Last Week's Tasting Notes (5.10.19)

​Trimbach Pinot Blanc ($12.99)
Alsace, France
From the producer:
"The Trimbach’s have a purist vision. For three centuries and across 13
generations, the family has produced wines that are structured, longlived, fruity, elegant and balanced: the celebrated Trimbach style. The
family personally looks after each operation, from planting to harvests
and from vinification to bottling.

The viticultural origin of the Trimbach family dates back to 1626, when Jean Trimbach, was recognized as a citizen of Riquewihr. From then on, the Trimbach’s were renowned for their wine-growing. Maison Trimbach’s vineyards are all situated around Ribeauville (Ribeauville, Hunawihr, Bergheim, Rorschwihr, Riquewihr and Mittlewihr). They benefit from the unique Alsatian microclimate, thanks to the Vosges Mountains protection, which preserves the plain from the rain. The vineyards were planted on the Ribeauville’s fault line that fractured 50 million years ago between the Vosges Mountain range and the Black Forest offering a mosaic of terroirs including the complex calcareous limestone and bio-degraded seashell fossils called “Muschelkalk”.

VARIETAL COMPOSITION
75% Pinot Auxerrois, 25% Pinot Blanc

WINEMAKING & VINTAGE NOTES
Grapes are from Trimbach’s own vineyards and about 120 growers whom the family has long-term relationships, harvested in late September/early October and vinified at the Trimbach’s winery. Fermentation occurs in temperature controlled stainless steel and concrete vats and the wine does not undergo malolactic fermentation.

AGEING
The wines are released after two years of cellar ageing, when they
have the perfect balance of fruit and acidity.

TASTING NOTES
Pale yellow with green reflections and rich concentrated aromas of
white flower and apricot notes. Smooth, medium bodied with good
fruit acidity. Pairs well with light meals such as salads, chicken, roast
pork and seafood."

Madfish Cabernet Sauvignon ($13.99)
Western Australia
From the producer:
"Picturesque Madfish Bay is located in the remote southern corner of Western Australia. The bay's tranquility is broken when two tides meet. According to local folklore, the fish, confused by this natural phenomenon, can be observed leaping in the air as if in a state of complete madness. The MadFish wine range and label, first released in 1992, was named as an homage to this unique geographical occurrence. The superb climate of South West Australia has always been conducive to the cultivation of healthy wine grapes with attractive and vibrant fruit flavors.

Madfish Cabernet Sauvignon is crafted to produce a wine with a complete palate profile. After crushing, the grapes are fermented in stainless tanks with traditional pump over to help extract colour, tannin and flavour. Maturation in French oak barriques for 8 months produces a wine packed full of ripe fruit flavours and savoury oak tannins.

Tasting Notes
The color is a rich deep ruby and leads you to an enticing nose brimming with succulent dark berry fruits supported by hints of raspberry, mocha, savoury spice and rosemary. The palate offers great vibrancy and depth of flavour – black and blue berries, redcurrants, plum compote and roasted chestnuts mingle with alluring coffee and cocoa and a minty earthiness. Supple tannins allow this wide array of flavours to enliven and excite the mid palate and then linger on the finish. A wine of eminent approachability, with great integration and structure.

Food Pairing
Cabernet Sauvignon from South West Australia, with its bright fruit flavors, soft tannins, and rich body, complement meat based dishes representing many styles and cuisines. This wine is also great with hard cheeses."