Gabe's View


Wine: Reviews, Thoughts & Culture

Churchill's - 10 Year Tawny Port

One of the things that make Port so engaging as a topic within a topic in the wine world is the long and storied history it has. Most Port Houses have centuries of back story to look back on. However every so often a new player emerges that makes a mark. Churchill’s has been around for 30 years now and that’s actually pretty new in the world of Oporto. They have however built an impressive track record in their youth. Today I’ll look at one of their current releases. The Churchill’s 10 Year Tawny Port was produced using fruit sourced at some of their prime vineyards. The average age of the wines used is of course 10 Years as the name and style indicates. This wine which is available in 500 ml bottles has a suggested retail price of $33.

The nose of this Tawny Port combines aromas of both fresh and dried fruits such as apricots along with a fruitcake spices. The palate is absolutely strewn with apricot, nectarine, roasted hazelnut and chestnut flavors as well as continued fruitcake spice characteristics. Hints of caramel and toffee emerge on the finish which has prodigious length and depth. Pair this Tawny Port with all sorts of sweet deserts or even better a cheese course.

There are several things that most impress me about this wine. The complexity and layers of flavor from the first sip to the end of the finish are one. Another is the overall balance of this wine which is simply perfect; it’s sweet to be sure but just the right amount. Along those lines this Tawny Port has good weight but is practically lithe in the manner it dances across your tongue and gently clings to the back of your throat. This is a knockout of a Tawny Port that I highly recommend for anyone with any level of interest in this style of wine. With the Holiday Season fast approaching this wine would be a tremendous choice to serve as an impressive crescendo at the end of fabulous meal with Family and Friends.

V. Sattui - 2008 Morisoli Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon / 2009 Napa Valley Syrah

V. Sattui Winery is a classic stop in Napa Valley. They offer a lively tasting room that features a wide array of wines made in many different styles. You'll also find that V. Sattui offers snack and deli items as well as a picnic area outside. Most importantly though, they have been steadily turning out a stream of terrific wines from a combination of their own sites as well as from fruit sourced at well regarded vineyards. Today I’ll take a look at one wine from each of those categories. The V. Sattui 2008 Morisoli Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon was produced using fruit sourced exclusively at this small famed Napa Valley Vineyard. This wine is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. After fermentation it spent approximately 24 months in barrel. A limited number of cases were produced and this Cabernet Sauvignon has a suggested retail price of $65.

Red and black berry fruit aromas are prominent throughout the nose of this wine. Bits of toast and vanilla play a role here as well. Blackberry flavors are joined by hints of plum on the deeply layered palate of this wine. Espresso, minerals and dark cocoa are each part of a long, lusty, spicy finish that has excellent length and persistence. This wine is on the young side and will benefit from a couple of hours in a decanter if you’re going to drink it now. If you have some patience lay it down for 8-10 years and you’ll be rewarded with a truly beautiful expression of Napa Cabernet Sauvignon.

The V. Sattui 2009 Napa Valley Syrah was produced from fruit sourced at two estate vineyard sites (Carsi & Vittorio’s). These vineyards feature different soil types, climates and distinct locales within Napa. This offering is 100% Syrah. Fermentation took place in stainless steel followed by 18 months of barrel aging in a combination of new (40%) and seasoned (60%), French (20%) and American (20%) oak. Just fewer than 2,000 cases of this wine were produced and it sells for $34.

Dark almost brooding berry fruit aromas leap from the nose of this 2009 Syrah. Wisps of leather and eucalyptus are present here as well. The palate of this Syrah is big and mouth-filling with loads of dark lush fruit flavors on display. Blueberry, blackberry and plum are all prominent and accompanied by a host of spices. The finish shows of rhubarb, blackberry, black raspberry and sour cherry characteristics as well as earth, white pepper and dark, dusty chocolate. This is a meaty, chewy mouthful of wine that’s begging to be paired with bold, flavorful foods. Decant it for about an hour for best results.

Both of these wines from V.Sattui are impressive in their own right. These are two more releases in a growing string of vineyard driven offerings. They have a large portfolio of wines to taste at V.Sattui and both the Estate and single vineyard sourced offerings are well worth experiencing.

Alex Elman - 2009 Malbec

Malbec is the great red grape of Argentina. Certainly Cabernet Sauvignon and other red varietals flourish there as well; however the Malbecs are what most of us get really excited about. There’s a good reason for that; Argentina does Malbec the way Burgundy does Pinot Noir; better than anyone else. That said the styles vary greatly as do the intents of those wines. Today I’ll look a current release Malbec that is intended for everyday consumption. The Alex Elman 2009 Malbec was produced using fruit sourced in the Mendoza region of Argentina. This offering is 100% varietal. Alexandra Elman founded her company to source and import sustainable offerings that represent her vision for what good wine should be. She strives to find wines that exhibit a sense of place and are un-manipulated expressions of their origin. Currently her portfolio includes four releases from the Mendoza region of Argentina. The 2009 Malbec has a suggested retail price of $12.99.

Deep, dark brooding fruit aromas leads the nose of this wine along with a wisp of vanilla bean and a gentle touch of green herbs. The palate is full flavored and gently layered with luscious, juicy blackberry, blueberry, raspberry, and dark plum flavors. Plum pudding and fruitcake spices kick in as well. The finish shows off chicory, white pepper and a chocolate sauce flavors. This Malbec drinks well all by itself and it will also pair well with roasted meats and hard cheeses to name a few choices. This is a well priced Malbec that delivers more flavor and distinction than many in the same price category.

Concha Y Toro - 2009 Marques de Casa Concha Carménère

Wines from Chile are making an ever increasing impact with US wine lovers and one of the big reasons is Carménère. This red grape is grown in other areas of the world but it’s best known for the wines produced with it in Chile. Today I’ll look at the current vintage from well known producer Concha Y Toro. The Concha Y Toro 2009 Marques de Casa Concha Carménère was produced using fruit sourced in the Peomo Vineyard which is located in the Rapel Valley of Chile. This offering is 100% Carménère. The fruit for this selection was harvested by hand. After fermentation this wine was aged over a period of 18 months in French oak barrels. This Carménère has a suggested retail price of $19.99.

Blackberry, eucalyptus and tobacco leaf aromas fill the nose of this 2009 Carménère. Crushed red cherry and plum flavors are joined by copious spice elements throughout the fresh and layered palate of this wine. Wisps of dark cocoa emerge on the finish along with dark fruit flavors that continue echoing with conviction along with hints of vanilla bean. This wine has firm acidity and it’s a natural partner for food.

Carménère is a full flavored grape that produces wines that are often intensely flavored with dark fruit. This example from Concha Y Toro is such a wine. For $19.99 (a bit less if you shop around) this is a fine example of the varietal that provides solid value and plenty of drinking pleasure. Consume this wine over the next couple of years while it’s flavors are young, vibrant, and exuberant.

Win a Trip to Chile !

As I'm always looking to alert readers to great opportunities I want to alert you to a contest being held by the Wines of Chile. The diversity of Chilean wines is as wide as that of any wine growing country. In that spirit this contest features five different Themed getaways to Chile.  So enter now for your chance to visit this terrific wine growing region ! The full text of the press release follows:

PICTURE YOURSELF IN CHILE: WIN A CUSTOMIZED TRIP COURTESY OF THE WINES OF CHILE EXPERIENCE

One Winner Will Choose Their Ideal Vacation From Five Themed Getaways to Chile

NEW YORK, NY The Wines of Chile Experience, supported by ProChile, announces Only in Chile, a competition in which one wine enthusiast will win a trip of their choice to Chilean wine country. Entrants will have the opportunity to explore the diversity of wine tourism available in Chile by capturing an image that expresses their take on each of five travel themes—For the Love of Chile, Wine & Stars, Urban Wine Retreat, Harvest Holiday and Horses & Huasos.

“Chile’s diverse landscape offers an expansive variety of travel experiences,” says Lori Tieszen, Executive Director of Wines of Chile USA. “Whether you enjoy taking the subway from the city to a winery or sipping a glass of wine under the clearest skies in the world, Chile has it all.”

Only in Chile can you go from the ski slopes to the beach, from the desert to Patagonia, and experience some of the best wines in the world—from cool climate whites to fullbodied reds. Now, the Wines of Chile Experience is inviting travel enthusiasts to learn that there is something for everyone in this beautiful country—whether it be star-gazing, exploring a historic city, taking a moonlit stroll on the beach, riding horseback through the Andes or participating in the yearly tradition of harvest.

Applicants to Only in Chile will be asked to upload an album to Facebook containing five photos, each one depicting their take on the five pre-determined travel themes. The top six entries will be chosen for a week-long voting period, at the end of which the creator of the album with the most votes will win their trip of choice to Chilean wine country.

The winner will select a five-night vacation inspired by one of the five themes—For the Love of Chile, Wine & Stars, Urban Wine Retreat, Harvest Holiday or Horses & Huasos.

The prize package includes two roundtrip flights to Chile, hotel stay, wine tours and activities, food and beverage, and is valued at US $15,000.

Applications for Only in Chile will be accepted from October 5, 2011 to November 4, 2011 and voting will take place between November 5, 2011 and November 11, 2011. Only one entry per person and Facebook account will be accepted. The top six entries will be chosen based on creativity, relevance and adherence to the contest rules. The winner—the album with the most votes—will be announced on or around November 14, 2011.

To learn more about the Wines of Chile Experience and to apply to Only in Chile please

visit www.facebook.com/WinesOfChile and click on the Only in Chile tab.

About The Wines of Chile Experience: The Wines of Chile Experience promotes wine tourism in Chile. A destination that offers endless opportunities for real exploration, wine country in Chile is poised to become the next true discovery. Based in New York City, the Wines of Chile Experience is part of Wines of Chile and supported by ProChile. For more information on the Wines of Chile

Experience, please visit www.chilewinetourism.com.

Fonseca - 10 Year Old Tawny Port

There are many basic styles of Port. Tawny Port is one of the most accessible; both in terms of easy drinkability and range of price points. Within that I find 10 years Tawny’s are often a sweet spot in terms of quality and value they deliver. This of course varies from producer to producer. Today I’ll look at the 10 Year Tawny from legendary producer Fonseca. The Fonseca 10 Year Tawny Port was produced using fruit sourced in the classic Douro region of Portugal. This wine is assembled from various vintages and has an average age of 10 years. The aging of these wines took places in Casks prior to assembly. This wine has a suggested retail price of $39 and is currently on sale at Wine Chateau for $25.99.

The first thing that is distinct about the Fonseca 10 Year Tawny Port is its color; this wine has deeper, darker hue than is common. Aromas of toffee, toasted hazelnut and nutmeg all emerge from the nose of this wine. Mission Fig jam flavors lead the palate which shows additional nut characteristics and fruitcake spices in abundance. Vanilla crème brulee and dried raisin flavors round out the finish which has very good length and persistence.

This wine from Fonseca is a fine example of 10 Year Old Tawny Port. As noted above I find that the 10 Year Tawny’s are often where price, quality and overall value often intersect. That is definitely the case with this particular wine. If you’re a Tawny Port fan this is nice selection, if you’re new to the style this is a great jumping off point.

Attilio Ghisolfi - 2007 Barbera d’Alba Maggiora / 2005 Barolo DOCG

Italy has a stunning number of varietals that great wines can be made with. They run the gamut in styles and flavor profiles. Today I’ll look at a couple of current releases from producer Attilio Ghisolfi that feature Nebbiolo and Barbera The Attilio Ghisolfi 2007 Barbera d’Alba Maggiora was produced using fruit sourced at vineyards in Monfonte d’Alba. These vineyards sit approximately 400 meters above sea level. This offering is 100% Barbera. Vinification took place with wild yeasts. Oak aging occurred over 15 months in a combination of small French oak barrels (50%) and Large Slavonian oak (50%). Six months of temperature controlled bottle aging occurred prior to release. 840 cases of this wine were produced and it has a suggested retail price of $24.99.

Red and black berry fruit aromas are present on the nose of this wine. Dried cherry and cranberry flavors appear through the palate along with hints of herbs. Earth and spice mark the lengthy finish along with strawberry and rhubarb characteristics. This Barbera shows good structure marked by firm, racy acidity. This wine is built to be paired with food and will complement a wide array of flavorful options.

The Attilio Ghisolfi 2005 Barolo DOCG was produced using fruit sourced at southwest facing vineyards in the Visette section of Monfonte d’Alba. The average age of the vines is between 5 and 15 years. This offering is 100% Nebbiolo. Only wild yeasts were used and Vinification occurred over 10 days in a temperature controlled environment. Barrel aging took place over three years in large Slavonian oak. This was followed by 6 months of bottle aging prior to release. 1,500 six-bottle cases of this wine were produced and it has a suggested retail price of $44.99.

The highly perfumed nose of this 2005 Barolo features rose petals, red fruit and wisps of leather. Dried cherries, raspberries, pepper and nutmeg are prominently featured flavors on the deeply layered palate of this wine which is dominated by red fruit flavors tinged by black fruits chipping in. Chicory, earth, and bitter-leaning dark chocolate notes are all part of a super long finish that goes on and on long after the last sip of wine has been swallowed. This is an absolutely gorgeous example of Barolo that has excellent structure with firm tannins that yield with some air and fine acidity. If you’re going to drink this wine over the next year or so I recommend decanting it for 90 minutes to two hours. However don’t hesitate to lay it down for 10 to 15 years.

Both of these offerings from Attilio Ghisolfi represent well made wines that showcase their varietals well. They’re fairly priced for the quality they represent and are well worth seeking out when you’re looking to drink some terrific Italian Wines.

Hawk and Horse Vineyards - 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon / 2006 Latigo Port Style Wine

Hawk and Horse Vineyards was founded in 1999. Their first release was the 2004 vintage of Cabernet Sauvignon. They’re a hands-on family owned and operated winery that makes small lots of Cabernet Sauvignon and a dessert wine (also Cab based). Today I’ll look at their current releases. The Hawk and Horse Vineyards 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon was produced from fruit grown in the Red Hills section of Lake County California. This fruit comes from the winery’s 18 acre vineyard which is farmed both Organically and Biodynamically. Hawk and Horse Vineyards is a mountain estate with elevations reaching 2,200 at some points. This offering is 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. Barrel aging was accomplished over a period of 18 months in a combination of new and two year French oak. 430 cases of this Cabernet Sauvignon were produced and it has a suggested retail price of $65.

Aromas of rose petals, bramble and black raspberries fill the nose of this 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon. Black and red cherry flavors play a significant role through the palate; black raspberry and blackberry characteristics, both fresh and dried are present as well. The long and impressive finish is marked by cranberries, sour cherries, rhubarb and earth along with dusty dark chocolate and spice. This is a well proportioned Cabernet that has firm tannins that yield with some aeration. The 2007 Cabernet from Hawk and Horse Vineyards is a beautiful wine that drinks well now and will also benefit from up to a decade of aging. If you’re drinking it today, I recommend decanting it for about 90 minutes and pairing it with something hearty for a winning combination.

The Hawk and Horse Vineyards 2007 Latigo is a Port Style wine. This fortified dessert wine was made using estate grown fruit. This wine is composed of Cabernet Sauvignon and fortified with varietal Brandy. Barrel aging occurred over 26 months in new French oak. 200 cases of this wine in 375ml splits were produced. It has a suggested retail price of $45.

Red and black raspberry jam aromas flood the nose of this 2006 Port style wine. A compote of berry flavors is present through the palate. Sweet wild strawberry flavors are of particular note. Characteristics of chocolate sauce tinged with caramel, toffee and bits of espresso emerge on the finish which has good length that leaves a lasting impression. This wine can easily serve as dessert all by itself. However it pairs beautifully with dark chocolate as well as cheesecake to name a few options. 

Lake County is a California region that’s been on the climb for a number of years now. There are certain varietals that really thrive there and Cabernet Sauvignon is certainly amongst them. If you like classically styled Cabernet that you can drink now or lay down for awhile made in small boutique level quantities, this offering is for you. Latigo the dessert wine is a perfect counterpoint. Made from the same varietal grown in the same vineyard it showcases a completely different style of winemaking. Both are delicious in their own right and they are more than fairly priced for the quality they offer. These are well worth seeking out.

Montecillo - 2003 Rioja Gran Reserva

Rioja is the most recognizable name in Spanish wine. Over the last decade many other Spanish regions have made inroads on US shelves, many of them producing distinguished wines. However for many, me included, it’s the wines of Rioja we first think of when Spain comes to mind. The wins of Rioja hit our shores with some age already on them and they’re generally terrific values; what’s not to like. Today I’ll look at the current release of a Gran Reserva from Montecillo, one of the first Spanish producers to hit my radar when I started pursuing wines from Spain about 15 years ago. The Montecillo 2003 Gran Reserva was produced from fruit sourced in the Rioja Alta region of Spain. This offering is 100% Tempranillo. After picking the fruit was transported to the winery in small crates. Fermentation took place in a temperature controlled environment. After Malolactic fermentation the wine was racked and transferred to barrel. Oak aging occurred over a period of 24 months in untoasted French barrels. Several years of bottle aging followed prior to release. This offering has a suggested retail price of $25.

Dark berry fruit, herbs, toast and rose petal aromas all waft with conviction from the nose of this 2003 Gran Reserva. Both red and black cherries appear in droves forming the core of this Rioja’s palate. Copious quantities of spices such as black pepper and nutmeg appear as well. Espresso and earth notes are joined by bits of licorice and kirsch liqueur on the finish which has terrific length and persistence. Firm tannins and acidity provide structure and balance. This wine is quite tasty by itself but really shines when paired with food, roasted meats in particular.

This wine from Montecillo is a classic example of a Gran Reserva. It represents a tremendous value due to the excellent complexity and length of palate it demonstrates. This wine is absolutely delicious now but there’s no rush to drink it; this wine will age effortlessly in your cellar for the next decade or so.

Primus by Veramonte - 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon / 2009 The Blend

Veramonte has been a consistent source of quality wines from Chile for over 10 years. The two wines in particular that have stood out to me over and over again for quite awhile are the Veramonte Sauvignon Blanc and the Primus Blend. Of late more selections have been added under the Primus umbrella. Today I’ll take a look at the brand new release Cabernet Sauvignon and the latest vintage of The Blend. The Primus 2009 Cabernet Sauvignon was produced using fruit grown in the Marchigue Vineyards in Colchagua Valley. In addition to Cabernet Sauvignon (92%) this wine also contains a small amount of Syrah (8%). After the fruit was picked the grapes under went two manual sorts to ensure careful bunch selection. Aging was accomplished over 15 months in French oak; 25% of the barrels were new. This wine has a suggested retail price of $19.99.

Aromas of plums, violets and black raspberries fill the nose of this 2009 Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon. A host of dark, brooding fruit flavors fills the palate of this wine. Blackberry, black currant and blueberry are of note. Hints of pencil lead creep in as well. The finish of this Cabernet, which has good length for the price point, shows off kirsch liqueur, sweet dark chocolate, black tea, and espresso notes. This wine has soft, supple tannins and firm acidity. This Cabernet is delicious both by itself and paired with things like roasted meats or hard cheeses.

The Primus 2008 “The Blend” was produced using fruit grown and sourced in Chile’s Colchagua Valley. This offering combines Cabernet Sauvignon (44%), Syrah (21%), Carmenère (19%) and Merlot (15%). Barrel aging was accomplished over 14 months in French oak; 25% of them were new. This wine has a suggested retail price of $19.99.

Red raspberry, bramble, green herb and hints of licorice are all part of the inviting nose on this 2008 blend. Strawberry and rhubarb characteristics along with a core of spices form the backbone of the tasty and multi-layered palate of this wine. Sour black fruit and continued herbs emerge on the finish. This wine has a lengthy close that’s smooth and lush with a bit of racy acidity punctuating it. This is an excellent food wine that would be particularly suited for southern Italian cuisine.

This was the first time I tried the Primus Cabernet Sauvignon and I was glad to see that it’s another well made wine in the Veramonte line that provides good varietal character and excellent value. The Primus Blend continues to impress. It’s been a consistent value year after year, offering lots of bang for the buck. The 2008 continues that trend. Check these wines out, you’ll be glad you did.

Gustave Lorentz - Cremant d’Alsace (NV) / 2009 Pinot Noir Le Rosé / 2007 Gewürztraminer Grand Cru Altenberg de Bergheim

Alsace France is a region that can certainly inspire tons of passion from wine lovers. White varietals rule the day here. When they are from excellent vineyards and made with care they can be nothing less than amazing. I recently tasted through most of the portfolio from Gustave Lorentz. This Alsatian family has been making wine since 1836. It was a pleasure and an eye-opener to samples these wines. As is typical of Alsace the majority of their offerings are white with a few reds in the mix as well. Both still and sparkling wines are part of the mix. I’ve liked each of the selections I’ve tasted from this producer but here are three diverse ones that really set themselves apart.

First up is the Gustave Lorentz Cremant d’Alsace (NV). This sparkling wine is composed of Chardonnay (33%), Pinot Blanc (33%) and Pinot Noir (33%). This offering was produced using the classic “Methode Champenpoise.” 4,500 cases of this wine were bottled and it has a suggested retail price of $24.99

The nose of this non vintage Sparkling Wine is remarkably fresh and lively with apple and green melon aromas of particular note. Brioche, juicy orchard fruits and bits of stone fruit are all part of the palate along with spice and mineral notes. The finish shows an inherent creaminess along with touches of candied lemon zest. This is a really nice sparkling wine for the money. It drinks well on it’s own but will work even better paired alongside light foods.

Next up is the Gustave Lorentz 2009 Pinot Noir Le Rosé. The grapes for this wine were picked as ripe as possible. This wine is 100% Pinot Noir. The fruit was sourced from vineyards that feature clay and limestone heavy soils. 2,000 cases of this Rosé were produced and it has a suggested retail price of $19.99.

Fresh, ripe Bing cherry aromas drive the nose of this 2009 Rosé. Strawberries, cherries and vanilla characteristics are all at play through the palate. These are joined by hints of darker berry fruit and a touch of candied cherry. The darker fruit elements emerge a bit more forcefully in the finish along with a touch of white pepper. This wine is light and refreshing as most well made Rosé should be. But it also features more depth, weight and complexity than the average example. This wine will pair really well with light foods. A fruit and cheese plate would be perfect. Of course it should be chilled, but resist the temptation to over-chill this beauty.

The final wine in this trio is the Gustave Lorentz 2007 Gewürztraminer Grand Cru Altenberg de Bergheim. The fruit for this wine comes from the namesake classified Grand Cru site. This offering is all Gewürztraminer. The soils there feature heavy clay and limestone components. The vines average between 30 and 50 years of age. Fruit for this offering was hand picked and the whole grapes were pressed and this juice was separated from the free run juice. Fermentation took place with select and native yeasts in mature oak vats. It was aged in these vats for 11 months prior to bottling. 1,000 cases of this wine were produced and it has a suggested retail price of $59.99.

Aromas of apple, yellow melon, vanilla and a touch of crème fraiche fill the expressive nose of this 2006 Gewürztraminer. Apricot and yellow peach notes are in abundance throughout the palate. A nice spice component featuring white pepper, cardamom and nutmeg is present as well. Lot’s of sweet yellow and white fruits continue through the impressively long and persistent finish which shows off a bit of a honey. In addition to the lengthy finish the purity of fruit is what strikes me as most impressive about this Gewürztraminer. This wine is delicious now, both on its own and paired with spicy foods in particular. However don’t hesitate to lay it down for the next 8-12 years.

This is a delicious trio of wines from Gustave Lorentz. That said don’t hesitate to try others with their name on the label either. I’ve sampled quite a few and each has been a winner.

Maison J.J. Vincent - NV Cremant de Bourgogne

Sparkling wine comes in all shapes and sizes. France of course has a legendary tradition when it comes to this style of wine. Today I’ll look at selection from Maison J.J. Vincent. The Maison J.J. Vincent Cremant de Bourgogne was produced from fruit sourced in the Winery’s native Burgundy. More specifically the fruit comes from the southern reaches. This offering is composed entirely of Chardonnay. The fruit was handpicked during the earliest part of harvest. Vinification was accomplished using traditional methods for Sparkling Wine. This offering has a suggested retail price of $19.99.

Aromas of freshly sliced apples fill the nose of this non vintage sparkling wine. A gentle wisp of ginger chips in as well. The palate is fresh and crisp with yellow and green apple flavors playing vital roles. A bit of hazelnut emerges as well along with light touches of lemon zest. The finish shows off mineral and spice characteristics as well as tart apple flavors. This is a refreshing wine that has crisp acidity. It drinks well by itself and is also an excellent food wine.

This French Sparkler is a very nice value for $19.99. If you shop around you’ll find it for a bit less. Its complexity belies its price point. Whether you pair this with a Sunday Brunch or simply share it with friends during a casual get together you’re going to be drinking a delicious offering that you’re likely to buy again and again when you realize what a terrific wine you got for your money.

R. Müller - 2010 “Rabbit” Riesling by Octavin Home Wine Bar

Most of the quality boxed wines I’ve tasted to date have come from a couple of regions; South America and the Central Coast in California. That said this is a growing segment in the wine world and offerings from many other regions are popping up on US shelves. This is good news for wine drinkers looking for value driven options for a party or a daily drinker that'll hold up for about a month. Today I’ll look at one from the Landwein Rhein section of Germany. The R. Müller 2010 “Rabbit” Riesling (aka Bunny Wine) was produced from fruit grown in the Landwein Rhein region in Germany. After the grapes were harvested during the relative cool of night they were pressed prior to temperature controlled fermentation in stainless steel tanks utilizing select yeasts. As is typical for the area this wine has modest alcohol content of 9.5%. This offering is available in the 3 liter bag in the box format. Octavin Home Wine Bar which is behind this release refers to it as a premium wine cask. It’s available all over the country for a suggested retail price of $24.

This Riesling has a bold nose that’s loaded with strong aromas of white peach, white pepper and vanilla. Stone fruits are accompanied by both green and golden delicious apple throughout a fruity and pleasing palate. Orchard fruits are also apparent in the finish which features Bartlett pear as well as continued spice. This wine has firm acidity which lends to its crisp, refreshing close.

I’m looking for several things in a boxed wine. Of course it should be true to varietal and offer value in its price point. Additionally I’m looking for something that’s going to please a wide array of different palates. This Riesling meets all of those criteria and strikes a perfect balance of sweetness. It’s neither cloying nor dry; in fact it’s precisely in the middle. This wine will be a great match for spicy Asian Cuisine, Indian dishes or entrée salads to name a couple of examples. It’s also terrifically suited as a something to sip with friends as you while away the hours. As with other premium boxed wines I’ve sampled this one is easy to open and operate. The bag in the box technology allows you to enjoy this over 4 or more weeks with fear of flavor degradation. In short this wine achieves its intent. Well worth expolring if you're looking for a quality white in the super value category.

Stepping Stone by Cornerstone - 2010 Corallina Rosé

Cornerstone Cellars has been an impressive producer of excellent Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon for quite a few years now. Over the last few vintages they have also launched and expanded Stepping Stone a second label that focuses on wines aimed at everyday consumption. Today I’ll take a look at their current release of Rosé. The Stepping Stone by Cornerstone 2010 Corallina Rosé was produced from fruit sourced at the Mogambo Vineyard in the Oak Knoll District of Napa Valley. This wine is 100% Syrah. After slow, temperature controlled fermentation this wine was aged in neutral barrels. Less than 300 cases of this wine were produced and it has a suggested retail price of $18.

The color of this Rosé is immediately striking. Many new world examples of Rosé are a bit deeper and darker. This one from Stepping Stone has the perfect Salmon hue that comes to mind when I think of Rosé, which is often. Fleshy red fruit aromas burst out from the nose of this Syrah Rosé. The palate is loaded with red cherry fruit flavors as well as pepper spice, and red raspberry. Sweet wild strawberry flavors emerge on the finish along with continued cherry and raspberry characteristics. Nutmeg and white pepper spices chip in as well. This is a lovely dry Rosé loaded with juicy fruit flavors that give the impression of sweetness. Firm acidity keeps things well balanced and makes this a tremendous food wine.

This is a lovely example of Rosé from the folks at Stepping Stone. For $18 this wine is fairly priced and as mentioned it will pair extremely well with light summer foods as well as spicy cuisine. That said it drinks beautifully on it’s own.

Smith-Madrone Vineyards & Winery - 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon, Spring Mountain District

If you travel to Napa Valley looking for Cabernet Sauvignon, you’re going to find plenty of it. And pretty much regardless of how long your trip is you’re not going to get to taste all of it, or even most of it. What you need to do is set a more modest goal for a particular sub-set of Cabernet; that way at the very least you’ll have a fighting chance. Over the last few years I’ve become increasingly fond of good Mountain Cabernet. There are several renowned mountain regions within Napa and there is some great Cabernet to be found there. Often the depth and purity of fruit these wines showcase is nothing short of stunning. Spending a week hunting down as much Napa Valley Mountain Cab as you can find would be a great way to allocate some time. Last year I visited Smith-Madrone on Spring Mountain for the first time and I was knocked out. Their wines, their property and their personalities are all perfectly authentic examples of some of the very best of what Napa Valley has to offer. Today I’ll look at their current release of Cabernet Sauvignon. The Smith-Madrone 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon was produced from fruit grown at their home vineyards in the Spring Mountain section of Napa Valley. Their vineyards are dry-farmed and the vines used for this wine have 34 years of age on them. In addition to Cabernet Sauvignon (82%), small amounts of Merlot (9%), and Cabernet Franc (9%) were also blended in. Barrel aging was accomplished over 22 months in American oak. The 2005 Smith-Madrone Cabernet Sauvignon was bottled unfiltered and unfined. Just fewer than 1,500 cases of this vintage were produced and it has a suggested retail price of $45.

Red berry and bramble aromas fill the nose of this Cabernet Sauvignon. The palate is deep and layered with a bevy of flavors. Cherries (both red and black), bits of herb and earth are the primary characteristics that surfaced when I first sipped this wine, Minerals such as flint and hints of pencil lead emerge on the finish along with dark cocoa, espresso and continued earth. The 2005 Smith-Madrone Cabernet Sauvignon is a remarkably even-keeled, perfectly proportionate Cabernet Sauvignon. From start to finish it shows off rich, textured flavors and deep layers of fruit and spice that reward sipping over a long evening.

This wine from Stuart and Charles Smith is rather delicious now, particularly after an hour or so in the decanter. However it’s quite age-worthy and will improve under proper storage conditions for the next decade at minimum and drink well for another 5 or so after that. The bottom line is that the 2005 vintage of Smith-Madrone Cabernet Sauvignon in a tremendous example of why this particular grape and Napa Valley are synonymous. It’s also an exceptional value. In a valley filled with many lofty price tags, the cost of this wine is a steal for the quality you’re getting in the bottle relative to many other examples. The sticker may say $45 but the taste and quality of this wine says $75.

Tupun - 2008 Valle de Tupungato Malbec

Malbec comes in all shapes and sizes. Some are incredibly fruit forward and others are more classically styled and structured. Today I’ll look at one that’s very reasonably priced from Bodega del Tupun, a Mendoza based producer. The family has their roots in Spain and has been making wines in Argentina under their own label since the mid 1990’s. The Tupun 2008 Valle de Tupungato Malbec was produced from fruit sourced in the Mendoza region of Argentina. The vineyards this fruit was sourced from sit more than 3,600 feet above sea level in ground that is rich with limestone, clay and pebbles. This offering is 100% Malbec and it has a suggested retail price right around $20 and is currently available at WineChateau.com for less than $10.

Plum, blueberry, mushroom and wisps of barnyard fill the highly perfumed nose of this 2008 Malbec. From the first sip the engaging flavors of this wine grab you into its warm, welcoming embrace. Black fruits dominate the palate and they’re joined by plum pudding and fruitcake spices. Dark fleshy plum flavors are joined by interspersing cranberry characteristics and continued spice on the finish which has above average length for the category. This wine will pair will with hard cheeses and roasted meats. It’s also a good choice to have with Pizza.

This Malbec seamlessly rides the line between juicy, forward fruit and a proportionate, balanced palate. In short this wine is more refined than many in a similar price range, making this a terrific value in Malbec.

Franciscan Estate Winery - 2007 Merlot / 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon

Franciscan Estate Winery is a Napa Valley stalwart that has been producing a stable of readily available wines for decades now. When I first spent time in Napa Valley, they were amongst the producers I visited time again. Today I’ll look at a couple of wines that have been part of their portfolio for a long time. The Franciscan Estate 2007 Merlot was produced from Napa Valley fruit. In addition to Merlot (92%), this wine also contains small amounts of (Syrah (5%), Cabernet Sauvignon (2%) and Petit Verdot (1%). Fermentation of this wine took place over 16 days. Barrel aging was accomplished over 14 months in a combination of French (57%) and American (43%) oak; 18% of them were new and they came from three different cooperages. This offering has a suggested retail price of $21.

Bramble, mushroom, toast and cigar box aromas permeate the nose of this 2007 Merlot. A lovely blast of herbs underscores the palate which is dominated by an intertwining combination of red and black cherry flavors. Dusty, dark chocolate and plums join in as well. Earth, chicory, cinnamon and black pepper are all part of a firm and above average finish. What I like most about this wine is that it is quite obviously, almost forcefully Merlot. In a world were much of the Merlot is anonymous at best, this is a huge victory. This wine will drink well over the next 6-9 years.

The Franciscan Estate 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon was produced using Napa Valley fruit. Cabernet Sauvignon (80%), was blended with Merlot (12%), Syrah (4%), Cabernet Franc (3%), and Petit Verdot (1%). Fermentation and maceration took place over 22 days. Oak aging was accomplished over 22 months in small barrels. 25% of them were new and three different coopers were employed. Just fewer than 90,000 cases were produced and this wine has a suggested retail price of $27.

Bright, red and black berry fruit aromas dot the nose of this 2008 Cabernet Sauvignon. Vanilla bean is present as well. Blackberry, plum and cherry characteristics lead the sweet, juicy, very appealing palate of this wine. These flavors along with nutmeg and pepper continue through the finish which has good length. This Cabernet is more forward and a bit softer in body than the Merlot which has firmer structure. The Cabernet has soft tannins that yield easily with air and a really lush mouth-feel.

Each of these selections is available all over the countr,y and if you shop around, for a few dollars less than the Suggested retail. They’re fine examples of well made Napa Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon respectively. The Merlot definitely works best paired with food while this Cabernet is particularly lovely on its own. Both are worth your time and money.

A Trio of Thirst Quenching Quality Boxed Wines

With summer almost over it’s time to get friends and family together for a few more BBQ’s before the weather turns cool. Large gatherings mean lots of mouths to feed and plenty of thirsts to quench. Historically a lot of jokes have been made about boxed wine. And for many years the commentary, criticism and humor were warranted. However in the last 5 years things have taken a pretty dramatic turn for the better. There are a number of producers now putting quality wine out in boxes. This is often referred to as the bag in the box. More often than not these are 3 Liter containers which equates to four standard size bottles. These wines generally sell for right around $20 give or take a couple of dollars based on brand and where you’re shopping. If you were purchasing these as stand alone bottles you could expect to pay somewhere from $6- $9 per bottle. In addition to saving some money with the three liter format a few other advantages are part of things as well. Eschewing glass makes them more environmentally friendly. Additionally if you don’t finish them up no worries as the bag in a box concept keeps the wine fresh for approximately 30 days. Make no mistake there are still plenty of anonymous boxed wines you’ll want to avoid, but now there are also some very solid go to choices. Today I’ll look at three that I recommend. The Falling Star 2009 Chardonnay was produced from fruit sourced in the Mendoza region of Argentina. Falling Star is part of the Trapiche line and represents their budget label. After hand harvesting and fermentation the wine was ages in stainless steel tanks for approximately 6 months prior to a light filtration and bottling, This wine is available in 750 ml bottles, 1.5 L bottles and 3 Liter Boxes. I tasted out of 3 Liter box which has a suggested retail price of $19.99.

Tropical fruit aromas dot the nose of this Chardonnay from Argentina along with copious quantities of yellow and green apple. At the core of this wine is an inherent fruitiness. This is an engaging wine whose chief appeal is that it provides a pure blast of unadulterated Chardonnay flavor. The crisp, clean, refreshing finish shows off continued apple and orchard fruit flavors as well as wisps of minerals and lemon zest. Serve this Chardonnay well chilled at your next BBQ or party and the white wine lovers in the crowd will surely be pleased.

The Falling Star 2010 Malbec was produced from fruit sourced in Mendoza. Fruit was hand harvested and fermented for approximately 20 days at controlled, cool temperatures. 6 months of aging in stainless steel tanks followed prior to filtration and bottling. Much like the Chardonnay this wine is available in 3 sizes. The 3 Liter Box has a suggested retail price of $19.99.

Dark and brooding jam fruit aromas burst forth from the nose on this 2010 Malbec. A number of spices such as nutmeg, vanilla and cardamom make their presence known as well. Juicy, appealing, forward dark fruit flavors are the story of this wines palate. This wine is loaded with pleasing flavors that will make an impression on party guests and keep them coming back to the box for more.  This wine has a reasonable finish for its price point and it will pair well with just about anything off the grill.

The Folonari 2009 Fresh Cask Pinot Noir was made from fruit sourced in the Veneto. This Italian wine is 100% Pinot Noir. After fermentation 80% of the wine was aged for roughly 6 months in stainless steel, the remaining 20% in French oak barriques. This Pinot is available in 750 ml bottles, 1.5 liter bottles and 3 Liter boxes. The 3 Liter Box has a suggested retail price of $19.99.

Dried red fruit, clove, and bits of toast all emerge from the nose of this Pinot Noir. This wine features an even keeled palate where fruit and spice notes both play equally important roles. Dried black cherries, olive tapenade and bits of herbs are all present. A touch of smoke, sweet strawberry and vanilla crème all emerge on the finish. This is a balanced and dry wine with terrific acidity. The Folinari 3 Liter Pinot Noir would be a perfect choice to serve if you’re having a big pasta or pizza party.

Each of these Boxes of wine represents a solid value in its category. They’re appealing wines, meant to please crowds of people. They succeed quite admirably on that score. The easy to pour spouts they feature and the 30 day shelf life of these wines once opened add additonal value. Give one a shot for your next party and see what you think.

Santa Carolina - 2009 Reserva Carménère / 2008 Reserva de Familia Carménère

Chile’s Santa Carolina has a history that dates back more than 130 years. Like many producers from Chile they have several tiers of wines priced from budget friendly to premium. Santa Carolina has vineyards planted throughout Chile and are amongst the producers leading the charge of innovation. Today I’ll take a look at two of their current releases of Carménère. The Santa Carolina 2009 Reserva Carménère was produced using fruit sourced at La Rinconada Vineyards in the Rapel Valley. This offering is 100% Carménère. Grapes were hand harvested. This wine is widely available and has a suggested retail price of $10.99. 

Heady dark fruit aromas lead the nose of this 2009 Carménère. Earth and tree bark characteristics are present as well. Blackberry, plum, huckleberry and chicory flavors are at hand in droves throughout the palate which shows good density. Black pepper, sweet dark chocolate and hints of espresso bean are present on the finish which has reasonable length for the price-point. This is a very appealing Carménère that’s super juicy from the word go. This wine will have wide appeal and for less than $10 if you shop around it’s one you can pour for at a large gathering without breaking the budget. 

The Santa Carolina 2008 Reserva de Familia Carménère was produced from fruit sourced at two vineyards; La Rinconada and Los Lingues, both located in the Rapel Valley. This wine is 100% varietal. All of the fruit was hand picked. This offering is available nationally and has a suggested retail price of $19.99.

Violet and plum aromas are joined by toast and vanilla on the nose of this 2008 Carménère. The palate of this wine has depth, complexity and precision. It features blackberry, raspberry and bramble as well as a host of spices; black pepper, cardamom and nutmeg. Smoked meats, chocolate, earth and bits of licorice emerge on the finish which has terrific length and persistence. From start to finish this wine is full bodied and muscular while at the same time maintaining tremendous balance and proportion. This is a really nice example of Carménère and for less than $20 you’re likely to impress a lot of your friends with it. Pour it for them blind. Even if they peg it as Carménère, they’ll never get the price-point, it drinks richer than it costs.

Tapeña - 2009 Garnacha

Grenache is a varietal that in my opinion should be even more popular than it is. When it’s well made it can often pair with a wide array of foods. This engaging red is also often fun to drink on its own. In its homeland of Spain it’s known as Garnacha and is one of the most important red varietals. Today I’ll look at a widely available, budget priced offering from Tapeña. The Tapeña 2009 Garnacha was produced from fruit sourced in the Tierra de Castilla region of Spain. This selection is 100% Garnacha. It has a suggested retail price of $9.99.

This 2009 Garnacha has a heady nose that’s studded with ripe berry fruit aromas and an undercurrent of spices. Both ripe and dried dark berry fruit flavors play off of each other through the palate along with tongue tingling spices such as black pepper and nutmeg. Sour cherries, wild strawberry, rhubarb and vanilla bean flavors all emerge on the finish which shows reasonable length. This wine has soft tannins and firm acidity.

As is typical of Garnacha this offering is made to pair with food. Beef sliders topped with caramelized onions and blue cheese would be an inspired match. On the other end of the spectrum dark chocolate would also work well. In any case at less than $10 this wine is a really nice value. If you’re already a fan of Spanish Garnacha, here’s another example to try. On the other hand, if you’re new to this varietal this is a fine Garnacha to start with.