Wine Dinner Blog #2!

My friends and I went out to Wine Lab for our wine dinner. We started by looking over the list of flights that our sever Julia provided us and I chose to go with the "Region of Focus - Bordeaux" flight. This was $16, and included the following wines: Les Hayts de Lagarde Blanc '20, Chevalier du Grand Robert '18, and Ch. Graves de Rabion '18. The wines were from Entre Deux Mers, Haut Medoc, and Saint Emilion respectively.

Here's a pictures of all of them as they were served. Left to right is the order in which the drinks were presented to us.

After we had finished our backed brie appetizer, I dug into my main dish which was a Rueben. It was paired with a side of sour cream and onion potato chips. The pairing with our second wine: the Chevalier du Grand Robert 2018 was perfect since it really brought out he depth of the meat. I made sure to swirl the wine in the glass by cupping it.

For dessert, I had a cookie and our last wine. This last red was much drier than the previous one. It had hints of black cherry and an aftertaste of chocolate. The cookies was a great way to end the meal.

 

The cheapest wine thusfar!

 

Name: Yellowtail Pinot Noir

Producer: Yellowtail Wines

Variety: Pinot Noir

Region: South Eastern Australia

Country: Australia

Vintage: N/A (non-vintage)

Price: $7-10 USD

Wine Review:

Yellowtail Pinot Noir is a value wine produced by Yellowtail Wines, one of the most popular wine brands in Australia. This wine is made from Pinot Noir grapes grown in the South Eastern Australia region and is a non-vintage wine, meaning it is a blend of different vintages.

On the nose, Yellowtail Pinot Noir offers aromas of red cherry, raspberry, and a hint of vanilla. On the palate, it is light-bodied with flavors of red fruit and a touch of spice. The tannins are soft, giving the wine a smooth and easy-drinking texture.

This wine has a bright ruby-red color and a short finish. It is a simple and straightforward wine that is best enjoyed chilled and paired with light dishes such as roasted chicken, grilled fish, or a cheese board.

Overall, Yellowtail Pinot Noir is a decent wine that offers good value for money. It is a perfect option for casual drinking or for those who are new to wine and want to explore the world of Pinot Noir without breaking the bank.

My Review:

I tried the Yellowtail Pinot Noir out of curiosity, given its affordable price point. While it may not be the best Pinot Noir I've ever had, I was pleasantly surprised by its quality. The aromas of red fruit and vanilla were inviting, and the taste was enjoyable. The light-bodied texture made it a perfect match for my dinner of grilled fish and vegetables. The price point is unbeatable, making it an excellent option for those who want a decent wine without spending too much money. I would recommend the Yellowtail Pinot Noir to anyone who wants to try a Pinot Noir without spending too much money or for casual drinking occasions.

Marces de Caceres

Name: Marcus de Caceres

Producer: Bodegas Campo Viejo

Variety: Rioja

Region: Rioja, Spain

Country: Spain

Vintage: 2015

Price: $15-20 USD

Wine Review:

Marcus de Caceres is a beautiful Rioja wine produced by Bodegas Campo Viejo, a renowned winery located in the Rioja region of Spain. This wine is made from a blend of Tempranillo, Garnacha, and Graciano grapes, which are carefully selected and aged in oak barrels for 12 months.

On the nose, Marcus de Caceres offers aromas of ripe dark fruit, vanilla, and a hint of spices. On the palate, it is full-bodied and rich with flavors of black cherry, blackberry, and a touch of tobacco. The tannins are well-integrated, giving the wine a smooth and velvety texture.

This wine has a beautiful ruby-red color and a long-lasting finish. It is an excellent example of how Rioja wines can be complex and elegant when produced with expertise and attention to detail.

Overall, Marcus de Caceres is a fantastic wine that represents the best of Rioja. It is a perfect match for hearty dishes such as grilled meats, stews, and aged cheeses. Its affordable price point makes it an excellent option for anyone who wants to enjoy a high-quality wine without breaking the bank.

My Review:

I was impressed by the Marcus de Caceres. As a fan of Spanish wines, I was excited to try this Rioja, and it exceeded my expectations. The aromas of dark fruit and vanilla were very inviting, and the taste was even better. I appreciated the full-bodied and rich texture, which paired perfectly with my dinner of braised beef and roasted potatoes. The tannins were well-balanced, giving the wine a smooth and enjoyable finish. The price point is excellent for the quality and complexity of this wine, making it a great value for money. I would highly recommend the Marcus de Caceres to anyone who wants to experience the best of Rioja wines without breaking the bank.

 

Tenuta Colombarola Travini Gandinala : A slightly expensive but quality wine

Name: Tenuta Colombarola Travini Gandinala

Producer: Travini

Variety: Lambrusco

Region: Emilia-Romagna

Country: Italy

Vintage: 2018

Price: $20-25 USD

Wine Review:

Tenuta Colombarola Travini Gandinala is a high-quality Lambrusco produced by Travini, a renowned winery located in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. Lambrusco is a type of sparkling red wine that is often associated with sweet and fizzy versions, but this particular wine is a dry and elegant interpretation.

On the nose, Tenuta Colombarola Travini Gandinala offers aromas of blackberry, raspberry, and a subtle hint of spices. On the palate, it is well-balanced with lively bubbles and flavors of dark fruit and a touch of minerality. The tannins are present but not overpowering, which makes it a perfect wine to pair with a variety of dishes.

This wine has a beautiful ruby-red color and a long-lasting finish. It is an excellent example of how Lambrusco can be a sophisticated and complex wine when produced with care and attention to detail.

Overall, Tenuta Colombarola Travini Gandinala is a delightful and versatile wine that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with a wide range of foods. Its dry and refined style makes it an excellent choice for anyone who wants to discover the true potential of Lambrusco.

My Review:

I was impressed by the Tenuta Colombarola Travini Gandinala. As a lover of red wine, I was curious to try a Lambrusco, and this wine did not disappoint. The aromas of blackberry and raspberry were very inviting, and the taste was even better. I appreciated the dry and refined style, which made it a perfect match for my dinner of grilled steak and roasted vegetables. The bubbles were lively and added a fun and festive element to the drinking experience. The price point is slightly higher than other Lambrusco wines, but the quality and complexity of this wine make it well worth it. I would highly recommend the Tenuta Colombarola Travini Gandinala to anyone who wants to explore the world of Lambrusco beyond the typical sweet and fizzy versions.

 

A cheap and affordable wine!

Name: Bay Bridge White Zinfandel

Producer: Bay Bridge Vineyards

Variety: White Zinfandel

Region: California

Country: United States

Vintage: N/A

Price: $7-9 USD

Wine Review:

Bay Bridge White Zinfandel is a refreshing and fruity wine with a delicate pink hue. This wine is produced by Bay Bridge Vineyards, a well-known winery in California. It is made from the white version of the Zinfandel grape, which is known for producing bold and fruity wines.

On the nose, Bay Bridge White Zinfandel offers aromas of strawberry, watermelon, and a hint of citrus. On the palate, it is light-bodied and bursting with flavors of fresh berries and a touch of sweetness. The finish is crisp and refreshing, making it a perfect wine for a warm summer day or a casual get-together with friends.

Overall, Bay Bridge White Zinfandel is an enjoyable wine that offers a great balance of fruitiness and sweetness. It is easy to drink and pairs well with light and fresh dishes such as salads, seafood, or grilled chicken. Its affordable price makes it an excellent option for anyone looking for a delicious and budget-friendly wine.

My Review:

I was pleasantly surprised by the Bay Bridge White Zinfandel. I am not usually a fan of sweet wines, but this one had the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. The aromas of strawberry and watermelon were very inviting, and the taste was even better. I particularly enjoyed the crisp and refreshing finish, which left a pleasant aftertaste. This wine is perfect for a casual gathering with friends or a picnic in the park. At such an affordable price point, it is definitely worth a try. I would highly recommend the Bay Bridge White Zinfandel to anyone looking for an easy-drinking and enjoyable wine.

2019 House of the Dragon Cabernet Sauvignon Review!

Name: 2019 House of the Dragon Cabernet Sauvignon

Producer: House of the Dragon Winery

Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon

Region: Napa Valley

Country: United States

Vintage: 2019

Price: $50

Wine Review:

The 2019 House of the Dragon Cabernet Sauvignon is a deep ruby red wine with complex aromas of blackberry, cassis, and vanilla. On the palate, it is full-bodied with flavors of ripe black cherry, dark chocolate, and hints of oak. The tannins are firm and well-structured, giving the wine a long, smooth finish.

This wine was aged for 18 months in French oak barrels, which has added a subtle complexity to its flavor profile. The winemaker used only the best hand-picked grapes from the Napa Valley region to craft this exceptional wine.

My Review:

I had the pleasure of trying the 2019 House of the Dragon Cabernet Sauvignon and was thoroughly impressed. The wine's aroma was captivating and the taste was even better. I found the flavors to be well-balanced, with the right amount of fruitiness and oakiness. The tannins were present but not overpowering, making for a smooth and enjoyable drinking experience.

While the price point may be a bit higher than some other Cabernet Sauvignons, I believe it is worth the investment. The attention to detail in crafting this wine is evident in its complex flavor profile and long finish. I would highly recommend this wine to anyone looking for a high-quality Cabernet Sauvignon from the Napa Valley region.

Cline Ancient Vines Zinfandel 2020 made for the perfect gift!

Name: Cline Ancient Vines Zinfandel 2020

Producer: Cline Cellars

Variety: Zinfandel

Region: California

Country: United States

Vintage: 2020

Price: $12.99

Wine Review: Cline's Ancient Vines Zinfandel 2020 is a rich and bold wine with a deep ruby color. It has aromas of blackberry, raspberry, and a hint of vanilla. On the palate, it is full-bodied with flavors of dark fruit, black pepper, and a touch of oak. The tannins are firm but well-integrated, and the wine has a long, smooth finish. This Zinfandel pairs beautifully with grilled meats or spicy pasta dishes. At only $12.99 a bottle, it's an excellent value for such a high-quality wine.

My Review: I picked up Cline's Ancient Vines Zinfandel 2020 on a whim, and I'm so glad I did! This wine has a wonderful depth of flavor that is a hallmark of well-made Zinfandels. The dark fruit flavors, combined with the spicy notes of black pepper, make it a perfect pairing for grilled meats. I also appreciated the touch of vanilla on the nose, which added a layer of complexity to the wine. At $12.99 a bottle, this is an excellent value for a wine of this caliber. I would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a bold and flavorful red wine. Cheers to Cline for producing such an outstanding Zinfandel!

Substance Pinot Noir 2021is the perfect chug-wine!

Name: Substance Pinot Noir 2021

Producer: Substance Vineyards

Variety: Pinot Noir

Region: Columbia Valley

Country: United States

Vintage: 2021

Price: $19.99

Wine Review: The Substance Pinot Noir 2021 is a delicious and complex wine with a beautiful deep ruby color. It boasts aromas of cherry, blackberry, and a subtle hint of vanilla. On the palate, it has a velvety texture with flavors of dark fruit, spice, and a touch of earthiness. The wine is well-balanced with a medium body and a long, smooth finish. It pairs perfectly with grilled salmon or roasted chicken. At $14.99 a bottle, this Pinot Noir is a steal!

My Review: As a fan of Pinot Noir, I was excited to try Substance's version from Columbia Valley. I was not disappointed! The wine has a wonderful depth of flavor and complexity that is rare to find at this price point. The cherry and blackberry notes, combined with the subtle hint of vanilla, make it a pleasure to sip on its own or with a meal. I particularly enjoyed it with grilled salmon, where the wine's earthy notes complemented the fish's smoky flavor perfectly. For $14.99, this is a wine that I would happily enjoy again and again. Highly recommended for Pinot Noir lovers or anyone looking for a great value wine!

Viña Santa Helena Chardonnay!

Viña Santa Helena is a well-known winery based in the Central Valley of Chile. The winery produces a wide variety of wines, including their Varietal Chardonnay, which is a popular choice for white wine enthusiasts. It did not have a vintage. It was $5.99.

Upon pouring, the wine appears pale yellow with hints of green. On the nose, the wine has aromas of tropical fruits, such as pineapple and mango, along with a subtle hint of oak. The oak is noticeable but not overpowering, and it adds a nice touch of complexity to the wine.

When tasted, the Viña Santa Helena Varietal Chardonnay is medium-bodied with a smooth and velvety mouthfeel. It is well-balanced with flavors of ripe pineapple, juicy peach, and a touch of vanilla. The wine has a refreshing acidity that gives it a crisp finish and makes it perfect for pairing with food.

This Chardonnay is a great choice for anyone looking for a wine that is easy to drink, yet still complex and interesting. It pairs well with a variety of dishes, including seafood, pasta with cream sauce, and roasted chicken. The Viña Santa Helena Varietal Chardonnay is also a great wine to enjoy on its own, as it is both refreshing and satisfying.

In conclusion, the Viña Santa Helena Varietal Chardonnay is a fantastic wine that delivers a perfect balance of fruit, oak, and acidity. It is an excellent choice for any occasion, whether it be a dinner party or a relaxing night at home. Give it a try, and you won't be disappointed!

McBride Sisters Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2021 – A Refreshing and Vibrant Wine

McBride Sisters Wine Company is known for producing some of the finest wines in the world, and their Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2021 is no exception. The wine is a perfect blend of tropical and citrus flavors that make it a refreshing and vibrant wine to enjoy on any occasion. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at the McBride Sisters Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2021 and explore its unique characteristics.

Appearance: The McBride Sisters Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2021 has a pale yellow color that is characteristic of most Sauvignon Blanc wines. The wine is clear and has a slight greenish hue.
Aroma: The aroma of the McBride Sisters Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2021 is a mix of tropical and citrus fruit flavors. You can smell the refreshing scents of lime, grapefruit, and passionfruit as soon as you open the bottle. There are also subtle hints of green herbs and grass that add a unique touch to the wine.

Taste: The taste of the McBride Sisters Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2021 is crisp and refreshing. The wine has a good balance of acidity and sweetness that gives it a lively and vibrant taste. You can taste the tropical and citrus fruit flavors that you smelled in the aroma. The wine has a clean finish with a slight mineral taste that adds to its complexity.

Food Pairing: The McBride Sisters Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2021 pairs well with a variety of dishes. It is a great wine to enjoy with seafood, especially oysters and shrimp. The wine also goes well with salads, grilled vegetables, and spicy foods.

Conclusion: The McBride Sisters Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2021 is a delicious wine that is perfect for any occasion. Its refreshing and vibrant taste makes it an ideal wine to enjoy on a warm summer day or a cool winter evening. The wine is easy to drink and pairs well with a variety of dishes. If you're looking for a high-quality Sauvignon Blanc wine, the McBride Sisters Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2021 is definitely worth a try.

The McBride Sisters Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2021 has a pale yellow color that is characteristic of most Sauvignon Blanc wines. The wine is clear and has a slight greenish hue.

Aroma: The aroma of the McBride Sisters Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2021 is a mix of tropical and citrus fruit flavors. You can smell the refreshing scents of lime, grapefruit, and passionfruit as soon as you open the bottle. There are also subtle hints of green herbs and grass that add a unique touch to the wine.

Taste: The taste of the McBride Sisters Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2021 is crisp and refreshing. The wine has a good balance of acidity and sweetness that gives it a lively and vibrant taste. You can taste the tropical and citrus fruit flavors that you smelled in the aroma. The wine has a clean finish with a slight mineral taste that adds to its complexity.

Food Pairing: The McBride Sisters Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2021 pairs well with a variety of dishes. It is a great wine to enjoy with seafood, especially oysters and shrimp. The wine also goes well with salads, grilled vegetables, and spicy foods.

Conclusion: The McBride Sisters Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2021 is a delicious wine that is perfect for any occasion. Its refreshing and vibrant taste makes it an ideal wine to enjoy on a warm summer day or a cool winter evening. The wine is easy to drink and pairs well with a variety of dishes. If you're looking for a high-quality Sauvignon Blanc wine, the McBride Sisters Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc 2021 is definitely worth a try.