A Canadian Gewurtztraminer

A Canadian Gewurtztraminer:
Can Canada do Gewurtztraminer? ...

OUR WINE REVIEW POLICY All wines that we taste and review are purchased at the full retail price.
Wine Reviewed
Cave Spring Estate Bottled Gewuerztraminer VQA 2008 14.0% alcohol about $15

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. Tasting Note: Medium gold. Intense aromas of lychee, white flowers, candied citrus, and exotic spices. Just off-dry, medium bodied with an emerging lime cordial note on the palate. Very well-made Ontario Gewürz. Pair it with grilled prawns in a moderately spicy sauce, or lemon grass chicken. (VINTAGES panel, Jan. 2010) And now for my review.
Canadian Gewurztraminer in moderate priced wine

At the first sips the wine was slightly sweet and floral with fine acidity. The initial meal started with sesame seed puff pastry stuffed with spinach. The wine was appley and its acidity was mouth cleansing. Then came an omelet with lots of chilies. The wine was elegant and tasted of lemons and honey. When facing the accompanying artichoke and garlic tomato salsa the Gewurtz stepped down a bit but it was quite long. With Greek Kalamata olives I got the image of a fluttering butterfly and there was some nectar. Cantaloupe slices rendered the wine long and lemony. Honeydew made it very long and the wine’s acidity complemented the not quite ripe fruit.

This review of a Canadian Gewurtztraminer continues on my website.

A Classical Georgian White

A Classical Georgian White:

Wine Reviewed
Teliani Valley Tsinandali 2007 13.0% alcohol about $10

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. Description: Georgia's history of winemaking stretches into the distant past. In fact, it may be the very cradle of wine production. This attractive white wine comes from the country's Kakheti region and is made exclusively from the Rkatsiteli grape, which distinguishes it from a traditional Georgian blend that also uses the indigenous Mtsvane variety. Aged in oak, it displays a bright straw color, fruity bouquet and a soft refined taste. Enjoy as a sipper or with lighter chicken or seafood dishes. And now for my review.
Tsinandali wine cellar in tasting cheap wine

At the first sips the wine displayed bright acidity with a pleasant lemon taste. The initial meal started with sesame seed puff pastry stuffed with spinach that brought force to the wine. Then I enjoyed an omelet with lots of chilies. The wine showed good acidity and lemon but also a bit of soap. The accompanying artichoke and garlic tomato salsa definitely muted the Tsinandali. With Greek Kalamata olives all that remained was a shadow of the lemon and acidity. With cantaloupe slices the acidity was present, as was the lemony soap. Honeydew intensified the wine.

This review of a Georgian white wine continues on my website.

A Willamette Valley, Oregon Pinot Gris

A Willamette Valley, Oregon Pinot Gris:

OUR WINE REVIEW POLICY All wines that we taste and review are purchased at the full retail price.

Wine Reviewed Elk Cove Vineyards, 2009 Willamette Valley, Pinot Gris 13.5 % alcohol about $20. (I paid $23)

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. “Description: This wine ranked #79 in Wine Spectator’s Top 100 Wines of 2010. Tasting Note: Light and fragrant, this is juicy with pear, apple and lime flavors, hinting at almond flowers on the finish. Drink now through 2012. Score – 90. (Harvey Steiman at the Wine Spectator web site, Dec. 31, 2010).” And now for my review.

At the first sips this wine was refreshing and long. It offered light sweetness, good acidity, and pears. Japanese rice crackers lengthened and deepened this liquid. A Wasabi pea brought out lots of pears. My initial meal centered on an omelet perked up with black pepper, ground garlic, and basil. This libation was sweetish with a pleasant burnt taste in the background. When paired with zesty guacamole, this liquid was oh so long. Initially chocolate mousse weakened this Oregonian, but before long it bounced back.

This review of a Willamette Valley, Oregon Pinot Gris
continues on my website.

A Mendoza, Argentina Pinot Grigio

A Mendoza, Argentina Pinot Grigio: -

An Italian grape in Argentina?...

This week’s inexpensive; potentially bargain wine comes from Mendoza, Argentina’s major wine-producing region. Mendoza boasts an unbelievable 300 days of sunshine per year. Glacial melt waters from the Andes “irrigate” the desert, and the soil is organically poor (just in case you don’t know, that’s fine for wine grapes). Given the large number of Argentines of Italian background, it’s no surprise that the grape is called Pinot Grigio rather than the French-English version, Pinot Gris. The Argento winery was established in 1998. It produces over a dozen wines from popular grapes; several are available at $10 or less in my bailiwick. Today’s companion wine is an Oregon Pinot Gris, at twice the price.

OUR WINE REVIEW POLICY All wines that we taste and review are purchased at the full retail price.

Wine Reviewed
Argento Pinot Grigio 2011 13 % alcohol about $9.50.

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. “Tasting Note: Pale straw color; peach and tropical fruit aromas; extra dry palate with medium body and crisp flavors. Serving Suggestion: Creamy pasta dishes, grilled shrimp or as an aperitif.” And now for my review.

At the first sips this wine offered harsh acidity and some apples. It had moderate length and rolled over Japanese rice crackers but a Wasabi pea took away some of its edge. My initial meal centered on an omelet spiced with black pepper, ground garlic, and basil. Harsh acidity still prevailed. When paired with zesty guacamole, this liquid became rounder but did not offer much fruit. In response to a chocolate mousse this libation offered some apples and now its acidity was light.

This review of Mendoza, Argentina Pinot Grigio continues on my website.

A Southern Italian Primitivo

A Southern Italian Primitivo:
Primitivo, Italy's answer to Zinfandel...

OUR WINE REVIEW POLICY All wines that we taste and review are purchased at the full retail price.
Wine Reviewed
Coppi Peucetico Primitivo 2006 Gioia del Colle DOC 13.5% alcohol about $13

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. Description: Gioia del Colle is in the very heart of Puglia and enjoys the honor of being the hometown of Primitivo. In the 1700s, a local priest identified these vines and named them after their early ripening nature; Primitivo derives from the Latin primativus which means 'first to ripen.' This ripe Primitivo shows lovely berry and cherry fruit, floral notes as well as hints of coffee, mineral and earth. It's ready to drink with veal scallopini in a sun-dried tomato sauce. And now for my review.
Primitivo grapes in moderate priced wine

At the first sips the wine was grapey. It was mildly acidic and thick but had no tannins. The initial meal was a slow cooked beef stew with chick peas and potatoes. With the beef the Primitivo exuded lots of red berries and was pleasingly long. The accompanying chick peas increased its acidity and the potatoes increased the berry taste.

This review of a Southern Italian Primitivo continues on my website.

A California Old Vines Zinfandel

A California Old Vines Zinfandel: -

A California Old Vines Zinfandel

Do old vines make a difference?...

Ironstone Vineyard, Old Vines

Of course, we have been reviewing a lot of California wine, and a lot of Zinfandels, even white Zinfandels. Today’s wine is as red as can be. It comes from the Lodi area, home to over 40% of California Zinfandel. This is Northern California, south of Sacremento and east of San Francisco, in the heart of Gold Rush country. John Kautz started with 12 acres (less than 5 hectares) and now has over 5 thousand acres (over 2 thousand hectares) in the Lodi area and the Sierra foothills. Ironstone is home to California’s largest winery entertainment complex including a museum and a culinary center. You can even pan for gold. Their wine aging caverns were blasted through limestone. While this is not an organic wine, Ironstone practices sustainable viticulture, including owl boxes, raptor perches, and drip irrigation. This wine actually contains 9% Petite Syrah. Today’s companion wine is a medium priced Primitivo from southern Italy. Zinfandel is America’s only native European grape variety and some experts, but not all, consider it to be a relative of Primitivo.

OUR WINE REVIEW POLICY All wines that we taste and review are purchased at the full retail price.

Wine Reviewed
Ironstone Old Vine Zinfandel 2008 14.5% alcohol about $10

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. Tasting Note: I tasted dozens of value-priced whites, rosés and reds, and these [12 wines] emerged as the standouts ... John Kautz, Ironstone's owner, started growing grapes in Lodi and the Sierra Foothills in 1948. That helps explain how he can source this boysenberry-rich Zinfandel from vines that are more than 45 years old, yet still charge so little for it. (Ray Isle, at the food and wine website, Sept. 2009). And now for my review.

At the first sips the wine presented bright acidity. It was sour but not unpleasantly so. The initial meal was a slow cooked beef stew with chick peas and potatoes. With the beef Zinfandel tasted of jam. There was tobacco in the background; this wine was definitely mouth filling. When accompanying the chick peas the wine was round and long; with the potatoes it was rich.

This review of a California Old Vines Zinfandel continues on my website.

A South Australia Verdelho

A South Australia Verdelho:

Wine Reviewed
Lindeman’s Reserve Verdelho 2005 13.5% alcohol about $14

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. Description: The Verdelho grape made the journey from its native Portugal to Australia sometime in the 19th century. Today, it remains an important variety in Hunter Valley where it makes vibrant, full-bodied wines like this one. Perfect for summer time, it’s fresh and fragrant with tropical fruit aromas and flavors, lively acidity and a clean, lingering finish. Enjoy with pasta salad. And now for my review.

Just so you know, I needed a serious pair of pliers to twist off the cap. At the first sips this wine was very powerful and tasted of honeysuckle. The initial meal started with tomatoey barbecued chicken wings. In response the Verdelho was long and mouth filling. When faced with a similarly prepared chicken breast, this wine provided honeysuckle and some tropical fruit. With the accompanying potatoes roasted in chicken fat its honeysuckle taste intensified and it offered good acidity that dealt well with the grease. When paired with a fresh tomato the wine was sweet and barely acidic. I tasted honey as well as honeysuckle.

This review of A South Australia Verdelho continues on my website.

A South African Chenin Blanc

A South African Chenin Blanc:
This area has produced wines since 1659...

OUR WINE REVIEW POLICY All wines that we taste and review are purchased at the full retail price.
Wine Reviewed
The Winery of Good Hope Chenin Blanc 2008 13.5% alcohol about $10

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. Tasting Note: This wine starts with a curvy nose of pineapple, apricot and melon, leading into a very pretty interplay of tropical melon and spice on the palate. Elegant with a cheerful overall character, this Chenin balances acid and fruit well, creating a rounded wine with a delicate edge. Overall, dependable and fun. Score - 88. (Susan Kostrzewa, Wine Enthusiast, March 2009). And now for my review.
Winery of Good Hope in tasting cheap wine

At the first sips the wine showed bright acidity. It had good length but I tasted unripe melons. The initial meal started with tomatoey barbecued chicken wings. Now the Chenin Blanc’s acidity was harsh and the melons seemed even more unripe. Things worked better with a similarly prepared chicken breast. The wine was initially sweet and its acidity was round. When facing the accompanying potatoes roasted in chicken fat the Steen (that what South Africans call Chenin Blanc) had excess acidity, which however did a good job cutting the grease. With a fresh tomato the wine was too acidic and yet mellow.

This review of a South African Chenin Blanc continues on my website.

A Margaret River Australia Chardonnay

A Margaret River Australia Chardonnay:

OUR WINE REVIEW POLICY All wines that we taste and review are purchased at the full retail price.

Wine Reviewed Evans & Tate Chardonnay 2005 14.5% alcohol about $17

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. Description : Real Steal. A classic Margaret River Chardonnay that is rich in stone fruit, pineapple and melon characteristics and enhanced by delicate oak treatment. It has a long sustained finish that lasts and lasts. Excellent wine, incredible value. And now for my review.
Evans and Tate winery in Australian wine

At the first sips this wine was slightly sweet and lemony but there was enough oak to make me start to worry. The initial meal was a commercial chicken pot pie that intensified the oak which took over during the meal. The lemon did try to fight back. When I added Louisiana cayenne pepper sauce the wine’s acidity perked up and caramel tried to break through the oak.

This review of A Margaret River Australia Chardonnay continues on my website.

A Penfolds Australian Chardonnay

A Penfolds Australian Chardonnay: A Penfolds Australian Chardonnay
Let's try an inexpensive Chardonnay from the maker of Australia's greatest wine...


OUR WINE REVIEW POLICY All wines that we taste and review are purchased at the full retail price.
Wine Reviewed

Penfolds Koonunga Hill Chardonnay 2007 13.5% alcohol about $10

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. Tasting Note: Pale lemon gold color; tropical fruit, spicy oak and vanilla aromas; mouth filling flavor, long crisp spicy finish. Serving Suggestion: Ham with a honey mustard glaze; chicken dishes. And now for my review.
Penfolds winery in tasting cheap wine

I didn’t even try to cut open the twist cap. It twisted off nicely – with pliers. At the first sips this wine was sweet, spicy, and oaky. I immediately asked myself, will there be too much oak? The initial meal was a commercial chicken pot pie. This Chardonnay was nicely acidic with pleasant sweetness and tropical fruit. I added Louisiana cayenne pepper sauce, which brought out the oak.

This review of a Penfolds Australian Chardonnay continues on my website.

A Victoria, Australia Pinot Noir Rosé

A Victoria, Australia Pinot Noir Rosé:

OUR WINE REVIEW POLICY All wines that we taste and review are purchased at the full retail price.

Wine Reviewed Yering Station E. D. Pinot Noir Rosé 2006 13.5% alcohol about $17

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. E. D. stands for “extra dry” in this 100% Pinot Noir rosé. Twelve to twenty-four hours of skin contact in an open fermenter gives this elegant wine a soft pink, salmon color. The wine also spends a few weeks in older oak barrels to give richness and a hint of spice on the palate. Packed with cherry, red currant and strawberry fruit flavors, this refreshing rosé is perfect for a patio lunch featuring grilled fish and summer salads. And now for my review.
Yering Station winery in Australian wine

At the first sips I found that the wine tasted earthy with pleasant acidity. It was fairly long. The first meal started with barbecued chicken wings in a simple tomato sauce. I tasted earth and steel, something tasted burnt. With a barbecued chicken leg in Thai sauce, the Pinot Noir tasted of dark plums and smoke with a touch of acidity. When paired with potatoes roasted in chicken fat, the Rosé was almost chewy and tasted of burnt cherries. A fresh tomato brought out the wine’s strawberries, overripe strawberries.

This review of A Victoria, Australia Pinot Noir Rosé continues on my website.

A South Australia Low-Alcohol Rosé

A South Australia Low-Alcohol Rosé: A South Australia Low-Alcohol Rosé
It's sweet and very low alcohol...

OUR WINE REVIEW POLICY All wines that we taste and review are purchased at the full retail price.
Wine Reviewed
Banrock Station Pink Moscato Rosé 2009 5.5% alcohol about $10

There were no marketing materials so let’s start by quoting the back label. Light pink in color this Moscato displays fresh melon and grapefruit aromas with sweet lemon and tropical fruit flavors. Then it refers to the company’s global conservation projects. And now for my review.
Banrock Station Centre in tasting cheap wine

At the first sips while I thought of strawberry soda with less fizziness and more alcohol the wine was tasty and refreshing. The first meal started with barbecued chicken wings in a simple tomato sauce. In response the rosé became more acidic. It was sweet but not cloying. With a barbecued chicken leg in Thai sauce, the wine tasted of strawberry and lemon. When paired with potatoes roasted in chicken fat, the Moscato’s acidity stepped up. But when it met a fresh tomato all I got was candy, candy, and candy.

This review of A South Australia Low-Alcohol Rosé continues on my website.

A Southern Italy White Fiano

A Southern Italy White Fiano: Wine Reviewed
Masseria Altemura Fiano 2008 12.5% alcohol about $13

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. Tasting Note: Fiano is a variety whose home turf is believed to be nearby Campania. Puglia is making headway with this bold, crisp variety. Aromas of ripe apple, grapefruit, smoke and fresh herbs are front an center. Dry, racy, and fruity with good body and structure. Try it with moderately rich fish or chicken dishes. (VINTAGES panel, Sept. 2009) And now for my review.
Masseria Altemura in moderate priced wine

At the first sips this wine was rich and round and tasted of grapefruit. The first meal centered on a dry barbecued chicken breast. The wine showed good acidity. It compensated for the meat’s defect and tasted of lanolin and honeysuckle. I tasted peaches that weren’t quite ripe. The meat was accompanied by green beans in tomato sauce and rice. In response the Fiano’s acidity was subtle. This wine was elegant. With fresh pineapple the wine came out weaker but still showed elegance.

This review of A Southern Italy White Fiano continues on my website.

A Northern Spain White Viura

A Northern Spain White Viura: Wine Reviewed
Castillo de Monseran Viura 2008 12.5% alcohol about $9

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. Tasting Note: Pale straw color, aromas of white peaches and flowers, dry, light bodied, delicate floral flavors and a crisp lemony finish. Serving Suggestion: Serve with seafood pasta dish. And now for my review.
Viura grapes in tasting cheap wine

At the first sips this wine had astringent acidity. It was lemony and long. The first meal centered on a dry barbecued chicken breast. The wine’s acidity was under better control. I tasted peaches that weren’t quite ripe. The meat was accompanied by green beans in tomato sauce and rice. The Viura’s acidity nicely met the acidity in the tomato sauce. The word delicate came to mind. With fresh pineapple the wine was fairly long but didn’t have much to say.

This review of a A Northern Spain White Viura continues on my website.

An Austrian Grüner Veltliner

An Austrian Grüner Veltliner:

Wine Reviewed
Salomon Undhof Salomon Groovey Grüner Veltliner 2009 12.5% alcohol about $12

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. Description: You know a wine is really starting to catch on when it acquires a 'cool' nickname. Grüner Veltliner is now called GrüVe by the in-crowd. Grüner Veltliner may be difficult for people to say (GROON-er VELT-lea-ner), but it is becoming one of the hippest and hottest wines on the market. Typically dry and flavorful with a peppery or spicy overtone, it is a great match for many fish (especially salmon) and seafood dishes. And now for my review.
Grüner Veltliner grapes in moderate priced wine

At the first sips this wine presented subtle acidity. It was lightly lemony and had a touch of sweetness. The first meal centered on a meatless patty made with textured vegetable protein. The wine was long and fruity. It tasted of slightly unripe grapefruit and was too acidic. When accompanying French fried eggplant sticks the Grüner Veltliner was long and slightly sweet, now tasting of lime. With a high-quality ice cream bar with a thick chocolate the wine the lime taste lightened but it remained long.

This review of An Austrian Grüner Veltliner continues on my website.

A Hungarian Pinot Grigio

A Hungarian Pinot Grigio:
A white wine from near Budapest...

OUR WINE REVIEW POLICY All wines that we taste and review are purchased at the full retail price.
Wine Reviewed
Baron Lazare de Schwendi Pinot Grigio 2008 11.9% alcohol about $10

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. Tasting Note: Hungary is starting to make some exciting Pinot Grigios. As a result, wines such as this melon-, pear-, citrus- and floral-scented one are finding favor. Dry and flavorful, this wine finishes crisp and very refreshing. Enjoy it with steamed mussels or clams. (VINTAGES panel, June 2009). And now for my review.
Hungarian Pinot Grigio in tasting cheap wine

At the first sips this wine’s acidity was dominant. It seemed thin but refreshing. The first meal centered on a meatless patty made with textured vegetable protein. The acidity was now round and pleasant; the wine’s lemon stepped up. French fried eggplant sticks rendered the Pinot Grigio refreshing. A high-quality ice cream bar with a thick chocolate coating essentially gutted the wine.

This review of a Hungarian Pinot Grigio continues on my website.

A Galicia Spain Albariño

A Galicia Spain Albariño: Wine Reviewed
Agnusdei Albariño 2008 12.5 % alcohol about $15

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. Description : Albariño (Alvarinho, in Portugal) probably finds its finest expression in the Rías Baixas region of northwest Spain. The Atantic Ocean influence here is quite pronounced, contributing to the wine's racy freshness. Located right beside the ocean, it is unsurprising that this citrus-, melon-, and mineral-scented wine is an excellent match for shellfish dishes, especially steamed mussels or clams. And now for my review.


At the first sips I found this wine almost elegant. It was fizzy and I tasted minerals and good acidity. he first meal centered on a honey, garlic barbecued chicken breast. The Albariño’s acidity was bold but not overdone. I got great lemon and the wine was quite long. With the accompanying potatoes roasted in chicken fat this wine gained in intensity; bye, bye fat. With the side of canned palm hearts the wine became thinner but was still fruity and well balanced. An organic blackberry sherbet bar weakened this Spanish white but it did maintain a pleasant acidity.

This review of a Galicia, Spain Albariño continues on my website.

A Portuguese White Blend

A Portuguese White Blend:

Wine Reviewed
Casa de Santa Vitória Versátil Branco 2008 13.0 % alcohol about $10

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. Tasting Note : This unique wine is a blend of Chardonnay and Arinto (an indigenous Portuguese grape known for its zippy acidity and citrus notes). Aromas of green pear, lemon and honeydew melon jump from the glass, then spring to life again as flavors on the palate. The balance of Chardonnay's creamy roundness with Arinto's acidic tang is intriguing. A delicious partner for simply fried fish or seafood. (VINTAGES panel, March 2009). And now for my review.

At the first sips I tasted lemon and found the wine excessively acidic. The initial meal centered on a honey, garlic barbecued chicken breast. Its lemon, lime acidity was more pleasant but the wine was still unbalanced. Surprisingly the acidity problem increased with the accompanying potatoes roasted in chicken fat. This Arinto (and ?) worked out best with the side of canned palm hearts. An organic blackberry sherbet bar muted the wine and reduced its acidity as well.

This review of a Portuguese White Blend continues on my website.

A Barbera d'Alba

A Barbera d'Alba: Wine Reviewed
Ascheri Fontanelle Barbera d’Alba 2008 14.0 % alcohol about $17

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. Description: This single-vineyard Barbera gives you a taste of the latest vintage from Piedmont, and for a song! Deep purple in color, it displays elegant aromas of ripe black cherry, plum, tobacco and hints of new oak. It's medium bodied, with deep, dark fruit flavors balanced by lively acidity and soft tannins. Enjoy with tomato-based pasta, chicken marengo, or a meat-and-cheese antipasto platter. And now for my review.

At the first sips this wine presented great balance and length. I tasted tobacco and dark plums. The initial meal was chili on rice. This wine got even better. It was chewy and very long, tasting of leather and chocolate.

This review of a moderate priced Barbera d'Alba continues on my website.

A Really Inexpensive Montepulciano d'Abruzzo

A Really Inexpensive Montepulciano d'Abruzzo:

Wine Reviewed
Dragani Montepulciano d’Abruzzzo 2008 12.0 % alcohol less than $7

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. Tasting Note: Ruby and purple hints; ripe fruit aroma, blackcherry with a touch of coffee; full fruity, grape flavor, soft tannins in medium length finish, good quality. Serving Suggestion: Great with lasagna or cheese burgers. And now for my review.

At the first sips this wine was thick and red. Not so bad, but short at first and then medium length. The initial meal was chili on rice. This wine became more acidic. I tasted dark cherries. There were no tannins.

This review of an Italian Montepulciano d'Abruzzo continues on my website.

A Chilean Kosher Red Blend

A Chilean Kosher Red Blend:
Yes, Chile does Kosher wine...



OUR WINE REVIEW POLICY All wines that we taste and review are purchased at the full retail price.
Wine Reviewed

Alfasi Reserva KP 2010 14 % alcohol about $14.

There were no marketing materials so let’s start by quoting the back label (my sight translation from the French). “This Alfasi Malbec-Syrah is the fruit of combining carefully selected Malbec and Syrah grapes sourced in Chile’s most respected vineyards. From this oh so refined blend is born a well-structured wine characterized by rich notes of plums and grapes heightened by a soupcon of vanilla and coffee. This wine pairs marvelously with hearty meat and poultry dishes.“ And now for my review.

At the first sips this wine was dark and almost burnt with good length but its acidity was somewhat sour. A Wasabi pea shortened the wine. The initial meal was a boxed Ziti Siciliano that I doused with grated Parmesan cheese. This Chilean was flavorful and multilayered. Fresh strawberries rendered this liquid long and oaky.

I review a Chilean Kosher Red Blend on my website.

A Mendoza, Argentina Malbec

A Mendoza, Argentina Malbec:
Kosher wine in Argentina?...

OUR WINE REVIEW POLICY All wines that we taste and review are purchased at the full retail price.

Wine Reviewed
Terrenal Mendoza Malbec KPM 2007 13 % alcohol about $9.50.

There were no marketing materials so let’s start by quoting the back label. “Origin: This wine is made from grapes harvested in Mendoza at the foothills of the Andes Mountains. The unique combination of excellent weather and soil characteristics of this valley allows grapes to achieve ideal ripening conditions.“ And now for my review.

At the first sips this wine was somewhat flat and light in acidity. It tasted of dark plums. I started with Japanese rice crackers that improved the drink’s acidity. With a Wasabi pea its acidity became OK. The initial meal was a boxed Ziti Siciliano that I doused with grated Parmesan cheese. This Argentinian was short with harsh acidity; it was too sour. On the positive side it was oaky and displayed dark fruit. Fresh strawberries overwhelmed this liquid.

This review of a Mendoza, Argentina Malbec red wine continues on my website.

A San Martin, Argentina Cabernet Sauvignon

A San Martin, Argentina Cabernet Sauvignon:
Can you get a fine Cab at this price?...

OUR WINE REVIEW POLICY All wines that we taste and review are purchased at the full retail price.
Wine Reviewed
Tekiah Cabernet Sauvignon, San Martin, Mendoza 2007 12.9% alcohol about $12

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. Tasting Note: (Translated from the Spanish) A very deep red color, with violet tints. Tekiah’s elegant aromas are balanced and complex. Beautifully expressed flavors of red fruit and black pepper. Kosher for Passover. (The mostomagazine website, Dec. 22, 2008) And now for my review.

At the first sips I found this wine mouth filling, somewhat subtle, and oaky. The initial meal was thin yellow peppers stuffed with a delicious mixture of ground turkey, rice, garlic, onion, cumin, and allspice on a boiled, sliced potato base. The wine picked up acidity; it was still good.

This review of a moderately priced San Martin, Argentina Cabernet Sauvignon continues on my website.

Swartland, South Africa Cabernet Sauvignon

Swartland, South Africa Cabernet Sauvignon:
Can you get a decent kosher wine at this bargain price?...

OUR WINE REVIEW POLICY All wines that we taste and review are purchased at the full retail price.
Wine Reviewed
Welnerberg Cabernet Sauvignon WO Swartland 2005 13.9% alcohol about $10

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. Tasting Note: Opaque garnet in appearance, the nose suggests intense candied cassis, cherry, and floral. Full-bodied, the attack is soft and fruity and the finish reveals some astringency. And now for my review.


At the first sips I found the wine chewy, long, and well-balanced. The initial meal was thin yellow peppers stuffed with a delicious mixture of ground turkey, rice, garlic, onion, cumin, and allspice on a boiled, sliced potato base. The wine’s dominant taste was blueberry, not enough for a blueberry wine, but definitely blueberry, oaky blueberry.

This review of a Kosher South African Cabernet Sauvignon continues on my website.

A Rosé From Navarra, Spain

A Rosé From Navarra, Spain:

Wine Reviewed
Señorio de Sarría Crianza Rosé 2009 13.5% alcohol about $12

Let’s start with the marketing materials. Description: This tangy cherry-, plum-, and spice-scented wine won a Gold Medal at Concours Mondial de Bruxelles in 2007. Lively acids and supple tannins bring structure to all that flavor. Enjoy with fine smoked meats, hard cheeses, or gourmet sausages. And now for my review.


At the first sips I found the wine nicely balanced with light fruit and acidity. The initial meal consisted of chicken legs baked in Agave nectar with soy, sliced potatoes, and onions. Paired with the chicken this rosé tasted of strong strawberries with palate cleansing acidity. In the face of the potatoes and onions the wine was quite long and quite strawberry filled. Its acidity was nicely under control. When the wine’s acidity met the fresh tomato’s acidity the result was pleasant. The dessert of fresh strawberries flattened this rosé, which still retained its strawberry taste.

This review of a Spanish Rosé continues on my website.

A Rosé From Yecla, Spain

A Rosé From Yecla, Spain:

Wine Reviewed
La Cason de Castaño Rosé 2009 12.5% alcohol about $8

There were no marketing materials so let’s quote from the back label. La Casona Rosé is a carefully made wine of 100% Monastrell. The grapes are sourced from dry farmed vineyard sites ranging from 8-15 years old. Blooming strawberry and raspberry aromas with a slight nose of bakery. It shows a fresh pleasing fruity palate. And now for my review.

At the first sips I found the wine strong and fairly long with a slightly harsh acidity. The initial meal consisted of chicken legs baked in Agave nectar with soy, sliced potatoes, and onions. When paired with the chicken this rosé was round and its acidity became refreshing. I tasted strawberries. This acidity did a good job of cutting the grease associated with the potatoes and onions and I now tasted some raspberry as well. A fresh tomato reduced the wine’s acidity, which was now balanced. The dessert of fresh strawberries sweetened but also muted this wine.

This review of a Spanish Rosé continues on my website.

A Dalton Israeli Cabernet Sauvignon

A Dalton Israeli Cabernet Sauvignon:

Wine Reviewed Dalton Safsufa Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2009 13.5% alcohol about $18

Let’s start with the marketing materials. Description: Medium deeply colored with aromas of cassis, wild blueberry, mint, and a hint of oak. Dry with very good balance between the fruit, acid, and soft tannins. Barbecued beef short ribs are just the ticket. Tasting Note: Medium garnet with ruby color; big nose of black current, plum, and spice with earthy notes; dry, medium to full bodies, with ripe black fruit and vanilla flavors and a lingering finish. And now for my review.

At the first sips I found the wine excellent. It was thick and woody, but not excessively woody, and very long. My initial meal centered on slow-cooked beef ribs with potatoes. This wine was exceptionally long. It tasted of black cherries with some sweetness and was very balanced. When I added a good dose of Louisiana hot sauce, nothing changed because this Cab was so powerful. With the accompanying cold beets the wine displayed chocolate but its other aspects remained the same. Fresh strawberries brought out the wood and some caramel.

This review of an Israeli Cabernet Sauvignon continues on my website.

A Cabernet Sauvignon From Yecla, Spain

A Cabernet Sauvignon From Yecla, Spain:
Can you get a bargain kosher Cabernet Sauvignon From Spain?...

Wine Reviewed
Terroso Cabernet Sauvignon Castaño 2009 14% alcohol about $10

There were no marketing materials and the label only discussed kosher issues. Furthermore, a short tour of the web unearthed no review to quote. And now for my review.
Map Showing Yecla, Spain

At the first sips I found the wine slightly sweet but on the thin side. It had good balance and acidity with soft tannins. The fruit was mostly plums. My initial meal centered on slow-cooked beef ribs with potatoes. The wine was long and tasted of chocolate.When I added a good dose of Louisiana hot sauce, the Cab remained basically the same. It did not shrink. With the accompanying cold beets this wine became even longer. But fresh strawberries flattened it.

This review of a Spanish Cabernet Sauvignon continues on my website.

A Central Coast, California Sauvignon Blanc

A More Expensive Central Coast, California Sauvignon Blanc:

Wine Reviewed
Weinstock Cellars Sauvignon Blanc 2005 13.5% alcohol about $15

There were no marketing materials so once again I quote the back label. Weinstock Cellar Select Sauvignon Blanc was produced using grapes grown in the cool Central Coast region of California. This has created a wine that displays the complex and unique aroma that is characteristic of Sauvignon Blanc. Look for hints of lychee, melon, and vanilla. The wine is fruity and dry and may be enjoyed with caprese salad, pasta puttanesca, grilled fish, or light soups. And now for my review.

At the first sips the wine was multilayered with burnt sugar and caramel taste and fine acidity. My initial meal centered on chicken thighs and drumsticks baked in Agave nectar accompanied by brown rice and squash. When this wine faced the chicken the taste of caramel intensified as did the burnt sugar. The wine had good length. I got some pea pods but that taste was secondary. The squash rendered this Sauvignon Blanc mouth filling and the pea pods disappeared. I tasted campfire marshmallows. Dessert consisted of almond meringue cookies; the wine weakened. Or perhaps it became subtler.

This review of a moderate priced Central Coast, California Sauvignon Blanc continues on my website.

A California Central Coast Sauvignon Blanc

A California Central Coast Sauvignon Blanc:
Can you get a bargain kosher Sauvignon Blanc From Central California?...



OUR WINE REVIEW POLICY All wines that we taste and review are purchased at the full retail price.
Wine Reviewed
Baron Herzog Sauvignon Blanc 2008 13% alcohol about $10

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. Classic aromas come to the front, including cut grass, peas, and citrus. Then they are followed by a lovely ripe yellow plum aroma and flavor. On the palate, it is again a good combination of the classic (dry, crisp, and fresh) and the new style (round and ripe fruit). An excellent choice for grilled prawns. And now for my review.

At the first sips the dominant taste was pea pods. There was some sweetness. My initial meal centered on chicken thighs and drumsticks baked in Agave nectar accompanied by brown rice and squash. When this wine faced the chicken the taste of caramel made a vain attempt to surface; it was overwhelmed by the pea pods. Of course the rice had no effect. The squash provided some lemon and almost checked that dominant taste, but it fell short. There was some lemon. Dessert consisted of almond meringue cookies; the combination would have been refreshing except for…

This review of A California Central Coast Sauvignon Blanc continues on my website.

Another Sicilian Nero d'Avola

Another Sicilian Nero d'Avola: Wine Reviewed
Colosi Nero d’Avola, 2009 14 % alcohol about $12.

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. “Tasting Note : The 2009 Nero d'Avola emerges from the glass with layers of vibrant, perfumed red fruit. This silky, graceful red offers tons of varietal character and wonderful balance in an up-front, juicy style I find particularly appealing. The Nero d'Avola is aged exclusively in steel, which helps preserve quite a bit of freshness. Anticipated maturity: 2010-2013. Score - 89. (Antonio Galloni, at the Robert Parker website, June 2010) And now for my review.

At the first sips this wine was round, dark, and somewhat sweet. I started with Japanese rice crackers that increased its acidity. The initial meal was a boxed vegetarian lasagna with Ricotta and Mozzarella cheese that I doused with grated Parmesan cheese. In response Nero offered dark plums and very light tannins. Its acidity was slightly harsh.

This review of a Sicilian Nero d'Avola red wine continues on my website.

A Sicilian Nero d'Avola

A Sicilian Nero d'Avola: A Sicilian Nero d'Avola
Nero as in black...

Wine Reviewed
Cusumano Nero d’Avola, 2010 13.5 % alcohol about $10.

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. “Tasting Note: Deep ruby color, dark fruit with coffee and spice aromas; dry, medium body; cherry and plum flavors with balanced acidity; ripe tannins in soft medium length finish. Serving Suggestion: Serve with grilled lamb chops.“ And now for my review.

At the first sips this wine was round and quite fruit forward. It displayed balanced acidity but it was thin. I started with Japanese rice crackers; in response the fruit stayed and there was a bit of chocolate. And a Wasabi pea increased its intensity. The initial meal was a boxed vegetarian lasagna with Ricotta and Mozzarella cheese that I doused with grated Parmesan cheese. This was a good rustic wine, but it was somewhat thin.

This review of a Sicilian Nero d'Avola wine continues on my website.

A Kosher Israeli Shiraz

A Kosher Israeli Shiraz: Wine Reviewed
Efrat Israeli Shiraz KP/M 2009 12.5% alcohol about $14

There were no marketing materials so let’s start by quoting the back label. Our Shiraz is a deep red wine with purple highlights, enriched by sweet touches and a lingering aftertaste of plums and blackberries. Shiraz reaches perfection in warm climates such as Australia, Israel, and the south of France. Fruity and full-bodied with the added complexity of oak. And now for my review.

At the first sips this wine was round and sweet with good length and light tannins. The first meal started with Japanese rice crackers that brought the Shiraz’s plums to the fore. Then I enjoyed a packaged vegetable lasagna containing Ricotta and Mozzarella cheese that I slathered with grated Parmesan cheese. I tasted plums, perhaps cooked plums. The wine’s tannins have flown the coop and replaced by a twist of tobacco. Its acidity was refreshing. Dessert was a blueberry custard pie in a buttery crust. The wine was muted. There were some cherries and its acidity was down.

This review of a Kosher Israeli Shiraz continues on my website.

A Kosher Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon Revisited

A Kosher Chilean Cabernet Sauvignon Revisited:
We liked it the first time...

OUR WINE REVIEW POLICY All wines that we taste and review are purchased at the full retail price.

Wine Reviewed
Don Alfonso Cabernet Sauvignon (V) 2009 12.5% alcohol about $8.50

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. Description : A complex Cabernet filled with aromas of blackberry, cherry and black olive. Dry, ripely fruity with subtle oak notes, no tannins to speak of, but nicely balanced, nonetheless. Medium long, lush and smooth finish. Grilled steak is called for. And now for my review.
Maule Valley Vineyards
Maule Valley Vineyards

At the first sips this wine was a bit thin. It tasted oaky with light tannins and acidity. The first meal started with Japanese rice crackers that brought out this Cab’s dark cherries. Then I enjoyed a packaged vegetable lasagna containing Ricotta and Mozzarella cheese that I slathered with grated Parmesan cheese. The wine’s acidity picked up. It was pleasant and mouth-cleansing, and really quite food-friendly with a touch of oak. Dessert was a blueberry custard pie in a buttery crust. Now the acidity didn’t mesh, but the dark cherries were good.

This review continues on our website.

A Western Australia Chardonnay

A Western Australia Chardonnay:
Do you like your Chardonnay oaked?...


Wine Reviewed
Groundrey Reserve Selection Chardonnay 2004 14.5% alcohol about $15

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. Description: Goundrey Winery celebrated with another wine at the prestigious 2005 Chardonnay-du-Monde competition held in Burgundy with a Gold Medal for this Reserve Chardonnay. Tasting Note: This wine initially shows big, ripe fruit with harmonious tannins and the forward flavors and buttery and worked characters that typify this label. It also shows more age, balance, and viscosity than most of its competitors for an upfront and appealing commercial style, finishing crisply to ensure a further two to three years of development in required. Silver Medal. (Scoop Magazine, Regional Wine Tasting, June 17, 2005) And now for my review.

At the first sips this wine was very rich with tropical fruits, delicate acidity, and good length. The initial meal started with barbecued chicken wings in a tomato sauce. The wine was flowery and tasted of spiced lemons as well. The meal continued with a honey-garlic barbecued chicken breast. In response the Chardonnay tasted of burnt caramel, grapefruit, and mango. When paired with green beans in tomato sauce it displayed great length with citrus and a little oak. The side of commercially prepared potato salad with pickles weakened the wine but there was still a lot of citrus.

This review of a Western Australia Chardonnay continues on my website.

A Kosher Chilean Chardonnay

A Kosher Chilean Chardonnay:

Wine Reviewed
Terra Vega Chardonnay 2009 13.0% alcohol about $10

There were no marketing materials so let’s start by quoting the back label. Our Terra Vega is fresh and fruity with flavors of melon and tropical fruit. Ideal with chicken, seafood, and variety salads. And now for my review.

At the first sips this wine was buttery with lemon and good acidity. Its oak was expanding. The initial meal started with barbecued chicken wings in a tomato sauce. The wine’s acidity intensified; it was somewhat sweet and I tasted white grapefruit. The meal continued with a honey-garlic barbecued chicken breast. The Chardonnay was powerful with bracing acidity, lemon, and caramel. When paired with green beans in tomato sauce it tasted as before but picked up a somewhat metallic taste. The side of commercially prepared potato salad with pickles imparted good length to the wine and lemon came to the fore.

This review of a Kosher Chilean Chardonnay continues on my website.

An Organic Rosé From Penedes, Spain

An Organic Rosé From Penedes, Spain:
Have you tasted an organic rosé?...


OUR WINE REVIEW POLICY All wines that we taste and review are purchased at the full retail price.
Wine Reviewed
Parés Baltà Ros de Pacs Cabernet/Merlot Rosé 2009 13.5% alcohol about $12

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. Description : This fine rosé features Cabernet Sauvignon with Merlot in support. Penedès does a terrific job with these international varieties in their red wines, so it's not surprising that their rosé versions are equally compelling. Look for raspberry, citrus and cherry aromas and flavors. Just barely off-dry, the acidity brings a pretty balance to this wine. Enjoy it with spring and summer meals. Our Quality Assurance Laboratory has determined that this organic wine contains 30 mg/L of free sulphur. And now for my review.

At the first sips this wine tasted dark for a rosé. I was afraid that it was spoiled, It wasn’t. The initial meal centered on fried, breaded turkey breast. In response the rosé was mouth filling and tasted of by no means unpleasant slightly burnt caramel. With the side of squash it had strong acidity and tasted burnt. Fresh strawberries for dessert rendered this wine very long and mouth filling.

This review of a Spanish Organic Rosé continues on my website.

A Rosé From Navarra, Spain

A Rosé From Navarra, Spain:
Pedestrian grape, medium wine-producing area...

OUR WINE REVIEW POLICY All wines that we taste and review are purchased at the full retail price.
Wine Reviewed
Chivite Gran Feudo Rosé 2009 13.0% alcohol about $10

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. Tasting Note: Clear medium pink color ; strawberry with a touch of citrus aromas ; dry, medium body ; fresh fruit flavors, medium finish. Serving Suggestion: enjoy with tapas on the patio.

At the first sips this wine was sweet with refreshing acidity and tasted of strawberries. The initial meal centered on fried, breaded turkey breast. The rosé was fruit-forward and mouth cleansing. With the side of squash it was nicely round and provided strawberries and raspberries. Fresh strawberries for dessert made the wine lose its edge and become metallic.

This review of a Navarra, Spain Rosé continues on my website.

A Biodynamic Chianti

A Biodynamic Chianti:

Wine Reviewed
L’Antico di Burchino Vigna Casanova Chianti 2007 12.0% alcohol about $14

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. Tasting Note: The 2007 L’Antico di Burchino Vigna Casanova is a gorgeous, mid-weight offering laced with perfumed, ethereal fruit. This is absolutely beautiful wine made from Demeter-certified biodynamic fruit. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2012. Score – 88. (Antonio Galloni at the Robert Parker website, Aug 2009.) And now for my review.

At the first sips this wine presented sweet cherries and nice acidity. The initial meal centered on a barbecued chicken breast in a thick, sweet tomato sauce. The Chianti was long with cherries (maybe that’s the Ciliegolo signing in), good acidity, and light oak. The wine’s acidity washed down that tasty grease from the side of potatoes roasted in chicken fat and I got some chocolate. When it met the oriental tomato, pimento, hot pepper and garlic salad the wine was powerful and once again I tasted chocolate.

This review of a Biodynamic Chianti Wine continues on my website.

A High-Volume Portuguese Red

A High-Volume Portuguese Red:
Are the Portuguese justified in choosing this wine?...


OUR WINE REVIEW POLICY All wines that we taste and review are purchased at the full retail price.
Wine Reviewed
Periquita 2006 12.0% alcohol about $8

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. Tasting Note: Clear ruby red color, cherry, red berry and spice aromas; dry, medium bodied, with raspberry flavors with fine balancing acidity and firm tannins to finish. Serving Suggestion: Serve with lamb chops. And now for my review.


At the first sips this wine presented slightly harsh acidity, soft tannins, and a bit of raspberry. My initial meal centered on a barbecued chicken breast in a thick, sweet tomato sauce. In response to the chicken, the wine’s raspberry taste picked up. The Periquita had mouth-cleansing acidity that was no longer harsh. A side of potatoes roasted in chicken fat brought out some chocolate to accompany the raspberry and acidity. When it met the oriental tomato, pimento, hot pepper and garlic salad the wine’s acidity meshed with the tomato’s acidity and the wine tasted of black pepper.

This review of a Portuguese Red Blend continues on my website.

Cotes de Provence Rosé

Cotes de Provence Rosé:

Wine Reviewed
Chateau de Tour de l’Eveque Rosé, Appellation Cotes de Provence, 2010 13.5 % alcohol about $17

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. “Description: The cuisine of Provence seems to have a real affinity for the region's best rosés. Very crisp and dry, this wine delivers flavors of strawberry, cranberry and spice. An ideal match for a homemade aioli (the great garlicky dipping sauce) with grilled shrimp, or pan-seared scallops grilled in butter and garlic.“ And now for my review.

At the first sips this wine started out somewhat flat but subsequently good acidity and light strawberries came through. Japanese rice crackers with a Wasabi pea expanded the wine. The initial meal was an omelet perked up with majoram, garlic powder, dried basil leaves, black pepper, and a Middle Eastern spice mix. Now the liquid was slightly metallic, tasting of raspberries. When paired with a white bean humus the rosé was long with good acidity but little fruit. The accent of roasted garlic tapenade didn’t affect its acidity but brought out the taste of light raspberries.

This review of a Cotes de Provence Rosé Wine continues on my website.

A Barefoot White Zinfandel

A Barefoot White Zinfandel:

California drinking...

OUR WINE REVIEW POLICY All wines that we taste and review are purchased at the full retail price.

Wine Reviewed
Barefoot White Zinfandel, 2009 9.5 % alcohol about $5 (I paid $10).

Let’s start by quoting the marketing materials. “Tasting Note: Clear bright pale pink; aromas of strawberry, lime, rhubarb, and candy floss with floral nuances; off-dry, with sweet strawberry, rhubarb pie, and candy floss flavors; tart rhubarb on finish. Serving Suggestion: Drink well chilled with Mexican cuisine, finger foods, salads, and fruit desserts.“ And now for my review.

At the first sips this wine was excessively sweet but it did have good acidity and lasting rhubarb. I started with Japanese rice crackers that lightly tamed the sweetness. And a Wasabi pea let the spices come through. The initial meal was an omelet perked up with majoram, garlic powder, dried basil leaves, black pepper, and a Middle Eastern spice mix. Now the liquid was home to a fight between strawberries and excessive sugar. I’m not sure who won that mini-battle, but I know it wasn’t me. When paired with a white bean humus the taste of candy came through. The accent of roasted garlic tapenade finally tamed the libation’s sweetness.

This review of A Barefoot White Zinfandel continues on my website.