March Rave Picks
Saint Clair Vicar's Choice Riesling 2007
Riesling
Marlborough, ,,
New Zealand
“Tangy and focused, with bright intensity to green apple, white peach and pretty floral nuances. Just a hint of fruit sweetness takes the edge off the acidity.” Wine Spectator
$14.00
Bodegas Cal Blanca Cal Blanca 2007
Tempranillo
Toro, Castilla Leon,
Spain
“The opaque purple-colored 2007 Cal Blanca is 100% Tempranillo sourced from 80- to 100-year-old vines. It was aged in seasoned French oak for six months followed by three months in 5000-liter concrete tanks to provide unoaked oxygenation. It delivers a nose of roasted mineral, black cherry, and blackberry. This leads to a structured wine with exceptional richness, outstanding concentration, and a lengthy finish. Drink this remarkable value over the next six years.” Wine Advocate
$16.50
Mohua Sauvignon Blanc 2009
Sauvignon Blanc
Marlborough, ,,
New Zealand
“Fresh pear and candied lemon aromas and flavors remain fresh and zingy through the finish in this lively white.” Wine Spectator
$15.00
Tomero Malbec 2008
Malbec
Mendoza, ,,
Argentina
“Vivacious loganberry and linzer torte flavors course through this juicy, medium-weight Malbec, with spice and sweet toast gently framing the finish.” Wine Spectator
$16.00
Alta Vista Cabernet Sauvignon Classic 2007
Cabernet Sauvignon
Mendoza, ,,
Argentina
Great value Cabernet. An intense nose of black fruits, cedar and earth give way to plum jam flavors on the palate. But with enough acidity that the wine is not like syrup! Decently dry finish exposes pepper and spice.
$15.00
Caligiore Bonarda Reserve 2008
Bonarda
Mendoza, ,,
Argentina
This wine combines hearty blueberry and cherry with hints of fig and milk chocolate. It feels sweet, but crisp, and has a long, subtle finish with smooth well integrated tannins.
The origin of Bonarda in Argentina is a subject of disagreement, some say it hails from Italy & others feel it is the Charbono grape from California... what ever the case, it has found its home in Mendoza & is the second most planted red grape in Argentina.
$16.00
Misiones Rengo Carmenere Cuvee 2007
Carmenere
Rapel Valley, ,,
Chile
“Looking for a juggernaut red that cries out for steak? Give this lush, stylish, nearly flawless Carmenère a shot and you won’t be disappointed. The nose opens with toast, mineral, herbs, olive and berry fruit, and the palate is more of the same. In terms of feel, it’s smooth and elegant, yet ripe and forceful. Finishes crusty and long. A winner from a winery that up until now hasn’t shown much.” Wine Enthusiast
$20.00
Roza Ridge Roadside Market Red NV
6 varieties
Rattlesnake Hills, Washington,
USA
A “kitchen sink” blend of 6 grapes. Deep ruby in color. Baked berry, crème brulee, dried apricot and spice aromas lead to a round, supple yet fruity, medium to full body with nice layers of clove, cinnamon, cedar and toffee notes. Finishes with a peppery spice. BTI just rated it 90 points.
$13.50
Elena Walch Pinot Grigio Prendo 2008
Pinot Gris
Alto Adige, ,,
Italy
More full-bodied and richer than many other wines in this category, elegant and smooth. Flavors are compact and fresh, forceful and harmonious with delicate spice, good structure, mild acidity; succulent but dry on the finish.
$14.00
Babcock Syrah Under the Radar 2006
Syrah
Santa Ynez Valley, California,
USA
“Though well structured, its full yet supple finish makes it enjoyable now. The wine has a deep ruby color with lively blackberry/raspberry fruit in the nose accompanied by a wood spice on the palate. It is composed primarily of Estelle Vineyard Syrah, with a few “remnants” from our reserve red wine programs adding to its value. Easy to drink now, you can afford to open another bottle without hesitation. It’s noble enough to be served with a medium rare steak; priced fairly enough to have everyday.” The Winemaker
$13.00