Monday, December 01, 2008

The Internet & Restaurant Wine

I wonder what will happen to the "restaurant wine list" prices when more consumers browse the internet to locate the retail price for a bottle of wine before they order? -- Just a philosophical question from Aldo

Sunday, November 09, 2008

Domaine de la Grivelière Côtes du Rhône Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée 2007

kennuncorked Tasting Notes

Production Practices:
Organic - Self-Monitored.

Blend:
80% Grenache - 10% Syrah - 5% Cinsault - 5% Mourvedre

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is clear, transparent, vivid, rich cherry core that fades gradually to a deep salmon pink narrow rim.

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with low/medium intensity of raspberry and licorice.

Palate:
Dry, (with a slight sweet attack) with low tannins and medium-low acidity. The light to medium intensity of fruit characteristics are ripe red cherries (ripe red fruit). (I could be incorrect in stating that this is a similar profile to a Beaujolais although this wine is not made from the Gamay grape). No indication of alcohol burn (the alcohol level = 14.5%) indicating alcohol is well integrated into the wine.

Finish/Length:
Clean, moderate length on the finish of the fruit ripe cherries.

Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$10.00.

Producers Notes: A little history

The Maison Brotte, is an independent family business for three generations, founded in 1931 in Châteauneuf du Pape by Charles Brotte, a pioneer in of the Rhône Valley. The business of wine merchant-producer developed with the trademark "Père Anselme" due to its emblematic Châteauneuf du Pape wine "La Fiole du Pape", an original and exclusive bottle designed in 1952. It is the bottle with the "dust and the strange shape". Maison Brotte, during the 1980's, began making wine for several appelations of the Rhône Valley in their own cellars in Châteauneuf du Pape. In 1991, by buying the Château de Bord (an estate in Laudun), the Maison Brotte has also become wine growers of the Côtes du Rhône Villages Laudun and the Côtes du Rhône appellations. This vineyard grew with the acquisition in 2003 of the Domaine de l'Aube. The Domaine de Barville, a vineyard in Châteauneuf du Pape holding that appellation, as well as the Domaine Grosset, a Côtes du Rhône Villages Cairanne appellation, are two estates that also belong to the Brotte family. Maison Brotte continues to develop an innovative partnership with wine growers, where each party contributes their know-how and where the two are solidly and inexorably united for the long term under the name of the marketed wine. This has been the case with Domaine de la Grivelière and their Lirac and Côtes du Rhône wines, and more recently with the Domaine du Versant Doré in the Condrieu appellation, the Arlettes in Cornas and the Domaine Bouvencourt in Vacqueras.

Monday, October 13, 2008

Colosi Rosso 100% Nero D'Avola 2007 (Riesi & Sambusa, Sicilia)

kennuncorked Tasting Notes

Production Practices:
Awaiting Confirmation from Producer.

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is clear and moderately transparent. The core is a vivid, deep cherry red core that fades to a narrow dark pink rim that appears to have bluish highlights.

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with medium intensity of leather, smokey wood, and possibly cedar.

Palate:
Dry, medium bodied, medium tannins and medium mouth-watering acidity. The fruit characteristics are similar to the nose - especially the rustic leather and smokey wood flavors. There is no perception of alcohol (the alcohol level = 12.5%) indicating the alcohol in well integrated into the wine and all the components are in balance.

Finish/Length:
Clean with a medium/lingering finish of the smokey wood and leather. This seems to be a more "rustic" version of the Colosi Nero D'Avola wine noted on this blog.

The tannins and rustic flavors might be a consequence of the 6 months in Slavonian oak versus all stainless steel processing for the other Nero D'Avola offering from Colosi mentioned on this blog.


Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$10.00.

Producers Notes:

This wine is a red ruby colour with an expressive nose, intense with complex fruit aromas of plum cherries. On the palate it is dry, medium bodied and well-balanced, and excellent accompaniment for hearty pasta, beef, roasted meats and cheese.

Colosi 100% Nero D'Avola 2007 (Agrigento, Sicilia)

kennuncorked Tasting Notes

Production Practices:
Awaiting Confirmation from Producer.

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is clear and moderately transparent. The core is a vivid, deep cherry red core that fades to a narrow dark pink rim that appears to have bluish highlights.

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with medium intensity of cherries.

Palate:
Dry, medium tannins and medium mouth-watering acidity. The fruit characteristics are similar to the nose - red cherries. There is no perception of alcohol (the alcohol level = 14%) indicating the alcohol in well integrated into the wine and all the components are in balance.

Finish/Length:
Clean with a medium/short finish of cherry fruit. This is a smoother, more refined, version of the Colosi Rosso

Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$15.00.

Producers Notes:

Nero D'Avola is the time-honored grape variety behind this modern wine. Ruby red in colour, it has an intense and fruity aroma with notes of cherry and blackberry. Its fresh flavour and well-balanced tannins make it the ideal accompaniment for red meats and game.

Snoqualmie "Naked" Riesling Columbia Valley Horse Haven Vineyards 2007

kennuncorked Tasting Notes

Production Practices:
Certified organically grown grapes in a certified organic facility. Certified Organic by Washington State Department of Agriculture.

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is clear and transparent. The core is a medium gold core that fades to a narrow water-white rim.

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with medium intensity grapefruit, peach and pear. There might even be a hint of marmalade.

Palate:
Light-medium sweet style with medium mouth-watering acidity. The fruit characteristics are similar to the nosealthough there seems to be some hint of a tropical fruit such as pineapple. There is no perception of alcohol (the alcohol level = 12.3%) indicating the alcohol in well integrated into the wine and all the components are in balance.

Finish/Length:
Clean with a lingering aftertaste of a delightful sweetness and marmalade.

Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$12.00.

Producers Notes:

“Organically farmed and produced, this Riesling offers bright aromas of spicy apple and pear. These spice characteristics are carried through the palate. The off-dry finish is clean and soft. This wine pairs wonderfully with assorted cheeses.”
-Joy Andersen, Winemaker

Sunday, September 21, 2008

Chateau La Grange Clinet - 2005 - Premières Côtes de Bordeaux AOC

kennuncorked Tasting Notes

Production Practices:
Sustainable Production Practices - Self-Monitored.

Blend:
63% Merlot - 21% Cabernet Sauvignon - 16% Cabernet franc

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is clear, transparent, vivid, rich cherry core that fades gradually to a deep salmon pink narrow rim.

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with medium intensity of mint, green herbs, black-currant and a hint of cedar wood.

Palate:
Dry, medium/light-bodied with medium tannins and medium mouth-watering acidity. The light to medium intensity of fruit characteristics are fresh herbaceous (green herbs), raspberry with hints of mint and cedar-wood. No indication of alcohol burn (the alcohol level = 13.0%) indicating alcohol is well integrated into the wine.

Finish/Length:
Clean, moderate minus length on the finish of herbs, mint and cedar.

Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$13.00.

Producers Notes:

La Grange is a one unit property, where vineyards blend with meadows, forests, and ponds, forming a rich natural biotope where wildlife thrives. The development of wild animals and their predators enables us not to use insecticides and pesticides. We only use organic fertilizers. For the 2005 vintage, we bottled all 182,186 bottles in April 2007. One of the best, ever, for this property. Peak ripeness led to beautiful grapes, giving a high standard wine. This wine can be laid down, but also may be enjoyed now. Awarded a Gold Medal at the Concours Général Agricole de Paris with these laudatory comments: fruity, well balanced, ample: Beautiful wine! First Release October 22nd 2007

Saturday, September 13, 2008

Bertani Velante Pinot Grigio 2007 Veneto IGT

kennuncorked Tasting Notes

Production Practices:
Awaiting clarification from producer

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is bright, clear and transparent. The core is a pale gold to white wheat color that is constant to a narrow water-white rim.

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with moderately pronounced aromas of unripe pineapple and grapefruit.

Palate:
Dry, light body with medium level of acidity. The fruit characteristic are a low intensity of grapefruit and unripe pineapple similar to the nose. There is an initial sweetness that gives way to the bitter almond and vanilla attributes. There is no indication of alcohol burn (the alcohol level = 12.5%) indicating that the alcohol is well integrated into the wine.

Finish/Length:
Clean with a medium minus length on the finish.

Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$15.00.

Producers Notes:
Color: Pale gold. Bouquet: Complex bouquet with scents of golden apple, ripe pear and peach. Taste: Fruit aromas carry through on to the palate. Medium-bodied and dry, with a crisp, refreshing acidity

Sunday, September 07, 2008

Haras de Pirque Estate 100% Chardonnay 2006

kennuncorked Tasting Notes

Production Practices:
Sustainable Production Practices - Self-Monitored. Advised they have begun a certified program of organic viticulture (2009-2014).

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is bright, clear and transparent. The core is a pale gold with slight greenish highlights that is constant to a narrow water-white rim.

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with moderately pronounced aromas of peach, pineapple and (I maybe crazy) but it seems that it is almost like a fresh fruit salad with a hint of vanilla.

Palate:
Dry, medium to full-bodied with mouth-watering acidity. The fruit characteristics seem to be pronounced vanilla, almonds or walnuts with hints of apple and citrus. There is an initial sweetness that gives way to the bitter almond and vanilla attributes. There is no indication of alcohol burn (the alcohol level = 14.8%) indicating that the alcohol is well integrated into the wine.

Finish/Length:
Clean with a long finish with the vanilla and bitter almond prominent with hints of pineapple. prominent.

Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$13.00.

Producers Notes:
Colors of golden yellow, with greenish hue. The aromas are a rich, intriguing nose with some herb-citrus notes. Marvelous grapefruit in mouth feel. Ripe, nutty, full flavored palate shows lots of fruit character. Very tasty.

Haras de Pirque Estate 100% Sauvignon Blanc 2006

kennuncorked Tasting Notes

Production Practices:
Sustainable Production Practices - Self-Monitored. Advised they have begun a certified program of organic viticulture (2009-2014).

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is bright, clear and transparent. The core is a pale gold that is constant to a narrow water-white rim.

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with moderately pronounced aromas that one would expect from this varietal -- grassy, herbaceous, along with some warmer climate /riper fruit aromas of citrus (lemon and grapefruit rind). There was even a hint of green bell pepper.

Palate:
Dry, medium-bodied with crisp mouth-watering acidity. The fruit flavor characteristics seems to be moderately ripe tropical fruit along with the citrus and herbs similar to the nose. There is no indication of alcohol burn (the alcohol level = 13.5%) indicating that the alcohol is well integrated into the wine.

Finish/Length:
Clean with medium length finish.

Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$13.00.

Producers Notes:
Bright greenish-yellow color with intense grapefruit aroma and subtle mineral notes with underlying typical grassy character. The flavors are fresh and young, crispy. Lively and balanced. Presents mineral and citrus finish, quite elegant and fine.

Wednesday, September 03, 2008

Viña Haras de Pirque Cabernet Sauvignon 2005

kennuncorked Tasting Notes

Production Practices:
Sustainable Production Practices - Self-Monitored. Advised they have begun a certified program of organic viticulture (2009-2014).

Blend:
85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 9% Syrah, 3% Merlot, 3% Cabernet franc

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is bright, clear and opaque. The core is dark garnet with hints of blueish highlights that is constant to a narrow dark pink rim.

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with medium intensity of blueberries, cherry, with hints of dark chocolate, mint and vanilla. There was even a hint of green bell pepper.

Palate:
Dry, full-bodied with medium tannins and medium minus mouth-watering acidity. The first sensation is a pleasant chalkiness followed by a medium minus intensity of blueberries with a hint of dark chocolate and cedar wood. There is no indication of alcohol burn (the alcohol level = 14.5%) indicating that the alcohol is well integrated into the wine.

Finish/Length:
Clean with medium length finish that has a very slight hint of bitter-sweet chocolate.

Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$13.00.

Producers Notes:

This wine has a generous fruity and cedar nose, with some fresh mint notes blended with a very attractive leather and spicy touch. The palate is full with a nice balance of ripe fruit finish. Smooth tannins, fresh minerality and a core of concentrated fruit.

Sunday, August 24, 2008

Bonterra Vineyards Merlot Mendocino County 2005

kennuncorked Tasting Notes

Production Practices:
Made with "Organically Grown Grapes" CCOF Certified.

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is clear and transparent. The core is a deep cherry that fades to a medium plus dark pink rim.

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with medium minus intensity red berry fruit with subtle hints of dark chocolate/vanilla and refreshing mint. (swirling of glass brings these aromas to the forefront).

Palate:
Dry, medium minus bodied with low (almost imperceptible) tannins and acidity. The fruit characteristics are low intensity of flavors similar to the nose with the addition of a hint of refreshing bell pepper. There is no perception of alcohol (the alcohol level = 13.9%) indicating the alcohol in well integrated into the wine and all the components are in balance.

Finish/Length:
Clean with medium to short finish.

Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$15.00.

Producers Notes:

Nothing contributes more to making great wines than purity of fruit. Our organically grown Merlot benefits from the hospitable climate of Mendocino County in the development of perfectly ripe, flavorful grapes. Barrel aging in handcrafted French oak accentuates the distinctive cherry-berry flavors in this elegant Chardonnay.

Bonterra Vineyards Chardonnay Mendocino County 2006

kennuncorked Tasting Notes

Production Practices:
Made with "Organically Grown Grapes" CCOF Certified.

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is clear and transparent. The core is a pale gold that is consistent to a narrow water white rim.

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with medium intensity vanilla with hints of green apple unripe pineapple. A second sniff offers a ripe pineapple aroma. You can be the judge of the aromas.

Palate:
Dry, medium bodied with medium minus mouth-watering acidity. The fruit characteristics are similar to the nose especially the unripe pineapple. There is no indication of alcohol burn (the alcohol level = 13.8%) indicating that the alcohol is well integrated into the wine.

Finish/Length:
Clean with medium minus to short, finish. There is a very slight hint of sweetness on the finish.

Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$14.00.

Producers Notes:

Nothing contributes more to making great wines than purity of fruit. Our organically grown Chardonnay benefits from the hospitable climate of Mendocino County in the development of perfectly ripe, flavorful grapes. Barrel aging in handcrafted French and American oak accentuates the distinctive apple-citrus flavors in this elegant Chardonnay.

Monday, July 14, 2008

Michel Torino CUMA malbec 2007

kennuncorked Tasting Notes

Production Practices:
Made with "Agencert Certified" Organic Grapes.

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is clear and transparent. The core is a deep cherry core with bluish highlights that is consistent almost to the dark pink narrow rim.

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with light intensity of a red fruit jam and a hint of sweet leather (but you really need to swirl the glass to get this aroma).

Palate:
Dry, medium bodied with low plus tannins and medium mouth-watering acidity. The fruit characteristics seem to be pronounces ripe black cherry with a slight hint of bitter-sweet dark chocolate.  There is no perception of alcohol (the alcohol level = 13.5%) indicating the alcohol in well integrated into the wine and all the components are in balance.

Finish/Length:
Clean with a long sweet fruit (ripe black cherries or red grapes) finish.

Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$11.00.

Producers Notes:

Cafayate has become a top area for the production of Torrontes as its soil and climate conditions enhance this grape's varietal character. Intense perfumed aromas of tropical fruits with some floral hints of roses. Elegant and complex wine with a rich, mellow, and fruity taste.

Sunday, July 13, 2008

Michel Torino CUMA Cabernet Sauvignon 2007

kennuncorked Tasting Notes

Production Practices:
Made with "Agencert Certified" Organic Grapes.

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is clear and transparent. The core is a deep cherry core with bluish highlights that is consistent almost to the dark pink narrow rim.

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with light intensity of licorice and vanilla.

Palate:
Dry, medium bodied with medium minus tannins and medium++ mouth-watering acidity. The fruit characteristics seem to be hints of blackcurrent, black cherry and licorice.  There is no perception of alcohol (the alcohol level = 13.5%) indicating the alcohol in well integrated into the wine and all the components are in balance.

Finish/Length:
Clean with a long sweet blackcurrent finish.

Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$11.00.

Producers Notes:

Cafayate has become a top area for the production of Torrontes as its soil and climate conditions enhance this grape's varietal character. Intense perfumed aromas of tropical fruits with some floral hints of roses. Elegant and complex wine with a rich, mellow, and fruity taste.

Friday, June 06, 2008

Bodega SUR DE LOS 100% Malbec 2007 (Mendoza, Argentina)

kennuncorked Tasting Notes

Production Practices:
Reported not produced using "Sustainable", "Organic" or "Biodynamic" practices.

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is clear and transparent. The core is a deep violet that is consistent to a narrow deep pink (with bluish highlights) rim..

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with medium minus intensity of sweet leather, black currents (raisiny) with a hint of dark bitter-sweet chocolate (might be a baker's chocolate aroma).

Palate:
Dry, medium bodied with medium minus tannins and medium yet mouth-watering acidity. bodied with medium mouth-watering acidity. The fruit characteristics seem to be medium minus similar to the nose.  There seems to be no perception of alcohol burn (the alcohol level = 13.9 %) indicating that the alcohol is well integrated into the wine.

Finish/Length:
Clean with a medium finish that seems to focus on the black currents and dark bitter-sweet chocolate.

Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$12.00.

Producers Notes:

No tasting notes available from producer.

Ochoa Merlot 2001 (Navarra DO, Spain)

kennuncorked Tasting Notes

Production Practices:
Reported not produced using "Sustainable", "Organic" or "Biodynamic" practices.

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is clear and opaque.  The core is a dark cherry core that is consistent until reaching a narrow dark pink narrow rim.

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with prounounced red berry fruit (i.e. cherry) with hints of mint and vanilla in the background..

Palate:
Dry, medium plus bodied with medium mouth-watering acidity, and medium minus tannins. The fruit characteristics seem to be medium plus intensity (similar to the nose) of cherry with hints of mint and vanilla.  There is this refreshing hint of fresh green bell pepper (am I imagining this?). There seems to be no perception of alcohol burn (the alcohol level = 12.5 %) indicating that the alcohol is well integrated into the wine.

Finish/Length:
Clean with a medium plus finish that focuses on the cherry and the refreshing green bell pepper (again I do not know if the green pepper is my imagination).

Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$14.00.

Producers Notes:

No Tasting Notes from producer.

LAXAS Albariño 2007 (Rias Baixas, Galacia, Spain)

kennuncorked Tasting Notes

Production Practices:
Reported not produced using "Sustainable", "Organic" or "Biodynamic" practices.

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is clear and transparent. The core is a pale to medium gold color (14k gold) fading to a narrow water-white rim.

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with hints of flowers combined with hints green apples, pear and peach.

Palate:
Dry, medium bodied with a slight hint of a tingle (think seltzer with most of the fiz gone) on the tip of the tongue (why I am perceiving this I do not know) with medium but yet mouth-watering acidity. The fruit characteristics seem to be medium plus intensity of green apple, lemon and grapefruit. There seems to be no perception of alcohol burn (the alcohol level = 12.5 %) indicating that the alcohol is well integrated into the wine.

Finish/Length:
Clean with long finish that focuses on the lemon flavor.

Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$15.00.

Producers Notes:

A clean, bright, straw-yellow wine with greenish sparkles. Presents and intense aroma on the nose, perfectly blending fruity and flowery notes, highlighting apple and fruits with stone (apricot). On the mouth, the freshness typical of the Albariño wine is noted, with a low, perfectly balanced acidity balanced with the structure and body of the wine. Tasty, sweet and glyceric.

Ochoa Blanco 70% Viura (aka Macabeo) 30% Chardonnay (Navarra DO , Spain)

kennuncorked Tasting Notes

Production Practices:
Reported not produced using "Sustainable", "Organic" or "Biodynamic" practices.

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is clear and transparent. The core is a pale wheat (almost water-white) that seems consistent to a water-white rim.

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with pronounced intensity of flowers with hints of unripe pineapple, ripe pear and peach.

Palate:
Dry, light bodied with medium minus acidity.  The fruit characteristics seem to be of light intensity with the citrus (unripe pineapple) and lemon zest.  Interesting that (retro-nasal flavors are the peach and the pear). There seems to be no perception of alcohol burn (the alcohol level = 13.0 %) indicating that the alcohol is well integrated into the wine.

Finish/Length:
Clean with a short finish.

Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$10.00.

Producers Notes:

No tasting notes available from producer.

Tuesday, June 03, 2008

FEIST Madeira "Rainwater" Style

kennuncorked Tasting Notes

Production Practices:
The wines of Madeira appear to have "historic sustainability", especially for the United States.

Vines are grown in tiny plots—typically, a smallholder will grow vines on pergolas, with cabbages and other crops growing underneath. There are an estimated 14 000 different vineyard plots on the island, and with a total vineyard area of 1700 hectares (approximately 42,000 acres), The average plot is about 1.214 hectare (about 3 acres) although most are just a fraction of a hectare. Therefore, each of the major wine producers will buy grapes from many hundreds of different growers, creating obvious difficulties for quality control.

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is clear and transparent. The core is a rich burnt orange/amber gently fading to a medium orange rim. 

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with a pronounce intensity of caramel, orange peel, and dried figs.  (Serve slightly chilled -55 degrees Fahrenheit/12.65 degrees Celsius)

Palate:
Sweet, medium plus bodied, with a slight hint of tannin (unexpected) with mouth-watering acidity.  The fruit characteristics seem pronounced and similar to the nose "caramel, orange peel, and dried figs.  There is no perception of alcohol (the alcohol level = 19.0%) indicating the alcohol in well integrated into the wine and all the components are in balance.

Finish/Length:
Clean with a long finish with the slow fading of all the fruit flavors on the palate.

Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$14.00.

Producers Notes:

Madeira, is a volcanic island situated in the Atlantic Ocean some 400 mile off the North African coast.  It was discovered in 1419 by Portuguese explorers and is famous for its dessert wine of the same name which is unique in character and taste.  FEIST MADEIRA is made in strict accordance with the traditional methods.  FEIST MADEIRA was aged and matured in oak casks for 3 years, then bottled on the island.  Esteemed for its concentrated aroma and suble flavour , it can be served as an aperitif or an after dinner drink.

Monday, June 02, 2008

Michel Torino CUMA Torrentes 2007

kennuncorked Tasting Notes

Production Practices:
Made with "Agencert  Certified" Organic Grapes.

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is clear and transparent. The core is a very pale gold color that seems consistent to the rim.

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with light to medium intensity of peach, papaya, and tangerine.

Palate:
Dry, medium bodied with no tannin and mouth-watering acidity. The fruit characteristics seem to a tropical fruit cocktail of peach, papaya, tangerine, and pineapple.  There is no perception of alcohol (the alcohol level = 13.5%) indicating the alcohol in well integrated into the wine and all the components are in balance.

Finish/Length:
Clean with a long finish.

Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$11.00.

Producers Notes:

Cafayate has become a top area for the production of Torrontes as its soil and climate conditions enhance this grape's varietal character. Intense perfumed aromas of tropical fruits with some floral hints of roses. Elegant and complex wine with a rich, mellow, and fruity taste.

Deen de Bortoli Pinot Noir Vat 10 2005

kennuncorked Tasting Notes

Production Practices:
Sustainable Grape growing and Sustainable Wine making practices.

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is clear and transparent. The core is a pale garnet (maybe burnt orange color) moving to a broad dark pink rim.

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with a medium to pronounced intensity of blackberry, blueberry aromas with a hint of clove in the background.

Palate:
Dry, light to medium bodied, low intensity of tannin with medium acidity. The fruit characteristics seem to be light intensity of cinnamon spice with a hint of unripe red fruit (strawberry or raspberry). There is no perception of alcohol burn (the alcohol level = 13.5%) indicating the alcohol in well integrated into the wine.

Finish/Length:
Clean with a medium minus finish.

Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$13.00.

Producers Notes:

Medium brick red in color with purple hues. Complex cherry-like Pinot fruit aroma with some earth characters and light oak influence. On the palate the wine offers a intense concentration with strawberry and spice flavors, accentuated by brief skin maceration after ferment. The wine shows true varietal character and is well structured, balanced with silky tannins adding texture and great length.

Deen de Bortoli Sauvignon Blanc Vat 2 2007

kennuncorked Tasting Notes

Production Practices:
Sustainable Grape growing and Sustainable Wine making practices.

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is clear and transparent. The core is a pale wheat (almost water-white) that seems consistent to a water-white rim.

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with medium intensity of aroma much like fresh grass or green herbs.  There is a hint of lemon zest and ripe pear in the background.

Palate:
Dry, light bodied with medium mouth-watering acidity. The fruit characteristics seem to be medium intensity of fresh grass, green herbs and unripe pear. There seems to be no perception of alcohol burn (the alcohol level = 12.0 %) indicating that the alcohol is well integrated into the wine.

Finish/Length:
Clean with a short finish.

Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$10.00.

Producers Notes:

Light straw with lovely green hues. Clean, fragrant, slightly grassy aroma with underlying tropical characteristics. A vibrant yet delicate palate balanced with good acidity. Intense gooseberry and grassy flavors with tropical notes also evident.

Deen de Bortoli dB Petite Sirah 2006

kennuncorked Tasting Notes

Production Practices:
Sustainable Wine making practices. (Grapes purchased from outside vineyards-no assurance about grape growing practices)

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is clear and almost opaque. The core is a pronounced (deep) purple with a hint of violet fading to medium dark pink rim.

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with pronounced black cherry and black licorice aromas.

Palate:
Dry, medium to full bodied with medium minus intensity of tannin with medium (yet mouth-watering). The fruit characteristics are a medium intensity of black cherry and black licorice .  There is no indication of alcohol burn (the alcohol level = 13.5%) indicating the alcohol is well integrated into the wine.

Finish/Length:
Clean with a medium minus finish.

Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$7.00.

Producers Notes:

Deep purple in color with ink hues. Rich ripe plum with sweet, well integrated mocha-chocolate oak. Concentrated fruit palate with persistence of flavors well supported by mocha-chocolate oak and rich fruit..

Deen de Bortoli Chardonnay Vat 7 2005

kennuncorked Tasting Notes

Production Practices:
Sustainable Grape growing and Sustainable Wine making practices.

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is clear, bright and transparent. The core is a pale gold color that is fairly consistent fading to a narrow water-white rim.

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with a pronounced intensity of vanilla with a hint of pineapple.

Palate:
Dry, full bodied (buttery) with mouth-watering acidity. The fruit characteristics seem to be medium intensity of pineapple, peach with a hint of vanilla..  There is a slight perception of alcohol burn on the sides of the tongue (but not unpleasant) with the the alcohol level = 13.5%).

Finish/Length:
Clean with a medium plus finish.

Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$10.00

Producers Notes:
Pale lemon in color. Rich aromas of peaches, figs and toasty vanillin oak. A full bodied wine showing ripe stone fruit flavors and rich vanillin and nutty characters. A creamy texture adds to the length of the wine This wine starts off rather toasty and woody-smelling, but the wood is much less noticeable on the palate, where pear and peach flavors take over, given focus by crisp, citrus notes on the finish.

Saturday, May 31, 2008

TOHU Pinot Noir Marlboro 2006

kennuncorked Tasting Notes


Production Practices:
Tohu Wines source fruit from sustainable winegrowers certified vineyards

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is clear, bright and transparent. The core is a medium cherry color fading to light pink rim.

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with a medium to pronounced intensity of mint, ripe red cherry, with a hint of black licorice.

Palate:
Dry, medium to light bodied, low intensity of tannin with medium acidity.  The fruit characteristics seem to be medium to pronounced sweet ripe red cherry with a hint of licorice.  There seems to be a slight perception of alcohol burn on the back palate (the alcohol level = 13.%) but this may actually may enhance the accompanied food.

Finish/Length:
Clean with a long finish especially the sweet ripe cherry flavor.

Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$25.00.

Producers Notes:

Intense aromas of black cherries and black current with a hint of licorice. This wine is lightly oaked and has lightly peppery finish.

TOHU Unoaked Chardonnay Marlboro 2005

kennuncorked Tasting Notes


Production Practices:
Tohu Wines source fruit from sustainable winegrowers certified vineyards

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is clear, bright and transparent. The core is a pale gold that is fairly consistent to a narrow water-white rim.

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with a moderate intensity of peach, honey-dew melon with a slight hint of tangerine in the background.

Palate:
Dry, medium bodied with medium minus acidity (common to Chardonnay).  The fruit characteristics seem to be medium intensity and similar to the nose.  There is no indication of alcohol burn (the alcohol level = 13.5%) indicating the alcohol in well integrated into the wine and all the components are in balance.

Finish/Length:
Clean with a medium-long finish especially the peach and honey-dew flavors.

Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$13.00.

Producers Notes:

Fresh and fruity with aromas of white peach and citrus. This wine is light bodied while the palate is rich and full flavored.

TOHU Sauvignon Blanc Marlboro 2005

kennuncorked Tasting Notes


Production Practices:
Tohu Wines source fruit from sustainable winegrowers certified vineyards

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is clear, bright and transparent. The core is a pale wheat color that is fairly consistent fading to a narrow water-white rim.

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with a medium intensity of stone fruit aromas (such as a slightly ripe peach) along with a hint of figs and citrus (maybe lemon zest).

Palate:
Dry, (maybe even a little off-dry) medium bodied with mouth-watering acidity.  The fruit characteristics seem to be medium intensity similar to the nose.  There is a slight perception of alcohol burn on the sides of the tongue (but not unpleasant and might even enhance some foods (the alcohol level = 13.%).

Finish/Length:
Clean with a medium minus finish..

Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$13.00.

Producers Notes:
Light straw, with lemon-lime tones. The nose is dominated by vibrant currant-leaf and gooseberry and green bell pepper aromas, some freshly cut herb nuances, and a hint of ripe citrus. The palate is full flavored, with lively acidity and clean fresh finish.

Tuesday, May 13, 2008

Martin Codex Albarino 2005 Rias Baixas

kennuncorked Tasting Notes

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is clear, bright and transparent. The core is a pale gold that is fairly consistent to a narrow water-white rim.

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with a moderate intensity of peach with a slight hint of citrus in the background (maybe lemon zest).

Palate:
Dry, medium bodied with a very slight tingle on the tip of the tongue. The fruit characteristics seem to be medium++ of peach, pear, a hint of dried apricot with mouth-watering acidity. There is no perception of alcohol (the alcohol level = 13.%) indicating the alcohol in well integrated into the wine and all the components are in balance.

Finish/Length:
Clean with a long finish especially a light hint of peach and pear.

Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$15.00.

Producers Notes:

This wine is a crisp and refreshing wine with citrus fruit,pear, and peach flavors. Its medium body, bright fruit character and subtle floral aromas, can be enjoyed with everything from salad to a wide variety of seafood and poultry dishes.

Sunday, May 11, 2008

Ardales Noble Tempranillo 2005 Certified Organic

kennuncorked Tasting Notes

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is clear and transparent. The core is a rich cherry core with a slight hint of violet hue fading to a narrow dark pink then to a narrow rose color rim.

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with a moderate intensity blackberry, sweet leather, green herbs (maybe tarragon, thyme or oregano) with a slight hint of a cigar box (don't laugh cause that's what I pick up in the aromas).

Palate:
Dry, medium bodied with medium ++ no tannin and mouth-watering acidity. The fruit characteristics seem to be a moderate + of semi-sweet (dark) combined with black cherry, vanilla, and plum. There is no perception of alcohol (the alcohol level = 13.5%) indicating the alcohol in well integrated into the wine and all the components are in balance.

Finish/Length:
Clean with a long finish especially the lingering semi-sweet chocolate and vanilla.

Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$12.00.

Producers Notes:

This wine is made from organically farmed Tempranillo grapes and has a ruby-cherry color with hints of garnet. The solid structure and full body of this wine are enhanced by four months of aging in oak barrels. No additional preservatives are used. Certified organic by Sohiscert. Serve slightly chilled or at room temperature.

Bodegas Aruspide was founded in 1999 by a group of people dedicated to making wines in an organic method. They purchased a bodega built in 1905 and restored the building respecting the architectural style of the period and region. The result is a technologically modern, yet elegant winery.

Bodegas Aruspide owns 110 hectares of vineyard and controls an additional 60 hectares. All 170 hectares have organic certification. During harvest, all of the grapes are hand selected in the field. Each wine that Bodegas Aruspide produces is made in an organic method. The Ardales Brand incurs the additional expense of attaining organic certification.  Bodegas Aruspide wines carry the D.O. Vino de la Tierra de Castilla designation for the Ardales brand

Saturday, April 26, 2008

Luigi Bosca Finca LA LINDA Torrontes 2007

kennuncorked Tasting Notes

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is clear and transparent. The core is a pale gold color moving to a water-white narrow rim.

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with pronounced complexity of lychees, melon, peach with hints of pear and floral notes.

Palate:
Dry, medium bodied with no tannin and mouth-watering acidity. The fruit characteristics seem to similar to the nose.  There is no perception of alcohol (the alcohol level = 14.5%) indicating the alcohol in well integrated into the wine and all the components are in balance.

Finish/Length:
Clean with a long finish.

Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$11.00.

Producers Notes:

Clear yellow-greenish color. Floral aromas related to rose globeflower and some lavender. The first impression in mouth is sweet with balanced acidity, white peaches are perceived and hints of sugar coated orange skin. Excellent balance between floral and fruity characteristics. (testawines.com and luigibosca.com.ar)

Luigi Bosca Malbec Single Vineyard Lujan de Cuyo DOC 2005

kennuncorked Tasting Notes

Appearance:
With the glass tilted, the wine is clear and opaque. The core is a pronounced dark cherry with hints of blue/violet highlights moving to a narrow dark pink rim.

Nose/Aromas:
Clean with a medium (minus) intensity of black cherry, leather, vanilla with a hint of a sweet floral aroma.

Palate:
Dry, medium/full-bodied with medium tannin and medium acidity. The fruit characteristics seem to a medium intensity of cherry with hints of vanilla, semi-sweet dark chocolate and very subtle spiciness of black pepper.  There is a the hint of black pepper in the background.  There is no perception of alcohol (the alcohol level = 14.0%) indicating the alcohol in well integrated into the wine and all the components are in balance.

Finish/Length:
Clean finish with a medium (minus) finish.

Cost:
Approximate retail price: US$23.00.

Producers Notes:

It shows an intense violet color and displays ripe cherry and plum aromas. Spiced, with hints of mocha and blackberries, this is a delicately perfumed wine with elegant sweetness. (testawines.com and luigibosca.com.ar)

Frugalpac reports surge in demand for paper bottle I love to hike in the mountains or forests, walk in the woods, and relax in nature. Somet...