Tasting Notes, Friday 6/1/12

NCWC PARTY WINE WINE TASTING, 6/1/12

 JEIO SPUMANTE ROSE

            This fun sparkler from Italy is made from equal parts Merlot and Pinot Noir.  It shows “excellent balance and a refined mousse… and everything here works beautifully.”  Tasty berry fruit, fun bubbles, and just a touch of sweetness make this a great accompaniment to any party.  87 points Robert Parker.  $12.97.

 COLUMBIA CREST TWO VINES PINOT GRIGIO 2009

            This Pinot Grigio “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. Crisp and refreshing, this wine is perfect for sipping on its own but is a natural with food as well.”  87 points Wine Spectator.  $7.97.

 QUEEN OF HEARTS PINOT NOIR 2010

            This lovely Pinot was fermented in small batches, aged in oak barrels, carefully blended and bottled at the peak of quality. This vintage has aromas of ripe blackberry, black cherry, and cola with smooth fruit driven flavors of plum, strawberry and warm spices.  A terrific value Pinot to pour at gatherings large and small.  $11.97.

 RANCHO SISQUOC TRE VINI 2010

            A blend of three varietals, this delight shows the cherry, raspberry, and cranberry cocktail flavors from the Sangiovese, with hints of floral and perfume from the Malbec and notes of game and leather from the Syrah.  Bright and loaded with chewy tannins, the palate carries unique accents like maple syrup and molasses through a racy finish.  $14.97.

 KATHERINE GOLDSCHMIDT CABERNET 2010

            Brand new vintage of this Alexander Valley Cabernet from star winemaker Nick Goldschmidt (Katherine is one of his daughters).  Always made from the 20-year-old Crazy Creek Vineyard, this introduces itself with spicy oak aromas over ripe cherries.  On the palate you’ll find more of the same, with plums and subtle leather notes.  $15.97.

 TORRES SANGRE DE TORO 2010

            This “bull’s blood” is Tempranillo from Spain, and makes for fine party lubrication! It begins with delicate floral aromas over a background of very ripe fruit, oak and truffles. Its tannins have a fruity, meaty structure that evolves into velvety touches of smoke and spices acquired during aging.  $8.97

 MADDALENA ZINFANDEL 2009

            Of course you can’t talk about party wines without including Zinfandel.  This example from Paso Robles shows bright fruit flavors of ripe raspberry and sweet cherries, with the barrel aging adding notes of cinnamon and spice.  Classic Zin at a great price!  $11.97.