Monday, January 30, 2012

Tasting - "Cellar 8 Pinot Grigio"

Name: Cellar 8 Pinot Grigio
Variety: Pinot Grigio
Region: Sonoma County, California
Country: USA
Year: 2009
Price: $13 regular / $4.95 close-out sale
Winery Review: The 2009 Cellar No. 8 Pinot Grigio opens with inviting aromas of honeysuckle flower, white peach and fresh pineapple. This refreshing wine exudes flavors of melon, honey and lemon zest, with subtle hints of spice and a crisp, clean finish. It would be a perfect accompaniment to fresh salads, creamy avocado soup, or served as an aperitif.

My Review: I found it very difficult to distinguish many of the white wines to a significant degree. It had very nice golden yellow color with a clean fresh aroma. It was very smooth and crisp.

Tasting - "Tamas Estate Zinfandel"

Name: Tamas Estate Zinfandel
Variety: Zinfandel
Region: Central Coast, California
Country: USA
Year: 2009
Price: $15 regular / $7.95 close-out sale
Winery Review: At Tamás Estates we've made it our passion to fashion California wines in a style honoring their varietal heritage. Our Zinfandel has flavors of raspberry, strawberry jam, cherry and vanilla. With a rich mouthfeel, integrated oak and a long fruity finish, this wine compliments a variety of meat selections and spicy foods. Hop on the bus for a multinational wine tour experience and stamp your passport for world taste.

My Review: I thought it looked a little thin with a light red color. It smelled a little spicy. It had a fruity flavor that I couldn't decide of which fruit. It did have a great sharp finish.

Tasting - "Hardys Nottage Merlot"

Name: Hardys Nottage Merlot
Variety: Merlot
Region: Riverland
Country: Australia
Year: 2009
Price: $15 regular / $4.95 close-out sale
Winery Review: Red berry, plum and cassis notes layered with subtle oak and hints of aniseed, warm spice and chocolate. The palate is soft and well balanced with dark plum and cherry complemented by seamlessly integrated oak. The Nottage Hill Merlot marries superbly with Slow roasted capsicum with glazed vegetables.

My Review: At first look, it seemed very thin with a dark cherry color. It also seemed to have a brownish purplish hue to it. It was very well balanced and very smooth. I did taste some type of berry I was not sure of, and a little bit of the oaky flavor.

Tasting - "Faraway Farm Shiraz"

Name: Faraway Farm Shiraz
Variety: 100% Shiraz
Region: Western Cape
Country: South Africa
Year: 2009
Price: $15 regular / $5.95 close-out sale
Winery Review:There is special place in Africa, far away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, where soaring mountains dominate the stark landscape. Tucked away behind these mountains you will find our vineyard. This is the home of Faraway Farm. Our Shiraz will spoil you with flavors of rich juicy blackberry, dark spice and just a hint of black pepper. Drink with close friends.

My Review: It has a dark red color. On my first smell I thought it was floral and peppery. I thought it was a just a tiny bit hot but I might have just experienced more of the pepper. I personally wouldn't buy it.

Just bought a case of wine for 75 bucks.

This is what happens when you go to a close out sale at the vintage cellar after tasting 20 different wines. I am proud to have bought my first full case of wine! It was only $75 for 12 bottles worth a total of $200. This is awesome!

Tasting - "Faraway Farm Cabernet Sauvignon"



Name: Faraway Farm Cabernet Sauvignon
Variety: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Region: Western Cape
Country: South Africa
Year: 2009
Price: $15 regular / $5.95 close-out sale
Winery Review: There is a special place in Africa, far away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, where soaring mountains dominate the stark landscape. Tucked away behind these mountains you will find our vineyard. This is the home of Faraway Farm. Our Cabernet Sauvignon will spoil you with rich flavors of ripe blackberry and plums. Drink with close friends. 

My Review: It has a very deep dark red color showing a full body. The first smell was very earthy. It was very smooth and well balanced with a great finish. It went very well with cheese.