Tasting: Chardonnay

Estrella
Chardonnay: 2010
White/$5.95
Napa, California

Store Review: Intensely flavored and balanced with layers of vanilla, butter and pear, followed by apple, banana and oak.

My Review: Wonderful Chardonnay! Smooth and buttery with soft fruits and a soft oak finish

Tasting: Zonin

Zonin
Pinot Grigio: 2009
White/$5.95
Italy

Store Review: Pale straw-yellow color with brilliant reflections. Delicately fruity bouquet, with outstanding finesse and marked hints of almond blossom and peaches. Elegant, soft and well- structured fruit on the palate, with remarkable freshness and a
clean, persistent aftertaste.


My Review: Smells like green grapes and has a nice crisp and tangy flavor.

Tasting: Merlot

Estrella
Merlot
Red/$5.95
Napa, California 2009

Store Review: This ruby colored Merlot has raspberry jam aromas with a subtle hint of spice. Layers of vanilla, plum and fig are revealed that linger ever so slightly on the palate

My Review: Smells softly floral with full flavors. It is sort of a sweeter merlot that I am used to but I love the vanilla flavors!

Tasting: Red Tinto

Doural
Red Tinto
$8.95
Portugal 2009

Store Review: This Portuguese tinto(red) blend exhibits a deep red color with violet hues. The nose is vibrant and fruity. The palate offers notes of spice, cherry, and dark berry supported by good structure. Pairs well with red or game meat, cheeses and fish.

My Review: Strong on the nose with a very bitter smell. It is light in color and not very full. I do not feel the spiciness. It is ok, but I would probably only drink it with food. Maybe a nice cheese would enhance the flavors.

Tasting: Viognier

Oxford Landing
Viognier
White/$7.95
Australia 2009

Store Review: 88 Points, Wine Spectator
Bright and lively,this white is appealing for its pear, lychee and sweet spice character, which comes together smoothly against a silky texture.

My Review: I’m not quite sure of the smell. It confuses me a little but perhaps a bitter fruity aroma? The taste is also smooth and tastes similar to the chardonnay to me. I can sort of taste the lychee fruit which is neat.

Tasting: Torrontes-Chardonnay

Tierra de Luna
Torrontes-Chardonnay
White/$7.95
Argentina 2009

Store Review: Fresh and crisp, with floral aromas and flavors of quince and pear, this wine is a versatile companion to informal meals, and is excellent as an aperitif.

My Review: Floral smells and a smooth taste make this one of my favorite Chardonnays yet. I would love to try it with baked chicken!

Tasting: Blanc de Blancs

Simonet
Blanc de Blancs
White/$7.95
France

Store Review: On the nose, there is some bread-yeast and some toast, same on the palate. Great for an everyday bubbly or for mimosas!!

My Review: I smell pears and soft, fruity, dry aromas. The taste is dry and refreshing but not as fruity as the smell.