Tasting Notes, Friday 12/30/11

2011 RETROSPECTIVE TASTING, 12/30/11

 ETUDE PINOT GRIS 2010

            One of 2011’s major events was the passing of Steve Jobs.  This creative and entrepreneurial genius was a primary force behind multiple technological products, as well as Pixar Animation Studios, which had previously been the computer graphics division of what company?  This wine is as elegant as an iPod, with bright flavors  of white peach, nectarine and citrus highlighted by a crisp minerality and graceful finish.  90 points Tobins.  $17.97.

MEIOMI PINOT NOIR 2010

                This year also saw the passing of Kim Jong Il, North Korea’s “Supreme Leader,” or “Dear Leader” or “Great Leader,” depending on his mood.  State media reported he made 3 or 4 holes in one every time he golfed, which isn’t that great for a supposed deity.  Who was his favorite movie actress?  He also loved wine and probably would have adored this one, with its bright berries, spice notes, and rich texture.  $19.97.

ARGIANO NC TOSCANA 2009

                William and Kate got married this year; I’m so pleased they’ve lasted longer than Kim Kardashian and that basketball player.  What are Will & Kate’s official titles?  I hear they poured this wine at their wedding, and why not?  An appealing graphite note “adds depth to the black currant, violet and cedar aromas and flavors in this svelte red, which is smooth, with finely woven tannins” and a bright, spicy finish.  92 pts. Wine Spectator.  $19.97.

TEAGUE CABERNET SAUVIGNON 2007

                Adele’s second album was released early this year and proceeded to sell over 13 million copies worldwide.  How many Grammy nominations did she get for it?  “Rumour has it” this winemaker sells grapes to Leal, producer of Godsend and many other fine wines.  Fortunately he keeps some of the good stuff to make this Cab, which is plush, layered, and a steal at this price.  89 points Bill.  $14.97.

AMIZETTA CABERNET 2007

                The year also began with a tragedy in Tucson, when many were killed and injured in a senseless rampage aimed at Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords.  Her recovery and rehabilitation have been amazing and inspiring, as has been the devotion of her husband, who commanded the final flight of which space shuttle?  This wine is also amazing, with its perfumey, Bordeaux-like nose and layers of fruit, earth, oak and herbs.  92 pts. Bill.  $24.97.

FALLBROOK BDX BLEND 2008

                May 2, 2011 saw the death of Osama Bin Laden in a CIA operation executed by SEAL Team Six.  What was the operation’s code name?  Such grand events are best celebrated with fine wine, such as this local standout.  A blend of the five Bordeaux varieties, it opens with a nice purity of fruit, mainly plum and cassis, and closes with a touch of pepper on the pretty finish.  95 points Robert Whitley.  $19.97.

R SYRAH 2009

                Perhaps the most noteworthy event of 2011 was the one year anniversary of the Tobin Brothers acquisition of North County Wine Company, which has since become the area’s finest wine shop & wine bar.  Trivia: what are Jim and Bill’s middle names?  This major event also should be toasted with a fine wine, and this beauty from Jeff Runquist definitely qualifies.  Aromas of ripe boysenberry and dark raspberry carry hints of smoke and minerality, then bright succulent flavors of red and black fruits mingle with those of hazelnut and chocolate, while the tannins remain soft and smooth.  89 points Tobins.  $19.97.