January 14, 2012
North Shore Wine Tasting Group, Wines of The Pacific Northwest, Gloucester, MA
2009 Snoqualmie Naked Gewurztraminer (Washington State) – Gewurztraminer grape
Snoqualmie’s Naked wines are produced from 100% organically grown grapes from USDSA certified organic vineyards in the Columbia Valley American Viticultural Area. Orange blossom and spice aromas are complimented by a refreshingly crisp and juicy mouthful of fruit flavor. This wine has decidedly pure impressions of fully mature Gewürztraminer grapes and would pair well with spicy Asian stir fry dishes.snoqualmie.com
2008 Eyrie Pinot Gris Estate (Oregon) – Pinot Gris/Pinot Grigio grape
The 2008 Pinot Gris Estate has an alluring nose of melon, mineral, and floral notes leading to a creamy-textured, rich, concentrated wine. The price is a steal. Rated 91 The Wine Advocate
2009 Charles Smith The Velvet Devil Merlot (Washington State) – Merlot grape
Sweet, heady, ripe cherry nose. Medium-bodied, gentle and has charm, light tannins, delicious and bright. Stephen Brook, Decanter Magazine Soft and appealing for its currant and floral flavors, finishing gently. Wine Spectator
2009 Primarius Pinot Noir (Oregon) – Pinot Noir grape
Bright and lively, with a hint of candy to the cherry and mint flavors, finishing with polish. Rated 88 The Wine Spectator Silky with layers of fruit that unfold on the palate, this Oregon Pinot Noir lives up to its name: Pramarius, Latin for distinguished. Sourced from high quality Oregon vineyards, Primarius speaks of the state’s idyllic climate for producing Pinot Noir. Winery
2010 Montinore Estate Pinot Noir (Columbia Valley, Washington State) – Pinot Noir grape
There are serious, ponderous wines, and there are wines that bring a smile. This is a wine that brings a smile…and a smack of the lips. It was a pleasure to pull this cork. Aromas of strawberry, spicy black pepper, floral perfume and grapefruit zest lead to charming flavors of fresh berry, pepper and light toasty notes. Nothing to ponder, just a delight to enjoy. winesnw.com
2009 Sleight of Hand Spellbinder Red (Washington State)
The 2009 Spellbinder is a blend of 42% Cabernet Franc, 21% Cabernet Sauvignon, 14% Syrah, 12% Merlot, and 11% Sangiovese. Fragrant cherries, herbs, and spices lead to a savory, ripe, pleasure-bent red perfect for quaffing with pizza and burgers. This balanced, lengthy effort can be enjoyed over the next 4-5 years. Sleight of Hand Cellars began in 2007 coming out of the chute with some superb values, wines which are easy to spot on retail shelves because of their bright, magician-themed labels. Rated 89 The Wine Advocate