Tasting Notes 4/18/14

NCWC WONDERFUL WORLD OF WINE TASTING, 4/18/14

PACIFIC RIM RIESLING 2012
This medium-dry Riesling from Columbia Valley is “all in fine balance, full flavored, fruity and round. A mix of peaches, apricots and Mandarin oranges makes this an interesting Riesling with some complexity.” This will pair spectacularly with fiery, spicy food from Thai to Mexican. 89 points Wine Enthusiast. $9.97

TRILE CARMENERE 2011
Red fruit on the nose, with a savory herbal component quite apparent. Good juicy fruit on this, cherry and currants, with the savory herbal aspect somewhat subdued, playing a supporting role rather than standing out. Showing drying tannins and balancing acidity, this finishes dry, with some zest. 87 points Tobin Bros. $6.97

GUIGAL COTES DU RHONE 2010
“Smoky cherry and black raspberry aromas are complicated by olive, allspice and licorice, with a sexy floral quality in the background. Sappy dark berry and lavender pastille flavors display impressive depth and power without excess weight. Closes sweet, gently tannic and long, with lingering spice and floral pastille notes.” 90 points Stephen Tanzer. $14.97

GUENOC CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2012
This Lake County Cabernet Sauvignon has a fruit forward nose of black cherry, raspberry jam with undertones of herbes de provence. The wine is elegant and soft on the palate and the acidity is very well ballanced. Tannins are soft and melting while still providing enough structure to contend with a hearty dishes, making it a wonderful accompaniment with food or enjoyed alone. 87 points Tobin Bros. $10.97

BODEGAS ZERRAN TINTO 2011
Made from Syrah, Garnacha, and Carignan, this “reveals abundant kirsch, lavender, black raspberry and dusty, loamy, earthy scents intermixed with notions of spring flowers and blackberries. There is not any oak evident in this dense effort. Its completeness and overall equilibrium are impressive.” 92 points Wine Advocate. $14.97

MONTE ANTICO TOSCANA 2009
“A fruity wine with black cherry, blueberry and hints of pepper. Full and velvety with a long and delicious finish. Acidity is well-integrated with the fruit. One of the best value wines from Tuscany. Screw cap. A blend of Sangiovese, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.” 90 points James Suckling. $10.97

ZUCCARDI SERIES A MALBEC 2012
This classic Argentinian value boasts intense aromas of red ripe fruits such as plums, blackberries and berries, all well balanced with a hint of new oak. In the mouth it is sumptuously soft with firm tannins. Well balanced and complex with a long intense finish. 89 points Tobin Bros. $12.97