“Night Before Christmas” Tasting Notes 12/23/11

NCWC CHRISTMAS EVE EVE TASTING, 12/23/11

 COLUMBIA CREST TWO VINES PINOT GRIGIO 2009

            ‘Twas the night before Christmas, when all through the house, not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse.  A bottle of Two Vines waits properly chilled, because you don’t dare serve Santa just any old swill.  This crisp, refreshing PG “opens with enticing aromas of fruit salad and a fragrance reminiscent of orchard blossoms.  Luscious flavors of green apple are joined by subtle hints of pear and citrus.”  87 points Wine Spectator.  $7.97.

PINE RIDGE CHENIN BLANC VIOGNIER 2010

                The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, in hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there.  We hope he judges our behavior just fine, and rewards us by filling those stockings with wine.  Like this delicious White Blend from Pine Ridge.  “Wonderfully crisp, elegant, fresh honeydew melon, spring flower, white peach and honeysuckle aromas soar from the glass of this zesty wine,” with the melon character following through on the pure, delicious palate.  90 points Robert Parker.  $9.97.

ALDERBROOK ZINFANDEL 2004

                The children were nestled all snug in their beds, while visions of sugar plums dance in their heads.  But for me it’s not plums, nor chocolate creams, it’s visions of wine that fill up my dreams.  This mature Zin shows subtle, mellowed flavors of black fruit, black pepper, cinnamon and coffee.  91 points Wine & Spirits.  $5.97.

RENWOOOD BARBERA 2007

                When out on the lawn there arose such a clatter, I sprang from the bed to see what was the matter.  My fear as I staggered with my sleepy waddle, was that someone had broken some of my bottles.  Fortunately the Renwood was okay, showing aromas of black cherry, plum, hints of peppery earth, and a touch of oak, along with bright flavors of cranberry sauce, black cherry, and red currant.  88 points Bill Tobin.  $8.97.

HEDGES CMS BLEND 2009

                What to my wandering eye should appear, but a miniature sleigh and eight tiny reindeer.  With alarm I figured there’s no freakin’ way, that St. Nick could fit all my wine in that sleigh.  Turns out he’s magical, though, so there’s plenty of this Hedges.  A blend of Cab, Merlot and Syrah, this is supple and loaded with berries and darker notes of licorice and coffee.  Plenty going on here for such an inexpensive wine.  87 points Tobin Bros.  $9.97.

HAHN MERITAGE 2009

                “Now Dasher, now Dancer, now Prancer and Vixen, On Comet, On Cupid, on Donner and Blitzen!”  He showed with these shouts he was in quite a hurry, but he dropped off more wine before I could worry.  Like this Meritage.  “This classic Bordeaux-style blend manages to be approachable yet complex. Pronounced blackberry and blueberry on the nose mingle with cedar spice and a hint of wood, while notes of bramble fruit, cherry, vanilla and dried herbs please the palate.”  $12.97.

MINASSIAN YOUNG BLACK ST. PETER 2008

At this point I feel I’m a real lucky dude, when St. Nicholas hands me still more liquid food.  He gives me this blend and says with delight, Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night!  This makes it a good night indeed.  From Paso Robles, this is a rich blend of Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Tannat, Cinsault, Carignan, and Mourvedre.  The nose reveals very ripe boysenberry and raspberry notes, while the palate follows through with jammy, sweet wild berries augmented by oak accents.  $16.97.