August 1, 2015
Wines of the Southern Hemisphere
West LINN, OR
2012 Anakena Syrah Rosé Enco (Cachapoal Valley, Chile) – 100% Syrah grape
A fresh Syrah Rosé with cherry, plum, and raspberry aromas on the nose. Smooth and well-rounded on the palate, this wine shows excellent balance between acidity and tannins leading to a long and pleasing finish. This wine exhibits a shiny ruby-red color with beautiful hues on the glass. On the nose it expresses scents of red cherry, plums intermingled with raspberry notes. The palate is gentle and round. Winery
2014 Chakana Wine Maipe Malbec Rosé (Mendoza, Argentina) – 100% Malbec grape
Don't let this pink wine fool you - the nose is a bit demure, with subtle red cherry, paprika and apple suggestions, then it bursts to life on the palate with juicy ripe raspberry, maraschino cherry and sunny red grapefruit. The finish is clean and precise. Lightly chill this down and enjoy it with barbecued skewers of chicken, red peppers, mushrooms and herbs. VINTAGES.com
2014 Brancott Estate Sauvignon Blanc (Marlborough, New Zealand) – 100% Sauvignon Blanc grape
"Pale straw-yellow. Pungent aromas of grapefruit pith, lime zest and tarragon, with hints of tropical fruits. Fat and dry, showing good cut and intensity along with a hint of youthful reduction; conveys a slightly dusty texture owing to the unabsorbed CO2. Finishes lightly saline and persistent, with a bit of lemony tartness." Rated 87 International Wine Cellar
2012 Casa Silva Sauvignon Gris 1912 Vines (Valle de Colchagua, Chile) – 100% Sauvignon Gris grape
From over 100-year-old vines in Colchagua Valley, was thought to be Sauvignon Blanc until 1998 when they discovered it was actually Sauvignon Gris. Pale straw color, über-minerally, herbaceous, "hot" lemon, not overly acidic but it clings to the teeth, white pear and peach on the clean finish. wineminx.blogspot.com
2012 Tyrrell’s Wines Old Winery Semillon (Hunter Valley, Australia) – 100% Semillon grape
The Old Winery Semillon is pale in colour and has floral aromas on the nose. With its soft lemon/lime citrus flavours, lighter fresher structure and clean refreshing finish, this attractive wine style is a great alternative to sauvignon blanc or riesling. Serve slightly chilled. An ideal accompaniment to fresh seafood, antipasto and white meat dishes. winelistawards.com
2012 Crios Torrontes (Mendoza, Argentina) – 100% Torrontes grape
The 2012 Crios Torrontes comes from Cafayate in Salta, Altamira and La Rioja from 33-year-old vines. It has much more presence and vivacity than the Chardonnay, with scents of lime, peach and melon that are well-defined. The palate is well-balanced with a prickle of white pepper on the entry. It displays moderate length in the mouth, while the finish is crisp and taut. with notes of pear, bruised apple and dried orange peel. This is worth seeking out for the price. Rated 88 The Wine Advocate