Last Week's Tasting Notes

Hecht & Bannier Languedoc Blanc ($11.99)
France
From the producer:
"Our Languedoc Blanc is a blend of two southern varietals which complement each other: Piquepoul Blanc and Roussanne. Bordering the Etang de Thau, they have the benefit of relatively cool terroirs on which vines “stare” at the sea. This mild maritime influence, throughout the summer, enables to preserve acidity in the fruits. Both varietals being late ripening grapes, they fit the Mediterranean climatic conditions. They allow the aromatic flavors preservation until the harvest at the end of September or early October for some Piquepoul.
The Piquepoul Blanc brings this crunchy and vivid character, which, blended with the Roussanne citrus fruits and white flowers notes, complete perfectly the aromatic palate and give us a delightful volume in mouth. Perfect for aperitif between friends, our Languedoc Blanc will accompany tapas, seashells and fish from the very close Mediterranean Sea."

From me:
White blends tend to get less attention than their red counterparts, so I'm hoping to introduce folks to this lovely wine. It is actually 50% Piquepoul Blanc, 25% Roussanne, and 25% Grenache Blanc. The Grenache adds a little more body and balances out the acidity of the wine. A medium/light bodied white, this wine is perfect for fall, and though it pairs well with seafood, it will also go nicely with roasted or grilled fowl.

Domaine Bousquet Merlot ($10.99)
Argentina
From the producer:
"Deep violet with reddish tints. Aromas of ripe cherry and blueberry with notes of chocolate and sweet spice. Generous texture and a core of concentrated red berry fruit flavors laced with touches of coffee and toast from light oak ageing. A long and persistent finish with soft and velvety tannins. Ideal with red meats, sauces, cheese and pasta dishes."

From me:
Sadly, the movie "Sideways" encouraged a national snubbing of Merlot in favor of Pinot Noir. Recently, though, Merlot is back in the game, and I am happy to be recommending this one from Argentina. Like any wine (even Pinot!), some Merlot is well-made and some is not . Domaine Bousquet makes an easy-drinking, lightly oaky, medium-bodied wine that is versatile for food pairing. It's an enjoyable quaff that shows how South American wines tend to over-deliver for their prices.

Green Truck Cabernet Sauvignon ($13.99)
California
From the producer:
"Our Cabernet Sauvignon grapes are organically grown and farmed on Mendocino County vineyards by the Barra family who've been devoted to organic farming long before it was fashionable. Organic farming requires a commitment to a method of farming that eliminates dependence on chemical fertilizers and toxic fungicides and insecticides in favor of natural practices that protect the health and safety of our farm workers, create a thriving wildlife habitat, result in clean run-off and healthier soils for our future. Even better, these practices result in delicious wine. The grapes are certified by the California Certified Organic Farmers; one of the most consumer recognized and trusted seals in the organic marketplace.
Our organically grown Cabernet Sauvignon has a brilliant red hue. Silky and supple cherries and fresh wild berries weave together with soft dry tannin for a balanced finish"

From me:
Green Truck is a great go-to Cab that is delicious on its own or paired with a meal. It is on the lighter side for the varietal, and the alcohol is lower (13.5%) than most California Cabs. Although there is some tannin, it is a very approachable and drinkable wine.