)

Region: Sonoma County, California

Country: United States

Year: 2010

Price: $12.95

Shop review: Rich and complex with aromas of ruby grapefruit, citrus and tropical fruit. On the palate, the combined flavors of fresh melon, fig, and lime are balanced perfectly to form a crisp, mouthwatering texture and a lingering finish.

My review: Sweet, fruity, honeysuckle nose. A delightful smell. Very easy to drink. On the palate, fruity and a bit of tartness with a comfortable finish.

I did not have food with this tasting.

Tasting - Pietra Santa Sangiovese

Pietra Santa Sangiovese

Variety: Sangiovese (100%)

Region: Cienega Valley

Country: United States

Year: 2008

Price: $15.95

Shop review: Produced exclusively from grapes grown on the estate and showcases winemaker Alessio Carli's talent with the grape. Growing up in Tuscany, Alessio watched his father make Chianti and later honed his skills at the renowned Badia a Coltibuono. Our Estate Sangiovese tastes of cranberry and intense Bing cherry with undertones of anise and a lingering finish. The depth and complexity of this wine has made it an annual best seller and the ultimate companion to great Italian cuisine. Typical of this varietal, our Sangiovese vines have matured and we have been rewarded by increasingly rich fruit.

My review: On the nose, it smells very strong and rich, a lot of sandalwood tones. On the mid-palate, it reminds me of a big red leather couch. A lingering spicy burn on the finish.

I did not have food with this tasting.

Tasting - Foggy Ridge Hard Cider Pippin Black

Foggy Ridge Hard Cider Pippin Black 

Variety: Arkansas Black apples

Region: Virginia Blue Ridge Mountains

Country: United States

Year:

Price: $25.95

Shop review: Combines hard cider from Newtown Pippin and Arkansas Black apples with Virginia apple brandy. To gild the lily we age this blend on Hungarian Oak. Butterscotch and caramel notes combine with rich apply flavor, making this apple port ideal with blue cheese and walnuts.

My review: Very sweet and creamy, with a hint of burn on the finish. Tasted like dried raisins or prunes and reminded me of sweet maple syrup. Probably could not drink more than a tasting/sampling because of how sweet it is.

I did not have food with this tasting.

Tasting - Four Bears Cabernet Sauvignon

Four Bears Cabernet Sauvignon

Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon (100%)

Region: California

Country: United States

Year: 2010

Price: $14.95

Shop review: Ruby in color and displays aromas of lavender, cedar and raspberry fruit. Flavors of blackberries and raspberries combined with hints of savory spices coat the palate. The soft tannins and sweet oak balance lead to a long and lingering finish.

My review: An intriguing peppery and cherry nose with underlying tones of tobacco. Comfortable mid-palate.

I did not have food with this tasting.

Tasting - Pietra Santa Pinot Grigio

Pietra Santa Pinot Grigio

Variety: Pinot Grigio (100%)

Region: Cienega Valley, California

Country: United States

Year: 2010

Price: $13.95

Shop review: From grapes grown at the highest elevation on our estate. Morning fog followed by sun and afternoon shade make this an ideal location for growing this varietal. The grapes ripen slowly allowing them to develop balance between rich texture and heady aromas. The wine is stainless steel fermented and bottled young to preserve the crisp acidity and refreshing fruit flavors. Tasting notes this well balance Pinot Grigio tastes of mangoes and passion fruit with hints of citrus. It is wine is crisp, refreshing and ideal for a summer picnic or as an aperitif. Wonderful when paired with oysters on the half-shell.

My review: Very clean and clear nose, hints of light pear. The taste is pretty nondescript. Very quick finish and, simply put, not a whole lot to it. I did not enjoy this wine that much simply because there was nothing to it.

I did not have food with this tasting.

Tasting - Foggy Ridge Hard Cider Sweet Stayman

Foggy Ridge Hard Cider Sweet Stayman

Variety: Stayman Apple (100%)

Region: Dugspur, Virginia

Country: United States

Year: N/A

Price: $17.25

Shop review: The famous Virginia Stayman apples ripen late in mountain orchards but are worth the wait. Our Sweet Stayman Cider blends the original Stayman apple with heirloom varieties like Grimes Golden and Cox's Orange Pippin to create a lightly sweet cider to sip on its own or with spicy food. 

My review: Similar to iced wine, frozen apple juice. Fortified with brandy, like a port. Tasted sweet and creamy, almost licorice-like. Has hints that reminded me of maple syrup.

I did not have food with this tasting.

Tasting - Lamadrid Malbec Reserva

Lamadrid Malbec Reserva

Variety: Malbec (100%)

Region: Agrelo

Country: Argentina

Year: 2007

Price: $18.95

Shop review: Single vineyard estate fruit; opaque purple; complex aromas, layered, loaded with fruit, rich.

My review: The nose smelled of a strong, rich, spicy plum. Very spicy mid-palate with a taste of ashes like from a fire. Dry finish.

I did not have food with this tasting.

Tasting - Gen 5 Chardonnay

Gen 5 Chardonnay

Variety: Chardonnay (91%), Semillon (6%), and Viognier (3%)

Region: Lodi, California

Country: United States

Year: 2010

Price: $11.95

Shop review: Superbly crafted, the nifty and poised '09 Gen 5 Chardonnay drinks incredibly easily; ripe and fruit-forward with excellent balance; rounded finish.

My review: Sweet and creamy on the nose. The mid-palate is buttery with a hint of spice on the finish.

I did not have food with this tasting.