Blog, Interrupted

►  2009(159) ►  December(2)Another Simple Solution--and It Involves Pinot Noi...In Pursuit of Simplicity: Sauvignon Blanc ►  November(4)World Turned Upside Down? Time to Catch UpThanksgiving Wine Under $20: My Picks for 2009Vinho Verde--Just BecauseToday on Serious Grape: Wine Survival Strategy for... ►  October(8)Gemischter Satz--It's Austrian for DeliciousThe Red Wines of Calabria: Fruity, Funky, and Fabu...Today on Serious Grape: Autumn Whites from Austria...Exploring Calabria in OctoberNew Grape of the Month: FalanghinaMighty Good Malbecs3 Years and 5182 Subscribers Later...This Week on Serious Grape: Decanting Demystified ►  September(15)Good Pinot Noir--Under $28Finding Your Chardonnay StyleA Bargain in Bubbles: Zonin ProseccoThere's a New Wine Store In Town: domaineLAA Ligurian Red That Dresses Up--or DownThis Week on Serious Grape: The Farmers' Market Wi...Wine Blogging Wednesday #61: Quivira VineyardsPigato: The Briny Grape from LiguriaPalate Press: the New Online Wine MagazineA Zaftig Sparkling WineTropical Fruit from California's Central Coast: Fi...My Italian Wine Journey Continues: LiguriaHappy Labor DayThis Week on Serious Eats: Doggone Good Wine Pairi...Alsace Sparkles ►  August(14)A True Blue Syrah from the Central CoastFinal Edition of the Wine Book Club: A Vineyard in...New Grape of the Month: BourboulencA Sweet Tip on Dessert WineThis Week on Serious Grape: "Grape School" ►  July(14) ►  June(11) ►  May(11) ►  April(19) ►  March(18) ►  February(22) ►  January(21) ►  2008(257) ►  December(17) ►  November(17) ►  October(21) ►  September(21) ►  August(19) ►  July(22) ►  June(25) ►  May(20) ►  April(20) ►  March(25) ►  February(22) ►  January(28) ►  2007(277) ►  December(23) ►  November(23) ►  October(23) ►  September(21) ►  August(22) ►  July(26) ►  June(23) ►  May(26) ►  April(22) ►  March(24) ►  February(17) ►  January(27) ►  2006(63) ►  December(27) ►  November(20) ►  October(16)

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Warm Cabernets for Cold Winter Nights

Blog, Interrupted ►  2009(159) ►  December(2)Another Simple Solution--and It Involves Pinot Noi...In Pursuit of Simplicity: Sauvignon Blanc ►  November(4)World Turned Upside Down? Time to Catch UpThanksgiving Wine Under $20: My Picks for 2009Vinho Verde--Just BecauseToday on Serious Grape: Wine Survival Strategy for... ►  October(8)Gemischter Satz--It's Austrian for DeliciousThe Red Wines of Calabria: Fruity, Funky, and Fabu...Today on Serious Grape: Autumn Whites from Austria...Exploring Calabria in OctoberNew Grape of the Month: FalanghinaMighty Good Malbecs3 Years and 5182 Subscribers Later...This Week on Serious Grape: Decanting Demystified ►  September(15)Good Pinot Noir--Under $28Finding Your Chardonnay StyleA Bargain in Bubbles: Zonin ProseccoThere's a New Wine Store In Town: domaineLAA Ligurian Red That Dresses Up--or DownThis Week on Serious Grape: The Farmers' Market Wi...Wine Blogging Wednesday #61: Quivira VineyardsPigato: The Briny Grape from LiguriaPalate Press: the New Online Wine MagazineA Zaftig Sparkling WineTropical Fruit from California's Central Coast: Fi...My Italian Wine Journey Continues: LiguriaHappy Labor DayThis Week on Serious Eats: Doggone Good Wine Pairi...Alsace Sparkles ►  August(14)A True Blue Syrah from the Central CoastFinal Edition of the Wine Book Club: A Vineyard in...New Grape of the Month: BourboulencA Sweet Tip on Dessert WineThis Week on Serious Grape: "Grape School" ►  July(14) ►  June(11) ►  May(11) ►  April(19) ►  March(18) ►  February(22) ►  January(21) ►  2008(257) ►  December(17) ►  November(17) ►  October(21) ►  September(21) ►  August(19) ►  July(22) ►  June(25) ►  May(20) ►  April(20) ►  March(25) ►  February(22) ►  January(28) ►  2007(277) ►  December(23) ►  November(23) ►  October(23) ►  September(21) ►  August(22) ►  July(26) ►  June(23) ►  May(26) ►  April(22) ►  March(24) ►  February(17) ►  January(27) ►  2006(63) ►  December(27) ►  November(20) ►  October(16)

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wine

Black Box Cabernet Sauvignon

A lot of fun has been poked over the years at boxed wines.  And rightfully so.  Most of the wine sold in boxes over the past couple decades has been disgusting.  But that’s starting to change.  It’s not the container, it’s the wine… and there are a few producers now putting some tasty juice into boxed wines.

You no longer need to avoid boxed wines, but like any other wine you’ll still find some that are better than others.  Actually, you may want to get used to the idea of boxed wines, as many in the wine industry predict that you’ll see more and more of them over time.  The reason is simple, shipping costs.  Bottles add a lot of extra weight to wine.  While I didn’t weigh it to find out exactly, this box of Black Box wine felt about as heavy as two bottles of wine to me, yet it has the equivalent volume of four standard 750ml bottles of wine.

There are other benefits to wine in a box, besides shipping weight.  The wine stays fresh longer after you open it.  When you open a bottle of wine, the exposure to air degrades the quality of the wine and within a couple days it’s no good.  But with bag-in-a-box wine, air does not enter the container when you open it, allowing it to stay fresh for up to 30 days.

Black Box wines is not very old as a brand

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Los Vascos Special Selection Cabernet Sauvignon

OK, so first my apologies for letting over a week go by without a new review.  While I can say, “I’ve been really busy,” ultimately that’s just an excuse and I hate excuses.  Rather than that, I will promise to do better this week.

If you’re a regular reader, it will come as no surprise that I’m reviewing yet another Chilean wine.  The outstanding values coming from Chile are too good to pass up.

We’ve actually reviewed some other Los Vascos wines before, including a previous vintage of their Cabernet Sauvignon.  This particular bottle is labeled as “Special Selection” and it’s only available from Whole Foods.  So, I guess that means it was “specially selected” for them.  It is from Colchagua Valley and it is 14% ABV, just like the Los Vascos Cabernet Sauvignon that’s not labeled as “Special Selection,” so I honestly don’t know if there’s any real difference between the stuff labeled as “Special Selection” that you’ll find at Whole Foods and the regular Los Vascos Cabernet Sauvignon that you’ll find elsewhere.   In other words, the “Special Selection” part could just be a marketing thing.  Nonetheless it’s a good wine.

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Turning Leaf Cabernet Sauvignon

There’s not a lot of back story to this wine.  It’s Turning Leaf, which is one of wine giant E.&J. Gallo’s many brands.  You’ll find it in just about any grocery store that sells wine.  It’s mass produced… so there’s lot’s of this stuff out there.  There is not a quaint story about a family of winemakers that have passed down the winery from one generation to another.  There’s not pontifications about terroir.  It’s just wine.

I’ll be honest.  When I get a sample like this, I’m not that excited about tasting it.  But the producers use technology to their advantage to create a decent wine.  It’s not unique, it’s not exciting, but it’s decent.  Like the majority of wines reviewed here, this one was tasted blind.  I like to make that clear after I’ve hinted at a bias against a production wine like this.

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Montevina Cabernet Sauvignon

A few weeks ago, we reviewed the Montevina Zinfandel.  Tonight, we check out their Amador County Cabernet Sauvignon.  I’ve already given a quick background on Montevina in the previous review, so let’s be quick about this and get right to the details.

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Montevina Zinfandel

One way that you can save some scratch on your wine is to buy wine produced in regions other than the really popular ones.  When most people think of California wine, they think of Napa or Sonoma.  But in most cases you’ll end up paying a premium for wines from those regions.  Montevina Winery is in Amador County, California

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Agent for Change Zinfandel

What’s better than a tasty Zinfandel on a spring day?  A tasty Zinfandel for which half the profits go to charity.

And what could be a more enjoyable way to give to charity than by drinking wine?  Well, I really can’t think of one.

Agent for Change isn’t just a clever name for a wine, but it’s a clever name with a meaning behind it.  This wine really is an “agent for change” as 50% of the profits go to non-profit organizations, such as community-based organizations that deliver healthcare to uninsured and under-insured workers in the wine industry.  This Zinfandel is one of three different wines released under the Agent for Change name since the brand was established in 2008.  Agent for Change was created in partnership with Big Hammer Wines and are available for sale online through them.

I like the idea of buying products that give significantly to charities, but hey… the wine still needs to be good.  Right?  Well, this Paso Robles Zinfandel doesn’t disappoint.

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Villa Brondello Primitivo

The vast majority of Zinfandel that I come across is from California, but to mix things up I thought I’d include a review of an Italian Zinfandel.  If you look at wines in the Italian section of your favorite wine shop you may not even know that some of the wines you’re looking at are Zinfandel.  That’s because in Italy it’s often referred to as Primitivo.

Stylistically, Primitivo is quite different from California Zinfandel.  While those from California tend to be big, powerful and fruity, Primitivo typically has lower alcohol levels and more earthy characteristics.  This one from Villa Brondello is a great example of that, and an outstanding bargain to boot.

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Edmeades Mendicino County Zinfandel

This isn’t the first time we’ve reviewed the .  In fact, the 2006 vintage of this wine was the top pick, earning a solid 92 points, the last time we did a big series on Zinfandel.  Today, we’re checking out the 2007 vintage.

Edmeades only produces Zinfandel, and has been doing so since 1963.  The winery is part of the Jackson family “wine empire,” which includes other wineries such as Kendall-Jackson, Murphy-Goode, La Crema, Freemark Abbey and several other brands.

This is truly one brand that I’ve grown to trust for really good Zinfandel.  However, this isn’t a ten dollar bargain bottle… you’re going to pay upwards of $20 to enjoy some Edmeades.  I was lucky to find this bottle for $18.

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Sparkling Wine for Your Valentine

Warm Cabernets for Cold Winter NightsBlog, Interrupted ►  2009(159) ►  December(2)Another Simple Solution--and It Involves Pinot Noi...In Pursuit of Simplicity: Sauvignon Blanc ►  November(4)World Turned Upside Down? Time to Catch UpThanksgiving Wine Under $20: My Picks for 2009Vinho Verde--Just BecauseToday on Serious Grape: Wine Survival Strategy for... ►  October(8)Gemischter Satz--It's Austrian for DeliciousThe Red Wines of Calabria: Fruity, Funky, and Fabu...Today on Serious Grape: Autumn Whites from Austria...Exploring Calabria in OctoberNew Grape of the Month: FalanghinaMighty Good Malbecs3 Years and 5182 Subscribers Later...This Week on Serious Grape: Decanting Demystified ►  September(15)Good Pinot Noir--Under $28Finding Your Chardonnay StyleA Bargain in Bubbles: Zonin ProseccoThere's a New Wine Store In Town: domaineLAA Ligurian Red That Dresses Up--or DownThis Week on Serious Grape: The Farmers' Market Wi...Wine Blogging Wednesday #61: Quivira VineyardsPigato: The Briny Grape from LiguriaPalate Press: the New Online Wine MagazineA Zaftig Sparkling WineTropical Fruit from California's Central Coast: Fi...My Italian Wine Journey Continues: LiguriaHappy Labor DayThis Week on Serious Eats: Doggone Good Wine Pairi...Alsace Sparkles ►  August(14)A True Blue Syrah from the Central CoastFinal Edition of the Wine Book Club: A Vineyard in...New Grape of the Month: BourboulencA Sweet Tip on Dessert WineThis Week on Serious Grape: "Grape School" ►  July(14) ►  June(11) ►  May(11) ►  April(19) ►  March(18) ►  February(22) ►  January(21) ►  2008(257) ►  December(17) ►  November(17) ►  October(21) ►  September(21) ►  August(19) ►  July(22) ►  June(25) ►  May(20) ►  April(20) ►  March(25) ►  February(22) ►  January(28) ►  2007(277) ►  December(23) ►  November(23) ►  October(23) ►  September(21) ►  August(22) ►  July(26) ►  June(23) ►  May(26) ►  April(22) ►  March(24) ►  February(17) ►  January(27) ►  2006(63) ►  December(27) ►  November(20) ►  October(16)

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New Grape of the Month: Jacquère

Sparkling Wine for Your ValentineWarm Cabernets for Cold Winter NightsBlog, Interrupted ►  2009(159) ►  December(2)Another Simple Solution--and It Involves Pinot Noi...In Pursuit of Simplicity: Sauvignon Blanc ►  November(4)World Turned Upside Down? Time to Catch UpThanksgiving Wine Under $20: My Picks for 2009Vinho Verde--Just BecauseToday on Serious Grape: Wine Survival Strategy for... ►  October(8)Gemischter Satz--It's Austrian for DeliciousThe Red Wines of Calabria: Fruity, Funky, and Fabu...Today on Serious Grape: Autumn Whites from Austria...Exploring Calabria in OctoberNew Grape of the Month: FalanghinaMighty Good Malbecs3 Years and 5182 Subscribers Later...This Week on Serious Grape: Decanting Demystified ►  September(15)Good Pinot Noir--Under $28Finding Your Chardonnay StyleA Bargain in Bubbles: Zonin ProseccoThere's a New Wine Store In Town: domaineLAA Ligurian Red That Dresses Up--or DownThis Week on Serious Grape: The Farmers' Market Wi...Wine Blogging Wednesday #61: Quivira VineyardsPigato: The Briny Grape from LiguriaPalate Press: the New Online Wine MagazineA Zaftig Sparkling WineTropical Fruit from California's Central Coast: Fi...My Italian Wine Journey Continues: LiguriaHappy Labor DayThis Week on Serious Eats: Doggone Good Wine Pairi...Alsace Sparkles ►  August(14)A True Blue Syrah from the Central CoastFinal Edition of the Wine Book Club: A Vineyard in...New Grape of the Month: BourboulencA Sweet Tip on Dessert WineThis Week on Serious Grape: "Grape School" ►  July(14) ►  June(11) ►  May(11) ►  April(19) ►  March(18) ►  February(22) ►  January(21) ►  2008(257) ►  December(17) ►  November(17) ►  October(21) ►  September(21) ►  August(19) ►  July(22) ►  June(25) ►  May(20) ►  April(20) ►  March(25) ►  February(22) ►  January(28) ►  2007(277) ►  December(23) ►  November(23) ►  October(23) ►  September(21) ►  August(22) ►  July(26) ►  June(23) ►  May(26) ►  April(22) ►  March(24) ►  February(17) ►  January(27) ►  2006(63) ►  December(27) ►  November(20) ►  October(16)

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Can Woman Live By Wine Alone?

New Grape of the Month: JacquèreSparkling Wine for Your ValentineWarm Cabernets for Cold Winter NightsBlog, Interrupted ►  2009(159) ►  December(2)Another Simple Solution--and It Involves Pinot Noi...In Pursuit of Simplicity: Sauvignon Blanc ►  November(4)World Turned Upside Down? Time to Catch UpThanksgiving Wine Under $20: My Picks for 2009Vinho Verde--Just BecauseToday on Serious Grape: Wine Survival Strategy for... ►  October(8)Gemischter Satz--It's Austrian for DeliciousThe Red Wines of Calabria: Fruity, Funky, and Fabu...Today on Serious Grape: Autumn Whites from Austria...Exploring Calabria in OctoberNew Grape of the Month: FalanghinaMighty Good Malbecs3 Years and 5182 Subscribers Later...This Week on Serious Grape: Decanting Demystified ►  September(15)Good Pinot Noir--Under $28Finding Your Chardonnay StyleA Bargain in Bubbles: Zonin ProseccoThere's a New Wine Store In Town: domaineLAA Ligurian Red That Dresses Up--or DownThis Week on Serious Grape: The Farmers' Market Wi...Wine Blogging Wednesday #61: Quivira VineyardsPigato: The Briny Grape from LiguriaPalate Press: the New Online Wine MagazineA Zaftig Sparkling WineTropical Fruit from California's Central Coast: Fi...My Italian Wine Journey Continues: LiguriaHappy Labor DayThis Week on Serious Eats: Doggone Good Wine Pairi...Alsace Sparkles ►  August(14)A True Blue Syrah from the Central CoastFinal Edition of the Wine Book Club: A Vineyard in...New Grape of the Month: BourboulencA Sweet Tip on Dessert WineThis Week on Serious Grape: "Grape School" ►  July(14) ►  June(11) ►  May(11) ►  April(19) ►  March(18) ►  February(22) ►  January(21) ►  2008(257) ►  December(17) ►  November(17) ►  October(21) ►  September(21) ►  August(19) ►  July(22) ►  June(25) ►  May(20) ►  April(20) ►  March(25) ►  February(22) ►  January(28) ►  2007(277) ►  December(23) ►  November(23) ►  October(23) ►  September(21) ►  August(22) ►  July(26) ►  June(23) ►  May(26) ►  April(22) ►  March(24) ►  February(17) ►  January(27) ►  2006(63) ►  December(27) ►  November(20) ►  October(16)

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Food and Wine: the Search for Versatility

Can Woman Live By Wine Alone?New Grape of the Month: JacquèreSparkling Wine for Your ValentineWarm Cabernets for Cold Winter NightsBlog, Interrupted ►  2009(159) ►  December(2)Another Simple Solution--and It Involves Pinot Noi...In Pursuit of Simplicity: Sauvignon Blanc ►  November(4)World Turned Upside Down? Time to Catch UpThanksgiving Wine Under $20: My Picks for 2009Vinho Verde--Just BecauseToday on Serious Grape: Wine Survival Strategy for... ►  October(8)Gemischter Satz--It's Austrian for DeliciousThe Red Wines of Calabria: Fruity, Funky, and Fabu...Today on Serious Grape: Autumn Whites from Austria...Exploring Calabria in OctoberNew Grape of the Month: FalanghinaMighty Good Malbecs3 Years and 5182 Subscribers Later...This Week on Serious Grape: Decanting Demystified ►  September(15)Good Pinot Noir--Under $28Finding Your Chardonnay StyleA Bargain in Bubbles: Zonin ProseccoThere's a New Wine Store In Town: domaineLAA Ligurian Red That Dresses Up--or DownThis Week on Serious Grape: The Farmers' Market Wi...Wine Blogging Wednesday #61: Quivira VineyardsPigato: The Briny Grape from LiguriaPalate Press: the New Online Wine MagazineA Zaftig Sparkling WineTropical Fruit from California's Central Coast: Fi...My Italian Wine Journey Continues: LiguriaHappy Labor DayThis Week on Serious Eats: Doggone Good Wine Pairi...Alsace Sparkles ►  August(14)A True Blue Syrah from the Central CoastFinal Edition of the Wine Book Club: A Vineyard in...New Grape of the Month: BourboulencA Sweet Tip on Dessert WineThis Week on Serious Grape: "Grape School" ►  July(14) ►  June(11) ►  May(11) ►  April(19) ►  March(18) ►  February(22) ►  January(21) ►  2008(257) ►  December(17) ►  November(17) ►  October(21) ►  September(21) ►  August(19) ►  July(22) ►  June(25) ►  May(20) ►  April(20) ►  March(25) ►  February(22) ►  January(28) ►  2007(277) ►  December(23) ►  November(23) ►  October(23) ►  September(21) ►  August(22) ►  July(26) ►  June(23) ►  May(26) ►  April(22) ►  March(24) ►  February(17) ►  January(27) ►  2006(63) ►  December(27) ►  November(20) ►  October(16)

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Goldilocks on Pinot Grigio

Food and Wine: the Search for VersatilityCan Woman Live By Wine Alone?New Grape of the Month: JacquèreSparkling Wine for Your ValentineWarm Cabernets for Cold Winter NightsBlog, Interrupted ►  2009(159) ►  December(2)Another Simple Solution--and It Involves Pinot Noi...In Pursuit of Simplicity: Sauvignon Blanc ►  November(4)World Turned Upside Down? Time to Catch UpThanksgiving Wine Under $20: My Picks for 2009Vinho Verde--Just BecauseToday on Serious Grape: Wine Survival Strategy for... ►  October(8)Gemischter Satz--It's Austrian for DeliciousThe Red Wines of Calabria: Fruity, Funky, and Fabu...Today on Serious Grape: Autumn Whites from Austria...Exploring Calabria in OctoberNew Grape of the Month: FalanghinaMighty Good Malbecs3 Years and 5182 Subscribers Later...This Week on Serious Grape: Decanting Demystified ►  September(15)Good Pinot Noir--Under $28Finding Your Chardonnay StyleA Bargain in Bubbles: Zonin ProseccoThere's a New Wine Store In Town: domaineLAA Ligurian Red That Dresses Up--or DownThis Week on Serious Grape: The Farmers' Market Wi...Wine Blogging Wednesday #61: Quivira VineyardsPigato: The Briny Grape from LiguriaPalate Press: the New Online Wine MagazineA Zaftig Sparkling WineTropical Fruit from California's Central Coast: Fi...My Italian Wine Journey Continues: LiguriaHappy Labor DayThis Week on Serious Eats: Doggone Good Wine Pairi...Alsace Sparkles ►  August(14)A True Blue Syrah from the Central CoastFinal Edition of the Wine Book Club: A Vineyard in...New Grape of the Month: BourboulencA Sweet Tip on Dessert WineThis Week on Serious Grape: "Grape School" ►  July(14) ►  June(11) ►  May(11) ►  April(19) ►  March(18) ►  February(22) ►  January(21) ►  2008(257) ►  December(17) ►  November(17) ►  October(21) ►  September(21) ►  August(19) ►  July(22) ►  June(25) ►  May(20) ►  April(20) ►  March(25) ►  February(22) ►  January(28) ►  2007(277) ►  December(23) ►  November(23) ►  October(23) ►  September(21) ►  August(22) ►  July(26) ►  June(23) ►  May(26) ►  April(22) ►  March(24) ►  February(17) ►  January(27) ►  2006(63) ►  December(27) ►  November(20) ►  October(16)

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The Benefits of Short-Term Aging: the Case of Cabernet Sauvignon

I suppose there is a technical difference between cellaring and short-term aging. Cellaring wine, for me, means putting wine away for so long that you forget you have it and then are pleasantly surprised to discover you actually do NOT need to buy wine for Christmas 2015 because you actually bought wine for that occasion back in 2007!

But even short-term aging--by my definition wine that you set aside for 1-3 years--can make for a nice discovery when, on a cold winter's night, you make yourself a soup or roast or even whip up some burgers and find that you have a perfect bottle of wine that's been sitting around waiting for you.

As you know I drink mostly wine under $20, but even bottles that cost relatively little can benefit from some time to grow. What happens when they do? To my taste, the wines become smoother and more subtle. The fruit steps quietly aside and lets other notes--floral, herbal, woody--come forward. These are all transformations that I enjoy.


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A Dry Spanish Sparkler for Champagne Lovers

The Benefits of Short-Term Aging: the Case of Cabe... ►  February(7)Goldilocks on Pinot GrigioFood and Wine: the Search for VersatilityCan Woman Live By Wine Alone?New Grape of the Month: JacquèreSparkling Wine for Your ValentineWarm Cabernets for Cold Winter NightsBlog, Interrupted ►  2009(159) ►  December(2)Another Simple Solution--and It Involves Pinot Noi...In Pursuit of Simplicity: Sauvignon Blanc ►  November(4)World Turned Upside Down? Time to Catch UpThanksgiving Wine Under $20: My Picks for 2009Vinho Verde--Just BecauseToday on Serious Grape: Wine Survival Strategy for... ►  October(8)Gemischter Satz--It's Austrian for DeliciousThe Red Wines of Calabria: Fruity, Funky, and Fabu...Today on Serious Grape: Autumn Whites from Austria...Exploring Calabria in OctoberNew Grape of the Month: FalanghinaMighty Good Malbecs3 Years and 5182 Subscribers Later...This Week on Serious Grape: Decanting Demystified ►  September(15)Good Pinot Noir--Under $28Finding Your Chardonnay StyleA Bargain in Bubbles: Zonin ProseccoThere's a New Wine Store In Town: domaineLAA Ligurian Red That Dresses Up--or DownThis Week on Serious Grape: The Farmers' Market Wi...Wine Blogging Wednesday #61: Quivira VineyardsPigato: The Briny Grape from LiguriaPalate Press: the New Online Wine MagazineA Zaftig Sparkling WineTropical Fruit from California's Central Coast: Fi...My Italian Wine Journey Continues: LiguriaHappy Labor DayThis Week on Serious Eats: Doggone Good Wine Pairi...Alsace Sparkles ►  August(14)A True Blue Syrah from the Central CoastFinal Edition of the Wine Book Club: A Vineyard in...New Grape of the Month: BourboulencA Sweet Tip on Dessert WineThis Week on Serious Grape: "Grape School" ►  July(14) ►  June(11) ►  May(11) ►  April(19) ►  March(18) ►  February(22) ►  January(21) ►  2008(257) ►  December(17) ►  November(17) ►  October(21) ►  September(21) ►  August(19) ►  July(22) ►  June(25) ►  May(20) ►  April(20) ►  March(25) ►  February(22) ►  January(28) ►  2007(277) ►  December(23) ►  November(23) ►  October(23) ►  September(21) ►  August(22) ►  July(26) ►  June(23) ►  May(26) ►  April(22) ►  March(24) ►  February(17) ►  January(27) ►  2006(63) ►  December(27) ►  November(20) ►  October(16)

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Looking for Affordable Pinot Noir?

A Dry Spanish Sparkler for Champagne LoversThe Benefits of Short-Term Aging: the Case of Cabe... ►  February(7)Goldilocks on Pinot GrigioFood and Wine: the Search for VersatilityCan Woman Live By Wine Alone?New Grape of the Month: JacquèreSparkling Wine for Your ValentineWarm Cabernets for Cold Winter NightsBlog, Interrupted ►  2009(159) ►  December(2)Another Simple Solution--and It Involves Pinot Noi...In Pursuit of Simplicity: Sauvignon Blanc ►  November(4)World Turned Upside Down? Time to Catch UpThanksgiving Wine Under $20: My Picks for 2009Vinho Verde--Just BecauseToday on Serious Grape: Wine Survival Strategy for... ►  October(8)Gemischter Satz--It's Austrian for DeliciousThe Red Wines of Calabria: Fruity, Funky, and Fabu...Today on Serious Grape: Autumn Whites from Austria...Exploring Calabria in OctoberNew Grape of the Month: FalanghinaMighty Good Malbecs3 Years and 5182 Subscribers Later...This Week on Serious Grape: Decanting Demystified ►  September(15)Good Pinot Noir--Under $28Finding Your Chardonnay StyleA Bargain in Bubbles: Zonin ProseccoThere's a New Wine Store In Town: domaineLAA Ligurian Red That Dresses Up--or DownThis Week on Serious Grape: The Farmers' Market Wi...Wine Blogging Wednesday #61: Quivira VineyardsPigato: The Briny Grape from LiguriaPalate Press: the New Online Wine MagazineA Zaftig Sparkling WineTropical Fruit from California's Central Coast: Fi...My Italian Wine Journey Continues: LiguriaHappy Labor DayThis Week on Serious Eats: Doggone Good Wine Pairi...Alsace Sparkles ►  August(14)A True Blue Syrah from the Central CoastFinal Edition of the Wine Book Club: A Vineyard in...New Grape of the Month: BourboulencA Sweet Tip on Dessert WineThis Week on Serious Grape: "Grape School" ►  July(14) ►  June(11) ►  May(11) ►  April(19) ►  March(18) ►  February(22) ►  January(21) ►  2008(257) ►  December(17) ►  November(17) ►  October(21) ►  September(21) ►  August(19) ►  July(22) ►  June(25) ►  May(20) ►  April(20) ►  March(25) ►  February(22) ►  January(28) ►  2007(277) ►  December(23) ►  November(23) ►  October(23) ►  September(21) ►  August(22) ►  July(26) ►  June(23) ►  May(26) ►  April(22) ►  March(24) ►  February(17) ►  January(27) ►  2006(63) ►  December(27) ►  November(20) ►  October(16)

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50 States Of Wine

A Dry Spanish Sparkler for Champagne Lovers

If you think all Cava is fruity, perfectly enjoyable, but not too interesting--think again. (image from the great LA Food blog, Food She Thought, where you can also read another review of this wine)

I had a great bottle of Cava lately, and it made me realize I just don't know that much about the stuff other than it's from Spain, has bubbles, and is usually affordable.

The wine was the German Gilabert Brut Nature Reserva (domaineLA, $14.99; available elsewhere for $14-$15). This interesting Cava had a price point under $15 and an aromatic profile like Champagne: yeast, lemon pith, and mineral notes. It is dry--and I do mean dry--with no sugar added (the technical term is dosage). Bright, intense lemon and bread dough flavors are accented by a bit of stoniness in the aftertaste. Fine, abundant, active bubbles make for a very fresh, brisk feeling in the mouth, although the overall impression is rather creamy despite the dryness.

If tasted blind, I think that most would think it was a French sparkler, perhaps an inexpensive Champagne. And if you like very dry sparkling wine but have steered clear of Cava in the past fearing it might be too fruit-forward for your tastes, I think you will be pleasantly surprised by this.

Forest Glen Cabernet Sauvignon

We’ve reviewed a couple other Forest Glen wines in the past and I have to admit that they consistently perform surprisingly well in blind tastings.  Forest Glen is one of many brands owned by Bronco Wines, best known as the producer of Charles Shaw (aka: two-buck chuck).

Most of the Bronco brands are bargain wines, and most wine snobs would not think of them as a “fine wine” company.  I’ve tasted a number of their brands and some are definitely better than others.  To be blunt, I’ve found some to be best as lubricants to the drain of my kitchen sink.  But Forest Glen is one of their brands that has yet to disappoint me, and this Cabernet Sauvignon continues that trend.

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Ten Bargain Zinfandels Worth a Try

Over the past few weeks we’ve been focused on Zinfandel and it’s finally time to do the wrap up.  The majority of these Zins are from California, but one Italian Primitivo is thrown into the mix just for fun, and that’s the only one that came in with a price under ten bucks.

The classic pairing for Zinfandel is barbecue, but these will also go well with other grilled meats and strong cheeses.  Pizza or pasta could also be a possible match for Zinfandel, but don’t bother with lighter foods.

Top Zinfandel Pick

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Concannon Conservancy Petite Sirah

It has been a while since I’ve reviewed a Petite Sirah.  If fact, it’s been way too long and as I tasted this wine, I was reminded of how much I love Petite Sirah.  The rich flavors, deep color and silky feel are incredible.  And who better to revisit this variety with than Concannon.  After all, they were the first winery to varietally label Petite Sirah in the US back in 1961.

The name on this particular release from Concannon, “Conservancy,” is a nod to the efforts the winery has made to protect their vineyards from urban sprawl.  In 1996, Concannon was the first Livermore Valley vineyard to place its land into a permanent conservation easement.  Other vineyards have since followed suit to ensure that urbanization doesn’t threaten Livermore Valley as a wine producing region.

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Dancing Bull Cabernet Sauvignon

years ago as a brand focused on Zinfandel, and to this day that’s the wine for which I assume they’re best known.  We’ve reviewed reviewed their Zinfandel in the past, and it was pretty good.  But that’s not all they’re producing.  After their success with Zinfandel, they’ve branched out into other varieties and today we’re tasting the Cabernet Sauvignon.

If you’ve spent much time browsing the wine isles at you’re local shops, the bull icon on this label may look familiar

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33 Bottles of Wine

We’re doing something a little different tonight… a book review.

Friends of mine frequently ask me how they can become better at tasting wine.  While there are a lot of exercises and studying that you can do to improve your wine knowledge, there’s one piece of advice that I always give to people: take notes.  If you want to better understand the wine you’re drinking, taking notes on it forces you to think more about it and really have an opinion.  The more you do it, the more you’ll see some patterns emerge.  Some of those patterns will help you understand varieties and regions and some will just help you figure out

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Wild Hare Cabernet Sauvignon

It should come as no surprise that the label on a wine can have a significant impact on sales.  I know I’ve seen some wines where the label totally “wowed” me and other labels that have made a wine appear unappealing to me.  But this is a wine with a label that I just don’t get at all.  It features a cartoon rabbit chilling on the beach with sunglasses, a cooler full of bottles on ice and a glass of wine in hand.  This is not a label that makes me want to buy

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Urban Cabernet Sauvignon by Ortega Fournier

Ortega Fournier, better known as O. Fournier, is an international wine group, currently producing wines from Spain, Argentina and Chile.  As far as wine companies go, they are relatively young, having only been founded ten years ago, in 2000.  And it’s even more recently, in 2007, that they’ve begun operations in Chile, where they have properties in San Antonio Valley and Maule Valley.  But you don’t have to be an old company to produce great wine, and O. Fournier is proving that.

For those who’ve been reading Cheap Wine Ratings for a while, it should come as no surprise that we’re reviewing another Chilean wine.  We’re big fans of Chile because you get outstanding bang for your buck with the wines coming out of this part of the world.  And I’m adding Urban Cabernet Sauvignon to the list of outstanding options when it comes to Chilean wine.

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Today on Serious Grape: Autumn Whites from Austria

...Exploring Calabria in OctoberNew Grape of the Month: FalanghinaMighty Good Malbecs3 Years and 5182 Subscribers Later...This Week on Serious Grape: Decanting Demystified ►  September(15)Good Pinot Noir--Under $28Finding Your Chardonnay StyleA Bargain in Bubbles: Zonin ProseccoThere's a New Wine Store In Town: domaineLAA Ligurian Red That Dresses Up--or DownThis Week on Serious Grape: The Farmers' Market Wi...Wine Blogging Wednesday #61: Quivira VineyardsPigato: The Briny Grape from LiguriaPalate Press: the New Online Wine MagazineA Zaftig Sparkling WineTropical Fruit from California's Central Coast: Fi...My Italian Wine Journey Continues: LiguriaHappy Labor DayThis Week on Serious Eats: Doggone Good Wine Pairi...Alsace Sparkles ►  August(14)A True Blue Syrah from the Central CoastFinal Edition of the Wine Book Club: A Vineyard in...New Grape of the Month: BourboulencA Sweet Tip on Dessert WineThis Week on Serious Grape: "Grape School" ►  July(14) ►  June(11) ►  May(11) ►  April(19) ►  March(18) ►  February(22) ►  January(21) ►  2008(257) ►  December(17) ►  November(17) ►  October(21) ►  September(21) ►  August(19) ►  July(22) ►  June(25) ►  May(20) ►  April(20) ►  March(25) ►  February(22) ►  January(28) ►  2007(277) ►  December(23) ►  November(23) ►  October(23) ►  September(21) ►  August(22) ►  July(26) ►  June(23) ►  May(26) ►  April(22) ►  March(24) ►  February(17) ►  January(27) ►  2006(63) ►  December(27) ►  November(20) ►  October(16)

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The Red Wines of Calabria: Fruity, Funky, and Fabulously Affordable

This month I've been getting to know the red wines of Calabria--and they've surprised me. When I mentioned Calabrian wine to most people--even Calabrians!--they scoffed at the quality of wine produced in this region of Italy. But I liked the rusty funkiness, the fruitiness, and the great value that I found in the wines I tasted. And though these wines came from southern Italy, they reminded me of French wines from Burgundy and the Beaujolais.

Take the 2004 Vintripodi Arghillà ($19.99, Wine Expo) This wine, a blend of Nerello Calabrese and Alicante, has the certain funky pungency that is characteristic in my (limited) experience of Nerello, and reminds me of a good Beaujolais. The wine showed some tawny edges around the dark purple juice at the center of my glass. The aromas were of sour cherry, earth, and funk and the flavors followed suit. This was certainly not a boring, same-old red and I think it would go just as brilliantly with stews as it did with our pasta dinner.

The other Calabrian wine I tried was the 2006 Ippolito Cirò Liber Pater ($17.99, Wine Expo; available

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Gemischter Satz--It's Austrian for Delicious

If you hear "Gemischter Satz" You may be tempted to say "God Bless You!"

But the appropriate answer is "They're delicious, aren't they?"

Gemischter Satz are special wines from Austria's capital city of Vienna. Made from a blend of white grapes that are grown together in the field, then picked and fermented at the same time, there was a point not too long ago when the mania for "single varietal" bottlings threatened this age-old tradition of Austrian field blends. Happily, the tradition was maintained, the grapes remained planted in gloriously mixed vineyards of Gruner Veltliner, Weissburgunder, Riesling, Muscat Ottonel, and other grapes. Few Gemischter Satz bottlings specify the grapes within, and none that I've seen can give you varietal percentages. Don't worry--go for it.

I'm a relative newbie to the wines of Austria, but I can't recommend Gemischter Satz highly enough. If you enjoy crisp, food-friendly whites--and are a bit tired of the same-old same-old that you've been drinking lately seek out one of these wines and perk up your tired tastebuds.

2008 Weingut Rotes Haus Gemischter Satz Classic Nußberg ($20) This tasted very much of a Gruner Veltliner to me, with its white pepper, salt, and grapefruit aromas. The flavors of apple, grapefruit, and pepper confirmed my initial impression and the aftertaste was interesting--like sour apples. Very good QPR.


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Today on Serious Grape: Wine Survival Strategy for the Holidays

As 12:01 AM today, it is officially that festive time of year known as "the holidays." It is a time of joy, of family celebrations, gift-giving, and--hysteria.

Before you hit the panic button, go out now and get yourself a mixed case of wine so that you've got bottles on hand for emergencies that include: we have nothing in the house for dinner, two people just stopped by with pumpkin bread, and extreme mall fatigue. (photo by dumbledad)

This week on Serious Grape I've got a shopping list for a mixed case of wine that will help you cope with most holiday emergencies. Head over and check it out, and if you have any other holiday entertaining survival strategies, leave them here or over there in the comments section.

Posted byDr. Debsat5:30 AM 

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Vinho Verde--Just Because

Today on Serious Grape: Wine Survival Strategy for... ►  October(8)Gemischter Satz--It's Austrian for DeliciousThe Red Wines of Calabria: Fruity, Funky, and Fabu...Today on Serious Grape: Autumn Whites from Austria...Exploring Calabria in OctoberNew Grape of the Month: FalanghinaMighty Good Malbecs3 Years and 5182 Subscribers Later...This Week on Serious Grape: Decanting Demystified ►  September(15)Good Pinot Noir--Under $28Finding Your Chardonnay StyleA Bargain in Bubbles: Zonin ProseccoThere's a New Wine Store In Town: domaineLAA Ligurian Red That Dresses Up--or DownThis Week on Serious Grape: The Farmers' Market Wi...Wine Blogging Wednesday #61: Quivira VineyardsPigato: The Briny Grape from LiguriaPalate Press: the New Online Wine MagazineA Zaftig Sparkling WineTropical Fruit from California's Central Coast: Fi...My Italian Wine Journey Continues: LiguriaHappy Labor DayThis Week on Serious Eats: Doggone Good Wine Pairi...Alsace Sparkles ►  August(14)A True Blue Syrah from the Central CoastFinal Edition of the Wine Book Club: A Vineyard in...New Grape of the Month: BourboulencA Sweet Tip on Dessert WineThis Week on Serious Grape: "Grape School" ►  July(14) ►  June(11) ►  May(11) ►  April(19) ►  March(18) ►  February(22) ►  January(21) ►  2008(257) ►  December(17) ►  November(17) ►  October(21) ►  September(21) ►  August(19) ►  July(22) ►  June(25) ►  May(20) ►  April(20) ►  March(25) ►  February(22) ►  January(28) ►  2007(277) ►  December(23) ►  November(23) ►  October(23) ►  September(21) ►  August(22) ►  July(26) ►  June(23) ►  May(26) ►  April(22) ►  March(24) ►  February(17) ►  January(27) ►  2006(63) ►  December(27) ►  November(20) ►  October(16)

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Thanksgiving Wine Under $20: My Picks for 2009

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Looking for Affordable Pinot Noir?

The idea of affordable Pinot Noir is a guaranteed attention-grabber. Blame it on the movies, the delicacy of the grape, or its status as a fashionable tipple. No matter what you blame it on, there's one thing for sure: Pinot Noir is pricey.

And, in my opinion, deservedly so. When Pinot Noir is well made, it is a joy to drink. It's juicy, fresh, and silky. It pairs beautifully with a wide variety of foods. And there is something elegant about the grapes that are made with this wine that always leaves me wanting more: more of it on my dinner table, more in my glass, more in my cellar.

Many of the things I love best about Pinot Noir, however, can be hard to find in less expensive bottlings. Which is why these two selections are such finds--and both cost $20 or less.

2008 Hayman & Hill Pinot Noir Santa Lucia Highlands Reserve Selection (suggested retail, $18; a new release so ask your local merchant about whether they will be stocking it). Very characteristic of the Central Coast appellation where the grapes were grown, this wine had juicy black raspberry and elegant floral aromas with hints of chalk and limestone around the edges. Its fruit-forward core reminded me of homemade raspberry jam and fresh blackberries. It had the hallmark smoothness in the mouth, and left behind a satiny feeling that is hard to find in inexpensive Pinot Noir. Excellent QPR.

2008 Rodney Strong Estate Vineyards Pinot Noir (suggested retail, $20; available $14-23). The grapes in this Pinot come from the Russian River Valley which makes for a spicier, earthier wine. Expect notes of raspberry and earth in the aromas, which are echoed in the flavors. There is lots of allspice and clove in the aftertaste. At this early stage of its life, the wine's initial impression is disjointed and awkward but as it gets air (give it a vigorous swirl!) the flavors start to deepen and knit together. This wine is suitable for short-term aging, and will continue to improve until around 2012. Perhaps buy a few bottles if you find it, and set some aside in a cool, dark place for your 2010 Thanksgiving dinner. Excellent QPR.

A Case of Bubbles for Spring: J. Laurens Crémant de Limoux Brut

Upcoming spring brunches--check.
Celebration of first flowers blooming--check.
Toasting friends who just got engaged/married--check.
Toasting friends who just had new baby--check.
Mother's Day--check.
Graduation--check.

See how many celebrations you have coming up in the next few months?

That's why you need to know about this wine. It costs under $15 a bottle and is absolutely yummy. Buy it by the case, and you will have bubbles to see you through into June (provided you don't toast too many Tuesdays along the way...).

The NV J. Laurens Crémant de Limoux Brut is one of the best sparklers--if not the best sparkler--I've ever had for under $15 and represents excellent QPR. Available in lots of markets for between $9 and $13, this wine from the Languedoc-Roussillon region of France has a lovely, creamy taste. Abundant fresh citrus pith and brioche dough make a point-counterpoint of zest and richness in the flavors, with fruit notes of pear, apple, and lemon. A great feature of the wine are the tiny, frothy bubbles which make for a delicate impression. The wine is dry (brut), but it's a soft, gentle brut like spring itself. You can enjoy this wine with a wide range of foods and for this price, why wouldn't you??

Full Disclosure: I received this wine as a sample.

Posted byDr. Debsat5:30 AM 

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A Great Gewurz for Spring

A Case of Bubbles for Spring: J. Laurens Crémant d...Looking for Affordable Pinot Noir?A Dry Spanish Sparkler for Champagne LoversThe Benefits of Short-Term Aging: the Case of Cabe... ►  February(7)Goldilocks on Pinot GrigioFood and Wine: the Search for VersatilityCan Woman Live By Wine Alone?New Grape of the Month: JacquèreSparkling Wine for Your ValentineWarm Cabernets for Cold Winter NightsBlog, Interrupted ►  2009(159) ►  December(2)Another Simple Solution--and It Involves Pinot Noi...In Pursuit of Simplicity: Sauvignon Blanc ►  November(4)World Turned Upside Down? Time to Catch UpThanksgiving Wine Under $20: My Picks for 2009Vinho Verde--Just BecauseToday on Serious Grape: Wine Survival Strategy for... ►  October(8)Gemischter Satz--It's Austrian for DeliciousThe Red Wines of Calabria: Fruity, Funky, and Fabu...Today on Serious Grape: Autumn Whites from Austria...Exploring Calabria in OctoberNew Grape of the Month: FalanghinaMighty Good Malbecs3 Years and 5182 Subscribers Later...This Week on Serious Grape: Decanting Demystified ►  September(15)Good Pinot Noir--Under $28Finding Your Chardonnay StyleA Bargain in Bubbles: Zonin ProseccoThere's a New Wine Store In Town: domaineLAA Ligurian Red That Dresses Up--or DownThis Week on Serious Grape: The Farmers' Market Wi...Wine Blogging Wednesday #61: Quivira VineyardsPigato: The Briny Grape from LiguriaPalate Press: the New Online Wine MagazineA Zaftig Sparkling WineTropical Fruit from California's Central Coast: Fi...My Italian Wine Journey Continues: LiguriaHappy Labor DayThis Week on Serious Eats: Doggone Good Wine Pairi...Alsace Sparkles ►  August(14)A True Blue Syrah from the Central CoastFinal Edition of the Wine Book Club: A Vineyard in...New Grape of the Month: BourboulencA Sweet Tip on Dessert WineThis Week on Serious Grape: "Grape School" ►  July(14) ►  June(11) ►  May(11) ►  April(19) ►  March(18) ►  February(22) ►  January(21) ►  2008(257) ►  December(17) ►  November(17) ►  October(21) ►  September(21) ►  August(19) ►  July(22) ►  June(25) ►  May(20) ►  April(20) ►  March(25) ►  February(22) ►  January(28) ►  2007(277) ►  December(23) ►  November(23) ►  October(23) ►  September(21) ►  August(22) ►  July(26) ►  June(23) ►  May(26) ►  April(22) ►  March(24) ►  February(17) ►  January(27) ►  2006(63) ►  December(27) ►  November(20) ►  October(16)

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Red Wines from the Southern Hemisphere

A Great Gewurz for SpringA Case of Bubbles for Spring: J. Laurens Crémant d...Looking for Affordable Pinot Noir?A Dry Spanish Sparkler for Champagne LoversThe Benefits of Short-Term Aging: the Case of Cabe... ►  February(7)Goldilocks on Pinot GrigioFood and Wine: the Search for VersatilityCan Woman Live By Wine Alone?New Grape of the Month: JacquèreSparkling Wine for Your ValentineWarm Cabernets for Cold Winter NightsBlog, Interrupted ►  2009(159) ►  December(2)Another Simple Solution--and It Involves Pinot Noi...In Pursuit of Simplicity: Sauvignon Blanc ►  November(4)World Turned Upside Down? Time to Catch UpThanksgiving Wine Under $20: My Picks for 2009Vinho Verde--Just BecauseToday on Serious Grape: Wine Survival Strategy for... ►  October(8)Gemischter Satz--It's Austrian for DeliciousThe Red Wines of Calabria: Fruity, Funky, and Fabu...Today on Serious Grape: Autumn Whites from Austria...Exploring Calabria in OctoberNew Grape of the Month: FalanghinaMighty Good Malbecs3 Years and 5182 Subscribers Later...This Week on Serious Grape: Decanting Demystified ►  September(15)Good Pinot Noir--Under $28Finding Your Chardonnay StyleA Bargain in Bubbles: Zonin ProseccoThere's a New Wine Store In Town: domaineLAA Ligurian Red That Dresses Up--or DownThis Week on Serious Grape: The Farmers' Market Wi...Wine Blogging Wednesday #61: Quivira VineyardsPigato: The Briny Grape from LiguriaPalate Press: the New Online Wine MagazineA Zaftig Sparkling WineTropical Fruit from California's Central Coast: Fi...My Italian Wine Journey Continues: LiguriaHappy Labor DayThis Week on Serious Eats: Doggone Good Wine Pairi...Alsace Sparkles ►  August(14)A True Blue Syrah from the Central CoastFinal Edition of the Wine Book Club: A Vineyard in...New Grape of the Month: BourboulencA Sweet Tip on Dessert WineThis Week on Serious Grape: "Grape School" ►  July(14) ►  June(11) ►  May(11) ►  April(19) ►  March(18) ►  February(22) ►  January(21) ►  2008(257) ►  December(17) ►  November(17) ►  October(21) ►  September(21) ►  August(19) ►  July(22) ►  June(25) ►  May(20) ►  April(20) ►  March(25) ►  February(22) ►  January(28) ►  2007(277) ►  December(23) ►  November(23) ►  October(23) ►  September(21) ►  August(22) ►  July(26) ►  June(23) ►  May(26) ►  April(22) ►  March(24) ►  February(17) ►  January(27) ►  2006(63) ►  December(27) ►  November(20) ►  October(16)

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