Posted on April 3, 2012
My Wine Tasting notes for March 2012
March was a light month tasting month. Most of the month I spent getting myself organized and ready for my departure for Brazil. I postponed many of my tastings until my return. The few that I did get around to tasting were pretty amazing.
My intention in posting my wine tasting notes is to give a brief description of some of the many wines I come across over a months time. Some wines will make the wine list and others will not. Choosing one wine over another for the list, comes down to what holes need to be filled. Keeping my notes online allows me to access them for future reference. (more…)
Posted on March 7, 2012
Wine Tasting Notes for February 2012
My intention in posting my wine tasting notes is to give a brief description of some of the many wines I come across over a months time. Some wines will make the wine list and others will not. Choosing one wine over another for the list, comes down to what holes need to be filled. Keeping my notes online allows me to access them for future reference.
I do not want to rate wines on a point system. There are many flaws with the point system, I merely want to give the reader a description of my interpretation of the wine on a given day. Wines are always changing, we are always changing and what comes across as unpleasing one day can be enjoyable the next. I want to give the reader an insight in to what the wines taste like rather than attaching a subjective score to them. Winemakers and wineries work hard and are very proud of their juice. I will evaluate their product, but I will not trash it. There are times when I can’t hold back and if I really like something, I will write “Yummy” or “Delicious”. I hope you enjoy my notes. (more…)
Posted on February 9, 2012
In January my two main focuses while wine tasting were updating the wine list at Island Prime and writing a new wine list for our new restaurant, Vintana. I was looking for interesting white blends, white Burgundies and Cabernet’s for by the glass. In the process of tasting these, I came across many great wines. Not all fit into the list, however, they are worth a try. I will only write about the wines that stood out. My job is to filter through and pick the best for that grape, region or style. I hope you get a chance to try at least a few of these wines. Cheers! (more…)
Posted on January 2, 2012
My wine tasting notes for December 2011
December is a busy month at the restaurant. It is a time of many holiday parties, so my regular tastings are very limited. Below is a quick review of my wine tasting notes for December 20
Paul Goerg Blanc de Blancs 1er Cru Vertus Champagne NV
Very much enjoyed. Melon, Apples very aromatic with a lime and lemon flavor. Small concentrated bubbles, minerals, high acidity and low dosage.
Retails $36
Mirror is a project of Jeff Smith from Hourglass and ex-NFL quarterback, Rick Mirer. Yellow apple, grass and candied citrus. Made with Muscatelle clone which gives a rich, fleshy roundness. There is a little use of oak and the acidity is medium.
Retails $22
I more so enjoyed the Cab than the Sauvignon Blanc. 50% new French Oak. Aromas of Black fruits, dust, Cassis and espresso. In the mouth is has a burst of red fruit, raspberries and chocolate. Finishes with nuts and mild tannins.
Retails $65
Jaquelyn “Cuvee Blanc” Sonoma Coast ’09
Made at Chateau Boswell by Luc Morlet. 50% Semillon & 50% Sauvignon Blanc, whole cluster, native yeast and 35% New French oak. Aromas of Peach, citrus and ripe pink grapefruit. Rich, petrol and honeyed texture. Acidity is low, but this wine is about texture and fruit and it is well-integrated.
Retail $36
(more…)
Posted on December 5, 2011
During the month of November I had the opportunity to taste with some of my favorite vendors. Below is a synopsis of some of the tastings. Also tasted in November were the wines of Beckman, Fog Crest and Palazzo.
Millwork Chardonnay Sonoma Coast ’09
A second label of Paul Hobs, bottled at Dunah Winery. 18 months in New French oak. Bright aromas of apples and peaches with honey notes. Rich and creamy in the mouth and flavors of pineapples and Bosc pears. A bit warm on the tongue with medium acidity. Good value.
Retail $14
Evesham Wood Pinot Noir Willamette Valley Oregon ’10
The vineyards here were planted in 1986 with Dijon & Pommard clones. It has a cloudy red brick to magenta color. Aromas of flowers, mineral and fruity berry. I can really taste the clay soil mixed with a flavor of pomegranate. It finishes with good acidity.
Retail $15
Rusina Zinfandel Dry Creek ’09
I’ve tasted this several times and each time I’ve really enjoyed it. 93% is old vine Zinfandel & 7% Petite Sirah and is fermented in French oak, 30% new. An aromatic wine of black berries, raspberries, plums and violet bubble gum. In sits rich on the palate with a black pepper spice and flavors of vanilla and cocoa. It finishes with a hint of minerals and is absolutely delicious.
Retail $20
(more…)
