Wednesday, July 29, 2009

Some great wines from the last few weeks

The dog days of summer have arrived here in Southern California and I've been drinking alot of good wines to cool off in the afternoon. Here are a few favorites from the last few weeks.

2007 Domain Alfred Chardonnay- $12.99 from Trader Joes. I finally found out why TJ's got all this excellent DA wine. It seems as if a Napa conglomerate has purchased the winery and plans to "reinvent" the label. As a result they have wholesaled all the old bottles to TJ's ofr a tremendous discount. DA makes top notch central coast Pinot Noir and a pretty solid Syrah as well. I reviewed their unaoked Chardonnay a few weeks back with mild disappointment, but this time I was very pleased. Wow. Pungent nose of toasted almond, oak and vanilla. Palate continues on that path with fruity nuances interspersed with notes of fresh ginger and coriander. Amazing value. 9/10

2005 Wurz and Weinmann Spatburgunder - $15ish from Garagiste. I always wanted to try a German Pinot and I was given an excellent opportunity to purchase several bottles earlier this spring. Light color. Floral and fruity nose which is reinforced on the palate. Very smooth in the mouth with little tannins. Time reveals notes of raspberry cola along with a lovely smattering of bacon fat. Another exceptional value, especialy for Pinot. 9/10

2007 Handley Sauvignon Blanc, Ferrington Vineyard- $12 from winery. One of the first California SB's that really made me say "Hmm". Ideal straw hue. Grassy vegetal nose alongside green apples and under ripe pears. Palate complements with citrus notes, smooth mouth feel and medium weight. Finishes with very pleasant acidic crispness that should not be missed. Exceptional varietal value. 9/10

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