Les Alliés 2023 Sancerre

 

Les Alliés 2023 Sancerre, $23.99-$29.99, 92 points, was a very light brass color with a thin silver lining for a meniscus.
Aromas began with lovely sweet apple notes, nuanced by perfumed pome blossoms and mandarin zest: very beautiful.
This Sancerre was light-bodied, showed bright acidity, and delivered good flavors of passion fruit, citrus, and Necco Wafer Candy.
Finished long on the trailing palate, a hint of honeydew melon, and well-balanced 13% alcohol.
Paired perfectly with my baked sea scallops. 

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

Copyright 2010-2024, al rights reserved, Dennis Tsiorbas
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Trentadue Winery La Storia Alexander Valley 2019 Petite Sirah (Red Wine)

 

Trentadue Winery La Storia Alexander Valley 2019 Petite Sirah, $26.99-$49.99, 91 points, poured an unfiltered opaque ruby red with a clear wine ring and hanging fat legs.
Aromas of sweet plums, iodine, a hint of milk chocolate, and a floral hardwood were pleasant.
This Petite Sirah was typically full-bodied and showed firm comfortable tannins accented with fair to good acidity and rich flavors reflective of the aromas with fennel, citrus notes, and warm red cherry.
Finished long on the trailing palate with a hint of iron and a well-balanced 14.8% alcohol.
Paired perfectly with my spiced rib eye and Mac and cheddar cheese.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

Copyright 2010-2024, all rights reserved, Dennis Tsiorbas

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Bella Bolle 2020 Moscato D'Asti DOCG

 

Bella Bolle 2020 Moscato D'Asti DOCG, $5.99-$8.99, 86 points, was a light yellow/gold color with a thin clear meniscus and no fizz.
Aromas were near mute but subtle orange peel and lemon zest were pleasant.
This Moscato was medium-bodied, showed fair acidity and sweet (not cloying) flavors of rock candy, white chocolate, and hints of citrus.
Finished long on the trailing palate, white grape, and a sweet spot 5.5% alcohol.
Paired well with my spicy Mexican cuisine.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

Copyright 2010-2024, all rights reserved, Dennis Tsiorbas

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Covalli 2019 Barbaresco DOCG

 

Covalli 2019 Barbaresco DOCG, $21.14-$29.99, 93 points, poured a light brandy red with thin hanging-lightly stained legs, and a broad clear meniscus.
Aromas of pine resin, black tea, and red raspberry Kool-Aid were pleasant.
I find Barbaresco red wines to be generally medium-bodied with bright acidity, and this Covalli was no different; showed bone-dry with puckering grainy tannins, great spiciness, and good flavors of black tea, sweet cooking herbs, and hints of strawberry.
Finished very long on the trailing palate, a hint of eucalyptus, rose pedal, iron, red raspberry, and a well-balanced 14% alcohol.
Paired perfectly with my veggie-mozzarella flatbread pizza.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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Antigal Winery-Estate, Mendoza, "Uno" 2019 Malbec

 

Antigal Winery-Estate, Mendoza, "Uno" 2019 Malbec, $12.74-$18.99, 87 points, poured deep and grading ruby reds with a clear meniscus and copious stained legs.
Aromas of perfumed black fruit with notes of mulberry and a hint of espresso were straightforward and a bit bland.
This Malbec was typically full-bodied, showed fair acidity, a supportive underlayment of tannin, and flavors reflective of the nose with a bit of astringency and good spiciness towards late palate.
Finished fair on a well-balanced 13.9% alcohol.
Paired okay with my cheeseburgers.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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Perrier-Jouët Blason Rosé Champagne

 

Perrier-Jouët Blason Rosé Champagne, $61.99-$69.99, 92 points, poured with a good effervescence, rose red color with a copper sheen, and a clear meniscus.
Aromas of strawberry, watermelon, and Cotten candy were pleasant.
This Rosé Champagne was light-bodied, fizzy, crisp, showed good acidity, and flavors reflective of the aromas.
Finished quite long with a hint of Moxie soda and a well-balanced 12% alcohol.
Paired perfectly with my Asian chicken and veggie fried rice.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

Copyright 2010-2024, all rights reserved, Dennis Tsiorbas

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Château Jas de Bressy 2020 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge

 

Château Jas de Bressy 2020 Châteauneuf-du-Pape Rouge, $38.39-$47.99, 94 points, poured a bright ruby red with flashes of amber towards the clear meniscus with massive fat-stained legs.
The most beautiful bouquet I've experienced in a red wine that recently comes to mind: showed a perfumed milk chocolate, black fruit, and hints of cinnamon, clove, cedar, and dried sweet cooking herbs.
Château Jas de Bressy acts upon a bone-dry full body with good acidity, fine grainy tannins, earthy and fruity flavors accented with an intense alcohol (15%) infused spiciness.
Finished long on mint, anise, plums, and the trailing palate.
Paired perfectly with my spice-rubbed rare rib eye.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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Poggio Lontano 2019 Brunello Di Montalcino

 

Poggio Lontano 2019 Brunello Di Montalcino, $21.99, 88 points, poured a bright ruby red with orange highlights, a broad clear meniscus, and thin copious legs.
Aromas were moderately "dumb", but soft notes of red raspberry, mushrooms, and rose pedal were pleasant.
This was a dry near full-bodied Brunello delivering thick cherry fruit flavors with notes of black tea, citrus, and plums.
Tannins were upfront supportive without being astringent, acidity was good, and alcohol (14%) was balanced.
This Trader Joes Brunello finished a bit tart, astringent, and flavor thin; it's difficult to find such a red wine for this price though.
Paired fine with my veggie pizza.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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Shannon Ridge High Elevation Collection Lake County California 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon

 

Shannon Ridge High Elevation Collection Lake County California 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon, $15.99-19.99, 88 points, poured a deep rosewood red with a broad clear meniscus and sticky stained legs.
Aromas were earthy, a bit funky, licoricey, and softly floral with hints of stewed plums.
Shannon Ridge gives a balanced red table wine for a reasonable price, and this one is no different: showed a faithful rendition of the aromas onto the palate with good accents of red pepper, soft supportive tannins, and fair acidity.
Finished long on the trailing palate with emphasis on plums, red pepper, a hint of mint, and a well-balanced 13.9% alcohol.
Paired fine with my marinara cheddar burger. 

2019 California Cabernet Sauvignon wines tasted

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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Tangley Oaks Mendocino County Lot 12 2019 Chardonnay

 

Tangley Oaks Mendocino County Lot 12 2019 Chardonnay, $9.99-$19.99, 86 points. was a medium straw-yellow color with a broad clear penumbra.
Smells of sour melon, nutmeg, and orange zest were okay.
This California Chardonnay was medium to full-bodied, round but steely, showed fair acidity and good short-lived flavors of cantaloupe, citrus notes, and an impressive lingering ginger.
Finished fair mostly on the ginger and a big 14.5% alcohol.
Paired fine with my Asian cuisine.
Recommend as a table wine but not as an aperitif.

2019 Vintage California Chardonnay

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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St. Michael Weinkellerei Qualitätswein 2023 Riesling

 

 

St. Michael Weinkellerei Qualitätswein 2023 Riesling, $8.99-$14.99, 89 points, was a very light yellow/gold color with a broad water clear penumbra.

Aromas of peach, dusty apricot, pome blossoms, and very subtle hints of lemon peel and petrol were elegant.
This Qualitätswein (quality) white wine was off-dry to slightly sweet, light-bodied, showed fair acidity, and delivered upfront flavors of Granny Smith apple and Honeydew melon, mid-palate was a bit thin, but finished well on tart citrus, rock candy, and a balanced 10% alcohol.
Paired perfectly with my fried spicy sea scallops, and okay with my Asian cuisine.

Many tell me that they don't care for sweet wines, so, this might not be for them; I see this as a buy wine for the rest of us.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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Montegiachi 2018 Chianti Classico Riserva

 

Montegiachi 2018 Chianti Classico Riserva, $21.49-$45.99, 91 points, poured an opaque Burgundy red color with a clear wine ring and fat stained-legs.
Aromas of perfumed ripe strawberries, black tea, with hints of milk chocolate, a floral vibe, and cinnamon were deep yet soft.
This Chianti Classico Riserva was a bone-dry medium-bodied red wine with firm grainy tannins, good to bright acidity, and a delicious plank of flavors reflective of the aromas with a bit of smoked paprika.
Finished fair on pepper spiced infused alcohol (14%).
Paired fine with my focaccia veggie pizza.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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Lemelson Vineyards Thea's Selection 2021 Pinot Noir

 

Lemelson Vineyards Thea's Selection 2021 Pinot Noir, $25.49-$31.99, 89 points, poured a burnished pomegranate red with a broad clear meniscus and clear glass sheeting.
Smells of a perfumed rendition of the Pinot Noir specific grape with hints of cinnamon and mulberries were just okay.
Typically, medium-bodied, showed good acidity, soft grainy tannins, good flavors of cherry fruit, citrus, and tart notes of the grape specific.
Finished long on red cherry and a well-balanced 13.5% alcohol.
Paired perfectly with my beef stew.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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Louis Guntrum Rheinhessen 2020 Dry Riesling

 

Louis Guntrum Rheinhessen 2020 Dry Riesling, $17.05, 79 points, was a light brass color with yellow/gold highlights and a clear meniscus.
Aromas of faint dusty cardboard, petrol, and lemon zest were okay.
This Riesling was medium-bodied, showed fair acidity, and thin flavors reflective of the aromas with a hint of ginger and melon rind.
Finished long on the fading palate and a dry 12% alcohol.
Paired poorly with my fried cod loin.
Not a fan of this white wine and wouldn't buy it again (JMO) even for under $9.00.
I don't think, in almost fifteen years, that I've had three wines in succession that I disliked so much.
Hopefully my next wine (Lemelson Vineyards Thea's Selection 2021 Pinot Noir) won't follow in their path of disappointment.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

Copyright 2010-2024, all rights reserved Dennis Tsiorbas

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Cavit Trevenezie 2023 Moscato IGT

 

Cavit Trevenezie 2023 Moscato IGT, $7.64-$9.99, 85 points, was a light brass color, slightly effervescent, and with a broad gray penumbra.
Aromas of pineapple, guava, and a hint of mint leaf were lovely.
Cavit provided me with a medium-bodied Moscato that showed a bit cloying with fair acidity, a sugary pear flavor accented with rock candy.
Finished long on the trailing palate, a hint of guava, and a balanced 7% alcohol.
Paired okay with my favorite Moscato-pairing, buffalo-wings.
For the price, this is barely a buy white wine.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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Reflection Ridge Estate Monterey County 2021 Sauvignon Blanc

 

Reflection Ridge Estate Monterey County 2021 Sauvignon Blanc, $11.42-$12.99, 77 points, was a very light brass color throughout.
Smells of lemon juice, fresh Mac apples, and hints of stone fruit were good if a bit straightforward.
This Cali sustainably certified sauvignon Blanc was dry, light-bodied, and showed good acidity with tart to sour flavors reflective of the aromas with dry grassy notes.
Finished with a balanced 13.5% alcohol.
Sorry, I didn't like this wine at all, it might be that it was a few years old, but not exceptionally old and with a screwcap, that shouldn't have been a factor.
Paired awful with my fried Cod loin. 

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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Groth Oakville-Napa Valley 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Revisited

 

Groth Oakville-Napa Valley 2010 Cabernet Sauvignon Revisited, $49.29-$62.99 (currently $82.99), 93 points, poured a bright ruby red with a thin clear meniscus and fat stained-legs.
The aromas were soft black fruit, coffee, cedar, and rose pedal.
This fourteen-year-old Oakville Cab was full-bodied, showed good acidity, soft but supportive grainy tannins, and delicious flavors of mint, blackberries, black cherry skin, anise, plum, and rich earth notes.
Finished long on the trailing palate, cayenne pepper, and a well-balanced 14.5% alcohol.
Paired perfectly with my rare bone-in spice-rubbed prime rib eye.
I bought this wine more than ten years ago and tasted this vintage in 2014, it has nicely endured and should have another ten years in it.

2010 California Cabernet Sauvignon wines tasted

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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Bodegas Viña Cartin, Ruta 49, Rías Baixas, 2023 Albariño (D.O.)

 

Bodegas Viña Cartin, Ruta 49, Rías Baixas, 2023 Albariño (D.O.), $9.99, 92 points, was a very light yellow/gold color with a broad graying penumbra.
The mountain stream aroma was accented by stone fruit with a hint of lemon zest.
This Albariño was light-bodied with good acidity and lovely stone fruit flavors nuanced with Necco wafer candy and lemon oil.
Finished nicely on ginger-ale, citrus notes, and a well-balanced 13% alcohol.
Paired perfectly with my fried Atlantic Cod.
This is a great buy white wine, (QPR) especially for seafood cuisine. Another great buy at Trader Joe's!

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

Copyright 2010-2024, all rights reserved, Dennis Tsiorbas

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Château De La Saint Mont (Appellation) Grand Vin Sud Ouest, 2018 Tanat/Red Wine

 

Château De La Saint Mont (Appellation) Grand Vin Sud Ouest, 2018 Tanat/Red Wine, $25.49-$65.99, 92 points, poured an opaque ruby red with a thin bleeding meniscus and very big hanging stained-legs.
Aromas of pine bark, ripe blackberries, a bit of smoke, and herbal notes were pleasant.
This 70% Tannat red wine was full-bodied, showed good acidity, firm grainy tannins, and rich plum flavors with an intense 14.5% alcohol infused spiciness, black licorice, and a dominant earthiness.
Finished long on the trailing palate with a hint of iron.
Paired perfectly with my beef stew.
Varietals were 70% Tannat, 15% Pinenc, and 15% Cabernet Sauvignon (France require 85% of a single varietal to be classified as such). 
I've filed this wine as a Tannat, for convenience, despite the French classification associated with the Appellation designation alone (St. Mont).

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

Copyright 2010-2024, all rights reserved, Dennis Tsiorbas
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Koha Marlborough 2023 Sauvignon Blanc

 

Koha Marlborough 2023 Sauvignon Blanc, $12.74-$17.99, 86 points, was a light brass color transitioning to water clear midway towards the glass rim.
Aromas of cold sand-bottom lake nuanced with hints of lemon zest, white chocolate, and passion fruit were pleasant.
This Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc was light, brightly acidic, and show tart lime, slightly sour lemon oil, ginger, and grass notes.
Finished long, tart, even a bit peppery with a well-balanced 13% alcohol.
Paired okay with my fried clams and better with my Yellow-fin tuna salad.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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Albert Bichot Bourgogne 2022 Chardonnay

 

Albert Bichot Bourgogne 2022 Chardonnay, $18.99-$26.99, 87 points, was a light straw yellow color with a broad light gray penumbra.
Aromas of pome blossoms, a hint of dusty white chocolate, sweet apple, and rutaceae citrus notes were pleasant.
This French Chardonnay was light to medium-bodied, showed good acidity, crispness, and sharp citrus and ginger flavors with nuanced slightly sour melon.
Finished fair on the trailing palate and a well-balanced 12.5% alcohol.
Paired okay with my batter-fried chicken breast and better with my strawberry crepe.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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Frog's Leap "Estate" Rutherford 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon

 

Frog's Leap "Estate" Rutherford 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon, $59.49-$74.99, 92 points, poured ruby/cranberry red colors with violet highlights, a clear meniscus, and transparent glass sheeting.
Aromas of perfumed ripened blackberries, autumn sun-soaked loam, rich red cherry, and a hint of cedar were pleasant.
The 2020 Frog's Leap cab was a red wine experience, an upfront bath of soft, lush, and juicy Cabernet Sauvignon grapes, full-bodied with fair acidity and plum/cherry, and blackberry flavors nuanced with a Smoky Mountain chew.
Finished long on pepper spices, citrus notes, a bit of wood, and a most welcome 13.8% alcohol.
Paired fine with my Spanakopita and Kalamata olives.

Frog's Leap Napa Valley, Why it's a "Go to Winery."

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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Produttori Di Manduria "Electric Bee" 2022 Primitivo

 

Produttori Di Manduria "Electric Bee" 2022 Primitivo, $15.29-$16.99, 87 points, poured core black grading to a purple/red with a thin clear wine ring and dense stained legs.
The smokey briar fruit with hints of coffee, damson plum, and Davinci cherry syrup were pleasant aromas, but underwhelming.
Many Primitivo wines are more a medium-bodied red wine, but this was dense, rich, and full-bodied with fair acidity, soft sufficient tannin, and robust flavors reflective of the aromas.
Finished long and juicy with a well-balanced 13.5% alcohol.
Paired fine with my Angela's Focaccia veggie pizza.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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Anne Amie Estate Willamette Valley 2022 White Wine

 

Anne Amie Estate Willamette Valley 2022 White Wine, $18.89-$20.99, 87 points, was nearly clear with a light brass sheen.
Soft aromas of crisp apple and dusty peach with whiffs of citrus and a floral vibe were pleasant enough.
Light-bodied, fair acidity, and a gentle mouthfeel barely offset late palate with a bit of tartness.
Flavors, like the aromas were soft and reminiscent of the aromas with a touch of pepper and ginger in the long finish which did succeed in camouflaging the 12.5% alcohol.
Varietals were Riesling with Madeleine Royal (French white grape).
Paired okay with my baked haddock filet and better with my Portuguese sardines in olive oil. 

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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Rossino Provincia Di Pavia, 2022 Moscato (IGT)

 

Rossino Provincia Di Pavia, 2022 Moscato (IGT), $17.99-$19.99, 92 points, was a very light brass color infused with platinum effervescent bubbles (pretty).
Soft rock candy and white chocolate aromas were nuanced with a white blossom vibe.
Rossino delivered a light-bodied fizz tipple showing good acidity (not common in a sweet Moscato) and tasty flavors of lemon meringue pie with lasting creamy citrusy candy drops.
Finished with a good balance of sweetness and white grape, smooth and tart, and alcohol (7%).
Paired perfectly with my spicy cheddar nachos.
I hear over and over again "I don't like sweet wine". But my retort is: "try it, you'll like it!
I found this one at Angela's Pasta in Manchester.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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Ferrari-Carano Alexander Valley 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve

 

Ferrari-Carano Alexander Valley 2018 Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve, $35.69-$44.99, 91 points, poured an opaque ruby red with a thin bleeding meniscus and hanging stained-legs.
My first whiff of this Cab was alcohol, but a lovely smoky black fruit aroma supplanted the alcohol, and more nuanced floral and herbal smells with a hint of anise tied a nice bow on this package.
Full-bodied, dry, round, rich, showing good acidity, supportive tannins, depth of flavor, and a full throttled alcohol-infused spiciness.
Finished very long with a blackberry cordial flavor, anise, and a big 15.3% alcohol.
Paired fine with our cheddar and onion cheeseburgers.

2018 California Cabernet Sauvignon Wines Tasted

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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Gary Farrell Russian River 2021 Pinot Noir

 

Gary Farrell Russian River 2021 Pinot Noir, $39.85-$48.99, 92 points, poured a royal ruby red color with a broad clear meniscus and fat stained-legs.
The lovely aromas of floral perfume, cherry pie, and hints of warm chocolate brownies were outstanding.
It has been wrongly said that you can't find a great Pinot Noir for under fifty dollars: Gary Farrell is not an inexpensive Pinot, but for about forty dollars I trusted that this vineyard would not disappoint. In this case, I rarely taste a wine before I eat (usually I give attention to a wine during and after my meal), but I had so much anticipation for a great pre-Thanksgiving Pinot I couldn't wait.
Medium-plus dry-bodied red wine with good acidity, supportive grainy tannins, and delicious cherry fruit and herbal flavors which carried long into the fine finish of Kirsch, red pepper spice, and a well-balanced 13.9% alcohol didn't let me down.
Paired perfectly with our baked chicken dinner.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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Magaddino Terre Siciliane 2022 Zibibbo IGP

 

Magaddino Terre Siciliane 2022 Zibibbo IGP, $13.01-$17.99, 88 points, the lightest of brass colors and was gray to clear midway towards the rim.
Dominate citrus aromas, best at lime juice with a hint of lemon oil, mint and white blossoms were gentle and lovely.
My first Zibibbo white wine reminded me of a crisp one dimensional Viognier, and this Zibibbo was dry, bright, tasty, citrusy, and quite pairable, having served me perfectly with my baked Haddock.
Finished fair on the bright acidity, a hint of white chocolate, the faintest marjoram, and a delicate 12% alcohol. Sometimes less alcohol is my preference (must be old age)!
Serving Thanksgiving dinner to elegant friends, want a white wine with decorative gravatas, looking for Q/P/R (quality/price/ratio), and want to keep those guests awake? Then I certainly would choose this one. Do a blind tasting and stump your local sommelier.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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La Madrid Mendoza Single Vineyard 2019 Cabernet Franc

 

La Madrid Mendoza Single Vineyard 2019 Cabernet Franc, $10.19-$22.99, 88 points, poured a bright ruby red with cranberry red and rose-pink highlights, a broad clear meniscus, and sticky stained-legs.
The aromas were floral, herbaceous, red-fruity, and showed a hint of mint.
A full-bodied dry red wine with good acidity, supportive underlayment of soft tannins, and tasty anise flavor nuanced with red raspberry, plum, and crisply excited pepper notes.
Finished long on tannin, a bit tart, and with a well-balanced 13.9% alcohol.
Paired well with my T-bone steak.
If you're interested in a Cab-Franc, at this price I wouldn't pass this one up.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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Clos Henri Marlborough Single Vineyard 2022 Sauvignon Blanc

 

Clos Henri Marlborough Single Vineyard 2022 Sauvignon Blanc, $25.49-$34.99, 93 points, was a light brass color with yellow/gold highlights.
Aromas of fresh-cut grass, gooseberry, faint dusty vanilla, a hint of grapefruit and pome blossom vibes were quite lovely.
As with many Kiwi SBs, this Clos Henri showed bright acidity flavors of citrus, but late palate and finish were intense lemon/lime with ginger and white pepper notes.
Alcohol content was a well-balanced 13.5%.
Paired perfectly with my baked haddock filet.
I've only spent this much money on a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc once before, but that wine couldn't hold a candle to this 2022 Clos Henri, and this was my highest scoring one at that.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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Fontanafredda Serralunga d'Alba DOCG 2008 Barolo (Italy) Revisited Eight Years After

 

Fontanafredda Serralunga d'Alba DOCG 2008 Barolo (Italy) Revisited Eight Years After, $14.99-$25.99 (500ml), 93 points, poured a deep garnet red with an amber sheen, much micro-sediment, a remarkably clear meniscus, and fine glass sheeting.
Aromas of steamed sweet plums, subtle notes of mint, pine needles, and minerality with a floral vibe were quite good.
This sixteen-year-old Barolo was near full-bodied, showed good acidity, shadows of fine grainy tannin, a tasty reflection of the aromas with warm pepper spices and a hint of espresso.
Finished long on the fading palate with a hint of iron and a well-balanced 14% alcohol.
Paired perfectly with our spaghetti and meatballs.
Better now than when tasted in 2016.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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Castellare 2021 Chianti Classico (DOCG)

 

I don't buy Castellare Chianti for the wine labels, those are lovely ribbons on beautiful packages.
Okay, I review what seems to be a bias towards Italian wines, and that has a few good reasons: largest wine producing country, availability, and great wines.
Castellare 2021 Chianti Classico (DOCG), $18.69-$23.99, 93 points, poured a bright ruby red with amber highlights, moderately stained legs and clear meniscus.
Aromas of softly perfumed red cherry, whispers of tar and tea, nuanced the herbaceous character of this wonderful 2021 Chianti Classico showing bright acidity, angular mouthfeel with grainy tannins, and luscious flavors adorned with warm pepper spices.
Finished long on the trailing palate, hints of mint and iron, and a spot-on 13.5% alcohol.
Paired perfectly with my loaded Giuseppe's pizza.

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Il Borro Lamelle Toscana 2022 Chardonnay (IGT)

 

Il Borro Lamelle Toscana 2022 Chardonnay (IGT), $25.21-$32.99, 93 points, was a light brass color graying midway towards the glass rim.
Aromas of perfumed fresh-cut hay, soft Necco wafer notes, and dusty mandarin peel were lovely and fresh. 
This Tuscan Chardonnay brags on its organic bona fides, but I brag on it being lean, clean, and perfectly balanced: showed good acidity, light to medium-bodied, and accompanied with steely flavors reflective of the aromas and brisk white pepper/ginger notes.
Finished long on the trailing palate with a hint of cantaloupe, and a well-balanced 13% alcohol.
Paired perfectly with my baked haddock filet.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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Chronic Cellars "Sir Real" Paso Robles 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon

 

Chronic Cellars "Sir Real" Paso Robles 2020 Cabernet Sauvignon, $13.59-$17.99, 87 points, poured a dark cranberry red shading close to ruby red with a broad clear wine ring and fat-stained legs.
This Cab had a very grapey smell with red cherry, a hint of milk chocolate, and a floral vibe.
Chronic Cellars does a good job at producing successful table wines and this full-bodied cab was no different: showed fair acidity, soft round tannins, fruity flavor profile with hints of dried cooking herbs and chocolate.
Finished great on a spicy infused 14.3% alcohol with a hint of mint.
Paired well with my grass-fed cheddar cheeseburger.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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Tenuta Di Arceno 2020 Chianti Classico

 

Tenuta Di Arceno 2020 Chianti Classico, $23.99-$31.99, 91 points, poured an opaque pomegranate red with a clear meniscus and fat stained-legs.
The earthy/herbal aromas were nuanced with black tea and hints of red fruit.
Unlike most Chianti Classico red wines, this one was near full-bodied, this one was typically dry, showed fine grainy tannins, and tasty floral flavors with red fruit, dried cooking herbs, and hints of cayenne pepper.
Finished long on the trailing palate, hints of fig, red cherry, and a big but balanced 14.5% alcohol.
Paired perfectly with my meatball sub.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

Copyright 2010-2024, all rights reserved, Dennis Tsiorbas

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Alexander Valley Vineyards, Sonoma County 2022 Sauvignon Blanc

 

Alexander Valley Vineyards, Sonoma County 2022 Sauvignon Blanc, $16.99-$21.99, 89 points, was a pale-yellow gold color and graying midway towards the rim.
The aroma of dusty hay dampened the lemon zest, vanilla, and wood notes.
Alexander Valley delivered a cut and dry light-bodied white wine with good acidity and straight-forward flavors reflective of the aromas with bright ginger notes.
Finished long on a fabulous ginger and a big but comfortable 14% alcohol.
Paired well with my chicken club sandwich.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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Dutton Goldfield Dutton Ranch Russian River 2021 Chardonnay

 

Dutton Goldfield Dutton Ranch Russian River 2021 Chardonnay, $23.99-$39.99, 92 points, was a medium brass color graying towards the glass rim.
Aromas were an excellent balance of lemon, apple, and floral notes.
Dutton gives us in vintage 2021 a clean medium-bodied dry white wine with good acidity, a bracing mouthfeel, and deep flavors reflective of the nose with hints of wood, fig, and citrus.
Finished long on the fading palate, green melon, orange zest, and a sweet-spot 13.5% alcohol.
Paired perfectly with my chicken-club sandwich and my fried jumbo shrimp.
At under $25 you can impress those at the Thanksgiving table with a balanced Cali/Chablis Chardonnay.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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Seghesio Sonoma County 2021 Zinfandel

 

Seghesio Sonoma County 2021 Zinfandel, $15.26-$25.99, 89 points, poured a bright ruby red with a very broad clear meniscus with massive sticky and stained-legs.
Soft aromas of briar fruit, a floral vibe, and smoky wood notes were pleasant.
This is my twelfth Seghesio Zinfandel and a good one at that (QPR); bone-dry medium bodied, fine grainy tannins, good acidity, and tasty flavors reflective of the aromas with iron and pepper spices late palate.
Finished long, showed hints of rose pedal, iron, cayenne pepper, and a big but balanced 15% alcohol.
Paired perfectly with my spinach/cheese/ and beef ravioli.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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Stoller Family Estate Willamette Valley 2022 Pinot Noir

 

Stoller Family Estate Willamette Valley 2022 Pinot Noir, $17.89-$24.99, 89 points, poured a cloudy pomegranate red with a broad clear wine ring and many thin legs.
Aromas of mulberry, cherry fruit, black tea, and a hint of rubber were pleasant.
This Willamette Pinot was medium-bodied, showed good acidity, mellow grainy tannins, and good cherry fruit flavors with hints of red pepper, dried cooking herbs, and a hint of citrus.
Finished long on minerality and a super well-balanced 13% alcohol.
Paired perfectly with my Asian cuisine and batter-fried chicken breast.
I seldom miss with a Willamette Valley Pinot Noir and Stoller was/is no exception.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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Brancaia Tre Rosso Toscana IGT 2018 Red Wine

 

Brancaia Tre Rosso Toscana IGT 2018 Red Wine, $18.69-$24.99, 92 points, poured a deep cranberry red with ruby highlights, a broad clear meniscus, and thin copious stained-legs.
Aromas of dynamic red fruit, beech wood, perfumed rose pedal, and hints of sweet spices and milk chocolate were complex and pleasant.
This Toscana was near full-bodied, dry, showed firm grainy tannins, bright acidity, and tasty flavors reflective of the aromas.
Finished long, tart, showing red raspberry, cayenne pepper, and a spot-on 13.5% alcohol.
Varietals were 90% Sangiovese, 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 10% Merlot.
Paired perfectly with my meatballs and spaghetti.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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StellaTerre Siciliane 2022 Moscato (IGT)

 

StellaTerre Siciliane 2022 Moscato (IGT), $8.94-$12.99, 87 points, was a light brass color with platinum highlights and a broad gray penumbra.
Aromas were subtle notes of lemon peel, ginger, autumn pine needles, and dusty orange blossoms.
This tasty Moscato was medium-bodied, showed fair to good acidity, less sweet (semi-sweet) than most others I've had, no effervescence, slightly tart, and flavors faintly akin to the aromas.
Finished on the trailing palate with a hint of grapefruit and an unobtrusive 10% alcohol.
Didn't particularly pair well with my hot buffalo wings but was wonderful with my Turkish halva.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

Copyright 2020-2024, all rights reserved Dennis Tsiorbas
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Hook and Ladder Los Amigos Ranch Chalk Hill, Estate 2021 Cabernet Franc

 

Hook and Ladder Los Amigos Ranch Chalk Hill, Estate 2021 Cabernet Franc, $18.70-$45.99, 90 points, poured an opaque garnet red with purple highlights, thin bleeding meniscus, and fat stained-legs.
Aromas of subtle cinnamon, black cherry, sun ripened blackberry, cedar and herbal notes were complex and pleasant.
It's been several years since I've had a straight domestic Cab/Franc, and this was a good choice: round mouthfeel, full-bodied, fair acidity, soft tannins, tasty flavors that mirrored the nose, a bit herbaceous, and textually similar to my last French Malbec but with far more interesting flavors.
Finished long, showed a smidgeon of pepper spice, a slight astringency, and a big but balanced 14.5% alcohol.
Paired perfectly with my Spaghetti and meatballs.  

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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Silverado Napa Valley 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon

 

Silverado Napa Valley 2019 Cabernet Sauvignon, $46.36-$62.99, 93 points, poured an opaque ruby red with a broad clear meniscus and clinging fat legs.
Good aromas of floral notes were accented with ripe black fruit and cardamom.
It's been more than six years since I've had a Silverado Cab and for the life of me, I don't know why, except that there's just so many wines to taste and three surgeries have hindered indulging my wine tasting in general. This 2019 was wonderful, soft yet supportive, tasty but complex, and rich though not overly expensive (As a more or less average wine drinker I like to keep the cost under $50.00).
Finished long on cayenne pepper, iron, plums, anise, and a big but balanced 14.6% alcohol.
Paired perfectly with my meatballs and spaghetti.

2019 California Cabernet Sauvignon wines tasted

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Vigna Madre Kriya Terre Di Chieti-Abruzzo 2023 Pecorino White Wine IGP

 

Vigna Madre Kriya Terre Di Chieti-Abruzzo 2023 Pecorino White Wine IGP, $10.57-$14.99, 88 points, was a medium brass color with apricot highlights and a broad graying penumbra.
Aromas of sweet apple, a touch of peach peel, spring-water minerality, and a hint of pome blossoms were soft and pleasant.
My first Pecorino White Wine was light nicely acidic, showed minerality and flavors of Necco wafer, a floral vibe, and a hint of apricot.
Finished long on the fading palate, white pepper, a hint of citrus, and a well-balanced 13% alcohol.
Paired perfectly with my fried haddock.

INDEX of REVIEWED WINES

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