Tasting Notes Friday 5/24/13

NCWC BARBECUE WINES EVENT 5/24/13

J VINEYARDS PINOT GRIS 2011
This Pinot Gris has an enticing bouquet of Fuji apple, ripe cantaloupe, and apricot. The crisp, clean mouthfeel is bursting with flavors of lemon and lime. A hint of kiwi and sweet orange blossom honey on the palate complements the fruit and acid. 89 points Jim Tobin. $10.97

A TO Z ROSE 2012
The A to Z Rose has bright and vibrant aromas of wild strawberries, red currants, peach, watermelon, cherries, raspberries and hibiscus with hints of rosemary and thyme. In the mouth, the juicy attack is a riot of red fruit and melon flavors that move into a mid-palate that is bright and rich all at once. The wine ultimately finishes crisp and clean with lingering flavors of strawberries and lavender. Pure enjoyment! 88 points Tobin Bros. $10.97

LAETITIA ESTATE PINOT NOIR 2011
Subtle, dark fruit aromas offer a perfumed nose of wild raspberry and black cherry cobbler that yield to a dark and mysterious palate with bittersweet cocoa, tobacco and Asian spice prominent. $19.97

BENMARCO MALBEC 2010
“The 2010 Malbec contains 10% Bonarda in its makeup. Lovely aromas of black cherry, spice box, tobacco, lavender, and earthy minerals inform the nose of a ripe, succulent, intensely flavored wine that offers outstanding value and is meant for drinking over the next 5-7 years.” 90 points Robert Parker. $17.97

ZENAIDA ZC RED 2009
The blend is 50% Syrah, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Petite Sirah. This wine was designed to compliment a wide range of cuisine. Unmasked varietal components with well balanced tannin and acidity, give this wine rich flavors of anise, ripened cherry and lush berry and pomegranate with hints of cedar. 88 points Tobin Bros. $12.97

KLINKER BRICK ZINFANDEL 2010
Produced from vines with an average age of 85 years, this delicious wine exhibits a bright bouquet of wild strawberry and plum, intermingled with cedar shavings. Filling the palate with flavors of black cherry and vanilla, supple tannins support good structure. The finish is smooth and long. 88 points Bill Tobin. $15.97

ORIN SWIFT THE PRISONER 2011
“Deep and jammed with fruit character, this ripe version offers plenty of new oak, revealing a rich texture and zesty flavors of smoky licorice, blackberry cobbler and cracked pepper. Drink now through 2019.” 92 points Wine Spectator. $31.97