Name: Estrella Merlot
Variety: Merlot
Region: Napa Valley
Country: California
Year: 2009
Price: $6
Winery review: This ruby colored Merlot has raspberry jam aromas with a subtle hint of spice. Layers of vanilla, plum and fig are revealed that linger ever so slightly on the palate
My review: Not a bad wine. Had a generic berry aroma that I find pleasing; I also did get something akin to burned leaves (which I also enjoy... got to love growing up in the sticks). Less tannin than the previous red, which I found relieving, and had hints of blackberry hit my palate as I tasted. I probably should have picked up one of these before leaving... I'll have to do that next time.
I tasted this on its own with no food.
Name: Doural Red Tinto
Variety: Tinta Cao, Touriga Nacional
Region: Douro
Country: Portugal
Year: 2009
Price: $9
Winery review: This Portuguese tinto(red) blend exhibits a deep red color with violet hues. The nose is vibrant and fruity. The palate offers notes of spice, cherry, and dark berry supported by good structure. Pairs well with red or game meat, cheeses and fish.
My review: The nose that I picked up on consisted mainly of dark berry notes. I liked the deep red color in the glass and enjoyed the dark berry (not necessarily cherry) tastes I picked up on my palate. Some tannin here that would cause the wine to be well suited with something to counterbalance that puckering feeling, but I enjoyed the wine overall.
I tasted this on its own with no food.
Name: Oxford Landing Viognier
Variety: Viognier
Region: Somewhere in South Australia
Country: Australia
Year: 2009
Price: $8
Winery review: 88 Points, Wine Spectator. Bright and lively,this white is appealing for its pear, lychee and sweet spice character, which comes together smoothly against a silky texture.
My review: Strong floral nose. I felt the heat of this wine more so than the others in the tasting. I picked up slight peachy characteristics while tasting.
I tasted this on its own with no food.
Name: Tierra de Luna Torrontes-Chardonnay
Variety: 80% torrontes and 20% chardonnay
Region: Mendoza
Country: Argentina
Year: 2009
Price: $8
Winery review: Fresh and crisp, with floral aromas and flavors of quince and pear, this wine is a versatile companion to informal meals, and is excellent as an aperitif.
My review: I got apple hints on the nose and in tasting; not much of the floral and pear that was advertised. However, it was crisp and refreshing. I purchased a bottle after the tasting.
I tasted this on its own with no food.
Name: Simonet Blanc de Blancs
Variety: Chardonnay
Region: not specified
Country: France
Year: not specified
Price: $8
Winery review: On the nose, there is some bread-yeast and some toast, same on the palate. Great for an everyday bubbly or for mimosas!!
My review: Very mild smells; picked up the smell of grape juice, not bread or yeast. Nice bubbles and crisp taste that goes down smoothly.
I tasted this on its own with no food.
