I opened the 2007 Denner Zinfandel 2 nights ago. The nose, smell, aroma, whatever... was sweet and spicy... nutmeg? cinnamon? not sure.. but it was very pleasant.
I swirled my glass a bit... and the wine coated the inside of the glass like lacquer... paint...
I tasted it.
I digress here: this wine is 16% alcohol. 16%. It's freaking HUGE! And here I was trying to drink it without any food pairing....
I've had port wines before... liked 'em. The Denner Zinfandel needs food... or 99% Cacao. So, I broke out the darkest chocolate I could find.
.........aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah..... much better.
This wine is not for the faint of heart. It's bold, fruity, spicy, and it will get you freaking wasted if you sit down and drink the whole bottle. It's good that it's such a full-bodied bold and fruit-forward wine... you don't need much... a glass or two will do it.
I'm thinking it's a nice wine to pair with the Arnie Morton's Hot Chocolate Cake... but that's just my opinion.
Not what I expected but, delicious all the same!
Cheers!
Sunday, May 31, 2009
Friday, May 29, 2009
Damn good deal on Columbia Crest at Ralph's....
Okay. Right now... until the end of today (I think), Ralph's Grocery is selling all Columbia Crest Grand Estates wines for $7.99 per bottle.... the Two Vines and Vineyard 10 are only $5.49. If you buy 6, you get an additional 10% off.
By taking advantage of this (which I did this morning), you can buy highly rated wines for a great price:
2006 Grand Estates Cabernet - WS - 89 points
2005 or 2006 Grand Estates Merlot - WS - 88 points
2006 Two Vines Cabernet - WS - 87 points
2006 Grand Estates Chardonnay - WS - 90 points
2005 Vineyard 10 Red - WS - 88 points
I challenge you to find a better deal on better wines.
Cheers!
By taking advantage of this (which I did this morning), you can buy highly rated wines for a great price:
2006 Grand Estates Cabernet - WS - 89 points
2005 or 2006 Grand Estates Merlot - WS - 88 points
2006 Two Vines Cabernet - WS - 87 points
2006 Grand Estates Chardonnay - WS - 90 points
2005 Vineyard 10 Red - WS - 88 points
I challenge you to find a better deal on better wines.
Cheers!
Thursday, May 28, 2009
I like screw tops but I SAVE CORKS
There. I said it. I like screw tops. I like cork, too. Actually, it's the stuff in the bottle that I like the most.... funny thing though - the wine doesn't last, the screw top - along with the bottle get tossed.... but, I SAVE CORKS!!!
My goal is to make a coffee table with a sheet of glass over the corks - neatly arranged with the winery name facing up... I don't know if this is bragging about all of the different wines I've tasted or if it's confessing to how much alcohol I've consumed.
The timeline for my cork collection is not up for discussion.
That said, I like corks - I like the way they look - I'm still trying to figure out how those little logos get printed on them and why some corks are harder to put back into the bottle than others.... before drinking wine, I thought cork was cork.
Now, after this little discourse on how much I like cork.... unscrewing a cap, although not with the same kind of romantic element of anticipation as a cork, is simple and the wine gets out of the bottle faster.
Cheers!
My goal is to make a coffee table with a sheet of glass over the corks - neatly arranged with the winery name facing up... I don't know if this is bragging about all of the different wines I've tasted or if it's confessing to how much alcohol I've consumed.
The timeline for my cork collection is not up for discussion.
That said, I like corks - I like the way they look - I'm still trying to figure out how those little logos get printed on them and why some corks are harder to put back into the bottle than others.... before drinking wine, I thought cork was cork.
Now, after this little discourse on how much I like cork.... unscrewing a cap, although not with the same kind of romantic element of anticipation as a cork, is simple and the wine gets out of the bottle faster.
Cheers!
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Location, Location, Location
Why are wine grapes grown in amazingly beautiful areas? Is it the grapes over rolling hills that create the majesty or are the vineyards merely an enhancement to a beauty that is already there?
One of my favorite things to do is drive the back roads at Paso Robles, Los Olivos, Santa Ynez, or Sonoma County. Although Napa certainly is beautiful, the other areas I mention are predominately made up of winding roads through hills and valleys... sharp turns... actually, quite fun... and beautiful.
For me, this adds so much to the romanticism that I associate with enjoying fine wine or even just tasting... it's almost like disappearing into another time and space.
You see, I grew up in a town called Paradise, CA... a place with rivers, trees, and - you got it - winding roads... roads that don't even have yellow or white lines dividing opposing traffic. However, for the last 25 years, I've lived in Los Angeles. Living in the city has given me a perspective on the areas where what I call the blood of the earth grows.
We keep saying that, someday, we're going to live in one of these areas... or nearby. That hope and dream is still alive and I give it over to timing as several family schedules and educational/graduational events need to coincide for the timing to be right. But, when those planets collide, we're there.
The wine is wonderful. The locations are beautiful. The experience is unforgettable.
One of my favorite things to do is drive the back roads at Paso Robles, Los Olivos, Santa Ynez, or Sonoma County. Although Napa certainly is beautiful, the other areas I mention are predominately made up of winding roads through hills and valleys... sharp turns... actually, quite fun... and beautiful.
For me, this adds so much to the romanticism that I associate with enjoying fine wine or even just tasting... it's almost like disappearing into another time and space.
You see, I grew up in a town called Paradise, CA... a place with rivers, trees, and - you got it - winding roads... roads that don't even have yellow or white lines dividing opposing traffic. However, for the last 25 years, I've lived in Los Angeles. Living in the city has given me a perspective on the areas where what I call the blood of the earth grows.
We keep saying that, someday, we're going to live in one of these areas... or nearby. That hope and dream is still alive and I give it over to timing as several family schedules and educational/graduational events need to coincide for the timing to be right. But, when those planets collide, we're there.
The wine is wonderful. The locations are beautiful. The experience is unforgettable.
Friday, May 22, 2009
Paso Robles.... quick trip...
Okay. Visited Denner Vineyards on Wednesday. I had much driving to do so I decided that one wine-tasting visit was all that was appropriate... stopped at Denner and tasted their 2007 Zinfandel, 2005 Syrah, and 2006 Ditch Digger.
Damn, these guys do a nice job! The Zinfandel is phenomenal... just wildly spicy and filled with wild berry flavors... and the finish hung around like someone in line for ride a Disneyland. Exciting wine!
From there, I dropped off a couple of bottles (from my cellar) as a gift to a friend, and continued my journey to Berkeley to pick up my daughter.
That's it. I love what they are doing at Denner; if you're in the Paso area, check 'em out.
Cheers!
Damn, these guys do a nice job! The Zinfandel is phenomenal... just wildly spicy and filled with wild berry flavors... and the finish hung around like someone in line for ride a Disneyland. Exciting wine!
From there, I dropped off a couple of bottles (from my cellar) as a gift to a friend, and continued my journey to Berkeley to pick up my daughter.
That's it. I love what they are doing at Denner; if you're in the Paso area, check 'em out.
Cheers!
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Passing through Paso...
This week I drive up to Berkeley to pick up my daughter.... this is always a joyful occasion as we are a very close family and we're looking forward to a few days together. Meanwhile, driving from Los Angeles to the Bay Area also presents another opportunity... to cruise on up the 101...
This charts a course through Santa Barbara and Paso Robles... certainly presenting opportunities to stop in and see what's going on at some of the local wineries...
On this trip, I will most likely stop at Denner and Justin... two of my favorite wineries. The folks there are as hospitable as can be and the wines are always fun and tasty. It's also possible that I'll make a stop in Los Olivos... perhaps taste some Andrew Murray (in the words of Miles from Sideways, "Well Okay").
The highlight, of course, is picking up my daughter. But along the way, stopping by wineries is much more fun than just cruising non-stop on the freeway.... maybe I'll check hotwire.com or priceline.com and book a room - turn the whole thing into a mini-vacation.
Cheers!
This charts a course through Santa Barbara and Paso Robles... certainly presenting opportunities to stop in and see what's going on at some of the local wineries...
On this trip, I will most likely stop at Denner and Justin... two of my favorite wineries. The folks there are as hospitable as can be and the wines are always fun and tasty. It's also possible that I'll make a stop in Los Olivos... perhaps taste some Andrew Murray (in the words of Miles from Sideways, "Well Okay").
The highlight, of course, is picking up my daughter. But along the way, stopping by wineries is much more fun than just cruising non-stop on the freeway.... maybe I'll check hotwire.com or priceline.com and book a room - turn the whole thing into a mini-vacation.
Cheers!
Monday, May 18, 2009
More on wine shopping....
In a recent post, I listed several wine stores that I frequently shop at. Most were large warehouses that typically have large inventories or buy such large quantities of wine that they are able to discount prices significantly... this is great, especially when I'm looking to buy a few cases of the stuff.
However, I don't want to discount (pun intended) the local small wine stores. There's something very cool and personal with the little neighborhood wine store. For one, they are usually a bit nicer and friendly than the folks moving large amounts of merchandise. Second, they tend to make honest attempts at stocking wines that can't easily be found elsewhere... they are especially good places to avoid all of the big name popular brands that are typically found in every major supermarket. (Side note - ever notice how Ralph's, Von's, Safeway, Albertson's, etc all have the same wines?)
One of my favorite local stores is Vinatero in Whittier, CA. Lisa and Ernie are two of the kindest and hospitable folks you're likely to meet. They also have a passion for wine and even a greater passion for helping their customers enjoy their wine experience to its' fullest. They have a very nice inventory - diverse both in varietals and in price. For instance, you can find wines from Kosta Browne, Justin, and Sea Smoke as well as wines from Mollydooker, R Wines, and Poppy. It's a fun place for good conversation, a nice tasting menu, and good tunes piped into the store.
Perhaps you have a store near you like Vinatero... I'd like to hear about it. Cheers!
However, I don't want to discount (pun intended) the local small wine stores. There's something very cool and personal with the little neighborhood wine store. For one, they are usually a bit nicer and friendly than the folks moving large amounts of merchandise. Second, they tend to make honest attempts at stocking wines that can't easily be found elsewhere... they are especially good places to avoid all of the big name popular brands that are typically found in every major supermarket. (Side note - ever notice how Ralph's, Von's, Safeway, Albertson's, etc all have the same wines?)
One of my favorite local stores is Vinatero in Whittier, CA. Lisa and Ernie are two of the kindest and hospitable folks you're likely to meet. They also have a passion for wine and even a greater passion for helping their customers enjoy their wine experience to its' fullest. They have a very nice inventory - diverse both in varietals and in price. For instance, you can find wines from Kosta Browne, Justin, and Sea Smoke as well as wines from Mollydooker, R Wines, and Poppy. It's a fun place for good conversation, a nice tasting menu, and good tunes piped into the store.
Perhaps you have a store near you like Vinatero... I'd like to hear about it. Cheers!
Sunday, May 17, 2009
I don't care about the Lakers
What does this have to do with wine, you might ask? Everything, of course!
Today, a good friend who happens to be trucking across the country will be rolling into town today. Omar also happens to be a drummer in my band, The Barnburners of Los Angeles (look us up on iTUNES and myspace). When he arrives, we're going to visit for a bit then head out to the garage-studio to jam - me on guitar and vocals, Omar on drums, and maybe my daughter Jamie on vocals as well. It's really a great way to spend the afternoon....
As you can guess, the Laker game will be happening at the same time... a game 7... whoopee do! I don't care. It's irrelevant.
Instead, we're going to make really loud rock'n roll. When we're done, we're going to fire up the barbecue and grill some burgers with sea salt and cheddar... maybe some bacon... and open up a bottle of Four Vines Zinfandel. When that is done, we'll open another bottle yet to be determined.
And we will not care what the Lakers did.
Today, a good friend who happens to be trucking across the country will be rolling into town today. Omar also happens to be a drummer in my band, The Barnburners of Los Angeles (look us up on iTUNES and myspace). When he arrives, we're going to visit for a bit then head out to the garage-studio to jam - me on guitar and vocals, Omar on drums, and maybe my daughter Jamie on vocals as well. It's really a great way to spend the afternoon....
As you can guess, the Laker game will be happening at the same time... a game 7... whoopee do! I don't care. It's irrelevant.
Instead, we're going to make really loud rock'n roll. When we're done, we're going to fire up the barbecue and grill some burgers with sea salt and cheddar... maybe some bacon... and open up a bottle of Four Vines Zinfandel. When that is done, we'll open another bottle yet to be determined.
And we will not care what the Lakers did.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Trust me... I'm a doctor
Last week, I googled "How many ounces of wine are in a glass?" The answer was pretty much universal - about 5 oz. Doing the math - a 750 ml bottle contains about 25.2 oz. So - there are 5 glasses of wine in a bottle. Medically speaking.
I say medically because most of what I read when it comes to wine and health is that, on average, 2 glasses of red wine a day for men and 1 for women, seem to have - in some cases - significant health benefits. The key for me is coming up with what that really means....
I mean, have you seen those birthday cards with a picture of a woman drinking one glass of wine... and the glass is about the size of a gallon milk jug? I've also been in restaurants where wine ordered by the glass is poured out in about 7 oz increments. Doing the medical math, this would equate to one glass per day and not two.
Here's my dilemma... with 5 glasses per bottle... and 2 glasses per day.... at the end of the 2nd day, there's going to be roughly one glass - 5 oz - remaining. Do I save it for tomorrow, when I open another bottle to glean a mere 5 oz off the top for my 2nd daily glass? Heck, the bottle's been opened now for over 24 hours assuming that I opened it last night when I had my first 2 glasses.... (the likely case)....
Well, assuredly - I will probably have 3 glasses tonight - two with dinner and one more a couple of hours later... or I'll just drink 'em all with dinner....
Wait a minute... who needs dinner?!!!!
I say medically because most of what I read when it comes to wine and health is that, on average, 2 glasses of red wine a day for men and 1 for women, seem to have - in some cases - significant health benefits. The key for me is coming up with what that really means....
I mean, have you seen those birthday cards with a picture of a woman drinking one glass of wine... and the glass is about the size of a gallon milk jug? I've also been in restaurants where wine ordered by the glass is poured out in about 7 oz increments. Doing the medical math, this would equate to one glass per day and not two.
Here's my dilemma... with 5 glasses per bottle... and 2 glasses per day.... at the end of the 2nd day, there's going to be roughly one glass - 5 oz - remaining. Do I save it for tomorrow, when I open another bottle to glean a mere 5 oz off the top for my 2nd daily glass? Heck, the bottle's been opened now for over 24 hours assuming that I opened it last night when I had my first 2 glasses.... (the likely case)....
Well, assuredly - I will probably have 3 glasses tonight - two with dinner and one more a couple of hours later... or I'll just drink 'em all with dinner....
Wait a minute... who needs dinner?!!!!
Friday, May 15, 2009
My Favorite (somewhat) Cheap Wines...
Not much comment here... just a list of wines that are usually (as long as the store you buy them at doesn't overprice them) about $20 or less... some quite a bit less... some not...
Marquis Philips Sara's Blend - about $12 at Costco
Columbia Crest Grand Estates Cabernet - about $8 at Trader Joe's
Columbia Crest Grand Estates Merlot - about $8 at Trader Joe's
Columbia Crest Grand Estates Chardonnay - about $8 at Trader Joe's
Pillar Box Red - about $10 at Cost Plus World Market
ERATH Oregon Pinot Noir - about $14 at Costco
Innocent Bystander Pinot Noir - about $15 at Costco
Mondavi Napa Cabernet - about $18 at Costco
Vina Santa Rita 120 Cabernet - about $6 at Trader Joe's
Concha Y Toro Puente Alto Marques De Casa Concha Cabernet - about $15 at Costco
Sterling Vintner's Cabernet - about $11 at Cost Plus World Market
Carmel Road Pinot Noir - about $15 at Wine Exchange
3 Rings Barossa Shiraz - about $16 at Costco
Kim Crawford Sauvingon Blanc - about $17 at various stores
There's much more but, these are wines that I tend to keep around on an ongoing basis.... they aren't mind blowing but they're all very good in their own way. Drink up!
Cheers :)
Marquis Philips Sara's Blend - about $12 at Costco
Columbia Crest Grand Estates Cabernet - about $8 at Trader Joe's
Columbia Crest Grand Estates Merlot - about $8 at Trader Joe's
Columbia Crest Grand Estates Chardonnay - about $8 at Trader Joe's
Pillar Box Red - about $10 at Cost Plus World Market
ERATH Oregon Pinot Noir - about $14 at Costco
Innocent Bystander Pinot Noir - about $15 at Costco
Mondavi Napa Cabernet - about $18 at Costco
Vina Santa Rita 120 Cabernet - about $6 at Trader Joe's
Concha Y Toro Puente Alto Marques De Casa Concha Cabernet - about $15 at Costco
Sterling Vintner's Cabernet - about $11 at Cost Plus World Market
Carmel Road Pinot Noir - about $15 at Wine Exchange
3 Rings Barossa Shiraz - about $16 at Costco
Kim Crawford Sauvingon Blanc - about $17 at various stores
There's much more but, these are wines that I tend to keep around on an ongoing basis.... they aren't mind blowing but they're all very good in their own way. Drink up!
Cheers :)
Thursday, May 14, 2009
My favorite places to shop for wine...
Being in Southern California (heck being almost anywhere in California), there's plenty of wine around. The key, for me anyway, is finding the wines that I want at the prices I want to pay.
Interestingly, wine shopping is one of the only times I'll actually 'shop'. I'm not into clothes, shoes, or just browsing stores until I find something that interests me... unless it's wine. Most, if not all other purchases, I know in advance what I want, I go straight to it, buy it, and get the hell out of dodge. But wine....
Just looking at the labels is fun. So, whether I'm at Ralph's, Albertson's, Cost Plus World Market, Rite Aid, Bevmo, or one of the big wine warehouses, I can just look at wine bottles. This is not, however, without some ulterior motive: I'm also making notes of prices so that when I do my buying, or need a bottle in a pinch, I know who's selling what at the best price at that moment.
Okay... here's the places I shop most:
Wine Exchange - www.winex.com
The Wine Club - www.thewineclub.com
KL Wines - www.klwines.com
NapaCabs - www.napacabs.com
Beverages and More - www.bevmo.com
Cost Plus World Market - www.worldmarket.com (cool website, but I shop in store)
Trader Joe's - www.traderjoes.com
If you shop at the major markets, look for discounted wines with 6-pack discounts... this is a great way to buy wines like those from Columbia Crest on the cheap!
Got other places you recommend? I'd like to hear from you.
Cheers!
Interestingly, wine shopping is one of the only times I'll actually 'shop'. I'm not into clothes, shoes, or just browsing stores until I find something that interests me... unless it's wine. Most, if not all other purchases, I know in advance what I want, I go straight to it, buy it, and get the hell out of dodge. But wine....
Just looking at the labels is fun. So, whether I'm at Ralph's, Albertson's, Cost Plus World Market, Rite Aid, Bevmo, or one of the big wine warehouses, I can just look at wine bottles. This is not, however, without some ulterior motive: I'm also making notes of prices so that when I do my buying, or need a bottle in a pinch, I know who's selling what at the best price at that moment.
Okay... here's the places I shop most:
Wine Exchange - www.winex.com
The Wine Club - www.thewineclub.com
KL Wines - www.klwines.com
NapaCabs - www.napacabs.com
Beverages and More - www.bevmo.com
Cost Plus World Market - www.worldmarket.com (cool website, but I shop in store)
Trader Joe's - www.traderjoes.com
If you shop at the major markets, look for discounted wines with 6-pack discounts... this is a great way to buy wines like those from Columbia Crest on the cheap!
Got other places you recommend? I'd like to hear from you.
Cheers!
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
More on Wine Ratings....
When I think about rating wine, my first thought is - what did the person (or people) who taste the wine have for breakfast.... or dinner the night before.... or do they have a cold or hay fever... etc etc... anything that could affect their perception of the wine...
Also, I wonder if price has an effect... or if it's totally erroneous. In my previous blog I alluded to two 95 point wines from Wine Spectator - the 2005 Screaming Eagle Cab and the 2005 Columbia Crest Reserve Cab.... the Screaming Eagle comes in at $750... the Columbia Crest at about $25. Are you going to tell me that the quality of these wines is equal? If so, Screaming Eagle can fly off as far as I'm concerned. (Unless of course you are one of those shallow people who brag about how much you spend on pointless purchases just to impress those around you.)
Here's a couple of other examples... WS rates the 2005 BV Rutherford Cab at 88 points - about $27. At the same time, the 2005 Magnificent Wine Company House Red also gets 88 points - priced at $10... as did the Grace Family Cabernet - about $225. If all of these wines are equal, why not stock up on the MWC House Red and spend the rest on some great prime steak?
You see where I'm going with this; it's all so subjective. I mean, sure - there are wines that really suck. I'm sorry, but you know they do - you open the bottle and, as soon as you taste the wine, you realize that a cupful of white wine vinegar would have been smoother! And, I'm not talking about 'cooked' or 'tainted' wine. Some wines just are better than others.... but when it comes to rating systems, we are treading into very subjective territory.
Now... can anyone tell me why the 2006 Mondavi Napa Valley Cabernet - about $27 has not yet been rated at WS? Did it come in at 98 points - well ahead of Mondavi's more expensive bottles? I ask because I think this cab is phenomenal... I've had about 5 bottles under different scenarios and this wine is a freaking beast! And it's the first Cab from Mondavi that has not been rated at WS in a few years... Wine Enthusiast gives it 95 points... I would agree - but, perhaps the rater and I unwittingly ate the same food before tasting the wine.
That said, I'm still a sucker for wine ratings - they certainly affect what I buy - and sometimes I agree with them, sometimes I don't. Ratings add a dimension of fun for me.... but I do get a bit suspicious when something isn't rated or a particular vintage unexpectedly varies greatly in score from other vintages from the same winery.... different winemaker, maybe? different climate, perhaps?
Or maybe that balsamic vinegar dressing and garlic and roasted onion pizza from last night is still coming out of your pores as you ponder that really bitter $500 dollar bottle of meticulously crafted Bordeaux.
Also, I wonder if price has an effect... or if it's totally erroneous. In my previous blog I alluded to two 95 point wines from Wine Spectator - the 2005 Screaming Eagle Cab and the 2005 Columbia Crest Reserve Cab.... the Screaming Eagle comes in at $750... the Columbia Crest at about $25. Are you going to tell me that the quality of these wines is equal? If so, Screaming Eagle can fly off as far as I'm concerned. (Unless of course you are one of those shallow people who brag about how much you spend on pointless purchases just to impress those around you.)
Here's a couple of other examples... WS rates the 2005 BV Rutherford Cab at 88 points - about $27. At the same time, the 2005 Magnificent Wine Company House Red also gets 88 points - priced at $10... as did the Grace Family Cabernet - about $225. If all of these wines are equal, why not stock up on the MWC House Red and spend the rest on some great prime steak?
You see where I'm going with this; it's all so subjective. I mean, sure - there are wines that really suck. I'm sorry, but you know they do - you open the bottle and, as soon as you taste the wine, you realize that a cupful of white wine vinegar would have been smoother! And, I'm not talking about 'cooked' or 'tainted' wine. Some wines just are better than others.... but when it comes to rating systems, we are treading into very subjective territory.
Now... can anyone tell me why the 2006 Mondavi Napa Valley Cabernet - about $27 has not yet been rated at WS? Did it come in at 98 points - well ahead of Mondavi's more expensive bottles? I ask because I think this cab is phenomenal... I've had about 5 bottles under different scenarios and this wine is a freaking beast! And it's the first Cab from Mondavi that has not been rated at WS in a few years... Wine Enthusiast gives it 95 points... I would agree - but, perhaps the rater and I unwittingly ate the same food before tasting the wine.
That said, I'm still a sucker for wine ratings - they certainly affect what I buy - and sometimes I agree with them, sometimes I don't. Ratings add a dimension of fun for me.... but I do get a bit suspicious when something isn't rated or a particular vintage unexpectedly varies greatly in score from other vintages from the same winery.... different winemaker, maybe? different climate, perhaps?
Or maybe that balsamic vinegar dressing and garlic and roasted onion pizza from last night is still coming out of your pores as you ponder that really bitter $500 dollar bottle of meticulously crafted Bordeaux.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
What if it's just grape juice?
Sometimes, while I'm drinking wine, I think.... this is just crushed and fermented grapes. Or to put it more cynically, rotten grapes.
It's really funny when I think about it; I used to love that purple juice in the Welch's jars... it was so sweet and washed a bologna and cheese sandwich down perfectly. If I didn't know better at the time, I'd say that Welch's and a bologna sandwich exists in a parallel universe to Cabernet and steak. Or peanut butter and jelly... or beer and hot dogs....
Last year, while looking at the highest rated wines in one of the wine rags, I noticed that those in the 96,97,98... and even 100 point rating range were also priced accordingly.... I think the cheapest of the 8 100 point wines was about $200 per bottle.... coincidence? I think not.
The rags say that price has no bearing on the ratings system. But, price has to be related to quality at some point, doesn't it? Or is it just a gimmick? I mean, is a $750 bottle of Screaming Eagle noticeably better than a $150 bottle of Insignia... or a $25 bottle of 2005 Columbia Crest Reserve Cab? After all, the 2005 Columbia Crest got a 95 point rating... the exact same rating as the 2005 Screaming Eagle Cabernet, while the 2005 Insignia received a 'lowly' 92 points.
Hmmm... let's see.... $25 or $750.... both 95 points... both cabs.... Where's my Welch's!!!!!
It's really funny when I think about it; I used to love that purple juice in the Welch's jars... it was so sweet and washed a bologna and cheese sandwich down perfectly. If I didn't know better at the time, I'd say that Welch's and a bologna sandwich exists in a parallel universe to Cabernet and steak. Or peanut butter and jelly... or beer and hot dogs....
Last year, while looking at the highest rated wines in one of the wine rags, I noticed that those in the 96,97,98... and even 100 point rating range were also priced accordingly.... I think the cheapest of the 8 100 point wines was about $200 per bottle.... coincidence? I think not.
The rags say that price has no bearing on the ratings system. But, price has to be related to quality at some point, doesn't it? Or is it just a gimmick? I mean, is a $750 bottle of Screaming Eagle noticeably better than a $150 bottle of Insignia... or a $25 bottle of 2005 Columbia Crest Reserve Cab? After all, the 2005 Columbia Crest got a 95 point rating... the exact same rating as the 2005 Screaming Eagle Cabernet, while the 2005 Insignia received a 'lowly' 92 points.
Hmmm... let's see.... $25 or $750.... both 95 points... both cabs.... Where's my Welch's!!!!!
Monday, May 11, 2009
If u like it, it's good
I don't consider myself a wine snob; there's still too much I've yet to learn. That said, there are some wines that I've found I just don't think are that good.... for anyone to drink. But, it's all about perspective.
Several years ago, I was pouring some pretty good Cab from Paso Robles (Justin, I think) and one of my wife's friends arrived and asked for a glass. Being one who believes that wine should be shared, I poured "Grace" a glass of cab. A few minutes later, Grace was in the kitchen dropping ice cubes into the wine glass.
My jaw dropped.... I asked why she was doing that and she replied "it's too strong and not cold enough...". After telling her that this wasn't an appropriate way to enjoy a good Cab, I quickly figured that she'd made up her mind. The wine was better with ice in it.
A few weeks later, I was at Trader Joe's and I thought of "Grace". I picked up a bottle of Charles Shaw Chardonnay. Now, I've tasted this wine before - to me, it's kind of like a wine cooler without the fizz. Not awful tasting but....
Anyway, I tasted it once I got home, then corked it and waited.
The re-corked bottle remained in our refrigerator for about 6 months before "Grace" showed up again and... after the usual hello and how are you chit chat, she asked if I had some wine. I said "YES!".
I went to the fridge, and pulled out the 6-month old bottle that I had been saving for such an occasion. Was this mean?
I don't think so. Once sip and she exclaimed... "Oh, this is delicious! Thank you!"
She was pleased, I was pleased; it's all good.
Several years ago, I was pouring some pretty good Cab from Paso Robles (Justin, I think) and one of my wife's friends arrived and asked for a glass. Being one who believes that wine should be shared, I poured "Grace" a glass of cab. A few minutes later, Grace was in the kitchen dropping ice cubes into the wine glass.
My jaw dropped.... I asked why she was doing that and she replied "it's too strong and not cold enough...". After telling her that this wasn't an appropriate way to enjoy a good Cab, I quickly figured that she'd made up her mind. The wine was better with ice in it.
A few weeks later, I was at Trader Joe's and I thought of "Grace". I picked up a bottle of Charles Shaw Chardonnay. Now, I've tasted this wine before - to me, it's kind of like a wine cooler without the fizz. Not awful tasting but....
Anyway, I tasted it once I got home, then corked it and waited.
The re-corked bottle remained in our refrigerator for about 6 months before "Grace" showed up again and... after the usual hello and how are you chit chat, she asked if I had some wine. I said "YES!".
I went to the fridge, and pulled out the 6-month old bottle that I had been saving for such an occasion. Was this mean?
I don't think so. Once sip and she exclaimed... "Oh, this is delicious! Thank you!"
She was pleased, I was pleased; it's all good.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Happy Mother's Day!
Okay... if you're a mother, had a mother, will be a mother, know a mother, have been called a mother.... Happy Mother's Day!
If not.... well, how did you get here?
I know this has nothing to do with wine, but if I mention the word 'wine', doesn't that make this a blog related to wine?
Okay, it's weak, but that's all I got today. So, find a great bottle of wine, sit down with mom, start pouring and have that conversation y'all have been wanting to have but never seem to find the time for. Throw away the cell phone, disconnect, the land line, shut off the computer... and just have a conversation. Life is short.
Cheers!
If not.... well, how did you get here?
I know this has nothing to do with wine, but if I mention the word 'wine', doesn't that make this a blog related to wine?
Okay, it's weak, but that's all I got today. So, find a great bottle of wine, sit down with mom, start pouring and have that conversation y'all have been wanting to have but never seem to find the time for. Throw away the cell phone, disconnect, the land line, shut off the computer... and just have a conversation. Life is short.
Cheers!
Saturday, May 9, 2009
No rules for wine pairing
Here we go. Today, I tossed two chicken breasts (bone-in) into a crock pot with KC Masterpiece BBQ sauce and about a tablespoon of Cajun spices. That was about 9:00 this morning.
The chicken slow-cooked until 6:00 p.m. when I took it out and, along with a tossed salad, dinner was prepared.
Then I re-opened last night's bottle of Jim Barry The Lodge Hill Shiraz. There was about half the bottle remaining (well, not anymore) but that's beside the point.
You know those people who say white wine with chicken and fish, red wine with red meat? There are no rules as far as I'm concerned.
You know, when you eat Chinese food - especially those really cheap and greasy buffets...? You get all kinds of flavors... sweet, sour, spicy, etc etc.... and it doesn't matter. Sometimes, I pair my wine the same way - with no regard to how each dish and the wine compliment each other. It's just one more flavor to enjoy.
Granted - this meal tonight might not have worked so well had the wine been a wimpy one... but the Jim Barry is robust enough and peppery enough to fight its' way through that Cajun infused BBQ sauce for one delicious combo.
No rules... except what your taste buds tell you.
The chicken slow-cooked until 6:00 p.m. when I took it out and, along with a tossed salad, dinner was prepared.
Then I re-opened last night's bottle of Jim Barry The Lodge Hill Shiraz. There was about half the bottle remaining (well, not anymore) but that's beside the point.
You know those people who say white wine with chicken and fish, red wine with red meat? There are no rules as far as I'm concerned.
You know, when you eat Chinese food - especially those really cheap and greasy buffets...? You get all kinds of flavors... sweet, sour, spicy, etc etc.... and it doesn't matter. Sometimes, I pair my wine the same way - with no regard to how each dish and the wine compliment each other. It's just one more flavor to enjoy.
Granted - this meal tonight might not have worked so well had the wine been a wimpy one... but the Jim Barry is robust enough and peppery enough to fight its' way through that Cajun infused BBQ sauce for one delicious combo.
No rules... except what your taste buds tell you.
Friday, May 8, 2009
Beware of that discounted wine....
There I am, walking down the aisle at some market... pick one - cost plus, Ralph's, Von's, etc - doesn't matter - and, eventually, I find some wine marked down from $20 to $10.... well, actually from $19.99 to $9.99.... sometimes, it's a wine I've heard about or enjoyed in the past - so, I think - hmmmm..... looks good!
When I see this, I'm cautious, so I'll ask someone why it's marked down.... I'm told - this is a really good wine that we just can't move for some reason so we're discounting it.... or, this is the last of our stock and we need to clear the shelves for new arrivals.... whatever.
Usually, the wine sucks. It's either cooked, old, tainted, or just no good. I've poured more of these down the drain after a few sips (yeah, I'll decant, or let it 'breathe' before kicking the wine off the island)... and, no, I don't save it for cooking. If it isn't good enough to drink, it's not good enough to cook with.
Sometimes, there are good deals... buyer beware.... know your vintages and the aging potential of the wine.... it's true that some stores simply need to move merchandise and will offer special discounts across the board. But, if it's just a handful of discounted bottles, chances are there's another better wine at regular price that is still cheaper than the discounted one.
When I see this, I'm cautious, so I'll ask someone why it's marked down.... I'm told - this is a really good wine that we just can't move for some reason so we're discounting it.... or, this is the last of our stock and we need to clear the shelves for new arrivals.... whatever.
Usually, the wine sucks. It's either cooked, old, tainted, or just no good. I've poured more of these down the drain after a few sips (yeah, I'll decant, or let it 'breathe' before kicking the wine off the island)... and, no, I don't save it for cooking. If it isn't good enough to drink, it's not good enough to cook with.
Sometimes, there are good deals... buyer beware.... know your vintages and the aging potential of the wine.... it's true that some stores simply need to move merchandise and will offer special discounts across the board. But, if it's just a handful of discounted bottles, chances are there's another better wine at regular price that is still cheaper than the discounted one.
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Mixing wine at home...
I was visiting a friend a few months ago who works for a winery in Paso Robles... he showed me something that I never considered but have since done many times - he took 2 bottles of wine and mixed them together to create his own 'blend'. The wines? Syrah and Cabernet... about 50% each.
It's interesting because both wines were from the same winery so it was a bit of an experiment, I'm sure. But, later he told me that he took a very fruit-forward Shiraz from Australia and mixed in about 30% of a more spicy and peppery Syrah from Paso to balance it a bit.... he said the result was great.
So, what did I do? I went home... grabbed a bottle of 2005 Columbia Crest Grand Estates Cab and a bottle of 2005 Grand Estates Merlot and started doing my own experiments.... not only was it fun, but I started gaining a bit of appreciation for how a slight adjustment in the blend can have a much greater impact on the overall flavor of the wine. My favorite blend of these two? 75% Cabernet and 25% Merlot.... but I've also tried 50/50, 80/20, etc....
It's fun and ads a new interesting dimension to enjoying wine.
It's interesting because both wines were from the same winery so it was a bit of an experiment, I'm sure. But, later he told me that he took a very fruit-forward Shiraz from Australia and mixed in about 30% of a more spicy and peppery Syrah from Paso to balance it a bit.... he said the result was great.
So, what did I do? I went home... grabbed a bottle of 2005 Columbia Crest Grand Estates Cab and a bottle of 2005 Grand Estates Merlot and started doing my own experiments.... not only was it fun, but I started gaining a bit of appreciation for how a slight adjustment in the blend can have a much greater impact on the overall flavor of the wine. My favorite blend of these two? 75% Cabernet and 25% Merlot.... but I've also tried 50/50, 80/20, etc....
It's fun and ads a new interesting dimension to enjoying wine.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Is that really Pinot?
I've tasted it... and had no idea what it was. At first, I thought it was just a really bold ten dollar pinot noir. It wasn't unpleasant... heck, wine has to be really bad to actually be unpleasant... like that two-buck stuff.... oh well.
I love pinot. It's probably my favorite wine - but it costs so darn much. So, I'm always glad to find that one of the wine mags has rated an under $15 bottle in the high 80's.... gives me hope. So, I usually go and buy one... or two... and usually enjoy them as well!
These "low end" pinots aren't the most complex of wines... not a whole bunch of finesse or elegance... but they're tasty. And some are a bit bolder than their more expensive counterparts... recently, I found out where those dark berry and sometimes peppery nuances were coming from..... Syrah.
Yeah, like Viognier is added in 5% lots to some Australian Shiraz (and recently the Denner Dirt Worshiper), I learned that some pinot has been 'enhanced' by the addition of 3-5% Syrah. Does it taste bad? No... but Syrah is such a bold grape, it somewhat distorts the more delicate flavors of pinot.
I was disappointed to learn this.... mostly because, when I buy pinot, I've been naiively believing that it was 100%. Darn.
Now here's the solution... like those Aussie blends, why not sell these Pinots as "95% Pinot Noir, 5% Syrah". Nothing like truth in advertising, huh?
Where does this wind up? I have no idea. It just added a bit of cynicism to my enjoyment of relatively cheap Pinot.... but, then again, I'm a bit of a purist. If you say it's pinot, then it's pinot. If you blend it.... well, as much as I enjoy guessing games, this isn't one of 'em.
I love pinot. It's probably my favorite wine - but it costs so darn much. So, I'm always glad to find that one of the wine mags has rated an under $15 bottle in the high 80's.... gives me hope. So, I usually go and buy one... or two... and usually enjoy them as well!
These "low end" pinots aren't the most complex of wines... not a whole bunch of finesse or elegance... but they're tasty. And some are a bit bolder than their more expensive counterparts... recently, I found out where those dark berry and sometimes peppery nuances were coming from..... Syrah.
Yeah, like Viognier is added in 5% lots to some Australian Shiraz (and recently the Denner Dirt Worshiper), I learned that some pinot has been 'enhanced' by the addition of 3-5% Syrah. Does it taste bad? No... but Syrah is such a bold grape, it somewhat distorts the more delicate flavors of pinot.
I was disappointed to learn this.... mostly because, when I buy pinot, I've been naiively believing that it was 100%. Darn.
Now here's the solution... like those Aussie blends, why not sell these Pinots as "95% Pinot Noir, 5% Syrah". Nothing like truth in advertising, huh?
Where does this wind up? I have no idea. It just added a bit of cynicism to my enjoyment of relatively cheap Pinot.... but, then again, I'm a bit of a purist. If you say it's pinot, then it's pinot. If you blend it.... well, as much as I enjoy guessing games, this isn't one of 'em.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Shiraz and Pizza
Got home from northern California yesterday and re-heated some store-bought pizza... pepperoni... medium crust... actually quite tasty.... and, of course, the thought came to my mind: what wine would go with this? That thought quickly became: what wine do I want to drink?
The question changed because I realized that how the wine tasted was more important to me than how the food tasted. If the food didn't compliment the wine, I would grab something that would.... twice-reheated-pizza anyone?
Just kidding.
I opened a bottle of 2006 3 Rings Barossa Shiraz... one of my favorite deals in Shiraz. I love this wine. It's especially good when your local Costco sells it because their price is usually a couple of bucks less than anyone else - even the big wine stores. Anyway - not much description here... it's a big-ass Shiraz with lots of blackberry and spicy vanilla and.... oh, whatever. It tasted good, went with the pizza, after which we digressed to watching a couple of "House" episodes.
Nice way to top off our trip, don't you think?
The question changed because I realized that how the wine tasted was more important to me than how the food tasted. If the food didn't compliment the wine, I would grab something that would.... twice-reheated-pizza anyone?
Just kidding.
I opened a bottle of 2006 3 Rings Barossa Shiraz... one of my favorite deals in Shiraz. I love this wine. It's especially good when your local Costco sells it because their price is usually a couple of bucks less than anyone else - even the big wine stores. Anyway - not much description here... it's a big-ass Shiraz with lots of blackberry and spicy vanilla and.... oh, whatever. It tasted good, went with the pizza, after which we digressed to watching a couple of "House" episodes.
Nice way to top off our trip, don't you think?
Monday, May 4, 2009
Tobin James... Rock on!
If there was a winery that has a rock'n roll edge, it's Tobin James - located on Highway 46 East in Paso Robles, CA. It's a fun winery to visit.... looks almost like a roadside bar from the highway and once inside - you almost expect Lynyrd Skynyrd to be playing in the corner while frosty long necks are served near the pool tables.... alas, I don't remember seeing pool tables, or hearing Free Bird for that matter, but the setup is much like an old tavern... complete with some video games in the corner and a really cool tasting 'bar' that sits in the middle of the room. It's fun.
As for the wines, I really like 'em. There's lots of fruit-forward wines here - Syrah, Cabernet, Zinfandel (kicks like Jon Bonham's bass drum)... but they're not without style and finesse... thing is, I find myself wanting to drink them now. Kind of like being at a great concert and you're not leaving until the last note of the final encore hits your eardrums.
Here's a thought.... grill a burger with sea salt only.... lay some cheddar on it, maybe some avocado and grilled onions. Skip the ketchup and mustard and pickles.... and open a bottle of the 2006 Tobin James Notorious Cabernet.... then put on Led Zeppelin's The Song Remains The Same.... and rock out.
As for the wines, I really like 'em. There's lots of fruit-forward wines here - Syrah, Cabernet, Zinfandel (kicks like Jon Bonham's bass drum)... but they're not without style and finesse... thing is, I find myself wanting to drink them now. Kind of like being at a great concert and you're not leaving until the last note of the final encore hits your eardrums.
Here's a thought.... grill a burger with sea salt only.... lay some cheddar on it, maybe some avocado and grilled onions. Skip the ketchup and mustard and pickles.... and open a bottle of the 2006 Tobin James Notorious Cabernet.... then put on Led Zeppelin's The Song Remains The Same.... and rock out.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Fight to the finish....
Well, I should confess.... we didn't drink the 2005 Concha Y Toro Marques Casa Concha Cabernet last night after all.... instead we opened a bottle of the 2005 Justin Justification... very nice. The food was straight out of the Morton's Steak Bible - Cajun Ribeye, Bacon Wrapped Scallops, The Morton's Spinach Salad, and Baked Potato.... of course, even when pairing down the recipes, there was way too much food - and just enough wine :)
The Justification, a blend of 64% Cab Franc and 35% Merlot is an unfiltered wine that blended perfectly with our meal. Without going into flowery details, the Justification was really smooth and bold enough to rise above the Cajun spices of the ribeye bite after drink after bite after.... well, until the wine was gone.
And after that? Well, we watched the Pacquiao/Hatten fight.... over in the 2nd round... but by that time, the Justification was gone and we had moved on to chocolate chip cookies and dove bar bites.... and we were finished.
The Justification, a blend of 64% Cab Franc and 35% Merlot is an unfiltered wine that blended perfectly with our meal. Without going into flowery details, the Justification was really smooth and bold enough to rise above the Cajun spices of the ribeye bite after drink after bite after.... well, until the wine was gone.
And after that? Well, we watched the Pacquiao/Hatten fight.... over in the 2nd round... but by that time, the Justification was gone and we had moved on to chocolate chip cookies and dove bar bites.... and we were finished.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Peanut Butter and Jelly.... Steak and Wine... etc
When two distinctly different tastes compliment each other, something new is created that didn't exist before. Take the peanut butter and jelly sandwich for instance.... you can use creamy or smooth peanut butter.... not to mention all of the different brands.... then, you can use a jelly (or jam or preserves) of your choice.... strawberry, boysenberry, apricot, peach.... whatever works for you! It's your taste buds.... treat them well.
The same goes with Steak and Wine.... the combinations are limited only by individual tastes and preferences. I've had fillet Mignon with a pinot - like the Sea Smoke 2005 Botella.... a mellow experience compared to a bone-in ribeye with a big-ass wine like the Mondavi 2003 Oakville Cabernet. Of course, one could always have the pinot with the ribeye and this might allow more of the spicy or mineral flavors of the pinot to stand out while having a fillet with the big cab would definitely make the steak a compliment to the wine, instead of the other way around.
Of course, this is just how I see it.... that said, tonight I am in Merced, CA visiting good friends and, while we watch the boxing match between Manny Pacquiao and Ricky Hatton, we will be enjoying some ribeye in Cajun spices with a 2005 Concha Y Toro Marques Casa Concha Cabernet... a nicely priced bold cab that should hold up well to the steak....
Who knows... maybe we'll have peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for dessert.... after all, they're my taste buds :)
The same goes with Steak and Wine.... the combinations are limited only by individual tastes and preferences. I've had fillet Mignon with a pinot - like the Sea Smoke 2005 Botella.... a mellow experience compared to a bone-in ribeye with a big-ass wine like the Mondavi 2003 Oakville Cabernet. Of course, one could always have the pinot with the ribeye and this might allow more of the spicy or mineral flavors of the pinot to stand out while having a fillet with the big cab would definitely make the steak a compliment to the wine, instead of the other way around.
Of course, this is just how I see it.... that said, tonight I am in Merced, CA visiting good friends and, while we watch the boxing match between Manny Pacquiao and Ricky Hatton, we will be enjoying some ribeye in Cajun spices with a 2005 Concha Y Toro Marques Casa Concha Cabernet... a nicely priced bold cab that should hold up well to the steak....
Who knows... maybe we'll have peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for dessert.... after all, they're my taste buds :)
Friday, May 1, 2009
Costco
I love shopping for wine at Costco. I agree that their selection is limited, but it's also amazingly priced. I say this in all fairness to smaller shops that cannot compete with the Costco volume.... but Costco tends to carry more mainstream (i.e. popular) labels while smaller shops tend to have more variety - to be fair.
Anyway, I love finding wines like the Columbia Crest Reserve Merlot (2005) for $22 or the amazing CC Reserve Cabernet (2005) for $22. I also enjoy seeing the Mondavi Napa Cab (I really like the 2006) for $18 instead of the $24-30 that is charged at many markets. Then, there's the 'really cheap' stuff at Costco... Rosemount Shiraz, Sterling Vintners Cabernet, Pillar Box Red, etc that make Costco the perfect place to quickly get access to a lot of wine relatively fast for a good price. Also, some of the Kirkland Signature wines are decent to very good in quality and price.
Finally, you will find that not all Costco stores carry the same wines... for example, many of the stores from Santa Barbara north to the SF Bay Area carry many California Wines from the areas nearest the store. It's easy to find Fess Parker wines at the Goleta, CA Costco, or the Justin Syrah at the Santa Cruz, CA Costco, or Heitz Cabernet at the Richmond, CA Costco. Just keep your eyes open and go to different stores. That wine you've been trying to find might be found at Costco for a good price.... heck, pick up a case!
Cheers!
Anyway, I love finding wines like the Columbia Crest Reserve Merlot (2005) for $22 or the amazing CC Reserve Cabernet (2005) for $22. I also enjoy seeing the Mondavi Napa Cab (I really like the 2006) for $18 instead of the $24-30 that is charged at many markets. Then, there's the 'really cheap' stuff at Costco... Rosemount Shiraz, Sterling Vintners Cabernet, Pillar Box Red, etc that make Costco the perfect place to quickly get access to a lot of wine relatively fast for a good price. Also, some of the Kirkland Signature wines are decent to very good in quality and price.
Finally, you will find that not all Costco stores carry the same wines... for example, many of the stores from Santa Barbara north to the SF Bay Area carry many California Wines from the areas nearest the store. It's easy to find Fess Parker wines at the Goleta, CA Costco, or the Justin Syrah at the Santa Cruz, CA Costco, or Heitz Cabernet at the Richmond, CA Costco. Just keep your eyes open and go to different stores. That wine you've been trying to find might be found at Costco for a good price.... heck, pick up a case!
Cheers!
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