2008 8 Cousins Vineyard – Russian River Valley, CA $18 — Rating 86
Very nice Zinfandel for the price. Good rich Zinny flavors although a bit lighter and less complex than some from Dry Creek. Good food pairing Zin.
Dec 062010
Bacchus & Beery Wine Blog
Dec 052010
2007 Green River Valley – Russian River Valley, CA $35 — Rating 88
Orogeny from the Green River Valley in the Russian River Valley, Sonoma, is a big meaty Pinot Noir. One that we enjoy often. The flavors of dark fruit and spice are nicely balanced when at cellar temperature. Not so balanced if it gets warm. Often we are able to find Orogeny in restaurants at a very reasonable markup. Plus isn’t the word Orogeny just fun to say? Serve with duck or roasted turkey.
Dec 032010
Do you remember the old 7-UP ads from 1975 for the UnCola? If Napa wineries are best regarded for their cabernets, then Benessere is the Un-Cabernet; specializing in Italian varietals.
I have to say that when these winery samples arrived at my office I wasn’t jumping around with excitement. My past experience with Italian wines has been uneventful, at best. I know many of you love them but until I tasted these wines from Benessere I was not on the bandwagon. While I may not bang a drum for Italian wines as a whole, I will bang a gong for these beauties. Continue reading »
Dec 032010
2008 “Frizzante” $18 (S) — Rating 90
Slightly sweet with a light effervescence. A Gold Medal winner in San Francisco Wine Competition, 2010, this wine pairs nicely with a salad, light appetizers and Asian food. Also enjoy it after dinner when something “just a little sweet” is what you crave.
Nov 302010
What’s a Wine Lover To Do? ~ This great guide by fellow Austinite, Wes Marshall, is a perfect stocking stuffer. It’s informative (very useful index) yet light hearted approach makes it a must for you and your friends. Take Wes’s description of Pinot Noir Styles. Oregon Pinots are described as being “lean, cool, and intelligent,” like Cate Blanchette while California Pinots are depicted by Angelina Jolie, “earthy, lusty and more direct.” Quick…serve me a Pinot! Continue reading »
