Wines
of the Week: Wintertime Whites and Rosés
Just
because it's cold and dreary outside, doesn't mean
it has to feel that way inside. For any wine lover out there
who longs for the feeling of spring now, here are a few bottles
ideally suited for a lovely afternoon. But, unless you're flying
south for the winter (summer there), people will have to use
their imaginations for the next few months.
Click
on labels to enlarge |
Tess
"Red Wine" Blend
Winery:
Tess
Grape(s): Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot,
Zinfandel, Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay,
& Petit Verdot
Region: Paso Robles
Year:
n/a
Special Designation: n/a
Farming Certification:
n/a
Price: 15-20
Review:
This unique blend of red and white grape varieties produces
a bouquet of cherries, watermelons, and raspberries. Flavors
of raspberry, pomegranate, and watermelon emerge on the
palate along with hints of fresh minerals and spice. A
light, lively wine, it will pair perfectly with a warm
afternoon.
Rating: 89 |
|
Carmel
Road 2013 Unoaked Riesling
Winery:
Carmel Road
Grape(s): 100% Riesling
Region: Monterey County, Ca
Year:
2013
Special Designation: n/a
Farming Certification:
n/a
Price: 15-20
Review:
Aromas of sweet lime, white peach, and ripe apricot mingle
with nuances of sweet spice and springtime blossoms on
the nose. Notes of lime, ruby red grapefruit, and apricots
come froth on that palate, opening up into floral and
mineral suggestions. A crisp acidity and bright flavors
make this a lovely wine to pair with the coming spring.
Rating: 89 |
|
Mill
Creek 2013 "Santa Rosa" Rosé
Winery:
Mill Creek
Grape(s): 78% Merlot & 22 Cabernet
Sauvignon
Region: Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County
Year:
2013
Special Designation: n/a
Farming Certification:
n/a
Price: 15-20
Review:
Aromatics of cherries, raspberries, and watermelon mingle
with a hint of white pepper on the nose. A sip reveals
flavors of cherry, strawberry, and watermelon along with
suggestions of minerals. A friendly acidity and ample
fruit make this a nice, approachable Rosé. 180
cases were made.
Rating: 88 |
|
Ventana
2013 Sauvignon Blanc
Winery:
Ventana
Grape(s): 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Monterey County, Ca
Year:
2013
Special Designation: n/a
Farming Certification:
n/a
Price: 20-25
Review:
Fragrances of lime and grapefruit meld with suggestions
of wild grass and fresh minerals on the nose. The palate
delivers flavors of lemon, lime, and grapefruit, accented
by minerals and white blossoms. A crisp, vibrant white,
pair a bottle with sole baked in a brown butter sauce.
Rating: 87 |
By
Jason Barlow
96
— 100 |
Spectacular |
92
— 95 |
Outstanding |
89
— 91 |
Great |
85
— 88 |
Good |
81
— 84 |
Solid |
|
|