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.

Two Shilling Red 2021

Name: Two Shilling Red

Producer: The Williamsburg Winery

Variety: Blend (Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon)

Region: Virginia

Country: United States

Vintage: 2021

Price: $16

Wine Review:

The Two Shilling Red 2021 by The Williamsburg Winery is a delightful red wine blend hailing from Virginia. This wine is a combination of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon, which gives it a unique flavor profile that is both rich and smooth. The wine has a deep, ruby color and a fragrant nose of black cherry, blackberry, and hints of vanilla and spice. On the palate, it is a full-bodied wine with flavors of dark fruit, chocolate, and a subtle earthy undertone. The tannins are soft and well-integrated, providing a smooth and silky finish.

My Review:

I recently had the pleasure of trying the Two Shilling Red 2021 by The Williamsburg Winery, and I must say it was a great experience. The wine has a unique flavor profile that is well-balanced and easy to drink. The blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon works well together, providing a smooth and full-bodied wine that is not too overpowering. The nose is fragrant and inviting, and the flavors on the palate are complex but not overwhelming. The wine pairs well with grilled meats, stews, and roasted vegetables, making it a versatile option for a variety of meals. Overall, I highly recommend the Two Shilling Red 2021 by The Williamsburg Winery to anyone who enjoys red wine blends that are well-balanced and easy to drink.

 

La Delizia: Delle Venezie Pinot Grigio

 

Name: La Delizia Delle Venezie Pinot Grigio

Producer: La Delizia

Variety: Pinot Grigio

Region: Delle Venezie

Country: Italy

Vintage: N/A

Price: $9.99

Wine Review:

La Delizia Delle Venezie Pinot Grigio is a refreshing and easy-to-drink white wine that comes from the Delle Venezie region of Italy. This wine has a light to medium-bodied structure and a pale, straw-yellow color with greenish tints. On the nose, it offers subtle aromas of green apple, pear, lemon, and a hint of floral notes. On the palate, La Delizia Delle Venezie Pinot Grigio is crisp and well-balanced with flavors of citrus, peach, and apricot. It has a pleasant acidity and a clean finish that leaves you wanting more.

My Review:

I recently tried La Delizia Delle Venezie Pinot Grigio and was impressed by its taste and value. The wine's aromas were subtle but pleasant, and the flavors were clean and refreshing. This Pinot Grigio is an excellent option for those who enjoy light-bodied and crisp wines that are easy to drink on their own or pair with light dishes like seafood, salads, and appetizers. The price point is also a great selling point, making it an affordable option for everyday consumption or entertaining guests. Overall, I would recommend La Delizia Delle Venezie Pinot Grigio to anyone who enjoys white wines that are well-balanced and approachable. I will try it with food the next time.

Paperbark 2020 White Wine Blend Wine Tasting

Name: Paperbark 2020 White Wine Blend

Producer: Paperbark

Variety: 75% Semillon, 25% Sauvignon Blanc 

Region: South Eastern Australia 

Country: Australia

Vintage: 2020 Price: $14.99

Wine Review: This white wine blend is a refreshing and easy-drinking option that offers a balance of citrus and tropical fruit flavors, with a subtle herbal note. The Semillon grapes bring body and texture to the blend, while the Sauvignon Blanc adds brightness and acidity. Overall, it's a versatile wine that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with seafood, salads, and light pasta dishes.

My Review: I recently tried Paperbark 2020 White Wine Blend and was pleasantly surprised by its quality for the price point. It has a unique blend of Semillon and Sauvignon Blanc that creates a nice balance of flavors. I found it to be a great choice for a casual night in or a dinner party with friends. The bottle also has a stylish and eye-catching label that would make it a great gift option. At $14.99, this wine is definitely worth a try. Did not try it with food.

Winking Owl Chardonnay Wine Review!

Name: Winking Owl Chardonnay

Producer: Winking Owl Vineyards Variety: Chardonnay Region: California Country: United States

Vintage: 2020 Price: $2.99

Wine Review: This Chardonnay is a refreshing delight! With notes of crisp apple, bright citrus, and a hint of oak, it's perfect for any occasion. The aroma is simply divine, with a bouquet of white flowers that will make you feel like you're frolicking in a field of wildflowers. The wine has a light body and a smooth finish, making it a great pairing for light seafood dishes or a cheese platter. And the best part? It's a steal at only $2.99 a bottle!

My Review: I stumbled upon Winking Owl Chardonnay at my local grocery store and was intrigued by its quirky label and affordable price. I'm not a wine connoisseur by any means, but I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this wine. It's light and easy-drinking, perfect for a night in with friends or a solo Netflix binge. And let's be honest, at $2.99 a bottle, you can't go wrong. Cheers to finding hidden gems in unexpected places! I will try it with food the next time!

Wine Dinner Blog #1

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.

I chose to drink in the order specified to us by the menu and so started off with the Les Hayts de Largarde Blanc 2020. Since it was a white wine, I made sure to hold it by the bottom of the glass. Overall, it had a sweet taste that set me up well for the red wines to follow. There was a taste of apple juice that lasted all the way to the back of my mouth.

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.

Overall, the dinner was a hit. It allowed me to sit down with all of my friends and discuss how all of us felt about the wines we had dug into. All together, I had an appetizer, main, dish, side dish, and a dessert alongside a flight of 3 wines.  Reuben sandwich, sour cream and onion chips, and a baked cookie. I had three wines as part of a flight: Les Hayts de Lagarde Blanc '20, Chevalier du Grand Robert '18, and Ch. Graves de Rabion '18.

My experience with wine thusfar!

You know, as a senior in college, I haven't honestly tried out too many types of wine. I've always stuck to the good 'ol Barefoot and maybe some Franzia. I've always thought of wine as something I'd always want to explore and learn more about as I got older since people always talk about how dinner is so much better with a glass of red. Well, I guess my wish got fast-tracked a bit since I now have the opportunity to learn more about it through this course.

I actually grew up in a strictly sober family where drinking wine (well anything) was frowned upon. I held those ideals for a good three days of my time at university until my buddy Connor passed me a cup of beer at my very first frat party. Boom, I had changed. I stuck with beer and a couple liquors until pretty much the end of freshman year when the girl I liked at the time introduced me to the wonderful world of champagne in the form of the glorious mimosa. 

Since then, I've slowly but surely started to look more into wines and their types and was essentially addicted to documentaries on the History channel about how wine was made. So as a senior in college, I'm a bit knowledgeable about the subject and have had my fair share of cheaper wines, which I've mainly drank to get a little turnt. I'm always looking for ways to deepen my appreciation for this incredible beverage. I'm eager to see where my wine journey will take me next and can't wait to try new and exciting varieties in the future. Let's see where this class takes me!