We particularly enjoyed a 2011 fruit-forward but earthy Tempranillo with its strong berry nose that carried through to the palate. But the hit of the tasting for us was a rich, bold Refosco, with its rich berry and plum tastes—a rare wine in the US that is usually grown in Italy.
Laura and Tom Plant - Mr. & Mrs. WINEormous - photo by Todd Montgomery
Photos by Todd Montgomery and Tom Plant
If there is a “King of Wine” in the Te...
Danza’s winemaker is Mike Tangley who has been at Danza for more than two years and is producing some exceptional wines. He says, “I am looking to create wines that cannot be produced anywhere else and will be memorable to our customers.” Danza sits on 35 lush acres with eight of those acres full of the oldest Sauvignon Blanc grapes in Temecula.
2009 Lake County “Ranch Collection” Cabernet Sauvignon. One of the favorites of the evening, this deep red cab was full of tart berry tastes, with hints of smoke, cherry wood and vanilla. It went well with the sharp cheddar, mustard and nuts but was especially enhanced by the chocolate and the desserts, particularly the genoise with its sweet lemon flavors. We agreed that this was an excellent buy for the quality at $19.
The most interesting part of this particular evening was how the taste of the wines changed with the wide variety of foods prepared. It was surprising that some of the food enhanced wines for which they were not specifically paired. It was a learning experience for all of us on how dramatically food can improve or detract from the taste of wine.
As a final course, we were treated to a coconut macaroon torte served with a luscious white chocolate Grand Mariner crème. (Now you must be salivating.) What could make this dish more wonderful? A bright ruby Chocolate Strawberry wine that was full of fruit and strawberry aromas, yet on the palate had a mild chocolate taste that was only slightly sweet and did not overpower the delicious dessert
Louis Metoyer and mother Velma
While the Mardi Gras celebrations were going on in New Orleans during February, Temecula was (and still is) also celebrating ...
By Susan Montgomery
It was a dark and stormy Saturday. The rain was cold and steady, with only intermittent breaks. Temperatures hovered in the mid 40s. Bu...
Much to my surprise, Jeri and Dawn decided they had to show their Midwest stuff and ride the bull. (Could this decision have been colored by a day of wine drinking?)
There are also lots of bunnies and lizards at Oak Mountain. It’s a dog’s paradise. I must say their lizards are too fast for me and their bunnies disappear as soon as I approach. (It must be those darn jingling bells around my neck that warn them.) But I will not give up.
