March 6, 2012
Wine Tasting, Bryant University Boston Regional Alumni Assoc., Wellesley, MA
2009 Buehler Chardonnay Russian River Valley (California) – Chardonnay grape
The 2009 Chardonnay Russian River (18,000 cases produced) is a steal. Fresh honeysuckle notes intermixed with pineapple and white peach nuances emerge from this medium-bodied effort. There is not a hint of oak in this beauty, only a luscious texture, good freshness and crisp acids. Enjoy it over the next 1-2 years. Rated 88 The Wine Advocate
2009 Patient Cottat Sauvignon Blanc Le Grand Caillou Loire Valley (France) – Sauvignon Blanc grape
Racy, with pink grapefruit, lemon zest and gooseberry notes all bouncing through the mouthwatering finish.Rated 88 The Wine Spectator
2010 King Estate Winery Pinot Gris Acrobat (Oregon) – Pinot Gris/Pinot Grigio grape
Light and refreshing, with melon and apricot flavors on an open frame. Rated 89 The Wine Spectator
2010 Vinodivino Chenin Blanc Naissance Blanche (France) – Chenin Blanc grape
Vibrant yet nuanced citrus and mineral on the nose, followed by a medium-bodied, gentle mouth-feel that’s complemented by lingering notes of Meyer lemon and red grapefruit. This 100% Chenin Blanc drinks like a baby Sancerre, yet costs no more than a great value house white! vinodivino.com
2009 Lurton Malbec Reserva Mendoza (Argentina) – Malbec grape
Bright dark red. Redcurrant, nutty oak, tar and spices on the nose, with floral and tobacco hints. Suave and smooth in the mouth, with harmonious acidity and herbal peppery lift leavening the wine’s sweetness. Nothing overripe or overextracted about this supple wine. Finishes classically dry, with smooth tannins, nice length and lovely lift. International Wine Center Rated 89
2009 Vina Cobos Cabernet Sauvignon “Felino“Mendoza (Argentina) – blend of primarily Cabernet Sauvignon, with Syrah & Petit Verdot grapes
A deep ruby hue accompanies an earthy nose, rich with aromas of fine-grained leather and licorice. The palate is generous and complex, with intrepid notes of black currant and boysenberry weaved together with graphite and sweet tobacco. Ripe, plush tannins combine with subtle minerality creating an ideal balance and a lengthy finish. Winemaker Decanter-Gold Rated 90 VindeVino
2009 Elk Cove Pinot Noir Willamette Valley (Oregon) – Pinot Noir grape
This fresh red is inviting and invigorating for its juicy black currant, plum and white pepper flavors, playing with zest against polished tannins and lively acidity. Rated 91 The Wine Advocate WINE SPECTATOR SMART BUY
2009 Paringa Shiraz by David Hickinbotham South Australia (Australia) – Shiraz/Syrah grape
Supple, polished and appealing for its dark, brooding, licorice-accented boysenberry pie flavors, complete with baked dough notes on the enticing finish. Rated 89 The Wine Spectator