WINEormous is constantly evolving. We are open to suggestions and encourage feedback. One idea I got that we are now implementing is tasting notes. I plan on having reviews for one or two wines weekly, more frequently if possible.
Our first review is from Adrian Flores. Salut!
9/14/09
Italian reds
Just as Rome has its Coliseum, and Venice its canals, the many regions of Italy have distinctive grape varietals which are landmarks all their own. From Piedmont: Nebbiolo. From Tuscany: Sangiovese, the star of such favorites as Chianti Classico. I recently tasted examples of both regional offerings: a 2004 Ramale Nebbiolo by Torraccia del Piantavigna (Piedmont) and a 2005 Chianti Classico by Poggio Basso (Tuscany).
Initially tight out of the bottle, the Ramale Nebbiolo quickly opened up to release a bouquet of strawberry, cherry, plum and a slight tobacco typical of the Piedmont region. Also present on the nose was a nice, subtle smoked meat. The initial palate followed suit with tart cherry and plum carried over from the nose, joined quickly by soft cranberry and tannic structure. This Piedmont classic closed with subdued minerals and spice, the cranberry developing into a tart citrus. Throughout, the wine presented drier than its 12.5% ABV would suggest.
Showcasing Sangiovese, the Poggio Basso Chianti Classico offered a familiar nose: strawberry and spice with subtle leather coming through. On the palate, the experience was much the same with classic Sangiovese strawberries and spice. The Chianti finished cleanly with a crisp dryness and approachable structure.
Varying greatly as the Italian countryside evolves, the regional specialties of Italy take on as many different characteristics as the land itself. The above are but two examples of the landmark, regional wines, the exploration of which could take a lifetime…but what a rewarding life it would be!
9/9/09
New world, Old grapes
New world vines often breathe new life into old world varietals, offering a fresh take on time tested standards. This is true of two wines I recently enjoyed: a 2003, 100% varietal Cabernet Sauvignon by Vina Robles (San Miguel/ Paso Robles, CA) and a 2007, 100% varietal Malbec by Masia de Yabar (Temecula, CA).
Straight out of the bottle, the Vina Robles Cabernet presented beautifully with a complex, yet subtle, bouquet of dark berries, bitter cocoa and rich English pipe tobacco. The complexity of the nose carried over onto the palate which saw beautifully developed tannins and a deep, rich fruit typical of Paso’s treatment of old world mainstays like Cabernet Sauvignon. To finish, this exciting wine offered bold espresso and cocoa, and even hinted at pepper and spice.
Equally inspired by the new world treatment, Masia de Yabar’s Malbec is a world away from the meager, overlooked blending grape of its Bordeaux past. Imported from Argentina- where the varietal reaches its peak- these grapes were brought to life by the Temecula winery to create a wine which offered a bouquet of ripe fruit and floral notes, rounded out by soft vanilla (from its partially American Oak aging). The palate expressed berries and spice, and finished crisply with sweet, gentle tannins. At 13.8% ABV, this was a structured and balanced offering.
Though from varied geographical origins, these two wines showed just what can result from a new perspective on classic varietals. The grape is the same; it is the development and presentation which adapt.
7/24/09
I recently enjoyed two wines perfectly suited to these warm, Summer months: a 100% varietal Viognier by Villicana (Paso Robles) and a 53% Viognier/ 47% Marsanne by Treana (Paso Robles). Both offerings were vintage 2007.
The Villicana presented like a Viognier should, with a nose consisting mainly of green apples and citrus. A light minerality and floral notes rounded out the bouquet. The initial palate saw the apples and minerals carry over from the nose, and the wine finished with subtle pear and citrus, making for a truly refreshing summer wine.
More complex, and equally enjoyable, was the Treana. This wine opened wirh a lovely bouquet of ripe Summer berries and stone fruits, hinting also at soft minerals and floral notes. On the palate, the Treana expressed bold dried fruits (especially apricot) on a wonderfully balanced canvas of ripe summer berries, soft minerals and citrus. The intriguing finish saw hints of almond and even allusions to white pepper and spice. The Treana was beautifully structured throughout.
Both the 100% Viognier offering from Villicana and the Viognier/Marsanne from treana were beautifullly executed wines, perfect for pairing with light, grilled Summer fair or for sipping on their own one a warm day.
