The fancy name — Pouilly Fuissé — might scare people off from checking out this wine, but don’t be intimidated. With fruit and acidity like this, it’s not scared of you. Pouilly Fuissé is a subregion of Maconnais in France’s Burgundy area (this might make it clearer: ... Read More »
White
Reviews of whites wines
Wine reviews: A to Z 2007 Riesling Oregon and A to Z 2008 Pinot Noir Oregon
A to Z, a winery whose clever slogan is “aristocratic wines at democratic prices”, is a partnership of some of the best talent in Oregon’s Willamette Valley. If you’ve tried (and enjoyed) wines from Penner Ash, Rex Hill or Chehelem, you’ll love what’s in bottles ... Read More »
Wine review: Feudi di San Gregorio 2009 LaCryma Christi Bianco
The Lacryma Christi name (translation: tears of Christ) is quite a mouthful but this refreshing Italian white wine goes down easy. It hails from the Campania region of Southwestern Italy, near the city of Naples. A blend of indigenous white grapes, Coda di Volpe and Falaghina, this tart citrus number ... Read More »
Wine review: Hugel 2006 Pinot Gris Classic Alsace
Unlike many labels that lure you in with clever labels (this one is designed by Ralph Steadman), the juice inside this bottle isn’t plonk. The Hugel family brand from France’s Alsace region is known for its quality, 370 year history and dedication to the land.
... Read More »Wine reviews: Villa Maria 2009 Cellar Selection Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc
A few months ago, Villa Maria Estate got a Vitamin B-12 shot in their marketing. Ste. Michelle Wine Estates — the sales and marketing powerhouse behind Ste. Michelle Winery, Columbia Crest and Erath — began importing and marketing New Zealand’s “biggest boutique winery.” ... Read More »
Five American red and white wines over $30 worth the price
Current reports say wine prices won’t reach the offensive heights we’ve seen in the past ten years for quite a while, if ever again. Value is the new norm. Bad for the wineries who have enjoyed mega profits and success but good thing for us, right? Now, we can enjoy $60, $80, $100 for ... Read More »
Wine reviews: Hogue Cellars 2008 Genesis Riesling and 2007 Meritage
On a recent trip to Hogue Cellars in Eastern Washington State, I tasted pretty much every wine they make. The 2008 Genesis Riesling — they have three tiers of wines: Hogue, Hogue Genesis, Hogue Terroir — impressed me like the cured salmon and crème fraiche they paired it with. But when ... Read More »
Wine review: Dry Creek 2009 Dry Chenin Blanc and 2006 Mariner
Dry Creek Vineyards isn’t one of those jump up and down, shouting “look at me!” wineries. They thankfully haven’t gone down the animal-on-the-label road nor have they succumbed to posting promotional drivel on Facebook and Twitter. They’re thoughtful, consistent and course-stayers ... Read More »
Wine review: Kim Crawford 2009 Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough
Overwhelming flavors, reminiscent of sucking on a key lime. Grapefruit and green herbs rush up the nose and onto the tongue. The acidity is almost too present — the wine isn’t as balanced or as smooth as other vintages.
... Read More »Wine review for World Cup: Indaba 2009 Chenin Blanc South Africa
Perhaps you’re looking for a refreshing white wine to guzzle with World Cup matches? This South African Chenin Blanc (aka “Steen”) scores well in the extreme value department, as well as the deliciousness.
... Read More »Wine review: Sbragia 2009 Sauvignon Blanc Home Ranch
I’m not sure what they’re thinking trying to sell a $18-$20 sauvignon blanc in this economy, but I’d pay that for it since I’ve tasted it. Here I am jumping up and down, trying to tell you that Ed Sbragia is frickin’ brilliant. Brilliant, I tell you.
... Read More »Corporate wineries: The best of the worst
I’m not saying there’s anything wrong with wines produced by massive corporations, but as I’ve harped on before, the little guys generally make better wine, displaying more heart and soul. Both attempt to produce income but corporations exist solely to do so. So I already have a ... Read More »