Tasting - Dr. Beckermann Auslese Rheinhessen

NOTE: There were only 4 wines at the Vintage Cellar on Thursday, April 25th so I tasted this one on my own at home to complete my 5 wines/week assignment.

Name: Dr. Beckermann Auslese Rheinhessen
Variety: Riesling
Region: Rheinhessen
Country: Germany
Year: 2012
Price: $7.00

 

Winery Review: "Another relatively simple, soft and easy drinking offering from Trader Joe's. Not very intense or complex. Has the viscosity and mouth feel we expect from a German Riesling, but does not have that crisp little grip on the lips and palate. The color is almost clear. The nose is candied pears. The fruit is kind of syrupy baked pear and apple. Could use some more acid. Still tasty, clean and well made."

My Review: I had picked up this wine while I was at home earlier this month and just cracked it open this week. I typically find really great wines at my favorite grocery store, Trader Joe's. This wine was a little bit too sweet for me though. It was fruity and sweet on the nose and fruity and sweet on the palate as well. I love a good Riesling but this one was too sweet for my liking. Needless to say, I finished the bottle and wasn't too disappointed. It was just OK.

Winery Visit - Fork & Cork Wine Festival

On Saturday, April 27th I attended the Fork & Cork Wine Festival in Blacksburg, VA. I had a friend visiting from out of town and I thought it would be a perfect way for her to see a bit of our town - the food and even some of the local wines! The overcast weather didn't hold us back and we had a blast at the festival!

Left to Right: Courtney (roommate), Chrissy (friend from JMU), and Me

My Boyfriend, Matt and I waiting in a tasting line.

Tastings
1. Beliveau Estate
Name: Lover's Quest
Variety: Vidal Blanc
Region: Southwest Virginia
Country: USA
Year: 2012
Price: $15.00

Winery Review: "Semi-sweet Vidal Blanc with notes of tropical fruits and citrus. It is great with light cheeses. A favorite of those who like white wine on the slightly sweet side."

My Review: I have been out to visit Beliveau before but wasn't able to try this particular wine when I was out there. This white was more on the sweeter side with aromas of pineapple. I liked it quite a bit but I think that they need to give their wines the opportunity to age because they're all fairly young. I had never had a Vidal Blanc before and am interested in trying more of this variety.

2. Lexington Valley Vineyard Wines
Name: 2011 Vidal Blanc
Variety: Vidal Blanc
Region: Lexington, Virginia
Country: USA
Year: 2011
Price: $15.00

Winery Review: "A Virginia Wine Lovers Magazine award winner, Vidal Blanc is a medium dry (1.5% residual sugar) white wine with a smooth finish. Pairs well with chicken or seafood or with citrus and garlic sauces. Also great with feta, smoked salmon, or sushi."

My Review: This particular Vidal Blanc was much more dry than the Beliveau one. I liked it quite a bit! It was filled with citrus and a sour smell on the nose which by no surprise, was followed with a bitter taste, almost like a Sauvignon Blanc. It is written in the review that it would pair well with seafood and I'd love to try that!

3. Lexington Valley Vineyard Wines
Name: 2012 Traminette
Variety: Traminette
Region: Lexington, Virginia
Country: USA
Year: 2012
Price: $16.00

Winery Review: "Like its parent Gewurztraminer, this great German hybrid is a semi-dry white, with a bold fruity taste. Winner of 2010 silver medal. Great with Asian cuisine, chips and salsa, pork dishes, or Fettuccini Alfredo."

My Review: This white reminded me of a Riesling, so naturally, I LOVED IT! I wish I had picked up a bottle of this! It was bursting with floral scents on the nose. It smelled sweeter than it tasted but it was perfect. It was fruity and refreshing and I can definitely believe that it was a medal winning wine. This deserved an A+ in my book.

4. Lexington Valley Vineyard Wines
Name: 2011 Cabernet Sauvignon
Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon
Region: Lexington, Virginia
Country: USA
Year: 2011
Price: $16.00

Winery Review: "A smooth, mellow red with hints of black cherry. This young cab is light and fruity - ready now or lay down for later. Pairs well with red meat dishes and hearty stews or just by itself!"

My Review: I loved this Cab! I am pretty picky about Cab Savs because sometimes they are too spicy and bold in flavor for my liking. I'd compare this one to the Cab Sav from Beliveau Estate. It has taught me that the younger they are, the less spicy and more light they are. It was heavy on the nose giving me the expectation of a bold flavor but it was surprisingly light and delicious! I'd love to have this paired with a big juicy steak! This was a great one in my book, however, they served it chilled which I didn't really enjoy and think I would love it even more if served at room temperature.

Lexington Valley Vineyard Wines

5. VERITAS
Name: 2012 Sauvignon Blanc
Variety: Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Charlottesville, Virginia
Country: USA
Year: 2012
Price: $22.00

Winery Review: "Our Sauvignon Blanc is a true expression of youth and vibrancy. The aroma and flavors show ripe grapefruit, lime rind, lemon grass and wet-stone minerality. The flavors on the palate mirror the nose brings a mouthful of crisp ripe fruits that are balanced by Sauvignon Blanc's naturally high acidity."

My Review: This was my most favorite wine of the Veritas wines. It was bursting with flavor and just the right amount of grassy-ness and acidity that I like in a Sauvignon Blanc. This particular variety of wine is my favorite because it is cleansing and flavorful but not sweet. However, I don't find it dry either. This wine was bursting with grapefruit, which I absolutely LOVE! This was great!

6. VERITAS
Name:White Star NV
Variety: Viognier, Traminette, Chardonnay, and Vidal Blanc
Region: Charlottesville, Virginia
Country: USA
Year:NV
Price: $18.00

Winery Review: "White Star is gleaming with flavors of ripe tropical fruits as if they were kissed by the sun. The fruits are layered with fresh peaches, pineapple, mango, and hints of coconut. The light residual sugar is perfectly balanced with the clean acidity, leaving the palate wishing on a shooting start for more."

My Review: Wow, this was a different wine. It was bursting with a variety of scents when I first swirled it. I couldn't put my finger on exactly what I was smelling but I liked it! The flavor really was true to what the winery pinpointed it as. It was almost as if I was drinking wine version of a tropical frozen drink. However, it wasn't overly sweet because of the acidity in the grapes. I really wish I had picked up a bottle of this one because it was pretty unique.

7. VERITAS
Name: Claret 2012
Variety: 55% Cabernet Franc, 28% Petit Verdot, 12% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Malbec, 2% Merlot
Region: Charlottesville, Virginia
Country: USA
Year: 2012
Price: $19.00

Winery Review: "The 2012 Claret is a Bordeaux blend comprising 55% Cabernet Franc, 28% Petit Verdot, 12% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Malbec, and 2% Merlot. Beautifully deep purplish red in color the wine exudes an aroma of black cherry, black berry with smoky rich oak aromas. As you taste the wine it fills the mouth with rich flavors of black fruit, with added olive and mocha notes. Soft yet assertive tannins round off the fruit flavors on the palate, leaving a delicious long lasting finish."

My Review: This red was filled with those tart blackberry aromas on the nose and upon sipping, I was slammed with the spiciness of what must have been the olive and mocha aspects of the wine. It was not particularly my cup of tea and I ended up pouring the rest of my tasting out. It was too flavorful in my opinion and honestly just left me yearning for a glass of water because of how dry it was.



Food and Wine Pairing
Bull & Bones Barbeque Pulled Pork & White Rock Cabernet Franc

Bull & Bones Barbeque Pulled Pork

White Rock Vineyards & Winery

Name: Cabernet Franc
Variety: Cabernet Franc
Region: Goodview, Virginia
Country: USA
Year: 2010
Price: $16.00

Winery Review: "100% Cabernet Franc barrel aged for 24 months with earthy aromas and hints of cherry and a coffee finish"

My Review: I'm not overly familiar with the flavor profile of Cabernet Franc but I would compare it to a Cab Sav minus the spicy aspect. It smelled strong and I was nervous about what to expect because I typically don't love strong-flavored wines. However, it was just the right amount of dryness and sweetness in my opinion.

It paired nicely with the barbeque pork because the spices in the barbeque really was drawn out by the boldness of the wine. The sweetness of the barbeque sauce was muted a bit because the wine had more flavor than the sauce did - but this was a good thing! It made the focus on the dish more of the meat and spices and less of the sauce, which was delicious.

















My Favorite Wine of the Day

My favorite wine of the day had to have been the White Star NV from VERITAS. The uniqueness of the flavors just left me dumbfounded and in disbelief of what winemakers can truly do to wine to give it the flavors it has. The fruitiness was extremely pleasing and refreshing to my palate. It seemed to be the warmest part of the day, when I actually didn't have my sweater on. This was the perfect way to soak in the beauty of Blacksburg weather and experience a totally different profile of flavors. I'm definitely going to have to hunt down this wine and snag a bottle... or a case. 

Wine Dinner #3

On Thursday, April 25th after class, five of us Geography of Wine students got together and made a delicious meal! Four of us knew each other back when we were just freshmen living in Peddrew-Yates as leadership students. It was wonderful to get back together and raise our glasses to our near completion of these four great years! There were three courses and each was paired with a wine.

Left to Right: Jacob, Matt, Me, Matt, Brian

1. Romaine Salad with Caesar Vinaigrette, Cucumbers, Kalamata Olives, Mushrooms, Red Bell Pepper, and Croutons. This first course was paired with a Vinho Verde from Portugal, of course.

Course 1: Caesar Vinaigrette Salad

 Espiral Vinho Verde
Variety: "selected native grape varieties from this region"
Region: Northern
Country: Portugal
Year: 2009
Price: $4.99

 Critic Review: "Good yellow color. Almost beyond frizzante with a little extra carbonation that does eventually fade as the bottle gets enjoyed. Nose is citrus (lemon and star fruit), dandelion, honey, and salty, wet rocks, rather beach-like. Subtle undertones of grass. Big lemon attack. Dry minerality, yet also sweet. Walks a fine line between dry and sweet. Very nice. Tart finish that surprisingly lasts and lasts, turning a little more sweet than dry, yet STILL retaining that wet mineral effect. The “lemonade” of wine, in a good way. Not overly complex, nor should it be."

My Review: This is one of my all time favorites. It was one of the first I legally drank with my Mom at home in Arlington, VA and we frequently pick up a few bottles each time we visit our favorite grocery store, Trader Joe's. I went home earlier this month and picked up two. This wine paired beautifully with the salad we had because it is light and attacks the powerful caesar dressing. It cleanses the palate, leaving me ready for the next bite. It is big on the lemon flavor and is not too sweet nor too dry for my liking. I love it to say the very least!

2. Chicken Marsala with Linguine paired with a 2011 Chardonnay that was recommended by the Vintage Cellar.

Course 2: Chicken Marsala and Linguine

Gen 5 Chardonnay

Variety: 91% Chardonnay, 6% Semillon, 3% Viognier
Region: Central Valley, California
Country: USA
Year: 2011
Price: $12.00

Critic Review: "Light yellow color; tart citrus, lemon nose; lightly oily textured, tangy, tart lime, mineral palate highly influenced by the Semillon in the blend; medium-plus finish (91% Chardonnay, 6% Semillon, 3% Viognier; 25% aged 6 mos in French and American oak)."

My Review: I'm not a huge fan of Chardonnay, as we've stated. However, I think that this particular one complimented the flavors of mushroom and Marsala wine well. It smelled of citrus before sipping and then seemed to be composed of what I think are pretty typical taste descriptors of Chardonnay - mineral and butter.  Of course, I didn't love it, but it was nice to have something that complimented the flavors of the chicken well. I wouldn't sip on this by itself but it was decent with food.

3. Dark Chocolate Covered Strawberries with Sea Salt paired with a Casteggio Sangue Di Guida Dessert Wine that was also recommended by the Vintage Cellar.

Course 3: Dark Chocolate Covered Strawberries

Casteggio Sangue Di Giuda
Variety: 80% Croatina, 20% Uva Rara
Region: Lombardy
Country: Italy
Year: 2010
Price: $7.99

Critic Review: "This red is aromatic, fresh, with ripe cherry and hints of blackberry and other fruit and there is also a delicious savory aspect to this wine. Casteggio "Oltrepo Pavese" Sangue di Giuda 2010 is a sparkler made from 80% Croatina, 20% Uva Rara. There is a density to this luscious wine and an overwhelming impression of freshness and fine fruit. The light tannins help to give the wine structure. In addition to this wine being a magnificent pairing with dessert, it would be a wonderful accompaniment to any meat dish, from a beautiful roast to a plate of thinly sliced beef Carpaccio."

My Review: I'm not big on dessert wines but this one REALLY surprised me. It was the perfect amount of sweet for the bitterness of the dark chocolate. It was light, bubbly, and refreshing. It smelled of blackberries and other berries and then was extremely fresh and and light tasting. It has a fairly low alcohol content of 7.5%. I enjoyed it a lot though and was thoroughly impressed. I really don't think I could drink any more than a glass though because it is pretty sweet.

Me and my Boyfriend, Matt after dinner.

Tasting - Reserve Grand Veneur Côtes du Rhône

Name: Reserve Grand Veneur Côtes du Rhône
Variety: 70% Grenache, 20% Syrah, 10% Cinsault
Region: Rhone Valley
Country: France
Year: 2010
Price: $14.75/750 mL ~ $38.95/3L

Winery Review: As for their other values, the 2010 Grand Veneur Cotes du Rhone Reserve (70% Grenache, 20% Syrah and 10% Cinsault) displays loads of ripe flavors. It is very concentrated for a Cotes du Rhone, and is actually an amazing wine. Classic garrigue, black cherry liqueur, lavender, licorice and spice box are all present in this fullbodied, intense, and rich Cotes du Rhone. This is a sensational effort to drink over the next 4-5 years, although it might last even longer.- Vintage Cellar Tasting Notes

My Review: I wasn't a huge fan of this boxed wine. It just seemed pretty flavorless to me and flat. There wasn't really anything interesting about it and it wasn't giving me that kick that I was looking for. It was ripe in flavor with the variety of berries that I picked up and was sweeter than I expected it to be.

Tasting - Lobetia Tempranillo

Name: Lobetia Tempranillo
Variety: Tempranillo
Region: La Mancha
Country: Spain
Year: 2011
Price: $10.95




Winery Review: Organically and naturally grown and made, this wine allows the varietal and the terroir to stand out cleanly. It shows a nice cherry color with a violet shade because of its youth. Red berries and cherries on the nose. On the palate it is fresh, slightly astringent, and harmonious with a long finish.- Vintage Cellar Tasting Notes

My Review: I wasn't a huge fan of this Tempranillo. I think I'm having a hard time getting into this variety. It smells like metal coins and also has cherry in the flavor but overall, it's just dry and doesn't really impress me. Could be better with food?

Tasting - Lobetia Chardonnay 2011

Name: Lobetia Chardonnay
Variety: Chardonnay
Region: La Mancha
Country: Spain
Year: 2011
Price: $10.95

Winery Review: Organically and naturally grown and made, this wine allows the varietal and the terroir to stand out cleanly. Clean, bright color with a greenish-yellow tone. On the nose, exotic fruits like pineapple. Full flavored, fresh, with good acidity in the mouth, it finishes with tropical fruits.- Vintage Cellar Tasting Notes

My Review: This Chardonnay was created in a bio-dynamic way, meaning they plant according to lunar cycles and follow a more traditional approach. This tasted like a pretty typically Chardonnay. It smelled fruity and was buttery and tropical on the palate.

Tasting - Trattoria Busa Alla Torre Da Lele

Name: Trattoria Busa Alla Torre Da Lele
Variety: Pinot Grigio
Region: Veneto
Country: Italy
Year: NV
Price: $7.95

Winery Review: Named after the famous restaurant in Italy! This is their house white wine! Coppery color from extended skin contact, round and rich texture with juicy melon aromas and flavors with a sweet fennel note on the ultra smooth finish. Great value Grigio! Drink now.- Vintage Cellar Tasting Notes

My Review: This Pinot was created in a sustainable method. It was floral smelling upon swirling with a little bit of that nature-y, grassy scent. It tasted citrusy and juicy and it wasn't quite as bitter as the typical Pinot Grigio, in my opinion. I liked this wine a lot and would love to enjoy it on a hot summer day.

Tasting - Ksana Bonarda

Name: Ksana Bonarda  
Variety: Bonarda
Region: Mendoza
Country: Argentina
Year: 2008
Price: $9.95

Winery Review: The bouquet is floral and lightly jammy, with berry aromas and a savory note or two. To the uninitiated, this is a great introduction to Bonarda. Finishes solid. Very sweet, berry smell with some rooty undertones. Kind of dry, makes your lips pucker.- Vintage Cellar Tasting Notes

My Review: First of all, this wine smelled like cedar to me. I used to have cedar planks in the drawers in my closet at home and this wine smells like...my closet at home. However, upon tasting it, it was extremely flavorful and DRY. The review says "kind of dry" and I found it extremely dry. Dry to the point that I felt like I needed water after drinking in. It was bursting with tannins and just a powerful bouquet. I will have to pass on this one, but would try it again if paired with food.

Tasting - Concannon Shiraz

Name: Concannon Shiraz
Variety: Shiraz
Region: Central Coast, CA
Country: USA
Year: 2008
Price: $7.95

Winery Review: This is an extremely rich, full-bodied wine with a dark fruit core. Aromas of blackberry, blueberry, cassis and dark cherry are followed by more berry fruits and chocolate and mocha on the palate.- Vintage Cellar Tasting Notes

My Review: I'm not sure how I really feel about this one. On the notes that I took, I wrote a :/ face. I noticed how much I was able to pick up the scent of coffee when I swirled this wine. It was fairly dry and bitter tasting. It tasted like "black cherry" and I really wasn't able to pick up the other berry flavors.

Tasting - Chandon Sweet Cuvée

Name: Chandon Sweet Cuvée
Variety: "Mostly Pinot Noir"
Region: California
Country: USA
Year: N/A
Price: $9.95

Winery Review:This wine is an innovative sparkling wine style revealing vibrant stone fruit and floral aromas with rich, luscious mouthfeel. This wine enlivens the senses and sparks spontaneous moments, complementing your passion for a good life. - Vintage Cellar Tasting Notes

My Review: I liked this wine quite a bit. It was bursting with those floral aromas pointed out by the Vintage Cellar. However, that stone fruit flavor really came out upon sipping this one - particularly tasting like pear. It was sweet and bubbly and quite different than anything I'd ever had before. I liked it!

Tasting - Black Ridge White Zinfandel

Name: Black Ridge White Zinfandel
Variety: Zinfandel
Region: California
Country: USA
Year: N/A
Price: $3.95

Winery Review: This fruit forward White Zinfandel displays fresh aromas and crisp flavors of strawberry, raspberry, and cherry. It is incredibly food friendly and will pair well with burgers, sandwiches, fruit salad, and more. - Vintage Cellar Tasting Notes

My Review: Hm, a White Zin. I was surprised that they even had us taste this wine considering how much Boyer hates on it in class. I found that it tasted a little bit sweet but almost metal-like. I'm not sure where I was able to pick up that taste but it was really strange. I tasted strawberry a bit in this blush wine but overall, wasn't impressed. I mean...it is $4.00....

Tasting - Wilson Daniels Sauvignon Blanc

Name: Wilson Daniels Sauvignon Blanc
Variety: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Central Coast, CA
Country: USA
Year: 2010
Price: $7.95

Winery Review: Orange blossom and citrus permeate the aromas. Alluring flavors of orange and grapefruit dominate the palate. Bright acidity balances the plush mouthfeel, resulting in a clean finish.- Vintage Cellar Tasting Notes

My Review: This wine was pretty grassy upon smelling it. It didn't smell floral but more light and springy. I didn't get the grapefruit as much as I do with other Sauvignon Blancs but this was certainly citrusy to taste. I liked this one quite a bit. It's clean, drinkable, and I'd love to have it with a fresh salad in the summer time! Thumbs up for this one.

Wine Dinner - BlackSalt - Washington, D.C.

The first weekend in April, I ventured home (Arlington, VA) to visit my mom for the weekend. We decided to do dinner and to choose our own wine pairings. BlackSalt Fish Market and Restaurant is located in Washington, DC in the Palisades neighborhood. They specialize in seafood dishes.

"BlackSalt Fish Market & Restaurant, Washington’s premier seafood restaurant, is wholly committed to the sustainability of fish and shellfish stocks worldwide. We constantly strive to source our products from companies and individuals who are like minded. Through conscientious consumption and education we can all work to protect the invaluable resources that are provided to us by the sea."

My mom and I at BlackSalt

1. Tempura Fried Tilapia with pickled vegetables, sweet chili vinaigrette, and sesame-tamari. I paired this dish with a Coopers Creek Riesling from Malbourough, NZ [2008]. My mom paired it with a Cuvee Jean-Louis Brut from France [NV].

Tempura Fried Tilapia

Coopers Creek Riesling 
"Gold Medal, Air NZ Awards. "A lovely youthful wine displaying green apple, lemon/lime, floral and subtle chalky characters on the nose. It's finely textured on the palate with crisp acidity and a beautifully flowing mouthfeel. The wine shows classic elegant Riesling structure and a lengthy finish."

My Review: The crisp acidity of this Riesling made for a perfect pairing with the lightly breaded tempura tiliapia appetizer. It cleased the palate leaving me feeling completely ready for the next bite. I really enjoyed this Riesling because it was the perfect amount of sweetness for an appetizer and didn't over power the taste of the fish. 














  

Cuvee Jean-Louis Brut 
"Fine, abundant bubbles define the Cuvée Jean-Louis Brut; its bubbles are smaller than any of our other sparkling wines. Bright and fruity on the nose, this wine exudes aromas typical of Chenin Blanc – apples, apricots and a hint of honey. The palate holds an explosion of fine bubbles followed by a smooth, fruity finish."

My Review: As we've established in class, champagne goes with everything. It cleansed the palate well, just as the Riesling did. However, the dryness of this particular champagne went perfectly with the Asian flare that the dish had.
















2. Steamed Blue Shell Mussels - Malata Style [smoked greens, chilies, and squash]. We paired this dish with the Elk Cove Pinot Gris from the Willamette Valley [2008].

Malata Steamed Blue Shell Mussels

Elk Cove Pinot Gris 
"Very light butter yellow color; green apple, applesauce, nectarine nose; ripe green apple, nectarine, lime palate; medium finish."

 Our Review: Again, having a cleansing white wine paired with a seafood dish is ideal. This citrus-y, apple-y wine was a perfect pair for the mussels which were bursting with flavor. Each mussel got better and better and the Pinot Gris helped wash it down. We loved it!

















3. Pacific Butterfish with Maine lobster and mango gastrique. We paired this with a Christian Lauverjat Sauvignon Blanc from Sancerre, France [2011].

Pacific Butterfish

  

Christian Lauverjat Sauvignon Blanc
"Lauverjat Sancerre Moulin Vrillères is a blend of different parcels of Sauvignon. It expresses clearly its aromas of white flowers and citrus fruits, and lingers long on the palate. The dominant fresh mouth does not betray its terroir. One can open it as an aperitif and finish it with fresh or mature goat’s cheese."

Our Review: I love a great Sauvignon Blanc. Since this was a small plate, it was almost considered an appetizer. This wine paired perfectly with the fish. The butterfish has an extremely buttery taste and is very flaky. The wine helped break down the butter flavor which, in comparison, a Chardonnay wouldn't be able to do because the flavor profile would be so similar. It help bring out the mango flavor as well. I enjoyed it quite a bit!








4. Dark Chocolate Cherry Bread Pudding with vanilla bean ice cream. We paired this dessert with two different dessert wines, a Chateau Villefranche Sauternes [2009] and a Disznoko Tokaji Aszu 5 Puttonyos [2000].

Dark Chocolate Cherry Bread Pudding

Chateau Villefranche Sauternes
*couldn't find a critic review online*

My Review: I am typically not a huge fan of dessert wines because I think that they sometimes overpower the sugar profile in the dessert. However, this wine paired nicely with the bread pudding because it had notes of vanilla which complimented the creaminess of the dessert. I liked it, but I don't ever think I need a wine with dessert; whereas usually, it's awesome to have a glass with dinner.














Disznoko Tokaji Aszu 5 Puttonyos
"Light medium orange color; rich caramel, coffee, orange syrup nose; orange syrup, tangerine, tangy lemon syrup, mineral palate; long finish."
 

My Review: This wine was incredibly sweet and definitely much too sweet for my palate. It was too powerful for the bread pudding and I was not able to even finish my glass. I think that syrup is the perfect way to describe this wine because it was so thick. I was able to pick up the mineral flavors at the end of each sip.

Tasting - Caprice de Bastor - Lamontagne

Name: Caprice de Bastor - Lamontagne
Variety: 60% Semillon, 36% Sauvignon Blanc, 4% Muscadelle

Region: Sauternes
Country: France
Year: 2004
Price:$7.95

 Winery Review:Very clean, with lemon, mineral and honey aromas that follow through to a medium body. Shows vanilla, apple and melon flavors, with a medium finish. Lightly sweet. - Vintage Cellar Tasting Notes

My Review: This wine was very interesting, but not necessarily in a good way. I just had a Sauternes last evening (Saturday) and it was technically a dessert wine and didn't taste at all like this. I thought this particular wine smelled very alcoholic at first and then I was really able to pick up tones of creamy vanilla. Almost like a Chardonnay, but not quite. I was unsure about this wine because it wasn't very sweet but was saved for last because it was supposed to be sweet...maybe I'm just confused all together about this one. Either way, I didn't care for it.

Tasting - Torre Castillo Alegre

Name: Torre Castillo Alegre
Variety: 100% Monastrell
Region: Jumilla
Country: Spain
Year: 2010
Price: $9.95

Winery Review: 4 months in new American oak barrels. Bright ruby-red. Dried cherry, pipe tobacco and rose aromas, with a hint of woodsmoke. Sweet and fleshy on the palate, with blackberry and cherry flavors complimented by licorice and a suggestion of dried herbs. The cherry and smoke notes repeat on the finish. - Vintage Cellar Tasting Notes

My Review: Wow, that sure WAS oaked for 4 months. This was an extremely dry wine although it was cherry and smoky upon smelling (which I really like). This wine had entirely too much flavor for my novice taste buds but I don't think I could sit and drink this. I'd be interested to see what it's like with food because it's way too powerful by itself. Not a huge fan.

Tasting - Wilson Daniels Merlot

Name: Wilson Daniels Merlot
Variety: Paso Robles Merlot
Region: Central Coast, California
Country: United States
Year: 2010
Price: $7.95

Winery Review: Made predominantly from Paso Robles grapes, the wine is full-bodied and silky yet  robust, with aromas of black cherry and plum and a palate of blackberry, raspberry, and blueberry jam laced with vanilla and toast. - Vintage Cellar Tasting Notes

My Review: I've never been a huge fan of Merlot, mainly because a lot of what I have learned, I've learned from my mom, and she's definitely not into this particular grape one bit. It smells great, with berries and plum bursting in the nose but is tobacco-y and spicy when tasted. It was just a little bit too much for my liking.

Tasting - Bricco Dei Tati Rose

Name: Bricco Dei Tati Rose

Variety: 100% Barbera

Region: N/A

Country: Italy

Year: 2012

Price: $6.95

Winery Review: Fresh with aromas of strawberries, cherries, and rose petals, this an ideal wine with shellfish, salads, chicken, and appetizers. - Vintage Cellar Tasting Notes

My Review: I'm having a tough time getting into rose wine. The color and smell always lead me to believe that it will consistently be fruity and sweet and this one definitely wasn't. It was strawberry smelling upon swirling, however bitter and acidic upon sipping. Not a huge fan.

 

Tasting - Smoking Loon Sauvignon Blanc

Name: Smoking Loon Sauvignon Blanc
Variety: Sauvignon Blanc
Region: California
Country: United States
Year: 2009
Price: $7.95

Winery Review: This bleached blonde beauty is reminiscent of fresh green apples, pineapple and has hints of hibiscus blossoms. The concentration of zesty lemon and gooseberry fills your mouth leaving notes of thyme and melon behind. The bright acid in this wine gives you a zing while the fruit keeps your mouth watering for more. This wine pairs beautifully with a grilled prawn salad with a grapefruit vinaigrette, veggie spring rolls or grilled tilapia with mango salsa.

My Review: The first Sauvignon Blanc I ever had was in South Africa. I loved it. With that also being my first tasting ever, I had a great impression of the Sauvignon Blanc grape over-all. However, I was not terribly impressed with this particular bottle. It seemed over-bearingly acidic and it was hard to simply sip on. I would be interested to see how this wine tastes with that grilled tilapia and mango salsa! yum! I'd give this one another shot. 

Tsating - Ruta 22 Malbec

Name: Ruta 22 Malbec
Variety: Malbec
Region: Patagonia
Country: Argentina
Year: N/A
Price: $7.95

Winery review:Stout and dense from the beginning, with blackberry and violet aromas. Despite being a bold and dark Malbec, this is fresh and composed, with sweet blackberry and cassis flavors. Good on the finish, with candied fruit and caramel sweetness. - Vintage Cellar Tasting Notes  

My review: I definitely pick up the blackberry in this wine. However, it was way too dry for my liking. And, it was the kind of dry that leaves your mouth gasping for water. Not my favorite. I haven't really gotten into Malbec's but I'd like to continue to experiment!

Tasting - Château Serres Sainte Lucie Corbières

Name: Château Serres Sainte Lucie Corbières 
Variety: Syrah, Grenache, and Mourvèdre
Region: Corbières
Country: France
Year: N/A
Price: $4.95

Winery review: Superb dark garnet color with a few reflections of dark orange. Intense nose of ripe fruits, spices, and roasted coffee. The palate is rounded and full, with silky matured tannins and hints of vanilla. This wine is rich and powerful with layers of tannins. - Vintage Cellar Tasting Notes

My review: Wow! This has a lot, a lot of flavor. But first of all, upon smelling it, I immediately picked up a barnyard hay smell...which was extraordinarily strange. However, I think that this wine would have a much better result for me if paired with food. I don't feel like I could just sit around and sip on this one. The man working at the Vintage Cellar compared it to a South African Merlot.

Tasting - Cresta Azul

Name: Cresta Azul
Variety: Moscatel, Macabeo, Parellada, Xarel-lo
Region: Girona
Country: Spain
Year: N/A
Price: $5.95

 

 

Winery review: Peach, orange cream and vanilla flavors mingle in this softly bubbly white. Off-dry, but with crisp acidity and a clean finish. - Vintage Cellar Tasting Notes

My review: These are the grapes that are usually used in Cava wines from Spain. I definitely pick up the peach and orange cream in this wine. I really, really loved it. It was bursting with fruity, but not too sweet smells and even better when tasted. I picked up a bottle of this one and killed it over the weekend. I'm a fan! 

Tasting - Veleta Tempranillo Rosado 2010

Name: Veleta Tempranillo Rosado 2010
Variety: 100% Tempranillo
Region: Granada
Country: Spain
Year: 2010
Price: $3.95

Winery review: Fresh in flavor and crisp in texture, this dry rosé offers berry, tart cherry and light herbal flavors, with firm acidity and a clean finish. Focused and juicy.- Vintage Cellar Tasting Notes

My review: I wasn't a huge fan of this wine. I agree that it had a very clean finish - in that, it didn't leave a lasting after taste in my mouth. However, I fould it to be oak-y in smell and taste as well as sour. It wasn't sweet enough for my liking and I didn't understand that "juicy" description at all. I'm a fan of Tempranillo but not this one!

Tasting - Veleta Brut Vino Espumoso Rosado

Name: Veleta Brut Vino Espumoso Rosado
Variety: NV
Region: Granada
Country: Spain
Year: N/A
Price: $3.95

 
Winery review: Rosé salmon with copper reflections. Slow rising fine bubble that forms “lace” and “rosary”. In the nose is complex and elegant with red fruit, citric, exotic, fresh flowers, and notes of dry fruits and dry flowers. Fresh, gentle, and alive. Perfectly integrated “perlage” with serious and subtle flavors of dry fruits, pomegranate and lemonade. Long lasting scent of flowers and herbs.- Vintage Cellar Tasting Notes

My review: This wine had a sharp, dry smell to it upon swirling. It tasted a bit coppery and like metal in my opinion. I would describe it as more musky and I definitely didn't get the fresh flower sense when I tasted it. I wasn't a fan of this rose at all and feel as though many reviewers describe rose's in a floral sense and I don't agree with that 80% of the time. I don't think I'll be having this again!

Winery Visit - Beliveau Estate

On Friday, March 29th, my boyfriend and I and another couple all drove out to Beliveau Estate Winery on the far end of Blacksburg for a wine and chocolate pairing event. I have only ever been on an official winery visit during my time in South Africa so I was pretty excited to try some Blacksburg wines. We drove out there Friday evening for this event. (The first two photos were borrowed from a friend who ventured out on Saturday and snapped some photos with better light!)

Beliveau Estate Winery, Blacksburg, VA

Beliveau Estate is a very new winery. As you can see in the photo above, they don't have many vines. However, they have a large variety of grapes and have done some serious experimentation with their blending. Some of the grape varieties that they have include: Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Concord (yes, like the jelly!), Niagra, Chardonnay, Zinfandel, and Reisling. They first planted in 2009 and first pick was just last year. The winery itself opened in 2012. The bottles that are currently for sale at both their winery and shop in downtown Blacksburg came from their first pick!

At Beliveau, they also grow lavender plants! That pavilion is where roughly 20 weddings a year take place.

The sun was setting just as we were pulling up.

Like I said, we had wine and chocolate which made this experience a little bit more exciting for me. I am a chocolate lover and when I found out that 4/6 chocolates were made from scratch at the winery, I was completely sold.

When we first arrived, they poured us each a small tasting of a Red Zinfandel that had been French-oaked but not yet released. It was extremely delicious, light red in color, and very oaky tasting. This wasn't a part of the tasting though.

1. A Capella

"100% Landot Noir red table wine has distinct berry overtones. A wonderful sipping wine!"

 

My Review: This first wine was not oak-y at all but was very sweet and fruity. I was definitely able to pick up traces of strawberry in this wine. I liked it quite a bit but it's 2% sugar made it almost too sweet for my taste! It was paired nicely with homemade white chocolate covered granny smith apples and almonds.

White Chocolate covered Granny Smith apples with almonds.

2. Summer Rose
"A Sweet wine of blended reds. YUMMY!"

My Review: I found this wine to be very sweet. It has a sense of fall spice to it and paired nicely with a cinnamon chocolate (which was not made in-house but purchased). As soon as this wine was tasted with the chocolate, the flavors of cinnamon and spice erupted in both the wine and the chocolate - it was pretty incredible. This wine is considered a sweet table wine and I enjoyed it. However, I don't think I could drink more that a glass of it.



3. Warm Glow
"Our semi sweet Chambourcin is rich in flavors of plum, dark cherries, almond, and succulent pear. This is velvet to the palate!" BRONZE MEDALIST

 

 

My Review: This wine had a beautiful dark purple color to it. I've never had a wine made from Chambourcin grapes and I was very impressed by it's full-bodied taste. If this wine had been oaked, it would have been considered "Bordeaux" style. It was made with soft yeast, 2% sugar, no oaking, no malolactic fermentation. The cherry flavor in this robust wine was brought out nicely when paired with a light chocolate mousse topped with maraschino cherries. I would have definitely gone back for seconds if given the opportunity to with this one! yum!

Warm Glow & Chocolate Mousse topped with maraschino cherries.

4. Serenity
"This after dinner favorite is a blend of two chambourcins. It's decadadent flavor pairs fabulously with chocolate. A perfect hostess or friendship gift." SILVER MEDALIST

 

  

My Review: I picked up strong tannins in this wine. Tobacco, chocolate, and cherry flavors as well. It has a a chocolate-cherry smell to it upon swirling and even has a slight fizz to it upon sipping. I didn't realize this winery made carbonated wines but they sure do, and I love 'em! This was paired nicely with a homemade truffle of chocolate ganache with this same wine infused into the filling! Delicious. (I didn't take a picture of it because it just looked like a chocolate square...)


 
5. Silhouette
"Our Cabernet Sauvignon is a cornucopia of light berry flavors topped with a spicy overtone"

My Review: 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 20% California Zinfandel. This was a dry wine. Finally! I really am into Cab Savs but I'm pretty particular about them as I can't handle the super spicy ones quite yet. This wine was a little musky, had a light French oak taste and smell. I picked up strawberry and cherry in the smell as well. It was very easy to drink as it was much lighter than a typical Cab Sav. This wine was paired with a store-bought lavender chocolate and the two complimented each other very nicely. Again, the wine made the fullness of the lavender fully come out of the chocolate when consumed together.


6. Afternoon Delight
"This lightly oaked dry Vidal Blanc has overtones of grapefruit and vanilla"

 

 

My Review: This was the only white that we had and it was a dry table white. It was French oaked and went through malolactic fermentation. This wine was also pretty dry but I enjoyed it. However, I wasn't a huge fan of the chocolate it was paired with. They chose a dark chocolate peppermint heart with pieces of broken up peppermint candies in it. I'm not a huge peppermint fan to begin with, but I also just didn't think it did anything for the wine.

Afternoon Delight & Dark Chocolate Peppermint heart.

Area behind the wine bar where wines are displayed.

Tasting the Silhouette with Matt.

It's pretty gorgeous out there!