White Wine
June 14, 2010
Stonecap Riesling 2007
VARIETAL: Riesling
REGION: Columbia Valley, Washington
PRICE: $7.99
I would venture to guess that some of you just saw the word "riesling" and are already mentally moving on... Don't go! This is not your granny's Blue Nun. The only thing you should fear from this wine is polishing it off yourself in one short sitting. In fact, why don't you just put your forefinger over the "R" word and imagine it says, "Stonecap White 2007." Are we ready to move on?
If you've been turned off by old world rieslings--which can be syrupy and redolent of kerosene and nectar--you must give a new world version the chance to wow you. This one does have a hint of nectar, but more of a whiff, like you've just come across a wild honeysuckle bush while playing capture the flag. One drop of honey on the tongue and the rest is all orange and grapefruit peel, almost ripe peach, juicy nectarine, and enough citrusy acidity for a clean crisp finish. Infinitely interesting and surprisingly well balanced, the Stonecap is also dirt cheap. I was not aware of the price point when I first tasted it and I would have guessed it fetched somewhere in the $14-$18 range.
Rieslings are by nature very food friendly. Pair this one with asian or the recommended seafood. Next time, I'll enjoy it with a little St. Andre smeared across some Jacob's cream crackers.
Find it here.
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May 26, 2010
CheapFun Finds for Memorial Day
The summer season is almost upon us and if you live anywhere that is even remotely temperate this time of year, my guess is you're gearing up for the season's first big barbeque. Whether you're planning a massive backyard bash or an intimate gathering, we have your vino covered.
For the seriously budget minded, we suggest a red and a white that are crowd pleasers and can be easily found for a mere $9.99:
Boro Hills Sauvignon Blanc
Meticulously selected fruits from our vineyards in Rapaura Road and Renwick, results in a wine with an abundant spectrum of tropical and herbal aromas. Intense flavours of passionfruit and gooseberry are balanced by an overlay of limes and lemons. A succulent wine with depth and texture and a lingering finish of lime. (from Highfield Estate)
Colores del Sol Malbec
Colores del Sol meaning "Colors of the Sun." is a Malbec that captured the exciting, alluring qualities of the Malbec grape in a wine which utilized modern, high-quality winemaking. The vineyards in Mendoza are among highest in the world - therefore, closest to the sun where the sun's light is most pure. That pure light reflects from grapes and vines like a starburst, revealing all the colors of the sun. The grapes are watered with pure melted snow channeled from the Andes, using a centuries-old irrigation system inherited from the native settlers, the Huarpes Indians. (from Colores del Sol)
If you want to impress your guests and still stay in the $12-$17 range, here are a few picks that truly wowed us:
Six Prong Chardonnay
Not your typical Northwest Chardonnay. Reminiscent of the Chablis style, and perfectly food-friendly. Lean, but zingy with a big sliver of chalky wet basalt slicing through bright gooseberry & kiwi flavors, finishing crisp & clean with nuances of white pepper and the slightest hint of vanilla oak. Very refreshing. (from Six Prong)
Ottimino Zinfinity
Aromas of blackberry syrup, plum and black cherry are tinged with caramel and hints of vanilla and smoke. The entry on the palate is juicy, adding flavors of pomegranate and ripe raspberry. The tannins are smooth and round and the expansive mid-palate leads to a firm and persistent finish. The balance of this quintessential Zinfandel allows great versatility with food, and its deceptive heartiness will reward experiments with exotic pairings. (from Vintage Point Cellars)
Brothers in Arms, No. 6 Shiraz Cabernet
Deep maroon, crimson and magenta hues. A lifted spice and herb aroma displaying a rosemary fragrance mixed with plum and dark red fruits. Juicy berries up front greet explosive fruits coupled with talc and fine drying tannins which carry the fruit across the palate uninterrupted. Highly approachable now but will cellar for 6 to 8 years. 85% shiraz, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon. (from Vintage Point Cellars)
Or if you want someone else to do the choosing, My Wines Direct is offering three great packs that offer a little something for everyone:
Sunny Whites
Serve up refreshment with these six sunny selections. From Australia, California and Italy, we've brought you the best whites for the summer season. Sit back, sip and save....you'll save $9 when you choose all of these wines together. Elegant and refreshing, what's better on a warm summer day than a cool glass of white wine? Italian Pinot Grigio has long been a summer favorite. But the Aussie's won't be out done. They've vinted the best of the down under sunshine with the Richland Chardonnay. California is no stranger to sunny favorites - enjoy a classic Chardonnay or a crisp Sauvignon Blanc.
BBQ Bests
Cheers to the grillin' master! Everyone will toast the chef as they enjoy these rich and bold reds, ranging from an Argentine Cabernet and Malbec to a French Côtes du Rhône and a Pinot Noir from California. A premium addition to this pack - the award-winning Merlot from Hall vineyards, which normally retails for $50. Fire up the grill and open a few bottles, to make your BBQ the best of the season. From meat and chicken to salmon and veggies, you'll find the perfect pairing with one of these top red picks.
Mouthwatering Mix
It's the warm weather season for fun with family and friends. Get the party started with a tempting mix of 6 wines from California, Argentina and Spain. Pair with your favorite foods and savor the delicious flavor combinations. Serve the California Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay with sautéed fish, grilled chicken and summer salads. If you enjoy a meal around the grill, pour a few glasses of the Argentine Cabernet or the premium Hall Merlot. And for an international cheese plate or a decadent chocolate dessert, try the Spanish Crianza or California Pinot Noir.
Wine pack copy and images from My Wines Direct.
May 11, 2010
Pomelo Sauvignon Blanc 2008
Varietal: Sauvignon Blanc
Region: California
Price: $10
This is surely going to be a go-to wine for me this summer. The very pale golden color is somewhat misleading. Though it looks more like a pinot grigio, I can assure you this wine has a lot going on for a mere $10. It is lovely and aromatic with layers of juicy stone fruit and citrus blossom. Bright and crisp yet soft and round, this sipper stimulates all of your senses at once. An array ripe summer fruit will linger on your palate, but this sauv blanc finishes clean. I'm thinking seared scallops and a salad of mache dressed with a simple vinaigrette.
Image from Mason Cellars
April 19, 2010
Frey Organic Sauvignon Blanc 2008
VARIETAL: Sauvignon Blanc
REGION: Mendocino County (Russian River Valley), CA
PRICE: $9.99
Earth Day will be quickly upon us and as I have been perusing new and interesting organic and biodynamic beauties to try, I stumbled upon this Sauvignon Blanc amidst a tower of choices at my local Whole Foods. I've always been a fan of Frey wines, though I had never tried the SB and oddly enough, it never really registered in my somewhat wine-addled noggin, that Frey was the first organic winery in the US and the first certified biodynamic as well. Unfortunately, I think I'm going to have to give it another go, because something truly funky was going on with this bottle. As soon as the wine began its fine golden cascade into the glass, I knew something was up. It didn't have the aromatic expression of a sauvignon blanc... in fact it didn't smell like wine at all. Quite oddly, it smelled like beer. Specifically like a Belgian white beer. Very weird. Seriously off-putting, and not particularly tasty... unless of course you want a white wine that tastes like beer. Something must have gone awry with the non-GMO yeasts... Must have been super-yeasts because this was super yeasty.
So according to the back of the bottle (and the Frey site) this is what I should have tasted:
The ultimate food friendly wine. Tropical flavors of pineapple and passion fruit married with delicate French oak will complement spicy ethnic cuisine. This wine is a pleasing blend of fruit from Lake and Mendocino counties, California. Try it with goat cheese rolled in an endive leaf, topped with fresh minced herbs.
I'll definitely have to try it again. Frey offers so many wonderful award-winning wines that I have to believe this was just a little freak of nature.
Image and content from Frey Vineyards
August 13, 2009
Svelte Summer Sipper - Biokult Gruner Veltliner 2008
It is hotter than Hades out there, and what better way to cool your palate than with a fun, fresh white. If you are unfamiliar with gruner veltliner, don't let the tongue-twister name intimidate you. This Austrian wine is similar in style and body to a sauvignon blanc, and similarly makes a super summer quaffer.
The Biokult gruner, which is made from organically grown grapes, is the pride and product of an innovative austrian family that practices biodynamic farming. So innovative in fact, that the wines are fermented in egg-shaped tanks! I don't know what that means for the wines, but I can tell you that this gruner is full of zing and pep. At first it reminded me of a vinho verde--very light and green and ever so slightly effervescent. But unlike the simple white from Portugal, this is subtly layered with soft fruit, fresh herbs and bright citrusy acidity.
Add this gruner veltliner to your arsenal of crisp summer whites, but resist the urge to drink it with a straw... you'll miss out on the vibrant and jaw-tingling aromas. I paired it with my bathing suit and floaties because as I mentioned, it is quite hot. But it would pair beautifully with simple grilled shrimp or a mesclun greens salad with grilled beets and herb crusted goat cheese. Find it at Whole Foods for $11.99
July 2, 2009
Mapema Sauvignon Blanc 2008
VARIETAL: Sauvignon Blanc
REGION: Mendoza, Argentina
PRICE: $11
I recently hosted a tasting and featured this lovely Argentine SB for purely personal reasons. I love it... and I'll find any excuse to share the love. I think it might even convert some white haters. If you're not a fan of sauvignon blancs in particular, I'm going to surmise that you might be a little off-put by the grassy, sometimes bitter bite that is common among so many good SBs. I can assure you that this one is quite different.
Though, true to form, it is is crisp with a fine acidic finish, the lead-in is all finely woven, ripe summer fruit. Melon and stone fruit add wonderful richness and aromatics, while a hint of golden apple and lime peel contribute a soft freshness that is clean, but not at all bitter.
This should be your go-to white this summer... great on its own, but fantastic as an aperitif... or fine with fish... super with salads... you get the picture.
Find it at your local Cost Plus Word Market or online from a number of retailers, but plan to add another few $$.
April 20, 2009
Telmo Rodriguez Basa Rueda 2007
VARIETAL: 85% Verdejo 10% Viura 5% Sauvignon Blanc
REGION: Rueda, Spain
PRICE: $12
Sometimes good wines, like friends, come and go. But if you're lucky you can find a few that stand the test of time. The Basa is one wine that has always been there for me. we were first acquainted about 8 years ago, and since then, the Basa has been consistently on my tried-and-true list -- though I only recently learned it is a product of sustainable viticulture practices. And though the ratio of the blend may vary from year to year, the Basa is always lip-smackingly delicious. Bright and wonderfully fresh, this light white is bursting with bosc pear, golden apple and grapefruit blossom. Not to fear, it isn't all soft fruit and floral aromas. You get a punch of zesty citrus and a clean mineral finish. Perfect for summer, but why wait?
Basa Rueda 2007
March 24, 2009
Hermanos de Villar Ipsum Verdejo 2007
VARIETAL: Verdejo
REGION: Rueda, Spain
PRICE: $13
After a lovely morning hike through a desert preserve, the dashing Mr. CheapFunWines and I decided to spend our rare, kid-less Saturday afternoon meandering through Central Phoenix, exploring the fun and funky shops we would otherwise avoid with our 3-year-old in tow. And so we decided early on that our afternoon pilgrimage of all things "grown-up" must end at a wine bar.
We chose Postino--mostly because I was hungry for good panini--but were disappointed that the Postino Central location had yet to open. So, bellies rumbling we headed for Arcadia and the original Postino location, located in the old Arcadia post office building.
Since this isn't CheapFunRestaurants, I'll skip the lengthy description of the atmosphere and menu, except to note that we loved the casual vibe and lovely patio (where we found our perch) and though the menu is limited to panini, bruschetta, salads and a few appetizers, everything we tasted is excellent. As for the wine list, the by-the-glass list is diverse and interesting, and the bottle selections are displayed on racks as you enter the restaurant. You can browse those at your leisure and the knowledgeable and friendly wait staff is eager to assist in decision making. Glass prices are a little steep for my taste, unless you go between 11 am and 4 pm (every day) when glasses are only $5.
I chose the verdejo because it was a hot day and I thought it might be a lovely complement to the vegetarian panini... And I was not disappointed. In the glass it has a clear green-gold hue. Grass and citrus blossom and lime are the initial aromas that yield to crisp green-apple freshness and soft stone fruit and melon undertones on the palate. I love how the clean, vibrant energy of the Ipsum plays with soft, fruity delicacy and finishes with a clean, herbaceous zing. Pretty refined for a simple Spanish white.
March 9, 2009
Epicuro Vermentino 2007
VARIETAL: Vermentino
REGION: Lazio, Italy
PRICE: $5
Well it isn't the most interesting of the Italian Vs (Vernaccia, Verdichio, etc) but the Epicuro Vermentino is pretty pleasant for $4.99. Hailing from Lazio, which is the region containing Rome that geographically makes up the shin of the boot, all of the depth of this wine is in the aromatics-- bright melon and floral notes are abundant, layered with ripe stone fruit and just a hint of citrus. But the flavor profile is a bit more shallow. On the palate this Vermentino hints at the flavors that you associate with the aromas, but it never quite makes it to the party. Still, it is light and bright and pleasant. There is certainly nothing bad about this one and I think, for the money, it would make a lovely summer party wine. Stock up at your local Trader Joe's or wherever you can find Epicuro wines.
November 24, 2008
Volute Wine - Premium, Portable Vino
Finally! A picnic wine that you can actually take to the park or the beach or an outdoor concert venue -- or just about anywhere you CAN'T take a glass wine bottle. Super convenient and dare I say, super cute, Volute wines might be the best thing to happen to tailgating.
We source our wine from small, independent Bordeaux wineries that posses the same values and views as we do. Our wineries also believe passionately about - and employ - green practices, and do not use any artificial additives.
Not sure yet if they live up to their story, but I just received a bottle of each, so I'll expound once I've popped the tops.
In the meantime, check out Volute Premium Portable Wines
October 28, 2008
Blood of the Vines - Halloween Wine Guide
There are a number of novelty wines out there if you're in the market this All Hallows Eve. If you want one stop shopping and live near a Cost Plus World Market, you can find about 9 or ten options there, including their own Trick (red blend) or Treat (white blend) from Chateau Diana. Cute idea, but I think I'll focus on the darker options.
Vampire Pinot Noir - Vampire Vineyards - Vin de Pays, FR
Powerful forest fruit and wild strawberry aromas persist on the nose, balanced by hints of fine French oak. The vibrant ruby red colors hint at a young wine, but the taste reveals a remarkable maturity. Elegant soft fruit flavors are already finely integrated into the structure of the wine, as is the oak, adding a subtle but powerful complexity to the flavor. This is a light smooth wine, easy to drink at any time of the year and exhibiting typical character of a young Pinot Noir. (Vampire Vineyards)
Vampire Merlot - Vampire Vineyards - Paso Robles, California
Picked at peak ripeness, the Merlot is fermented on the skins for two weeks, with three-times-daily pump-overs, the traditional method of extraction which brings rich color and supple tannins to the new wine. Aged with a combination of both French and American oak, our Merlot develops graceful fruit flavors in the cellar, complemented by subtle shadings of vanilla and toast from the oak. At the completion of the aging process, this Merlot was carefully blended with 8% Cabernet Sauvignon for added depth and structure, as well as 8% Zinfandel, which adds a spicy note on the palate. (Vampire Vineyards)
Vampire Cabernet Sauvignon - Vampire Vineyards - Paso Robles, California
Vampire Cabernet Sauvignon is sourced from several small-berry clones of this traditional Bordeaux varietal, grown in the Paso Robles region of California's Central Coast. Classic, small-lot fermentations, followed by aging with both European and American oak, gives full expression to the rich varietal flavors in this wine. Judiciously blended with small amounts of Merlot for softness, and Syrah for added structure, the Cabernet displays ripe flavor character and a lovely aroma that will continue to develop with additional time in bottle. (Vampire Vineyards)
(If you want something a little more authentic, try to find the Cab and Merlot from the Racas Vineyard in Transylvania)
Spellbound Cabernet Sauvignon - California
Spellbound Cabernet exemplifies lush textures and bold dark fruit flavors with a slight hint of oak and spice. Cedar and tobacco aromas complement integrated lively tannins and fill out your palate allowing the wine to be consumed on its own or with your favorite food. (Spellbound Wines)
Spellbound Old Vines Zinfandel - Lodi
Our deep appreciation of the Zinfandel grapes rich history in California has led us to add this exciting varietal to the Spellbound family of wines. Focusing on old vines with lower yields that deliver intense flavors and bright acidity, we have produced a wine that is food friendly and lush on the palate. Located in the Lodi appellation, the 52 year old zinfandel vines offer subtle spice, rich, dark berry flavors, and balanced acidity. Aged in a combination of small French and American oak barrels we believe you will find this to be one of Spellbounds most delicious wines. (Spellbound Wines)
Evil Cabernet Sauvignon - South Australia
100% Cabernet Sauvignon from vineyards in Langhorne Creek, Riverland, Barossa Valley. 25% aged in French oak for 12 months. Dark rich red, with bright crimson hues. Fresh, yet rich classic varietal nose, consisting of black olive, fresh blackberries and raspberries. The soft palate displays complexity of fruit and oak, with blackcurrant and spicy clove characters, balanced with a fine tannin finish. (Wine.com)
Pure Evil Chardonnay - South Australia
Pure Evil Chardonnay has white peach stone fruit characters. Add a luscious and delicious textural mouthfeel and a touch of French oak influence. The creaminess is balanced by an elegant freshness. (Wine.com)
You may also find these and other options at your local wineshop/beverage superstore. All are in the $8 - $15 range, but if you're having a party or just stocking up, be sure to ask about 6- and 12-bottle discounts.
September 19, 2008
Wine 101 - Ee is for Entre-Deux-Mers
Literally translated, entre-deux-mers means between two oceans or seas. And in lovely, scenic Bordeaux this identifies the appellation situated between the Dordogne and Garonne rivers. There are 37 appellations in Bordeaux, all of which are situated along the Dordogne, the Garonne and the Gironde which flows from the Atlantic ocean and splits to form the other two. On the map above, entre-deux-mers is represented by the large green area in the middle of Bordeaux.
I'm not sure I could clearly explain Bordeaux in one little post so I'm going to send you on a jump, to Wiki land. The Wiki page offers the clearest, most thorough condensation (I've found) of the region as well as a handy numbered map for reference. It also clearly defines terminology associated with Bordeaux wines (ie. Left bank, Right Bank, Graves etc).
Back to the task at hand... Wine from the entre-deux mers appellation can be red, however the reds are fairly nondescript compared to its haughty left bank/right bank kin. Most often when you see entre-deux-mers on a label, it is on a white. Typically, they are sauvignon blanc based and blended with semillon, muscadelle and occasionally, ugni blanc. Vivacious and dry, they can run the gamut from stark and simple to lovely and layered, depending on on the blend, of course.
Start investigating the wines available in your area and buy 2007 vintages whenever possible... Or if you need a few suggestions, check these out:
Chateau Bonnet Entre-Deux-Mers 2006
50% Sauvignon Blanc, 40% Semillon, 10% Muscadelle
The higher proportion of sauvignon blanc in this blend provides a crisp, acidic backbone. While the sturdy dose of semillon softens the edges with ripe tropical fruit notes.
La Foret Blanc Entre-Deux-Mers 2006 $12
40% Sauvignon Blanc, 40% Muscadelle, 20% Sémillon
Much softer than the Bonnet, the La Foret benefits from an equal split of sauvignon blanc and muscadelle. The latter providing lovely aromatics and playful, almost floral notes. Not to be forgotten, the semillon provides a little depth and richness.
Bordeaux map via Great Wine Capitals
September 3, 2008
Wine 101 - Aa is for Albariño
Albariño is the primary grape used to make dry white wine in the Rias Baixes area of the Galicia region of Northwestern Spain. Considered by many to be Spain's premier quality white wine, Albariño is also known in Portugal as Alvarinho and often used as a component of Vinho Verde.
Weather conditions in the Rias Baixes are generally cool, windy and rainy. Vines must be trained high and open to allow winds to dry them out and avoid the ongoing threat of rot, mildew and other fungal diseases. Notably, Albariño grapes develop thick skins here, contributing to their intense aromas.
Typically, wines made from Albariño are very aromatic, often described as having scents of almonds or almond paste, apples, peaches, citrus, and flowers or grass. Albariño wines are particularly suited to seafood due to their bracing acidity This grape's inherent tartness should be embraced in youth, for wines made from Albariño do not age well, and the vibrant aromas begin to noticeably fade within months of bottling. (from Professional Friends of Wine)
As with all varietals you can find Albariños that range from thin and watery to ripe and lush. I would advise selecting one that has been recommended to you to avoid encountering the former. Also, be sure that the vintage is within a year or so, as these wines are meant to be enjoyed young. One of my favorites is from Adega Condes de Albarei. From the first whiff of citrus blossom, pineapple and melon I am completely enamored. Though it does maintain the vibrant and crisp characteristics true to the varietal, I find this Albariño to shape-shift on my palate with bursting flavors of ripe white peach, juicy grapefruit, tropical fruit-- all tempered with a clean subtly mineral finish. It is pretty tough for me to locate so I often look for substitutes. But I have yet to find another that is as interesting in the $12-$15 price range.
August 28, 2008
FAZI BATTAGLIA TITULUS - Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi DOC Classico 2007
In 1953, Fazi Battaglia announced a national competition to create a new bottle in order to personalize its extraordinary production of Verdicchio. Architect Antonio Maiocchi, inspired by the ancient Etruscan amphora, created the acclaimed Fazi Battaglia emerald green "amphora", in 1954 recognized throughout the world as the ultimate icon for Verdicchio.
from Whatsnewingredients.com
Ahhh, the beautiful Adriatic Coast. I remember fondly early summer days driving east from Bologna, bobbing from seaside town to seaside town... Rimini... Riccione... Eating piadini and almost-frozen lemon yogurt at the beach by day and enjoying a bounty of fresh local seafood at night. The wine of choice was decidedly light and crisp and of course, fish friendly.
A little further down the coast lies the Marches region. Fazi-Battaglia is a renowned producer in this area and this verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi is a prime example of their pursuit of excellence. The Titulus is 100% verdicchio, hand harvested and then fermented in stainless steel tanks prior to additional time in the bottle. The resulting wine is quite a pale yellow-green. Gossamer light with hints of almond shell and golden apple on the nose, then softly fruity with a fresh, clean mineral finish. You'll want to slurp it with a straw, but control yourself. Practice a little decorum. A lovely aperitif, or as mentioned, ideal with light seafood (particularly shellfish). Mi piace molto.
VARIETAL: Verdicchio
REGION: Marches, Italy
PRICE: $11
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