With 2020 nearing the finish line (thank goodness), we were able to squeeze in a few more wine tastings. With a limited number of guests practicing social distancing, we gathered at Helen’s place to taste wine and as always enjoy some good food.
When most people think of wines from Lodi, they think red. You may be surprised to find out Lodi produces exceptional whites. Prééminance is a Chardonnay, Vermentino, and Sauvignon Blanc blend from Peltier Winery & Vineyards. Helen found it light and fruity. Jonathan said it was smooth, but a bit pricey at $30. Lisa enjoyed the peach and apricot nose and called it creamy. It scored just under four out of a possible five stars.
We traveled to Tuscany for our next offering, Frescobaldi’s 2019 Alie. Based on a figure from Greek mythology, this beautiful rosé is a blend of Syrah and Vermentino. Lisa enjoyed its crisp and refreshing character. Michael called the nose peachy with hints of spice and said the wine “leaves you wanting more.” Randy also picked up on the peach notes and enjoyed the finish. I liked the pretty coral color, and found it easy drinking and at $20, a good value. It scored a solid four and a half stars.
Wente’s 2018 Wetmore Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon was up next. Aged in oak for 18 months, I liked its deep color and dark fruit notes. Helen felt it was a bit too light. Scott called it clean, balanced, and well made. Wanda said it was rich and tasty and great for the $25 price. It scored just over four stars.
Next up was Merry Edwards 2017 Meredith Estate Russian River Valley Pinot Noir. Lisa admired its beautiful color and cherry nose. Micheal loved the lingering finish. I was amazed by how dark it was for a Pinot, and was entranced by its big bold nose. Ken called the nose amazing and said of the wine “I LIKE IT!” Scott said it was the wine of the night. It scored better than four and a half stars and it sells for $68.
Mullan Road Cellars is based in Washington State, and their 2016 Red Wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. Ken called the nose ‘unique’, with spice and graphite. Wanda thought it was smooth, and a great value at $39. “Totally my cup of tea,” said Helen, who is, indeed, a tea drinker. Randy said it was an excellent blend. It garnered four perfect five-star scores and averaged better than four and a half stars.
The last wine of the evening was an entry from Paso Robles, Brecon Estate’s 2018 Cabernet Franc. Ken thought the nose was amazing and called the wine smooth with a nice finish. I felt it fired on all cylinders. Michael enjoyed the lingering finish and said it was very smooth. At $73, it scored just over four stars.