85 + Good Wine

Apr 152012
 
NV Happy Bitch Wines Rosé Wine, New York, $10 (S) – Rating 87

Described as Fruity Blend of Chardonnay & Pinot Noir Perfect for Girlfriend Gatherings! Being a guy I was a bit suspect, so I gathered some girls and they did, in fact, enjoy the wine and got a few laughs over the Happy Bitch name. Seriously, the wine is lightly effervescent and slightly sweet with a nose of rhubarb. On the palate expect flavors of strawberry and raspberry, balanced with just enough zippy acidity.

Apr 112012
 
2007 Amici Cellars Pinot Noir, Mendocino, CA, $30 (S) – Rating 89

A nice nose of cherry and  plum with a bit of spice. This Pinot from Amici Cellars offers dark cherry jam flavors, ripe plum, saddle leather and spice box with medium acidity and soft tannins. Dijon #777 Pinot Noir clone adds intriguing rustic notes and earthy flavors.

Apr 112012
 
2011 Santa Julia Chardonnay, Mendoza, Argentina, $10 (S) – Rating 88

A good value for an organic Chardonnay. Opens with a nose of citrus, lemon zest with notes of vanilla. Flavors of citrus, tangy pineapple, crisp green apples and tropicals with hints of banana are highlighted with enough zippy acidity to pair well with lighter fare.

Mar 192012
 
2009 Parlay The Bookmaker California Red Wine, Ramian Estate, Napa, CA, $21 (S) – Rating 88

A red wine blend of 60% Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, Petite Sirah and Petit Verdot, this is a big wine that needs a little time in the decanter to offer its full potential. The nose is filled with spicy red berries. On the palate, flavors of red cherry, blueberry, dark berry, plum, coffee, tobacco, and black pepper spice abound. Rich yet well-integrated tannins add to the full-bodied experience.