Last Week's Tasting Notes

Mer Soleil Un-Oaked Chardonnay ($21.99)
Santa Lucia Highlands
From the producer:
"A pale yellow hue, the wine is well balanced with Fair in color and fresh from start to finish. The 2014 vintage opens up with aromas of flower blossoms, crisp pears and a hint of honeysuckle. Bright citrus evokes the clean taste of Meyer lemons, which grow amidst our estate vineyards, where a portion of this wine is sourced. On the palate, the wine is round and layered, with an acidity and depth that belie its unoaked character. The finish brings a lingering freshness that creates a perfect complement to salads, grilled seafood, tomato-based dishes and fresh oysters - and leaves a brightness in the mouth that leaves you wanting another sip."

From me:
This Chardonnay is unusually round and smooth on the palate, considering that it sees no oak, and undergoes no malolactic fermentation. It is fermented and aged in large concrete tanks, which allow a small exposure to oxygen. This creates an enhanced, fresh flavor and a distinctly creamy finish. This is an elegant wine.

Clayhouse Adobe Red Blend ($12.99)
Paso Robles
From the producer:
"Each varietal was fermented separately. Some lots were aged in oak (to add vanilla richness). Others lots were kept in stainless steel (to preserve fresh fruit flavors). A final blend was determined, and its elements were married a month or two prior to bottling.

Flavor: Ripe, brambly blackberry and cherry flavors with hints of plum, black pepper, and vanilla. Balancing tannin is fine and supply.

Food pairing: Pair with grilled meats, poultry, and vegetables. Also great with red-sauced pasta and pizza, and with savory sausages, soups, and stews."

From me:
This is a really compelling red blend. Its interesting variety of grapes and its depth of flavor make it stand out from its peers. It's a good go-to red that's excellent value for money.

Writer's Block Cabernet Franc ($15.99)
Lake County
From the producer:
"This Cabernet Franc has aromas of red cherry, raspberry, plum, and licorice. Flavors are of red fruit, raspberry, and plum with smooth acidity, followed by soft tannins. We age the wine for 15 months in mainly hybrid barrels.

This wine pairs well with many different dishes; try it with braised short ribs, lasagna, or a portabella burger."

From me:
Cab Franc is one of my favorite wines, and I like this one very much. The label and name drew me in, but the flavor and body kept me interested. It has a richer body than a New York or French Cab Franc, and it goes down smoothly. I liked it on day one, but I loved it on day two. Even after 4 days on the counter it was still drinkable. That almost never happens. Enjoy with food or without.