85 + Good Wine

Dec 082013
 
2012 William Chris Vineyards Sangiovese, Texas Hill Country, $42  (S) – Rating 89

Texas wines have come a long way with William and Chris often leading the pack. Sangiovese does very well in the Lone Star State and this is an excellent example. An intriguing nose of smoke, cherry and chocolate is the prelude to a fruit driven wine with soft tannins and juicy food-pairing acidity. On the palate, flavors of cherry, strawberry, raspberry and campfire smoke complimented by notes of espresso on the finish. Buy This Wine

Dec 052013
 
2010 Silver Buckle Cellars Ranchero Red, Central Coast, CA, $20 (S) – Rating 88

A great go-to red for that next BBQ or pizza party. Look for this wine on sale…sometimes under $15. Blended from Syrah, Merlot and Malbec with a nose of cherry, plum and spice. A soft mouth-feel with just touch of acidity and smooth tannins. Flavors of dark berries, black cherry, spice and dark chocolate. Notes of espresso and cinnamon on the finish. Buy This Wine

Dec 032013
 
2011 Giordano Collection Nebbiolo d’Alba cod Maestri Italiani, Langhe, Piedmont, Italy, $ (S) – Rating 89

Looking for a real crowd pleaser red wine? This Nebbiolo will fit the bill. Only 13.5% alcohol, light to medium bodied, perfect for BBQ, hot wings or pizza. A very subtle and soft nose with cherry and floral notes. Soft on the palate and easy-drinking offering a mouth-full of cherry, strawberry and red berry flavors. Buy This Wine

Dec 032013
 
2009 Giordano Collection Aglianico Rinforzato Puglia IGT, Apulia, Italy, $ (S) – Rating 89

A rich and enticing nose of smoky dark cherry with lots of spice and notes of balsamic. Give this wine an hour or more to open. The tannins soften nicely over time. Flavors of cherry, plum and dark spice are complimented with hints of strawberry and ripe raspberry on the finish. Good food pairing acidity for that juicy steak. Buy This Wine