Review - Fetzer Gewurztraminer

Name: Fetzer Gewurztraminer
Variety: 100% Gewurztraminer
Region: California
Country: United States
Year: 2014
Price: $12.00

Wine Shop Review: A rainy minerality on the nose of this sweet wine manages to cut through the sugared oranges, honeysuckle and ripe, tropical white fleshed fruit, from peach to cherimoya. The palate is full of honeyed apples, white peach and pineapple, but the decent acidity and chalky element stops it short of treacly.

Personal Review: I'm going to get called out for copying the wine shop review but they hit the nail on the head with the "rainy minerality" on the nose. That is exactly correct. The Fetzer Gewurztraminer smelled distinctly like a wet rock. Very interesting nose that I was not expecting from a "dessert" wine. My initial impression picked up a Welch's Apple Juice flavor that was fairly thin bodied and not overly developed. Low tannic structure, low acid, low alcohol. I found this Gewurztraminer to be pretty flat overall. A truly interesting nose none the less.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Maipe Malbec

Name: Maipe Malbec
Variety: 100% Malbec
Region: Mendoza
Country: Argentina
Year: 2015
Price: $12.00

Wine Shop Review: The 2015 Maipe Malbec is another 100% Malbec, with a deep purple color and a style similar to the Lexicon, with chocolaty, blackcurrant and blackberry fruit, as well as touches of licorice and earth. It is delicious, soft and round.

Personal Review: The 2015 Malbec by Maipe was a pretty middle of the road red wine. Incredibly dark in color which led me to expect a pretty full bodied wine. Not to my surprise, the Malbec was full of dark cherries and raspberries at the nose. My first impression was greeted with these two fruity flavors before transitioning to a much-expected earthy mid-palate and peppery finish. Simply put, this Malbec tasted exactly like every other average inky black wine I've tasted.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Manoir du Carra Beaujolais Nouveau Gamay

Name: Manoir du Carra Beaujolais Nouveau Gamay
Variety: 100% Gamay
Region: Beaujolais
Country: France
Year: 2014
Price: $12.00

Wine Shop Review: A pretty, floral wine, with a rose petal note underscoring the rich pomegranate and sweet plum flavors. The fresh acidity is balanced, and a light spice note lingers on the finish.

Personal Review: I've got to come out and say a lot of the wines I tasted this week were fruit forward. The Beujolais Nouveau Gamay by Manoir du Carra was no different. The nose was full of watermelon and grapefruit. My initial impression noted a very sour cherry flavor that was quite dominating though raspberries were also present.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Mapreco Vinho Verde Rose

Name: Mapreco Vinho Verde Rose
Variety: 100% Vinho Verde
Region: Vinho Verde
Country: Portugal
Year: 2015
Price: $10.00

Wine Shop Review: The cherry color reveals a slightly fizzy wine that is a very fruitful rosé made from the traditional vinho verde white grapes. Adding a splash of red to offer flavors with notes of strawberry, cherry and berries. A delightful twist on the original.

Personal Review: The Vinho Verde Rose by Mapreco had a very refreshing bouquet to the nose that was packed with a distinct green apple Jolly Rancher aroma. Peaches were also present in the nose though to a much lesser extent. My initial impression led me to pick up the Jolly Rancher flavors I detected at the nose pleasantly accompanied by strawberries and peaches. From start to finish, a very light bodied, fruit forward wine.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Mars & Venus Chardonnay

Name: Mars & Venus Chardonnay
Variety: 100% Chardonnay
Region: La Mancha
Country: Spain
Year: 2014
Price: $5.95

Wine Shop Review: A very nice value Chardonnay that comfortably over-delivers vs. its modest price tag. No oak here, just bushels of clean, crisp, Chardonnay apple and stone fruit with a hint of caramelized pineapple.  Juicy and clean, this is a mid-weight white that's just perfect for parties or weeknight sipping.

Personal Review: I'll begin this review by saying I found the Mars & Venus Chardonnay to be incredibly satisfying. I've never had a Chardonnay from Spain before and was a little hesitant to try it because I'm not particularly fond of California Chardonnays. However, as we all know, wines even from the same varietal are incredibly dependent on the climate they are grown in. I found the Chardonnay by Mars & Venus to be incredibly crisp at the nose and full of a a springy apple aroma. My first impression was presently surprised to find a complete absence of the stereotypical California buttery-oaky flavor I was initially expecting. This Chardonnay stuck true to its nose with a pleasant apple and citrus flavor from the initial impression through the mid-palate and finish.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Beringer Chenin Blanc

Name: Beringer Chenin Blanc
Variety: 100% Chenin Blanc
Region: California
Country: United States
Year: 2014
Price: $5.95

Wine Shop Review: A fresh green-apple aroma and vivid citrus and crisp apple flavors are supported by vibrant acidity in this medium-bodied wine. The texture is smooth but crisp, making lots of good food pairings come to mind, from pre-meal cheese, to salads, seafood and veggie pastas.

Personal Review: I found the Chenin Blanc by Beringer to have an obvious green apple aroma at the nose as well as peach. I think this would be a better pre-meal "palate cleanser" than a dessert wine because it was not overly sweet. However, it was pleasantly dry and light. The green apples were present on the palate from start to finish.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Carraia Aglianico

Name: Carraia Aglianico
Variety: 100% Aglianico
Region: Campagna
Country: Italy
Year: 2013
Price: $15.00

Wine Shop Review: Produced in the Campania region of Italy, this Aglianico has delicious black fruit flavors with hints of licorice, volcanic soil and tar notes. Classic in nature, yet in a lighter, more crowd-pleasing style, the Carraia is made of the ancient Aglianico grape. This black grape originated in Greece and today is widely grown in Basilicata and Campania.

Personal Review: The Carria Aglianico might have the best nose of all the wines I have reviewed this semester. I picked up an undeniable hint of petroleum, as well as oak, cinnamon sticks, and pumpkin pie. Crazy bouquet, seriously. On the palate, I found the Aglianico to taste distinctly like cough syrup and surprisingly non-tannic or acidic. None the less, a really interesting wine due to the complexity and uniqueness of the nose. I've never had a wine that smelled quite like this Anglianico.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Siema Vino Rosso

Name: Siema Vino Rosso
Variety: Red Blend of Dolcetto, Barbera, and Nebbiolo
Region: Piemonte
Country: Italy
Year: Non-vintage
Price: $10.00

Wine Shop Review: Intense ruby red with soft garnet nuances in the glass, the Rosso is intriguingly fresh, fruity and spicy on the nose. Perfectly round and balanced, the wine is particularly soft and dry. Pair with simple dishes like fresh cheese, ham, salami, or pizza for a divine culinary experience.

Personal Review: I found the Vino Rosso Red Wine by Siema Rosso to be somewhat disappointing. The Vino Rosso had a huge bouquet full of cherries, raspberries, and plums. However, on the palate it was relatively flat. It had a low tannic structure, it was not particularly acidic, and it was only 12.5% ABV. Simply put, the Vino Rosso was one dimensional on the palate. It didn't bring any "UMPH!" A really weak wine which was disappointing because the nose was great.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review ; Dom de la Foret Grenache Cinsault Rose de Mediterranee

Name: Dom de la Foret Grenache Cinsault Rose de Mediterranee
Variety: 50% Cinsault 50% Grenache
Region: Provence
Country: France
Year: Non-vintage
Price: $13.00

Wine Shop Review: A stony, pure style, with a warm paving stone note framing the dried cherry and rose water notes. The long, watermelon rind—inflected finish is finely tuned. Shows length and cut, staying lacy in feel. 50% Cinsault and 50% Grenache.

Personal Review: I found the Grenache Cinsault Rose de Mediterranee by Dom de la Foret to bring an interesting blend of red fruit to the nose. In particular, I picked up strawberries and cherries. On the palate, I found the wine to be silky smooth, refreshing, and full of the strawberries I had picked up in the bouquet. No significant mid-palate or finish.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Bricco dei Tati Cortese

Name: Bricco dei Tati Cortese
Variety: 100% Cortese
Region: Piemonte
Country: Italy
Year: 2013
Price: $10.00

Wine Shop Review: Great Value! Treat this terrific little white like a red: Don’t chill it too much, then let it open for a half-hour to develop its enticing tropical fruit flavors. It’s dry, but the fruit gives an appealing illusion of sweetness. Great as an aperitif or with light seafood dishes.

Personal Review: I found the Cortese by Bricco dei Tati to bring a citrus and tropical bouquet full of pears, pineapples, and other acidic fruits to the nose. Though the Cortese was very acidic and tart, I still found it to be balanced thanks to the presence of the pears and pineapples that I smelled. At only 11.5% ABV, the fruitiness of the wine definitely saved it from being unbalanced.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Crane Lake Riesling

Name: Crane Lake Riesling
Variety: 100% Riesling
Region: California
Country: United States
Year: 2013
Price: $5.95

Wine Shop Review: The trademark German red grape varietal Dornfelder has a lovely purity of soft red berry fruit. Integrated soft tannins combined with forward fruit flavors make for a perfectly balanced everyday sipping wine. Great with grilled red meat, sausage and chicken. Best served slightly chilled.

Personal Review: I found the 2013 Riesling by Crane Lake to bring peaches and strawberries to the nose before and after swirling. Whereas most "dessert" wines that I've tasted throughout this blog have been overly sweet, this Riesling was surprisingly balanced due to a bit of acid. The tasting was true to the aromas and full of strawberries and peaches.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Crane Lake Shiraz

Name: Crane Lake Shiraz
Variety: 100% Shiraz
Region: California
Country: United States
Year: 2013
Price: $5.95

Wine Shop Review: Beautiful ruby appearance, with blackberry and pepper notes. Tannins and fruit marry well for a soft finish. This wine pairs well with sharp cheddar cheese and hazelnuts. Also try it along with roast lamb at Easter time, veal marsala, or grilled salmon.

Personal Review: I found the 2013 Shiraz by Crane Lake to have a unique nose in that, prior to aerating, it smelled like the ocean. Seriously, I took a huge whiff of it before swirling and I felt like I just got blasted in the face by the Atlantic Ocean. After swirling, though, I detected black pepper, soil, and black cherry at the nose. My first impression of the wine was dominated by black cherry but the mid-palate shifted to black pepper through the finish.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Georges Duboeuf Nouveau

Name: Georges Duboeuf Nouveau
Variety: 100% Gamay
Region: Beaujolais
Country: France
Year: 2015
Price: $12.00

Wine Shop Review: George Duboeuf is THE king of Beaujolais.  His wines are full of pop, charm and great flavor and his Beaujolais Nouveau is no exception.  A cornucopia of expressive fruit wrapped in an almost-bubblegum-like frame; it is the flagship Nouveau.

Personal Review: The Nouveau by Georges Duboeuf brought a red-fruit bouquet to the nose full of cherries, plums, and grapefruit. Though the wine was not overly acidic, tannic, or sweet, it was still quite balanced. I found the Nouveau to express its red-fruit flavors from start to finish with no significant deviation in the mid-palate or finish. Side note: what a totally awesome label.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Maipe Torrontes

Name: Maipe Torrontes
Variety: 100% Torrontes
Region: Mendoza
Country: Argentina
Year: 2014
Price: $14.00

Wine Shop Review: The wine has a spring-like nose of fresh white peaches, pears, green apple, green melon and hints of jasmine and rose petals. On the palate, it has a beautiful structure and acidity along with fruit flavors and plenty of body. Well-balanced, this wine displays a pleasant freshness with citrus notes and a long finish.

Personal Review: The 2014 Torrontes by Maipe was very light in color; almost clear. I found it to bring beautiful floral aromas to the nose accompanied by apples and peaches. I found the Torrontes to be surprisingly acidic but still full of the fruity flavors that I detected when smelling the wine. No distinct mid-palate or finish. Acidic, crisp, fruity, refreshing from start to finish.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Tonnino Pinot Grigio

Name: Tonnino Pinot Grigio
Variety: 100% Pinot Grigio
Region: Sicily
Country: Italy
Year: 2014
Price: $14.00

Wine Shop Review: Tonnino’s exotic example of Pinot Grigio has a straw to pale gold color. It is fresh and clean on the nose with fruity notes of pear, green apple and white peaches. The palate is true to the nose with a fresh acidity, coriander and lime notes followed by a crisp finish. This wine pairs well with youthful aperitifs, clams or mussels, pastas and risotto dishes.

Personal Review: The 2014 Pinot Grigio by Tonnino brought a crisp, fresh, green apple bouquet to the nose. The palate, from start to finish, closely resembled the nose with a floral and green apple taste. I think this would be an outstanding wine to cleanse your palate prior to a meal. I'm not usually a big fan of pinot grigio but I would drink this again.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Peter Mertes Sweet Red Dornfelder

Name: Peter Mertes Sweet Red Dornfelder
Variety: Dornfelder
Region: Germany
Country: Germany
Year: 2014
Price: $12.00

Wine Shop Review: The trademark German red grape varietal Dornfelder has a lovely purity of soft red berry fruit. Integrated soft tannins combined with forward fruit flavors make for a perfectly balanced everyday sipping wine.

Great with grilled red meat, sausage and chicken. Best served slightly chilled.

Personal Review: The Sweet Red Dornfelder by Peter Mertes brought cherries and strawberries to the nose. Though the bouquet was nice, the taste was unbalanced. The Sweet Red Dornfelder was overwhelmingly sweet but low in alcohol at 9.5% ABV and not overly acidic or tannic. An unbalanced dessert wine that is certainly not worth more $12.00. 

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Castello Sonnino Chianti Montespertoli

Name: Castello Sonnino Chianti Montespertoli
Variety: Blend of Sangiovese, Canaiolo, Trebbiano, and Malvasia del Chianti
Region: Chianti
Country: Italy
Year: 2010
Price: $15.00

Wine Shop Review: A blend of Sangiovese, Canaiolo, Trebbiano and Malvasia del Chianti. Rich and modern, with a dark, saturated color and aromas of graham cracker and lemon rind. A juicy palate packed with plum and raspberry is carried by a creamy texture that’s rather toasty in terms of flavor. The finish is round, full and chocolaty.

Personal Review: The Castello Sonnino Chianti Montespertoli brought a peppery, petroleum-like, aroma to the nose. I found the Chianti Montespertoli to be rather dry and tannic but still balanced due to the 13.5% ABV. The pallet began with raspberries and balckberries before transitioning to a soily midpallet and finish.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Bolla Bardolino

Name: Bolla Bardolino Magnum
Variety: 60% Corvina 30% Rondinella 10% Molinara
Region: Bardolino
Country: Italy
Year: 2013
Price: $18.00

Wine Shop Review: A blend of 60% Corvina, 30% Rondinella, 10% Molinara this bright ruby red wine has hints of black cherry on the nose.  It is soft and fruit-forward, with black-fruit flavors followed by a bright and fresh finish. Serve it as the Italians do – young and lightly chilled. Pairs perfectly with fleshy fish, beef, lamb, red-sauced pastas and pizza.

Personal Review: The Bolla Bardolino Magnum brought a strong woody, ruffage punch to the nose. The Bardolino Magnum smelled like a pile of wet leaves. The pallet was complex, beginning with black currant and raspberries before bringing an earthy, peppery flavor to the midpallet and finish.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Tenuta le Velette Orvieto Classico

Name: Tenuta le Velette Orvieto Classico
Variety: 30% Trebbiano 30% Grechetto 20% Malvasia 15% Verdello 5% Drupeggio
Region: Orvieto
Country: Italy
Year: 2011
Price: $18.00

Wine Shop Review: The Berganorio Orvieto is a subtle wine with a bright palate. It shows white flowers on the nose and light citrus notes in the mouth. Its neutral character means it can accompany a wide range of foods. A blend of 30% Trebbiano, 30% Grechetto, 20% Malvasia, 15% Verdello, and 5% Drupeggio. The estate has 103 hectares on the hill opposite the hill town of Orvieto.

Personal Review: I found the Berganorio Orvieto to have a floral, perfumy, grapefruit bouquet. Though the Berganorio Orvieto was intriguing at the nose, its beautiful aromas were not indicative of how the wine actually tasted. I found the Berganorio Orvieto to have a red hot alcohol taste from start to finish. 

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Aveleda Praia Vinho Verde

Name: Aveleda Praia Vinho Verde
Variety: 40% Arinto 30% Loureiro 20% Trajadura 10% Azal
Region: Vinho Verde
Country: Portugal
Year: 2013
Price: $10.00

Wine Shop Review: A blend of 40% Arinto, 30% Loureiro, 20% Trajadura and 10% Azal. Full of fruit, a lasting peach flavor targeted with laserlike acidity through the finish. It has the bite of salty ocean air and a lot of zing. For langoustines.

Personal Review: I found the Vinho Verde by Aveleda Praia to bring crisp green apples and peaches to the nose. I found the Vinho Verde to be very acidic, tart, and refreshing from the initial impression through the finish. Truly, it was almost like a green jolly rancher. An incredibly crisp and refreshing wine.


Note: I did not consume this wine with food

Review - Dona Sol Shiraz, Petite Syrah & Symphony

Name: Dona Sol Shiraz, Petite Syrah & Symphony
Variety: Red Blend
Region: California
Country: United States
Year: Non-vintage
Price: $6.95

Wine Shop Review: Shiraz has a unique jammy fruit character that is well represented in the Sweet Red. Both on the nose and on the palate, jammy fruit, like strawberries, cherry pie and red licorice, entices the senses and pair well with cheeses and desserts.

Personal Review: The sweet red blend brought strawberries, raisins, cherries, and raspberries to the nose. I found the wine to be particularly sweet and unfortunately void of the pleasant berry aromas. Still, a good dessert wine and I'd recommend it to friends.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Velvet Crush Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon & Petite Syrah Bllend

Name: Velvet Crush Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon & Petite Syrah
Variety: Blended Red
Region: California
Country: United States
Year: Non-vintage
Price: $18.00

Wine Shop Review: Velvety smooth texture just like its name. Soft tannins and lush dark fruit character. Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Sirah bring backbone and character, while the Merlot balances out the blend for a soft, smooth texture.

Personal Review: The Red Blend by Velvet Crush brought beautiful cherry aromas to the nose. The blend truly smelled like a fresh cherry pie. A very fruity flavor pallet from the initial impression through the mid pallet and finish. Not particularly dry or much of an alcohol burn. 


Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Grand Cru Pinot Noir

Name: Grand Cru Pinot Noir
Variety: 100% Pinot Noir
Region: California
Country: United States
Year: 2013
Price: $6.95

Wine Shop Review: This ruby-colored wine has aromas of raspberry, cherry and a hint of vanilla. Flavors of cherry and plum lead to a soft velvety finish. This wine can be enjoyed by itself. It is also an excellent accompaniment with Brie, goat cheese and smoked salmon. Lamb shanks and pork tenderloin are a favorite
main dishes to pair with this wine.

Personal Review: The Pinot Noir by Grand Cru Vineyards brought freshly cracked black pepper, dark cherries, and black currant to the nose. Though the first impression was predictably dominated by the rich berry flavors, the mid pallet was surprisingly earthy with nice pepper flavors making for a complex, full bodied pallet. 

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Prime Brume Garganega

Name: Prime Brume Garganega
Variety: 100% Garganega
Region: Soave
Country: Italy
Year: 2014
Price: $11.00

Wine Shop Review: Pale color. Fruity, floral minerally inviting aromas of passion fruit, white grapefruit, spice poached pear, and papaya with a lean, racy, bone-dry medium body and a smooth, complex, long lemon, passion fruit, raw hazelnut, and wet stones finish with no tannins and light oak. From the tantalizing nose full of exotic fruit, citrus and minerality thru to the long, crisp finish, this soave can seamlessly go from cocktail hour thru to vibrantly flavored dishes.

Personal Review: I found the Garganega by Prime Brume to have a very unique bouquet. Personally, I picked up a surprisingly strong banana aroma as well as lemons and pomegranate. Very complex nose. Though the bananas were not present in the tasting, the citrus from the lemons and pomegranate really stood out during my first impression. A very nice blend of aromas and flavors make this Garganega well worth a shot.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Quintas Melgaco Blue Vinho Verde

Name: Quintas Melgaco Blue Vinho Verde
Variety: 100% Vinho Verde
Region: Vinho Verde
Country: Portugal
Year: 2013
Price: $10.00

Wine Shop Review: Refreshingly crisp white wine from Portugal--Vinho Verde is soft, light and refreshing, and is an uncompromising and ideal wine for everyday pleasure. Its bright color and pineapple aromas are followed by citrus notes. The palate is clean and fresh. Vinho Verde is an excellent accompaniment to fish and shell fish, white meats and salads.

Personal Review: I found this Vinho Verde to bring a strong apple aroma to the nose. My first impression of the wine was dominated by a tart, apple flavor. A very crisp and bright flavor pallet that didn't shift much from my initial impression. A good, refreshing wine.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Crane Lake White Zinfandel

Name: Crane Lake White Zinfandel
Variety: 100% White Zinfandel
Region: California
Country: United States
Year: 2013
Price: $5.95

Wine Shop Review: Light pink wine with floral and tropical aromas: flavors of strawberry, peach and raspberry with a touch of sweetness. This wine is an easy sipping wine that also pairs wel lwith a wide variety of foods ranging from crab cakes or

pâté to spicy Asian dishes, glazed ham, and grilled 

Personal Review: The White Zinfandel by Crane Lake brought a pleasant blend of strawberries, peaches, and watermelon to the nose. This blend of aromas was greatly enhanced by aerating the wine. Unfortunately, these flavors were almost nonexistent during the tasting which was somewhat expected given how high California Zinfandels are in residual sugar. None the less, it was a light, enjoyable wine with no significant mid pallet or finish.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Vina Galana Alicante Bouchet

Name: Vina Galana Alicante Bouschet
Variety: 100% Alicante Bouschet
Region: Spain
Country: Spain
Year: 2012
Price: $15.00

Wine Shop Review: From the rare Alicante Bouchet, one of the few grapes in the world with red flesh  this wine has a plush texture carring flavors of brandied cherry and chocolate ganache in this round red. Light tannins and gentle acidity impart a lovely, balanced structure.

Personal Review: The Alicante Bouschet had one of the most unique aromas that I have ever experienced. I kid you not, it the Alicante Bouschet smelled exactly like a freshly painted room. I also picked up blackberries and strawberry preserves at the nose. I found the Alicante Bouschet to have a simple, one dimensional pallet that was full of blackberries, cherries, and strawberries. No significant mid pallet or finish. 

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Tonnino Syrah

Name: Tonnino Syrah
Variety: 100% Syrah
Region: Sicily
Country: Italy
Year: 2013
Price: $14.00

Wine Shop Review: An intense red color. Aromas of violet and blackcurrant enriched by hints of liquorice and black pepper. In the mouth it is full, round, slightly tannic and with a spicy note on the finish.

Personal Review: The Tonnino Syrah brought rich, dark cherry to the nose. Aerating the wine intensified the cherry aroma and also brought out raspberry and black pepper. My initial impression of the Syrah was full of the dark cherry and raspberry flavors. The mid pallet presented a smooth transition from the initial cherry and raspberry flavors to black pepper which lasted through the finish. A very solid Syrah.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Riebeek Cellars Viognier

Name: Riebeek Cellars Viognier
Variety: 100% Viognier
Region: Swartland
Country: South Africa
Year: 2015
Price: $15.00

Wine Shop Review: This is a luscious viognier, featuring a deep yellow color, that explodes with juicy peach and honeysuckle flavors. Viognier can easily become flabby, but this one manages to keep its figure within bounds. I recommend this for immediate, lip-smacking enjoyment.

Personal Review: The Viognier by Riebeek Cellars certainly surprised me at the nose due to an unexpected watermelon aroma that was accompanied by peaches and lemon. My initial impression of the Viognier was dominated by the watermelon that I detected while smelling the wine. Not dry at all; a bit too sweet in my opinion. No significant deviation from the initial impression during the mid pallet and finish. 

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Dom Michel Thomas Pinot Noir Sancerre Rose

Name: Dom Michel Thomas Pinot Noir Sancerre Rose
Variety: 100% Pinot Noir
Region: Loire
Country: France
Year: 2013
Price: $32.00

Wine Shop Review: Bright orange-pink. Lively, mineral-tinged aromas of fresh red berries, orange peel and honeysuckle, with a hint of anise building in the glass. Dry and nervy in the mouth, offering vibrant strawberry and orange pith flavors and a suggestion of rose pastille. The floral element comes back on the finish, which lingers with very good spicy persistence.

Personal Review: The Pinot Noire Sancerre Rose had a very strong presence at the nose. I picked up predominantly apples and peaches but there was also an undeniable floral presence. The initial impression of the tasting was quite unique. I found the Pinot Noir Sancerre Rose to be surprisingly sour. Truly, the Pinot Noir Sancerre Rose mimicked a sour patch kid in the sense that it started off sour and ended sweet as the fruity floral elements returned.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Crane Lake Gewurztraminer

Name: Crane Lake Gewurztraminer
Variety: 100% Gewurztraminer
Region: California
Country: United States
Year: 2013
Price: $5.95

Wine Shop Review: Slightly high-toned notions of rose petal mingle with lemon on nose and palate of this lightly sweet, richly textured yet balanced Gewürztraminer. This is not as heady as you may expect and will be a treat with spicy Asian dishes. Lychee and rose petal make another very fetching appearance on the finish.

Personal Review: A very perfumy, floral aroma at the nose with a hint of peach and apple. Overall, very fruity and sweet at the nose. Surprisingly, these pleasant fruity flavors were non existent in the tasting as the Gewurztraminer was overwhelmingly sugary. No mid pallet or distinct finish. I found this wine to be quite disappointing and would not recommend it.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Codirosso Chianti

Name: Codirosso Chianti
Variety: 100% Chianti
Region: Tuscany
Country: Italy
Year: 2014
Price: $13.00

Wine Shop Review: Ruby red color with purple reflections.  Intense vinous bouquet with hints of violets and dark cherry fruit. The flavor is full of ripe fruit and a hint of spice. It is well balanced and dry. The finish is persistent and satisfying.

Personal Review: The Chianti had a sweet, sugary, peppery aroma at the nose that was accompanied by cherry after aerating. Truly, cherries really exploded out of the wine glass after aerating. Also a mild hint of blackberries. First impression was overpowered by a distinct sugary taste that quickly transitioned to cherry and pepper in the mid pallet and through the finish. 

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Indwe Pinotage

Name: Indwe Pinotage
Variety: 100% Pinotage
Region: South Africa
Country: South Africa
Year: 2013
Price: $12.00

Wine Shop Review: A disclaimer: I have never cared much for Pinotage, the indigenous South African grape variety, but this 2013 Pinotage from Indwe, named after the country's national bird, the blue crane, comes across like a light Pinot Noir. Subtle notes of cherries, spice and forest floor are followed by a round, light to medium-bodied, pure, seductive, well-crafted wine. Drink now-2016.

Personal Review: The Pinotage by Indwe brought a very strong dark cherry and red berry aroma to the nose. These aromas were enriched by aerating and also accompanied by a light spice aroma. The Pinotage was a mild red and color. My initial impression was dominated by cherry and red berry but the mid pallet transitioned to a complex peppery flavor that lasted through the finish. A surprising alcohol burn that lasted for a few seconds.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Palacio de Bornos Verdejo

Name: Palacio de Bornos Verdejo
Variety: 100% Verdejo
Region: Reuda
Country: Spain
Year: 2013
Price: $12.00

Wine Shop Review: Zesty and clean, with pure grapefruit and passion fruit aromas. It’s charged up but perfectly balanced, with bright, focused citrus and pineapple flavors. Lemony acidity keeps the finish rolling, then throw in some chive and fresh greens and you have a spot-on Verdejo.

Personal Review: The Verdejo by Palacio de Bornos brought very strong strawberry and apply aromas to the nose. Aerating the Verdejo also brought out melon. I found the Verdejo to have a unique first impression that was full of flavor. Strawberries, apples, melon, as well as strong citrus flavors all presented themselves. Though I did not detect a significant mid pallet, I found the Verdejo to have a 10-15 second after taste in which the fruity flavors of the wine continued to develop. A very unique flavor pallet.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Tonnino Grillo

Name: Tonnino Grillo
Variety: 100% Grillo
Region: Sicily
Country: Italy
Year: 2014
Price: $14.00

Wine Shop Review: Fruit-forward and tangy, this light-bodied, snappy white offers flavors of guava, apricot, candied grapefruit zest and stone. Drink now. 20,000 cases made.

Personal Review: The Tonnino Grillo had a crisp, floral, white grape aroma prior to aerating. Aerating brought peach and white grape to the nose. The Grillo presented me with a bright, peachy first impression that lasted from start to finish. 




Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Peter Mertes Platinum Riesling

Name: Peter Mertes Platinum Riesling
Variety: 100% Riesling
Region: Germany
Country: Germany
Year: 2014
Price: $18.00

Wine Shop Review: Light-bodied slightly sweet white wine; medium pale slightly greenish yellow. Inviting fresh white peach aroma and flavors. Easy to drink and not complicated, but what's there is very pleasant, and flavors develop in the glass.

Personal Review: The Platinum Riesling by Peter Mertes was light and sugary at the nose. The flavors were primarily floral and perfumy but not overwhelmingly so. Not a particularly sweet Riesling compared to others and, to be honest, that's what I liked most about it. 


Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Crane Lake Petite Sirah

Name: Crane Lake Petite Sirah
Variety: 100% Petite Sirah
Region: Lodi, California
Country: United States
Year: 2013
Price: $5.95

Wine Shop Review: This wine is ruby-purple colored; notes of blackberry, plums and spice predominate the nose and flavors. The tannins give a soft, full mouth feel.

Personal Review: I picked up a distinct fresh berry aroma at the nose that was really brought out by swirling the wine. The Petite Sirah by Crane Lake left rich almost inky black legs on the wine glass which led me to think the petite sirah would have an overwhelmingly complex pallet. However, I was surprised by the simplicity of the pallet. My initial impression was dominated by the fresh berry flavor of the Petite Sirah and I did not pick up a distinct mid pallet or finish. Truly, these black and raspberry flavors lasted from start to finish.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - El Cortijillo Tempranillo

Name: El Cortijillo Tempranillo
Variety: 100% Tempranillo
Region: La Mancha
Country: Spain
Year: 2014
Price: $9.00

Wine Shop Review: Bright purple. High-pitched red berry and floral scents display good clarity and a hint of cracked pepper. Shows a touch of jamminess to its pliant black raspberry and cherry compote flavors, with a spicy quality adding vibrancy. Finishes with good focus and no obvious tannins, leaving a sweet berry note behind.

Personal Review: I found the Tempranillo by El Cortijillo to have a very distinct earthy and peppery aroma at the nose that was accompanied by dark cherries after aerating. My initial impression of the wine was dominated by the earthiness that I had smelled but this flavor was quickly replaced by the peppery, dark cherry flavor in the midpallet and through the finish. Overall, the Tempranillo had a complex pallet with a distinct first impression, mid pallet, and finish. 

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Les Clos Francs Vouvray Chenin Blanc

Name: Les Clos Francs Vouvray Chenin Blanc
Variety: 100% Chenin Blanc
Region: Loire Valley
Country: France
Year: 2013
Price: $21.00

Wine Shop Review: The cool climate in the Vouvray appellation area insures good acidity, which is balanced by the distinctly fruity character of the Chenin Blanc and the mineral qualities imparted by the soil. Thanks to these natural elements, this Vouvray combines elegance and vigor with honey dipped pears and an inherent freshness.

Personal Review: I picked up a very rich strawberry aroma at the nose that was greatly enhanced by aerating the wine. This strawberry aroma really jumped out of the wine glass and into my nose; almost bubbly it was so rich in these fruity aromas. My initial impression led me to notice a very pleasant apple flavor that was sustained through the mid pallet and finish.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - La Lejania Chardonnay

Name: La Lejania Chardonnay
Variety: 100% Chardonnay
Region: Central Valley
Country: Chile
Year: 2015
Price: $10.00

Wine Shop Review: A refined and suave style, with a rich array of white fruit and cream flavors, featuring a plush texture. Ripe citrus and pear notes fill the smooth finish.

Personal Review: I found the La Lejania Chardonnay to be perfumy and floral at the nose. My first impression led me to pick up a light, refreshing, citrus and grape flavors that lasted throughout all three phases of the tasting. A very good chardonnay and certainly worth every bit of $10.00.



Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Yellow Tail Red Moscato Bubbles

Name: Yellow Tail Red Moscato Bubbles
Variety: 100% Moscato
Region: Australia
Country: Australia
Year: Non Vintage
Price: $10.00

Wine Shop Review: With a gorgeous deep pink hue, this is a wine that offers scrumptious aromas of lifted tropical fruits, ripe fresh strawberries with black currant and raspberry texture. Its flavor is a vibrant Moscato, with fresh forest fruits and strawberries and a nice dose of sweetness.

Personal Review: I immediately picked up a sweet, sugary aroma from the Yellow Tail Red Moscato. Aerating the wine brought out a distinct appley smell. I found the wine to have a refreshing, carbonated, appley and dark cherry flavor to it from start to finish.


Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Beringer Smooth Red Blend

Name: Beringer Smooth Red Blend
Variety: Blend of  Cabernet, Merlot, Syrah and Petite Sirah
Region: California
Country: United States
Year: 2012
Price: $15.00

Wine Shop Review: A blend of Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Petite Sirah. Without a doubt, very smooth and uniquely balanced. Not too dry but not too sweet. Has a foundation of raspberry and blackberry that lingers in the finish. A slight hint at vanilla and some spice when it touches your tongue.

Personal Review: I noticed a distinct rubbery aroma that was accented with fresh tree fruit. My initial impression of the wine was that of a dried almond, oaky flavor. The mid pallet led me to pick up the apricotty flavors that I noticed while smelling the wine. Overall, the Smooth Red Blend by Beringer had a complex pallet that was full of rich, earthy, tree fruity flavors. The complexity of the pallet is not a surprise considering it is a blended wine.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Yellow Tail Cabernet Merlot

Name: Yellow Tail Cabernet Merlot
Variety: Blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot
Region: Australia
Country: Australia
Year: 2014
Price: $10.00

Wine Shop Review: A classic blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Medium-bodied and very approachable with soft tannins. Fruit-forward flavors of plum, cherry and blackberry are accented by notes of spice with more juicy berries on the finish.

Personal Review: Even before swirling the Yellow Trail Cabernet Merlot, I noticed an overwhelmingly peppery aroma. I found the Cabernet Merlot blend to have a complex pallet which is not surprising given that it is a blended wine. Again, I noticed a very peppery flavor during my initial impression but that ultimately transitioned to an earthy, tree fruity flavor during the mid pallet and finish. I feel it is worth mentioning that the Cabernet Merlot by Yellow Tail did have a distinct alcohol aftertaste to it.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Be. Bright Pinot Grigio

Name: Be. Bright Pinot Grigio
Variety: 100% Pinot Grigio
Region: California
Country: United States
Year: 2013
Price: $10.00

Wine Shop Review: This effortless Pinot Grigio keeps things light, with sun-ripened citrus flavors and a crisp, fresh finish. An instant taste of optimism, perfect for setting a carefree mood at any occasion. Serve chilled for total deliciousness.

Personal Review: I found the Pinot Grigio by Be. Bright to have a very pleasant fruity and refreshing aroma. My initial impression of the wine led me to notice a very sharp, crisp, citrusy flavor that did not change significantly as I swirled it around in my mouth. I did not notice a distinct mid palate or finish to the Be. Bright Pinot Grigio but that does not take away from the fact that, overall, I found the wine to be fantastic and would recommend it to anyone who was looking for a light, refreshing wine that is perfect for an afternoon outside.

Note: I did not consume this wine with food.

Review - Dynamite Sauvignon Blanc

Name: Dynamite Sauvignon Blanc

Variety: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Lake County, California
Country: United States
Year: 2012
Price: $13.00

Wine Shop Review: Melon, green apple and citrus flavors are lively and refreshing, with a spicy, floral nuance.

Personal Review: I noticed a stemmy aroma that was really brought out by swirling the Dynamite Sauvignon Blanc. I found the Dynamite Sauvignon Blanc to be relatively dry but still quite refreshing. I really picked up a floral, perfumey flavor during my initial tasting. I did not pick up a mid palate or finish that altered much from my initial impression.



Note: I did not consume this wine with food.