Benchmark Wine Tasting Class: Other Classic Whites

Hey there wine nerds! Welcome to the second installment of the benchmark wine series. For the newbies, I previously introduced a benchmark wine tasting series based on a tasting I did at Penn State University. Last time, I provided an overview on aromatic whites. Now, I will be discussing "other classic whites," or more specifically Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. We also tasted an Albariño just to mix things up.

This tasting couldn't be more interesting because I considered these grapes extremely different in flavor and character. When I think of Sauvignon Blanc, I think of bright citrus, spicy green pepper and high acidity. When I think Chardonnay, I think smooth vanilla, stone fruit flavors and full-body. However, now that I think a little more, the two grapes are similar in one curious way -- they are both very versatile. Both have adapted to a variety of locations and styles, resulting in a variety of selection for consumers.

Sauvignon Blanc.

I have said it before and I will say it again, Sauvignon Blanc is my favorite grape! If you drink Sauvignon Blanc, then you know it has those awesome citrus, herbaceous, or even grassy green pepper flavors. Thanks to the world wide web, I learned a fun new principle when it comes to the flavors of Sauvignon Blanc: the ripeness of the grapes plays a major role in the flavor profile. (Duh, but listen to this!) If the grapes are LESS ripe, the wine is more likely to taste like lime or green apple. While, if the grapes are MORE ripe, the wine will likely taste like flowery peach or citrus. The best regions for Sauvignon Blanc are Bordeaux, Loire Valley (specifically Sancerre), New Zealand, and California. When surfing the aisles at the wine store, you can also look for the following synonyms: Fume Blanc or Pouilly-fume and you will most likely be drinking Sauvignon Blanc. Looking for food pairing tips? A good general rule is "go green," since the herbaceous qualities of the wine will pair well with salads, but any herb based sauce would pair well also. Now that we have covered the Sauvignon Blanc basics, let's check out the wines I tried at the benchmark wine tasting:

BANCROFT ESTATE 2011

Where it's from. Marlborough, New Zealand.

My thoughts. I love NZ style Sauvignon Blanc because it's so distinct. The flavors can be grassy, spicey, or peppery. This particular bottle had a lighter style than I have experienced with most NZ Sauvignon Blancs, which was fine. It definitely had the spicey finished and white pepper notes tha I expected. Overall, this wine was delicious but, as the only NZ Sauvignon Blanc on the tasting, I was hoping for a bolder style. The room thought it would be hard to pair with food - but I argue it would go great with an arugula salad. (Don't knock it before you try it!)

Chardonnay.

Chardonnay and I have a love-hate relationship. Generally, I am not a fan of most those "butter-bomb" styles. But, the unoaked styles, generally out of the Old World, are quite lovely. Like our discussion above, the ripeness of the Chardonnay grape also changes dramatically with ripeness. MORE ripe and you may notice flavors of pineapple and other tropical fruit, LESS ripe and you may notice strong notes of lemon or green apple. Similar varietals include: Marsanne, Rousanne, Viognier, Semillion and Fiano (Italy). Check out the wines I tasted below:

KENDALL-JACKSON VINTNER'S RESERVE

Where it's from. California.

My thoughts.  Definitely not a favorite. If you like the buttery styles, you may like this, but it's definitely not for me.

HENRY FESSY CHARDONNAY 2010

Where it's from. Pouilly-Fuisse, France

My thoughts. This wine could give any ABCer a run for their money. (Anything But Chardonnay). It had a pungent aroma that I was sure would mirror the taste - but I was so wrong. The flavors were subtle and sweet. Definitely an interesting wine.

LOUIS LATOUR 2008

Where it's from. Côte-d'Or, Burgundy, France.

My thoughts. This wine may have been my favorite white, maybe even my favorite wine of the tasting. This producer is just awesome. Yes, it is a bit more expensive - around $40 a bottle - but arguably worth every penny. The wine had a very refreshing aroma, including aloe or mint. However, it had a smooth and round taste, with an almost tart finish. I loved the complexities.

Albariño.

This grape is lovely. If you are ever in the wine store looking for something a bit different in the white wine aisle, Albariño is a great option. It is most commonly grown in northern Spain, specifically the Rías Baixas region. This grape is interesting because it has a pronounced fruit-forward aroma. For our benchmark wine tasting, we tasted the 2010 Mar de Vinas Albariño from Spain. Another great wine! It had the fruit aromas and bright acidity that I was hoping for - so check this wine out!

That is all for this post on benchmark wine - classic whites!

Cheers!

Wine Winter Project: Jean-Claude Dagueneau Domaine des Berthiers Pouilly-Fume

“Nothing great was ever achieved without enthusiasm. ”

— Ralph Waldo Emerson

As much as I love Ralph Waldo Emerson, describing my passion for this next style of wine as "enthusiastic" may be a bit of an understatement. In this post, I will review of one of my personal favorites, Pouilly-Fume! 

Every time I start a new post, I look back to see what I have written on the topic previously. Since the blog is relatively young, I usually find a few sparse details. However, when it comes to Sauvignon Blanc, specifically the French style from Pouily-Fume, there is an abundance of information on the topic already. (Not surprising, since it's delicious!). If you want a review my earlier posts, be sure to check out my comparison of California style Sauvignon Blanc with a Pouilly-Fume from France here. I also discussed Pouilly-Fume in my French Wine 101 magna-post.

But today the focus is on Pouilly-Fume, so let's get to it! When I initially tasted Pouilly-Fume, I assumed that the "Fume" meant the wine may have a smokey flavor. While there are many theories on this, most industry people (including Kevin Zraly - a favorite!) suggest that the name came from the "white morning mist that blankets the area." Personally, I think the "Fume" stands for steely gun barrel and minerality with a citrus finish. I know, what a crazy description, but when you taste it you will understand what I mean! A few final facts, this wine is not typically aged in wood and ready to drink within three to five years.

Remember to note the distinction between Pouilly-Fume (Sauvignon Blanc from Loire Valley) and Pouilly-Fuisse (Chardonnay from Loire Valley). 

Jean-Claude Dagueneau Domaine des Berthiers Pouilly-Fume

(2009)

Grapes. 100% Sauvignon Blanc

Where it's From. Pouilly-Fume AOC, located within the Loire Valley. Pouilly-Fume is considered within the Central Vineyards (called Central because they are located within the center of France, not the Loire Valley). The climate is continental. The soil consists primarily of clay and limestone topped with gravel and flinty pebbles (flint = gun barrel).

Alcohol. 12.5%

Winemaker's Notes. No official winemaker's notes were readily available, but the Wine Spectator did give it a 90.

My Thoughts. This was a total impulse buy that gave me a bit of sticker shock at the register, since it cost $24. Now even with the tax-free shopping available in the great state of Delaware, this is a bit over my usual price range for a weeknight wine. However, just the smell alone reminded me immediately of how much I love this style of wine. It smelled of steely citrus, spice and green pepper. The taste was much softer than the aroma - I expected an acid bomb - but it was super smooth and mouthwatering with a hint of lemon. I would argue that the wine is the best choice for sipping - it would really thrive if paired with food. I was thinking fish, or similar seafood, with a citrus based sauce.

Cheers!

Tasting Room Technique: Part I

Photo Source

"Pour yourself a drink, put on some lipstick, and pull yourself together." ~Elizabeth Taylor

Ok Enthusiasts, maybe things aren't that drastic, but this was the most interesting quote I could find on pouring drinks (at least on short notice). You may ask, why is she talking about pouring drinks... well... get excited, because this blog post will be covering the tasting room experience!

Historically, I haven't been a big tasting room junkie. Blame it on my (generally unfounded) bias against East Coast wines, but if I wanted to drink wine, I would think wine bar over winery. I was so wrong! If you have the ability to visit a winery tasting room, I would highly recommend it! It's like visiting a wine bar where every. single. person. is passionate about the wine they are pouring. So in honor of the great experience I had in the tasting room recently, I share some tips on how to find the best tasting rooms! Then, I will cover some grapes you will likely see (and taste) at local tasting rooms in Pennsylvania. 

Tasting Room Tips:

Every tasting room experience is different, but if the winery you visit hits on half these things, it will likely be a great place! (And worth a second visit!)

• Polite and knowledgeable staff.  Back in the day, most wineries were staffed by the owners or family of the owners. Today, that is frequently impossible, but the tasting room staff should be as interested in the wine as family would be. Do I expect them to know the fermentation process, no. But they should be able to describe the wine with enthusiasm, they are sales people after all. (Even if you don't want to think so).
• No wine club pressure.  No one likes a pushy salesperson.
• Crowd control.  A crowd is great for business, but not for tasting wine. Every business has a busy time, the best tasting rooms will have a system to keep things moving.
• Have something for kids to do.  I know, I know. Wine is an adult beverage and generally the kids should stay at home if possible. But, if a family does show up, the tasting room staff should be welcoming (maybe sell some sodas).
• Have something special behind the counter.  The last winery I visited had hot mulled wine available for tasting in addition to the formal tasting list. It was a great surprise on the beautiful fall day
• Ask about special events.  At most wineries, there is so much more to do besides just sample wine. Most wineries double as venues for special events and host their own events as well. I am talking pairing events with cupcakes, chocolate, pasta and more. Others have live music. Long story short, wineries are so fun and you need to visit one... now!

View of Winery

And now for the Grapes!

Time for the juicy stuff! (ha, pun intended!) This post was inspired by my recent trip to a local winery. As you can see from the picture above, it was a beautiful (and I mean beautiful) fall day. Then, randomly, a riding club decided to roll through and taste some wine themselves. So to celebrate this great day, I'm also going to cover the wines I tasted (in no particular order):

Sauvignon Blanc.

 My favorite! The blog has covered SB by

comparing two regions

and

 as one of the

big six grapes

. So whats the moral of the story when it comes to Sauvignon Blanc? Herbaceous, cut grass, bell pepper and citrus. This Sauvignon Blanc did not disappoint featuring green fruit aroma and citrus flavors. 

Chardonnay.

One of my favorite terms is "ABCer." meaning "anything but Chardonnay" drinker. I was surprised how many people I met at the winery that claimed to hate Chardonnay. I will admit, I am hesitant myself. I do not enjoy the buttery oak bombs of California. But this Chardonnay was great. Aged in French oak with a fruit finish. A subtle Chardonnay much like those of Burgundy.

White Merlot.

 I love rose! But I usually drink rose from France, a much dryer style. But this Merlot wowed me. All the great subtlety and fruit flavors of the traditional red wine, but light body of a white wine. I would buy this in bulk if you see it in stores. 

Chambourcin.

I was so excited to try this grape, from the

American wine post

, we already know that it is the most successful PA variety. But what does it taste like?! Some writers say its a fruit bomb like Beaujolais, but this wine drank like a bright Pinot Noir. And it was delicious. Great wine for food.

Cabernet Franc.

 I was surprised to see Cabernet Franc on its own, it is frequently blended with other grapes (most famously in the Bordeaux blend). This wine was earthy with a smokey finish. 

You want to visit a winery now don't you... get going! Most are open year round and even sell fun cheese and local trinkets. Sounds like a much better place to visit on Black Friday then your local Target or Best Buy.

Cheers!

Sauvignon Blanc Comparison: Pouilly-Fume vs. California

Dear Enthusiasts! It is no secret that Sauvignon Blanc is my favorite grape. It's made into delicious wine all over the world - New Zealand, Australia, and South Africa. However, this post focuses on Sauvignon Blanc made in two key regions: California

and

 Pouilly-Fume.

A few reminders on the awesomeness of the Sauvignon Blanc grape: the taste is most commonly described as grassy, bell peppers, asparagus, and even cirtrus fruits. Sauvignon Blanc is both lighter and less expensive than the traditional Chardonnay Americans reach for.

(1) Honig 2012 Sauvignon Blanc

Grapes:

 97% Sauvignon Blanc, 2% Semillion, 1% Muscadet

Where its From:

 Napa Valley. This label also has a Sauvignon Blanc specifically from Rutherford - obviously for a larger price tag - I'd love to hear a comment if the extra bucks are worth it.

Alcohol:

 13.5%

Comments:

 Wine was aged 90% in steel tanks, 10% in neutral oak.

The label says...

 zippy acidity lends a crisp freshness to tropical flavors of mango, kiwi, lemongrass & freshly squeezed grapefruit. Juicy and refreshing, with aromas of honeysuckle, peach and grapefruit rind. Medium bodied, with a smooth, minerally finish.

I thought...

 this wine is definitely a grapefruit bomb! Balanced - but grapefruit bomb. Don't get me wrong it was a great wine and I would definitely drink it again, but the Pouilly-Fume just seemed more complex and interesting.

(2) Domaine Masson-Blondelet 2012 Pouilly-Fume

Grapes:

 Sauvignon Blanc

Where its From:

 AOC Pouilly-Fume (Eastern part of Loire Valley)

Alcohol:

 13%

Comments:

 Pouilly-Fume is sometimes more difficult to find than the Sauvignon Blancs from Sancerre, but its definitely worth it if you find one! The limestone soil produces light-bodied, citrusy, acidic wines with a minerally finish. I love the steely finish limestone gives to these grapes! Pouilly-Fume is rumored to be fuller bodied that its neighbor Sancerre. This wine in particular was aromatic, citrusy with that awesome minerality I was looking for - highly recommended!

Wine Photos:

 Honig on right; Pouilly-Fume on left.

Next time you are at the liquor store, considering buying your favorite grape from two different regions and do a comparison yourself! Until next time!

Cheers!

Wine and Chocolate: The Results!

Wine and Chocolate: The results are in!

In honor of the Oscars, I figured I would share the results of the latest Enthusiasts wine tasting! And - oh my! - will the results surprise you! This week the Enthusiasts tasted wine with chocolate and below are the list of wines we paired with chocolate and some comments from the group:

(1) Trader Joe's House Chardonnay

About the wine:

a.k.a. "formerly known as two buck chuck." Since the tasting was based pairings with chocolate, we tried to save money where we could on wine. This chardonnay is known for its pear aroma, medium body, and perfect price.

Paired with:

 White Chocolate

Comments from the group:

 Most of the group was surprised how much they liked this pairing and how the buttery aspects of the wine and chocolate were featured when paired together.

(2) Trader Joe's House Sauvignon Blanc

About the wine:

 See above, but with a touch of acidity and bright fruit.

Paired with:

White chocolate

Comments from the group:

 No one in the group disliked this pairing, however, it wasn't anything to write home about and most felt white chocolate and chardonnay paired better.

(3) Rosenblum Cellars Zinfandel

About the wine:

 On its own - this was a great wine worth mentioning to friends. It had everything you want in a zinfandel - a well rounded taste with spice and berries.

Paired with:

 Dark Chocolate

Comments from the group:

 Many in the group thought this was a weird pairing. In fact, most thought the flavors of the wine clashed with chocolate. Ultimately, the group concluded that perhaps zinfandel generally does not pair well with chocolate.

(4) Mark West Pinot Noir

About the wine:

Most reviews on this wine salute its balanced taste and affordable price. Its aroma includes cherry and plum. The taste includes ripe cherry, plum, strawberry and earthiness.

Paired with:

 Milk Chocolate and Dark Chocolate.

Comments from the group:

 Generally, the group thought both pairings tasted nice and balanced. Most concluded pinot noir is a great red to pair with chocolate.

(5) Dante Merlot

About the wine:

 This lovely merlot has an aroma of raspberry, strawberry, cherry and vanilla spice. The taste is bold upfront with bold red fruit and a pleasant tart cherry finish.

Paired with:

 Dark Chocolate.

Comments from the group:

 Despite the group's apprehension for chocolate paired with red wine, many in the group enjoyed this pairing. In fact, I thought the dark chocolate actually enhanced some bold fruit flavors in the merlot - one of my favorite pairings!

(6) Trader Joe's House Cabernet Sauvignon

About the wine:

 See above - drinkable, affordable, red, with bold fruit flavor.

Paired with:

 Dark Chocolate and Milk Chocolate

Comments from the group:

 Similar results as with the pinot noir - both chocolates paired well with this wine. 

(7) Dr. Hans Von

M

üller Riesling

About the wine:

Check out the label - there is a lot to see and learn! First, what is Mosel? Well, its foremost a river in southeastern Germany and the wine region is known for producing some of the most famous rieslings around. The soil in this region varies from sandstone/limestone to clay slate and stone. This terrior plays a major role in the famous acidity and balancing sweetness of riesling. Second, what is auslese? Translated from German, it means "selected harvest." Generally, it describes a category of German wine that is very sweet, made from late-harvested grapes.

Paired with:

Milk Chocolate and Dark Chocolate

Comments from the group:

 Most in the group enjoyed riesling pair with milk chocolate and said it emphasized a buttery taste. However, riesling paired with dark chocolate was everyone's favorite! The dark chocolate brought out the fruit flavor of the wine.

(8) Old Vine Tawny

About the wine: 

The good thing about the Enthusiasts

 is that the group can taste new wines and learn what they love - and what they don't. While the label describes this wine as a murky brick red color with spiced berry and ripe plum flavors. Unfortunately, the group only seemed to notice a murky flavor and it did get better when paired with chocolate.

Paired with:

 Milk Chocolate and Dark Chocolate.

Comments from the group:

Do not recommend this wine to a friend :(

(9) Girl Go Lightly Moscato

About the wine:

I was very excited to open this wine for two reasons: (1) the label is so freaking cute. I know what your thinking - c'mon Kelley how can a wine enthusiast like you get hung up on the label. True, I generally urge my friends that the quality of the wine is in no way associated with the label art. However, sometimes the label is a little piece of art in its own right and is worth mentioning, and (2) its the first time the Enthusiast! gets to discuss Moscato! 

Moscato is actually made from the muscat grape variety. This grape is known for its pronounced sweet aroma and multiple varieties and synonyms. For example, Muscat is known in Spanish as Moscatel, and Moscato in Italian.

Paired with:

 White Chocolate

Comments from the group:

 The group thought this wine paired nicely with white chocolate!

And the award goes to... wine and chocolate!

Cheers!

Big Six Grapes: The Results!

The Enthusiasts! had their first wine club meeting last night, and the results are in! 

Below is the list of wines we tasted, some commentary and an average group score. Scores based  on 1-5, 5 being high. Full disclosure, the group contained a lot of self-proclaimed NBWW'ers (Nothing But White Wine) so take the scores with a grain of salt... but maybe over time I can convert them. :)

(1) Wine: Loosen Bros Riesling 2011

Grapes:

100% Riesling

Where its from:

Mosel, Germany

Vintage:

2011

Alcohol:

8.5%

Comments:

The label says... elegant and racy style from slate-soil with a refreshing crisp taste that cools the palate. The group said... the wine was "sweet, light and fresh."

Recommend to a Friend?

Maybe, depending on friend's style. The group score for this wine was 3.3, with voter's likely turning based on sweetness. Overall, I thought it was a balanced wine that would likely go great with spicy food and refreshing for those who don't mind a bit of sweetness.

(2) Wine: Chateau de Sancerre

Grapes:

 100% Sauvignon Blanc

Where its from: 

Sancerre; Part of Loire Valley Region of France

Vintage:

 2011

Alcohol:

 13%

Comments:

 The label says... fine expression of crisp minerality and refreshing peach and  citrus qualities. The group said... "light, tart and balanced."

Recommend to a Friend?

 Maybe. Again the average score here was a 3.3. Overall, I really enjoyed this wine as it was balanced and refreshing. Full disclosure... I am

obsessed

 with sauvignon blanc. Next time, I will be sure to put our goat cheese and I am sure the wine will get a higher score.

(3) Wine: Buitenverwachting Husseys Vlei Sauvignon Blanc

Grapes:

 100% Sauvignon Blanc

Where its from:

Constantia, South Africa (Costal Region)

Vintage:

 2010

Alcohol:

 13.5%

Comments:

 The group said... low to nonexist scent, but the taste is strong and peppery, almost like green peppers.

Recommend to a Friend?

 Yes! Group score of 4.3 Overall, I feel that people either love or could go without this wine. Personally, it was a wine that blew my mind. As an avid sauvignon blanc drinker, loving the crisp citric taste of most styles, I was totally surprised at the green pepper taste with this wine. A perfect addition to any salad (depending on dressing choice). However, if you are not looking for the "salad in a glass" vibe of this wine, might want to choose another label.

(4) Wine: Woodbridge by Robert Mondavi

Grapes:

 100% Chardonnay

Where its from:

California

Vintage:

 2011

Alcohol:

 13.5%

Comments:

 The label says... rich and elegant, vibrant fruit and spice notes with creamy texture. The group said...definitely "creamy texture, medium oak." 

Recommend to a Friend?

 Maybe. Group score of 3.1. Again, it seems that people are love or are not a fan of oak. Personally, I sit in the not-a-fan-of-oak camp, but I still enjoyed this wine. The oak was complimentary and not overbearing. Overall, a balanced wine.

(5) Wine: Kevin O'Leary Unoaked Chardonnay

Grapes:

90% Chardonnay, 5% Chardonnay Musque, 5% Sauvignon Blanc

Where its from:

surprisingly, Niagara Peninsula, Canada

Vintage:

 2011

Alcohol:

 12%

Comments:

 The label says... light creme brulee, fresh lemon juice, apple, and minerality notes, wine is full, balanced and mouth-filling. The group said... "fresh and tasty."

Recommend to a Friend?

 Yes! Group score is 3.6. I was surprised to be drinking a wine from Canada, even more so that it was so tasty!

(6) Wine: Meiomi Pinot Noir

Grapes:

 Pinot Noir (51% Monterey County, 26% Sonoma County, 23% Santa Barbara County)

Where its from:

Monterey, Sonoma and Santa Barbara County, California

Vintage:

 2011

Alcohol:

 13.9%

Comments:

 The label says... perfect layers of spice, bright berry flavors and rich texture. The group said... "smooth with light berry flavor."

Recommend to a Friend?

 Yes! Group score was a solid 4.

(5) Wine: Los Osos J. Lohr Paso Robles Merlot

Grapes:

78% Merlot,17% Malbec, 4% Zinfandel, 1% Petie Verdot

Where its from:

Paso Robles, California

Vintage:

 2011

Alcohol:

 13.5%

Comments:

 The label says... aromas of raspberry, red currant, and blackberries with rich, concentrated and velvety texture. The group said... "red fruit flavor yet complex texture."

Recommend to a Friend?

 Maybe. Group score 3.1. Personally, I thought it was better than the cabernet sauvignon we tasted next, but still nothing to write home about.

(6) Wine: Sterling Vinter's Collection Cabernet Sauvignon

Grapes:

 100% Cabernet Sauvignon

Where its from:

Sonoma, California (Central Coast)

Vintage:

 2009

Alcohol:

 13.5%

Comments:

 The label says... lush blackberry, cherry and black currant with vanilla and spice from oak aging.

Recommend to a Friend?

 Yes. Group score 3.5.

(7) Wine: The Wolftrap Syrah Blend

Grapes:

 65% Syrah, 32% Mourvedre, 3% Viognier

Where its from: 

Western Cape, South Africa

Vintage:

 2011

Alcohol:

 14.5%

Comments:

 The label says... spicy, aromatic, red blend that has been matured in oak. The group said... "smells burnt."

Recommend to a Friend?

 No? The group score was 2.5. However, if I could have a save card, I would use it on this wine. (Yes, blaming the  low score on the NBWW-ers.) Yes, I typically love syrah, but this why was still complex and interesting on its own. I did notice the burnt smell, but found it interesting and would likely pair well with red meat.

(8) Wine: Layer Cake 100% Pure Shiraz

Grapes:

 100% Shiraz

Where its from: 

South Australia

Vintage:

 2010

Alcohol:

 14.1%

Comments:

 The label says... lush blackberry, cherry and black currant with vanilla and spice from oak aging. The group said... "red fruit flavor but tannic."

Recommend to a Friend?

 No. Group score was 2.8. I've had layer cake several times before. I find it to be a reliable and affordable red wine option, no complaints here. 

What a tasting! I can't believe we tasted eight different wines! Overall, I think everyone learned a lot about what they like in wines and what they don't. One of the main reasons why I like this tasting. Love to hear any comments from the group (I believe some awesome questions were posed and I didn't write them down, so if you comment - I will look them up) or new followers feel free to comment!

Cheers!

The Enthusiasts! NYC Wine Club: Big Six Grapes Details

This post includes an introduction to the big six grapes in more detail. It discusses an overview of tasting wine and suggestions regarding the look, scent and taste of each grape. If you are looking for a great wine book to start your wine education with, I highly recommend

Great Wine Made Simple: Straight Talk from a Master Sommelier

 by Andrea Robinson. It is straight forward, interesting and easy to follow. Check it out

here.

Purpose:

The Purpose of this

 this tasting will illustrate that each grape has its own climate affinity.

Riesling:

Grows best in cool climates. 

Cool zone = Germany, Alsace, France. 

Moderate zone = Austria, Canada, NY Finger Lakes. 

Choosing the wine;

Look for Kabinett or Spatlese on label.

Cool Zone:

Germany, Alsace, France

Moderate Zone:

Austria, Canada, NY Finger Lakes

The look

Pale yellow-green (from both zones)

The scent

The taste

Notice delicate, light body and fruit flavors, acidity may come through as lemony

Flavor mirrors scents of peaches, apricots, citrus. Slightly fuller body

Summary; 

Riesling has expressive flavor and scent. Signature style includes orchard fruits, sometimes floral character and vibrant acidity.

Sauvignon Blanc:

Grows best in cool to moderate climates: 

Cool zone = Loire Valley (Sancerre and Pouilly-Fume) and New Zealand. 

These regions rarely use oak. 

Moderate zone = Bordeaux and Coastal California. 

These regions are more likely to use oak for fuller fruit. 

Fume Blance is used a lot on American labels – this is the fullest bodied style. 

Cool Zone:

Loire Valley & New Zealand

Moderate Zone:

Bordeaux and Coastal California

The look

Pale yellow green to straw yellow

Similar to cool zone but a bit darker

The scent

Notably tart or grassy/herbaceous

Citrus like grapefruit and lime. Possibly peach, honeydew or cantaloupe

The taste

Granny smith apple, tart, and tangy

Fruit flavors represented in scent – citrus and melon.

Summary; 

Like Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc has vibrant acidity. 

Medium body and classic flavor range from tart apple to citrus (especially lime and grapefruit) to honeydew melon and peach. 

Great range and availability.

Chardonnay:

Successfully grown in many regions.

Cool Zone:

Burgundy (Macon, Pouilly-Fuisse, Chablis)

Moderate Zone:

Coastal California

Warm Zone:

California warm spots

Notes

Almost all Burgundy is made from chardonnay, no oak traditionally

Most have some oak

Oak is likely a factor

The look

Pale yellow-green

Pale yellow-green to straw yellow

Yellow-gold

The scent

Less tart than Riesling or sauvignon blanc.

Fruit salad in a glass – lemon, orange, tangerine, peach and melon

Exotic – pineapple and mangos, maybe apricots, mandarin orange and spice.

The taste

Flavors are delicate with refreshing tartness from acidity

Lots of fruit, juicy lip-smacking style.

Luscious, much richer and riper fruit flavor.

Pinot Noir:

Grows best in cool to moderate climates. 

Pinot noir from all major regions is typically oak aged, but matched to intensity of fruit. 

Known as “chef’s wine” because it typically pairs well with a variety of foods. 

Cool Zone:

Burgundy, Oregon, and New Zealand

Moderate Zone:

California

The look

Dark pink to translucent ruby red

Ruby red to violet

The scent

Predominant scents are tangy red berries – cranberry, cherry.

Scents are riper, black cherries and raspberries, still tang that makes your mouth water. Potential sweetness from oak.

The taste

Taste is tangy and mouthwatering, all red berries with a little spice.

Acidity is less prominent than cool zone. Therefore, less tart and more juicy.

Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon:

Grows best in moderate climates. 

Taste ranges from dark berries to plums.

To learn of the complexity of these grapes should be examined through classic European Regional Wines.

Merlot

• Tends to be medium body and some oak agin.
• Look for wines from: Washington State, California, Chile.
• The look; Ruby red
• The smell; Predominant scents are plums and dark berries, some oakiness including vanilla or spice.

Cabernet Sauvignon

• Famous as main ingredient in French Bordeaux, arguably trumps merlot 9/10 times for the money.
• Generally full bodied with ample tannins that should be matched by fruit.
• Fruit tastes typically of blackcurrant and cassis.
• Some oak aging.
• Look for wines from: California, Chile
• The look; Ruby red to dark purple
• The smell; Similar to merlot.

The Taste!

• The taste of merlot and cabernet sauvignon is similar. Try to concentrate on tannin and body to differentiate.

Shiraz and Syrah

Shiraz vs. Syrah, What is the difference? Nothing! They are actually the same grape!

• One of the most popular red varieties in the world
• Possible name origins: Syracuse (city in Italy, speculated to be its place of origin); Shiraz (city in Iran); corruption of “Scyras,” by which it was originally known in Australia
• “Old World home” in France’s northern Rhône region; now grown extensively in France, Italy, Spain, Australia, US, Chile, Argentina, South Africa
• Grows best in moderate to warm climates
• The Look; Dark ruby red, often with fuchsia pink tinged rim that is typical of young wines.
• The Smell; Soft plum and berries, especially raspberries. Maybe sweet baking spice like cinnamon or clover.
• The Taste! Fruit flavor typically echoes scent.  Warmer climates yield the flavor of wild black fruits laced with spices, chocolate and even licorice. purple and red flowers; peppery and meaty; big and firm structure.

Not to be confused with Petite Syrah… 

Different grape, also known as

Durif

is a variety of red wine grape primarily grown in California, Australia, France, and Israel.

Cheers!

·