Grüner Veltliner. Doesn’t exactly roll off the tongue, does it? In fact, unless you speak German, you’ll probably never get it exactly right. But the English-accented version goes something like: GROO-ner Velt-LEEN-er. (Though it seems that most every English-speaking person misses that accent on the second word and goes with VELT-leen-er, instead. Just try to correct [...]
Read more →New World Chardonnay continues to get a bad rap in wine circles these days — sort of that “love to hate,” punching bag example of heavy handed, over-manipulated wines that no one should like. But Chardonnay (even New World Chardonnay) can be a really lovely wine, offering richness and body, with classic varietal flavors. In fact, I’ve had [...]
Read more →Last week I presented a few Pinot Noirs under $25 — now here are three I’ve tasted lately that are well worth the extra bucks: Davis Bynum 2009 Pinot Noir Russian River Valley ($35). Ripe raspberry and bright red cherry aromas and flavors pick up touches of dried floral and delicate herbal notes, staying rich and graceful [...]
Read more →Pinot Noir can be a great choice for summer red wine — delicate, even refreshing, and it pairs nicely with everything from fresh goat cheese slathered on crostini to grilled salmon and lamb kabobs. Here are three under-$25 choices I’ve enjoyed lately: Calera 2009 Pinot Noir Central Coast ($24). Always a good bet, Calera’s Central Coast Pinot [...]
Read more →I have a friend who believes that no California Sauvignon Blanc should cost more than $18. And I have to say, she’s probably right most of the time. But this one is an exception — at more than twice her choke point. And I say, it’s worth every cent. Pair it with grilled scallops or [...]
Read more →Anybody looking to stock up on well-priced Chardonnay to see you through the season? (I may need a case or two just to see me through this week — which, with apologies, partially explains the to-the-point nature of today’s post…) Here are three I’ve tasted lately: Emiliana 2010 Chardonnay Casablanca Valley Natura Unoaked ($11). This Chilean number [...]
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