Wine Movie: Bottle Shock
Famous Wine: Chateau Montelena Chardonnay
We will be tasting the 2007 (it's all I could find or afford at this time).
Total Wine usually has it for $39.99/bottle but they were sold out.
Hinton's Wine Store has ONE bottle for $42.99. I'll take it.
Links of Note:
Chateau Montelena Visitor Reviews
Purchased by a Frenchman?
History of the 1976 Paris Wine Tasting.
A Wine Club in Atlanta, GA, founded in 2008. We meet to taste wine, gab, snack, and learn. TWITs is all about having fun, trying wines, and growing your palate.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Nero d'Avola - June 10, 2009 - Hostess: Ms Shannon
Nero d'Avola - June 10, 2009 - Hostess: Ms Shannon
Wikipedia: About Nero d'Avola. Red Wine.
Food Pairings: Lamb, pizza, pasta, red meat, swordfish, spicy, eggplant, dark chocolate
Wine Info: means "black of Avola" , Sicily, Avola is far south Sicily, compared to shiraz, contributes to Marsala wine. plummy/cherry/raspberry, spice, and smoke, able to age, but good young also, treated like Syrah, clean finish, vine likes hot arid climates, most popular in Sicily.
Abbie's Tasting Notes:
1) 2007 Cusumano Nero d'Avola $14.99 @ Total Wine
bright maroon color, ruby, tart grapy, cherry flavor, clean finish, subtle smoky scent
2) 2006 Regaleali Nero d'Avola $14.99 @ Whole Foods
spicy, dark garnet, smells cheesy, nice long legs
3) same as #1 but different lot number - $14.99 @ Jay's Beverage (on Holcomb Bridge Rd)
ruby, garnet, tart cherry, almost too tart, dry cloves, others smell bacon?
4) same as #1 (different lot than #3, but same lot as #1) - $14.99 Whole Foods
no smell, dark ruby garnet
5) 2007 Ruggero di Tasso Nero d'Avola $5.99 @ Trader Joes - FAVE
buttery yet tart, candy, cherry licorice smell, good plum, dry, sensual flavor, lingers, smooth, yet fruity, goes VERY well with dark chocolate, Jammy!
6) 2007 Premio Nero d'Avola $8.99 @ Old Milton Package
flowery, clovers, star lily smell, dark red color, good!
7) 2007 Colosi Nero d'Avola $16.99 @ Total Wine
stanky, poo-ish smelling, spicy, dry, weird wine!
8) same as #5 (same lot number also)
smells like bing cherry, acidity, nice flavor at first, then dies off
Wikipedia: About Nero d'Avola. Red Wine.
Food Pairings: Lamb, pizza, pasta, red meat, swordfish, spicy, eggplant, dark chocolate
Wine Info: means "black of Avola" , Sicily, Avola is far south Sicily, compared to shiraz, contributes to Marsala wine. plummy/cherry/raspberry, spice, and smoke, able to age, but good young also, treated like Syrah, clean finish, vine likes hot arid climates, most popular in Sicily.
Abbie's Tasting Notes:
1) 2007 Cusumano Nero d'Avola $14.99 @ Total Wine
bright maroon color, ruby, tart grapy, cherry flavor, clean finish, subtle smoky scent
2) 2006 Regaleali Nero d'Avola $14.99 @ Whole Foods
spicy, dark garnet, smells cheesy, nice long legs
3) same as #1 but different lot number - $14.99 @ Jay's Beverage (on Holcomb Bridge Rd)
ruby, garnet, tart cherry, almost too tart, dry cloves, others smell bacon?
4) same as #1 (different lot than #3, but same lot as #1) - $14.99 Whole Foods
no smell, dark ruby garnet
5) 2007 Ruggero di Tasso Nero d'Avola $5.99 @ Trader Joes - FAVE
buttery yet tart, candy, cherry licorice smell, good plum, dry, sensual flavor, lingers, smooth, yet fruity, goes VERY well with dark chocolate, Jammy!
6) 2007 Premio Nero d'Avola $8.99 @ Old Milton Package
flowery, clovers, star lily smell, dark red color, good!
7) 2007 Colosi Nero d'Avola $16.99 @ Total Wine
stanky, poo-ish smelling, spicy, dry, weird wine!
8) same as #5 (same lot number also)
smells like bing cherry, acidity, nice flavor at first, then dies off
Sauvignon Blanc - May 13, 2009 - Hostess: Ms Elizabeth J
Sauvignon Blanc (from Australia or New Zealand) - May 13, 2009 - Hostess: Ms Elizabeth J
Wikipedia: About Sauvignon Blanc. White Wine.
Food Pairings: artichoke dip, veggie dishes or dips, garlic or Italian seasonings in creamy sauces, fragrant salads like Greek, Caesar, Garden, Thai Food also
Abbie's Tasting Notes:
I missed this month's wine club due to another commitment. If anybody wants to share their tasting notes, please email me. Thank you.
Ms Elizabeth J informs me that they decided (due to this tasting) that the more clear the Sauvignon Blanc, the better it tastes. The more yellow, not so good. She recommended the Sterling Sauvignon Blanc.
Wikipedia: About Sauvignon Blanc. White Wine.
Food Pairings: artichoke dip, veggie dishes or dips, garlic or Italian seasonings in creamy sauces, fragrant salads like Greek, Caesar, Garden, Thai Food also
Abbie's Tasting Notes:
I missed this month's wine club due to another commitment. If anybody wants to share their tasting notes, please email me. Thank you.
Ms Elizabeth J informs me that they decided (due to this tasting) that the more clear the Sauvignon Blanc, the better it tastes. The more yellow, not so good. She recommended the Sterling Sauvignon Blanc.
Pinot Noir - April 15, 2009 - Hostess: Ms Elizabeth K
Pinot Noir from Willamette Valley Oregon - April 15, 2009 - Hostess: Ms Elizabeth K
Wikipedia: About Pinot Noir.Red Wine. About Willamette Valley.
Food Pairings: poultry, beef, lamb, ham, pork, fish, mushroom, creamy sauces, spicy seasonings. This is a versatile wine
Abbie's Tasting Notes:
1) 2007 Soiree Pinot Noir - $17 @ Greens (on Buford Hwy)
clear, magenta red color, cranberry cocktail flavor, almost a dark rose color, tart fruity, cherry flavors, spicy, dry finish, light, slightly tannic
2) Kings Ridge Pinot Noir $17 @ Ansley Kroger
clear plummy color, candy-ish, very light, sweeter, apple flavor, more full bodied than the first one
3) 2007 Belle Vallee Pinot Noir $17 @ Sherlock Wine Merchant
grape juicy, mushroom and earth, cordial, funky, whole cluster fermentation
4) 2007 Willamette Valley Vineyards Pinot Noir - Whole Cluster Fermentation $16.99 @ Tower on Piedmont
yogurty smell, spice, fruity, mango, heavier, strawberries, lingers on the tongue
5) 2006 Firesteed Pinot Noir $14.99 @ World Market
LIKE this one, fuller flavor, darker color, best flavor, current, juicy
6) 2007 Grateful Red Pinot Noir $16.99 @ The Winery (off Savoy Drive)
shampoo smell, vanilla hint, oaky, light buttery, oily finish, lingery
7) 2006 A to Z Pinot Noir - $18 @ Kroger in Toco Hills
garnet, purple color, bland flavor, anti-climatic, blah
8) same as number 4
earthy, cranberry, jammin', nip/zippy, flavorful, tart, acidic, good
9) 2007 Cloudline Pinot Noir - $21.99
someone said smells of peanut butter? earthy, nutty, tastes light and fruity but long finish.
10) 2007 Elk Cove Vineyards Pinot Noir $20.99 @ Ansley Kroger (aka "Kro-gay")
plummy, rhubarb pie, peppery, like this one
Wikipedia: About Pinot Noir.Red Wine. About Willamette Valley.
Food Pairings: poultry, beef, lamb, ham, pork, fish, mushroom, creamy sauces, spicy seasonings. This is a versatile wine
Abbie's Tasting Notes:
1) 2007 Soiree Pinot Noir - $17 @ Greens (on Buford Hwy)
clear, magenta red color, cranberry cocktail flavor, almost a dark rose color, tart fruity, cherry flavors, spicy, dry finish, light, slightly tannic
2) Kings Ridge Pinot Noir $17 @ Ansley Kroger
clear plummy color, candy-ish, very light, sweeter, apple flavor, more full bodied than the first one
3) 2007 Belle Vallee Pinot Noir $17 @ Sherlock Wine Merchant
grape juicy, mushroom and earth, cordial, funky, whole cluster fermentation
4) 2007 Willamette Valley Vineyards Pinot Noir - Whole Cluster Fermentation $16.99 @ Tower on Piedmont
yogurty smell, spice, fruity, mango, heavier, strawberries, lingers on the tongue
5) 2006 Firesteed Pinot Noir $14.99 @ World Market
LIKE this one, fuller flavor, darker color, best flavor, current, juicy
6) 2007 Grateful Red Pinot Noir $16.99 @ The Winery (off Savoy Drive)
shampoo smell, vanilla hint, oaky, light buttery, oily finish, lingery
7) 2006 A to Z Pinot Noir - $18 @ Kroger in Toco Hills
garnet, purple color, bland flavor, anti-climatic, blah
8) same as number 4
earthy, cranberry, jammin', nip/zippy, flavorful, tart, acidic, good
9) 2007 Cloudline Pinot Noir - $21.99
someone said smells of peanut butter? earthy, nutty, tastes light and fruity but long finish.
10) 2007 Elk Cove Vineyards Pinot Noir $20.99 @ Ansley Kroger (aka "Kro-gay")
plummy, rhubarb pie, peppery, like this one
ISAW Wines - March 18, 2009 - Hostess: Ms Mina
ISAW Wines - March 18, 2009 - Hostess: Ms Mina
ISAW Website.ISAW - International Society of Africans in Wine - is a non-profit organization founded in January 2008 by sommelier Stephen Satterfield. Their focus is training and development of skills for South Africans. In addition to the training, a plus is that the wines are exported world-wide. The money raised through the sale of the wine, is reinvested in the facilities, farmers, and community.
Note: ISAW is also on Facebook (become a fan), and some of the wines were also auctioned off at the High Museum event later that month (March 2009).
You might find some of the ISAW wines at Whole Foods or Ansley Kroger. Ask your local Wine Merchant for more details or to carry these wines.
Distributer - Bacco Fine Wine
Wines: About Seven Sisters . About M'Hudi
Abbie's Tasting Notes:
We had the pleasure of Mr. Stephen Satterfield's presence as our own Wine Club Sommelier that evening. His eloquence and sharpened palate were a great honor to witness.
1) Seven Sisters - Yolanda (Chenin Blanc) - retails for approximately $14-15/bottle
pale yellow, smells like peachy/pear, light, moderate finish, dry, tart, good with cheese or fruit, late harvest, can grow in hot climate but also in cool climate to let acidity come thru.
2) M'Hudi Sauvignon Blanc (M'Hudi means "The Harvester") - retails for $16-17/bottle
sole black viticultural land owners in South Africa.
pale yellow/green, smells like green, light, sweeter, green/bitter, finish is dry,
Stephen says "herbacious"
pair with fruity/salty/fat content foods
3) 2006 M'Hudi Pinotage - retails for $17/bottle
scientist from South Africa, hybrid from Pinot Noir, first planted in South Africa.
dark burgundy color, tastes berry-like, blue and red berries, smoky, dried dill smell ? dry wine
pair with roasted or bbq chicken, something with sweet/tangy sauce
4) Seven Sisters - Dawn (Pinotage/Shiraz) - retails for $15/bottle
dry but nicely done, smells like strawberries, rhubarb, cooked/baked strawberries, floral notes maybe?
pair with roasted meats or bbq
5) 2008 Seven Sisters - Odelia (Bukettraube) - retails for $13-14/bottle
(pronounced 'boo-kuh-trobe') German grape but varietal usually found in South Africa, he has never had a German one.
clear, summery flavor, crazy aromatic, not too sweet, ripe fruit/peaches/honeysuckle smell, rose
pair with Blue Cheese or Thai.
ISAW Website.ISAW - International Society of Africans in Wine - is a non-profit organization founded in January 2008 by sommelier Stephen Satterfield. Their focus is training and development of skills for South Africans. In addition to the training, a plus is that the wines are exported world-wide. The money raised through the sale of the wine, is reinvested in the facilities, farmers, and community.
Note: ISAW is also on Facebook (become a fan), and some of the wines were also auctioned off at the High Museum event later that month (March 2009).
You might find some of the ISAW wines at Whole Foods or Ansley Kroger. Ask your local Wine Merchant for more details or to carry these wines.
Distributer - Bacco Fine Wine
Wines: About Seven Sisters . About M'Hudi
Abbie's Tasting Notes:
We had the pleasure of Mr. Stephen Satterfield's presence as our own Wine Club Sommelier that evening. His eloquence and sharpened palate were a great honor to witness.
1) Seven Sisters - Yolanda (Chenin Blanc) - retails for approximately $14-15/bottle
pale yellow, smells like peachy/pear, light, moderate finish, dry, tart, good with cheese or fruit, late harvest, can grow in hot climate but also in cool climate to let acidity come thru.
2) M'Hudi Sauvignon Blanc (M'Hudi means "The Harvester") - retails for $16-17/bottle
sole black viticultural land owners in South Africa.
pale yellow/green, smells like green, light, sweeter, green/bitter, finish is dry,
Stephen says "herbacious"
pair with fruity/salty/fat content foods
3) 2006 M'Hudi Pinotage - retails for $17/bottle
scientist from South Africa, hybrid from Pinot Noir, first planted in South Africa.
dark burgundy color, tastes berry-like, blue and red berries, smoky, dried dill smell ? dry wine
pair with roasted or bbq chicken, something with sweet/tangy sauce
4) Seven Sisters - Dawn (Pinotage/Shiraz) - retails for $15/bottle
dry but nicely done, smells like strawberries, rhubarb, cooked/baked strawberries, floral notes maybe?
pair with roasted meats or bbq
5) 2008 Seven Sisters - Odelia (Bukettraube) - retails for $13-14/bottle
(pronounced 'boo-kuh-trobe') German grape but varietal usually found in South Africa, he has never had a German one.
clear, summery flavor, crazy aromatic, not too sweet, ripe fruit/peaches/honeysuckle smell, rose
pair with Blue Cheese or Thai.
Organic Red Wines NSA - February 11, 2009 - Hostess: Ms Abbie
Organic Red Wines NSA - February 11, 2009 - Hostess: Ms Abbie
Information: Red Wines. NSA means No Sulfites Added.
OCA Info. Sulfites Info.Sulfites do not cause Wine Headaches unless you are allergic to Sulfites. To test this theory, eat some freeze-dried apricots. Apricots contain more sulfites than an entire bottle of red wine, if you have a reaction after eating the Apricots, you may have a Sulfite Allergy. However, in most cases, it is not the Sulfites in the wine that cause the headache.
Abbie's Tasting Notes:
Ultimately, we decided that, while we wouldn't toss it out with the garbage, Organic NSA wines were not our favorite. They taste like they are "missing" something...
1) Frey Red Table Wine $12 @ Minks
Dark Ruby/Purple Red, Tart & Tangy, astringent tannins, afterwards cottony, bitter after-taste. Mina says it's savory tasting, smells light, almost no scent, metallic
2) Frey Red Table Wine $11.99 @ Whole Foods
Dark Ruby, Purple Red, Astringent, tart also, grape juice-like, sweeter, like this one much better.
3) Frey Syrah $12.99 @ DeKalb Farmers Market
Lightly Smoky smell, slightly tangy, subtle flavor, light
4) Orleans Hill Lodi Syrah $11.99 @ DeKalb Farmers Market
earthy, peat moss, full bodied flavor, light finish, berry flavors, MY FAVE!
Information: Red Wines. NSA means No Sulfites Added.
OCA Info. Sulfites Info.Sulfites do not cause Wine Headaches unless you are allergic to Sulfites. To test this theory, eat some freeze-dried apricots. Apricots contain more sulfites than an entire bottle of red wine, if you have a reaction after eating the Apricots, you may have a Sulfite Allergy. However, in most cases, it is not the Sulfites in the wine that cause the headache.
Abbie's Tasting Notes:
Ultimately, we decided that, while we wouldn't toss it out with the garbage, Organic NSA wines were not our favorite. They taste like they are "missing" something...
1) Frey Red Table Wine $12 @ Minks
Dark Ruby/Purple Red, Tart & Tangy, astringent tannins, afterwards cottony, bitter after-taste. Mina says it's savory tasting, smells light, almost no scent, metallic
2) Frey Red Table Wine $11.99 @ Whole Foods
Dark Ruby, Purple Red, Astringent, tart also, grape juice-like, sweeter, like this one much better.
3) Frey Syrah $12.99 @ DeKalb Farmers Market
Lightly Smoky smell, slightly tangy, subtle flavor, light
4) Orleans Hill Lodi Syrah $11.99 @ DeKalb Farmers Market
earthy, peat moss, full bodied flavor, light finish, berry flavors, MY FAVE!
Champagne - January 21, 2009 - Hostess: Ms Jane
Champagne - January 21, 2009 - Hostess: Ms Jane
Wikipedia: About Champagne. Sparkling Wine.
Info: To anoint Kings!
Food Pairings: strawberries, mild cheese, poultry, desserts/fruit
Food Pairing specific to type of Champagne.
Abbie's Tasting Notes:
This was a special tasting in celebration of the New Year! Ms Jane purchased all the wine, and all the attendees split the cost.
1) Domaine Luquet Roger - Gremant Bourgnone $19.99 @ Total Wine
no smell, lightly alcoholic, off dry, crisp, light, not too tart, light golden yellow, some age, medium finish, clear
2) Louis Perdrier - Brut Excellence $10.00
This was a REAL Champagne - pale straw color, no scent, very light, crisp, hardly any flavor, bubbly air
3) Mumm Napa - Brut Prestige $20.00
smells astringent, tart, more flavor, some sour, straw yellow, crisp
4) Heidseick & Co. Champagne Monopole $29.99 on sale (usually $39.99)
smells like "getting a perm" to me, heavenly air, evaporates on your tongue.
5) Prosecco - Italian - Di Conegliano $20.00
dry, no scent, lightly sweet, just right.
Wikipedia: About Champagne. Sparkling Wine.
Info: To anoint Kings!
Food Pairings: strawberries, mild cheese, poultry, desserts/fruit
Food Pairing specific to type of Champagne.
Abbie's Tasting Notes:
This was a special tasting in celebration of the New Year! Ms Jane purchased all the wine, and all the attendees split the cost.
1) Domaine Luquet Roger - Gremant Bourgnone $19.99 @ Total Wine
no smell, lightly alcoholic, off dry, crisp, light, not too tart, light golden yellow, some age, medium finish, clear
2) Louis Perdrier - Brut Excellence $10.00
This was a REAL Champagne - pale straw color, no scent, very light, crisp, hardly any flavor, bubbly air
3) Mumm Napa - Brut Prestige $20.00
smells astringent, tart, more flavor, some sour, straw yellow, crisp
4) Heidseick & Co. Champagne Monopole $29.99 on sale (usually $39.99)
smells like "getting a perm" to me, heavenly air, evaporates on your tongue.
5) Prosecco - Italian - Di Conegliano $20.00
dry, no scent, lightly sweet, just right.
Petite Sirah - November 19, 2008 - Hostess: Ms Jennifer
Petite Sirah - November 19th, 2008 - Hostess: Ms Jennifer
Wikipedia: About Petite Sirah. Red Wine.
Yes, they really DO have a "PSIloveyou" organization for Petite Sirah.
Food Pairings: Mesquite Grilled Steak, roast duck, lamb, pot roast, rabbit, mustard, sweetbreads with mushrooms
Why Petite Sirah is different than Syrah.
Abbie's Tasting Notes:
1) 2006 Mendecino Courteny Benham Petite Sirah $14.99 @ Total Wine
ruby color, oak/leather aroma, apple and raspberry flavor, medium body, short/tart finish, Delicious!
2) 2005 Mendecino County Parducci Petite Sirah $11.99 @ Kroger
more tannic, violet ruby color, oak/leather smell, full body,finish is longer/tart, flavors of tart raspberry and plummy. not my favorite.
3) 2006 Bogle Graton County Petite Sirah $8.50 @ CostCo
ruby/purple color, leather and current/woody scent, smooth/tart flavor, medium body, short/tart/dry/ fuzzy-ish, puckery finish. not sure if I like it.
4) 2005 Guenoc Petit Sirah (Middleton, California area) $10.99 @ Whole Foods
ruby color, almost no smell, perhaps very mild scent of alcohol/clean/astringent smell, oaky violet flavors, medium body, med/tart finish, like it!
Wikipedia: About Petite Sirah. Red Wine.
Yes, they really DO have a "PSIloveyou" organization for Petite Sirah.
Food Pairings: Mesquite Grilled Steak, roast duck, lamb, pot roast, rabbit, mustard, sweetbreads with mushrooms
Why Petite Sirah is different than Syrah.
Abbie's Tasting Notes:
1) 2006 Mendecino Courteny Benham Petite Sirah $14.99 @ Total Wine
ruby color, oak/leather aroma, apple and raspberry flavor, medium body, short/tart finish, Delicious!
2) 2005 Mendecino County Parducci Petite Sirah $11.99 @ Kroger
more tannic, violet ruby color, oak/leather smell, full body,finish is longer/tart, flavors of tart raspberry and plummy. not my favorite.
3) 2006 Bogle Graton County Petite Sirah $8.50 @ CostCo
ruby/purple color, leather and current/woody scent, smooth/tart flavor, medium body, short/tart/dry/ fuzzy-ish, puckery finish. not sure if I like it.
4) 2005 Guenoc Petit Sirah (Middleton, California area) $10.99 @ Whole Foods
ruby color, almost no smell, perhaps very mild scent of alcohol/clean/astringent smell, oaky violet flavors, medium body, med/tart finish, like it!
Rioja Wine - October 15, 2008 - Hostess: Ms Abbie
Rioja Wine - October 15, 2008 - Hostess: Ms Abbie
Wikipedia: About Rioja Wine. Red Wine.
Food Pairings: Chicken, Semi-hard cheeses, Tortilla Soup, Chorizo
Other link.
Abbie's Tasting Notes:
I was hosting, so not many notes entered in my Wine Notebook this time around. Also we had low attendance (only 2 other ladies came, so my husband sat in with us on this one). Everything was fabulous. We later found that Rioja is not a varietal, but a region of Spain. The wine is usually made up of Tempranillo, Grenache, Graciano, and/or Mazuelo grapes.
1) 2004 Crianza Marques De Anenzo $11.99
(95% Tempranillo, 5% Graciano, 5% Manzuelo)
dark, red, earthy old smell, like dirt, grapefruit, medium, short finish, tart, good!
2) 2006 Faustino VII $11.49
Garnet, smells of leather, tastes leathery and smoky, medium body, moderate finish. funny tasting.
3) 2005 Ergo Martina Codax $11.99
(10% Tempranillo, Oak Barrel 2 years = age Crianza)
Purple color, Oak, Olives, Spices aroma/flavors, medium body, short finish, good!
Wikipedia: About Rioja Wine. Red Wine.
Food Pairings: Chicken, Semi-hard cheeses, Tortilla Soup, Chorizo
Other link.
Abbie's Tasting Notes:
I was hosting, so not many notes entered in my Wine Notebook this time around. Also we had low attendance (only 2 other ladies came, so my husband sat in with us on this one). Everything was fabulous. We later found that Rioja is not a varietal, but a region of Spain. The wine is usually made up of Tempranillo, Grenache, Graciano, and/or Mazuelo grapes.
1) 2004 Crianza Marques De Anenzo $11.99
(95% Tempranillo, 5% Graciano, 5% Manzuelo)
dark, red, earthy old smell, like dirt, grapefruit, medium, short finish, tart, good!
2) 2006 Faustino VII $11.49
Garnet, smells of leather, tastes leathery and smoky, medium body, moderate finish. funny tasting.
3) 2005 Ergo Martina Codax $11.99
(10% Tempranillo, Oak Barrel 2 years = age Crianza)
Purple color, Oak, Olives, Spices aroma/flavors, medium body, short finish, good!
Monastrell - September 10th, 2008 - Hostess: Ms Sarah
Monastrell - September 10th, 2008 - Hostess: Ms Sarah
Wikipedia: About Monastrell. Red Wine.
Food Pairings: roast or grilled meats, barbeque, North African dishes
Other info.
Abbie's Tasting Notes:
1) 2006 Vinedos de El Seque Monastrell $12 @ Ansley Wine Merchant
Dark, not see-thru, smells astringent, rich and smooth, youthful, medium dry, heavier tasting, powerful, medium finish.
2) 2005 Hecula Monastrell $12 @ Ansley Wine Merchant
dark, but a bit lighter than the last one, smells lighter too, spicier, strong, medium finish, tart-ish, ginger
3) 2006 Luzon Verde Jumilla Monastrell $8.99 @ Old Milton Pkg Store
deep color, sort of see-thru, smells like iodine, smooth, fruity, silky, long finish
4) 2006 Castano Yecla Monastrell $10.99 @ Publix
tastes of clove, smells of onion, dry with medium finish, sour astringent taste
5) M3 by Diego Fernandez La Manch $9.47 @ World Market - FAVE
dry, smells clean, lighter color, smooth, fruity, buttery
6)2005 Juan Gil Jumilia Monastrell $14.00 on sale @ Ansley Kroger
dark color, slightly stinky smell, meaty, dry, tart, astringent
7) 2005 Valencia Casa Mon Frere Monastrell $11.99
meaty bacon smell, dark thick color, strong acidic, sour, yucky at first, but after it opened up very good.
BONUS - Sarah's Guacamole Recipe:
2 Haas Avocados
1-2 plum tomatoes seeded and diced
1/4-1/2 of an onion (usually she uses red onion, but this time she used white) diced
juice of 1/2 lemon
1/2 tsp kosher salt (or to taste)
Directions: mash avocados in a bowl. dice and seed tomatoes. dice onion. Add tomatoes and onion to the avocados. mix well. add lemon juice, stir again. add salt (recommends doing a little at at time, then tasting with a chip so as not to over-salt).
Variations: sometimes add a seeded or finely diced jalapeno or serrano pepper and/or chopped cilantro. you may substitute lime juice, but Sarah prefers lemon.
*Kosher salt is the key, if you used regular table salt the result is not the same (per Martha Stewart's advice, and Sarah says it is true).
Wikipedia: About Monastrell. Red Wine.
Food Pairings: roast or grilled meats, barbeque, North African dishes
Other info.
Abbie's Tasting Notes:
1) 2006 Vinedos de El Seque Monastrell $12 @ Ansley Wine Merchant
Dark, not see-thru, smells astringent, rich and smooth, youthful, medium dry, heavier tasting, powerful, medium finish.
2) 2005 Hecula Monastrell $12 @ Ansley Wine Merchant
dark, but a bit lighter than the last one, smells lighter too, spicier, strong, medium finish, tart-ish, ginger
3) 2006 Luzon Verde Jumilla Monastrell $8.99 @ Old Milton Pkg Store
deep color, sort of see-thru, smells like iodine, smooth, fruity, silky, long finish
4) 2006 Castano Yecla Monastrell $10.99 @ Publix
tastes of clove, smells of onion, dry with medium finish, sour astringent taste
5) M3 by Diego Fernandez La Manch $9.47 @ World Market - FAVE
dry, smells clean, lighter color, smooth, fruity, buttery
6)2005 Juan Gil Jumilia Monastrell $14.00 on sale @ Ansley Kroger
dark color, slightly stinky smell, meaty, dry, tart, astringent
7) 2005 Valencia Casa Mon Frere Monastrell $11.99
meaty bacon smell, dark thick color, strong acidic, sour, yucky at first, but after it opened up very good.
BONUS - Sarah's Guacamole Recipe:
2 Haas Avocados
1-2 plum tomatoes seeded and diced
1/4-1/2 of an onion (usually she uses red onion, but this time she used white) diced
juice of 1/2 lemon
1/2 tsp kosher salt (or to taste)
Directions: mash avocados in a bowl. dice and seed tomatoes. dice onion. Add tomatoes and onion to the avocados. mix well. add lemon juice, stir again. add salt (recommends doing a little at at time, then tasting with a chip so as not to over-salt).
Variations: sometimes add a seeded or finely diced jalapeno or serrano pepper and/or chopped cilantro. you may substitute lime juice, but Sarah prefers lemon.
*Kosher salt is the key, if you used regular table salt the result is not the same (per Martha Stewart's advice, and Sarah says it is true).
Monday, June 29, 2009
Reisling - August 6th, 2008 - Hostess: Ms Mina
Reisling - August 6th, 2008 - Hostess: Ms Mina
Wikipedia: About Reisling. White Wine.
Food Pairings: crabcake, baked ham, blue cheese, gouda, jarlsberg, smoked salmon, proscuitto, melon, clam chowder, others
Abbie's Tasting Notes:
1) 2006 Ulrich Languith German Reisling - $6.99 Trader Joes
pale, straw yellow, clear, weak aroma, youthful, no smell, sweet/dry taste, light body, fresh acidity, weak flavor, finish short, light - I like it.
2) 2006 A to Z Reisling $11.99 -88 pts
pale, gold yellow, clear, bell pepper aroma, weak, youthful, no aroma, medium dry, lively body, moderate tannins, weak/astrigent, moderate flavor, medium finish, crispy/sparkly
3) 2006 Saint M Reisling - $11.99 at Pearson's
pale, yellow, slight haze, weak aroma, youthful, no smell, dry, light body, tart acidity, moderate tannins and flavor, medium finish, sparkly and zingy
4) 2005 Way Kuhl Dry Reisling Mosel-Saar-Ruwer Region Reisling - $13.99 - Costco
pale, yellow/green, clear, moderate, youthful, nothing for aroma, off-dry, light, tart, no tannins, moderate flavor, medium finish, nice, MY FAVE, flowers/citrus wine
5) Staats Weinguter Kolster Eberbach Reisling - $15.99
Medium color depth, amber, clear, weak aroma, youthful, no smell, tastes of green apple, sweet, medium body, fresh acidity, med/soft tannins, moderate flavor, medium finish, apple.
Wikipedia: About Reisling. White Wine.
Food Pairings: crabcake, baked ham, blue cheese, gouda, jarlsberg, smoked salmon, proscuitto, melon, clam chowder, others
Abbie's Tasting Notes:
1) 2006 Ulrich Languith German Reisling - $6.99 Trader Joes
pale, straw yellow, clear, weak aroma, youthful, no smell, sweet/dry taste, light body, fresh acidity, weak flavor, finish short, light - I like it.
2) 2006 A to Z Reisling $11.99 -88 pts
pale, gold yellow, clear, bell pepper aroma, weak, youthful, no aroma, medium dry, lively body, moderate tannins, weak/astrigent, moderate flavor, medium finish, crispy/sparkly
3) 2006 Saint M Reisling - $11.99 at Pearson's
pale, yellow, slight haze, weak aroma, youthful, no smell, dry, light body, tart acidity, moderate tannins and flavor, medium finish, sparkly and zingy
4) 2005 Way Kuhl Dry Reisling Mosel-Saar-Ruwer Region Reisling - $13.99 - Costco
pale, yellow/green, clear, moderate, youthful, nothing for aroma, off-dry, light, tart, no tannins, moderate flavor, medium finish, nice, MY FAVE, flowers/citrus wine
5) Staats Weinguter Kolster Eberbach Reisling - $15.99
Medium color depth, amber, clear, weak aroma, youthful, no smell, tastes of green apple, sweet, medium body, fresh acidity, med/soft tannins, moderate flavor, medium finish, apple.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Pinot Grigio - June 2008 - Hostess - Ms Amanda
Pinot Grigio - June 2008 - Hostess: Ms Amanda
Wikipedia: About Pinot Grigio. White Wine.
Food Pairings: seafood, light pasta, cheese cracker pairings, AVOID Citrus or Tomato flavors since this varietal is acidic already
Abbie's Tasting Notes:
Sorry folks I missed this month's wine club. Please email me any updates you wish to be posted.
Wikipedia: About Pinot Grigio. White Wine.
Food Pairings: seafood, light pasta, cheese cracker pairings, AVOID Citrus or Tomato flavors since this varietal is acidic already
Abbie's Tasting Notes:
Sorry folks I missed this month's wine club. Please email me any updates you wish to be posted.
Chianti - July 9th, 2008 - Hostess: Ms Jane
Chianti - July 9th, 2008 - Hostess: Ms Jane
Wikipedia: About Chianti. Red wine.
Food Pairings: Provolone cheese, Cotswold Cheese, pepperoni, beef/chicken with cream sauce, Romano, Parmesean, burger with onions and mushrooms, etc.
Abbie's Tasting Notes:
(This was a large turnout, we had 10 people and 10 bottles to taste. Somehow we tasted 8 bottles within the first 35 minutes, so these are not the best notes either. Feel free to email me if you have other comments to add on the tasting notes)
1) 2003 Chianti Reserva D'aquino $6.99
light, medium colors, red, almost blush, light taste, dry tart
2) 2005 DaVinci Chianti $13.99
medium color, red/burgundy, medium taste, dry sour/grapefruit
3) 2004 Duccetto Chianti $12-13
smells like acetone, don't like this one, nasty
4) same as #2 - 2005 Da Vinci Chianti $13.99
subtle smell, good, delicate flavor
5) 2003 Cantina Zaccagnini Montepulciano D'Abruzzo Chianti $14
smells same, sweet and spicy, good
6) 2005 Castignioni Chianti $11
no smell, light, dry, light spicy, warm, PERFECT
7) 2006 Gabbiano Chianti $11
smells good, tastes poopy?
8) 2004 Chianti Classico Reserva Banfi $17 @ Sherlock Wine Merchant
smells like nothing, dry tart, almost bitter
9) 2006 Gaetano D'Aquino $6.99 @ Trader Joes
sweet smell, nice
10) 2003 Il V alore Marchese De Petri @Trader Joes
no smell, dances on the tongue, dry, flavorful, smooth
Wikipedia: About Chianti. Red wine.
Food Pairings: Provolone cheese, Cotswold Cheese, pepperoni, beef/chicken with cream sauce, Romano, Parmesean, burger with onions and mushrooms, etc.
Abbie's Tasting Notes:
(This was a large turnout, we had 10 people and 10 bottles to taste. Somehow we tasted 8 bottles within the first 35 minutes, so these are not the best notes either. Feel free to email me if you have other comments to add on the tasting notes)
1) 2003 Chianti Reserva D'aquino $6.99
light, medium colors, red, almost blush, light taste, dry tart
2) 2005 DaVinci Chianti $13.99
medium color, red/burgundy, medium taste, dry sour/grapefruit
3) 2004 Duccetto Chianti $12-13
smells like acetone, don't like this one, nasty
4) same as #2 - 2005 Da Vinci Chianti $13.99
subtle smell, good, delicate flavor
5) 2003 Cantina Zaccagnini Montepulciano D'Abruzzo Chianti $14
smells same, sweet and spicy, good
6) 2005 Castignioni Chianti $11
no smell, light, dry, light spicy, warm, PERFECT
7) 2006 Gabbiano Chianti $11
smells good, tastes poopy?
8) 2004 Chianti Classico Reserva Banfi $17 @ Sherlock Wine Merchant
smells like nothing, dry tart, almost bitter
9) 2006 Gaetano D'Aquino $6.99 @ Trader Joes
sweet smell, nice
10) 2003 Il V alore Marchese De Petri @Trader Joes
no smell, dances on the tongue, dry, flavorful, smooth
Grenache - May 7th, 2008 - Hostess: Ms Abbie
Grenache - May 7th, 2008 - Hostess: Ms Abbie
Wikipedia: About Grenache. Red Wine
Other Names for Grenache: Alicante, Cannonau, Garnacha, Grenache Noir, Garnatxa, Navarra, etc.
Food Pairings: Strong Cheeses, Swiss Cheeses, Spicy Foods, pizza, tomato sauces, others
Abbie's Tasting Notes:
(Pardon my lack of note taking this time around, I was busy serving food, and hostessing. But here are the notes I took anyway. If someone has the names of the wines I would greatly appreciate it. Please email me.)
1) ? Grenache
Depth - Medium color
Hue - Purple Red
Clarity - slight haze
Aroma - aromatic
Development - some age
Dry/sweet - Medium Dry
Body - lively
Tannins - Medium Soft
Flavor - flavorful
Flavors - Black raspberry
Finish - Short
2) ? Grenache
Depth - Deep
Hue - Purple Red (darker)
Clarity - Cloudy
Aroma - weak
Development - some age
Dry/Sweet - smells like alcohol to me
Body - tart, lively
Tannins - medium astringent
Flavor - moderate
Flavors - sweet blackberries
Finish - Medium
3) 2007 Bitch Grenache Barossa Valley
Color depth - Medium
Hue - Purple Red
Clarity - Slightly hazy
Aroma - moderate
Development - young
Dry/sweet - berries
Body - Medium dry
Tannins - light/fresh, hard tannins
Flavor - moderate
Flavors - Blackberry
Finish - short
4) ? Grenache
Color - deep
Hue: purple/red
Clarity - cloudy
Aroma - moderate - alcholic smelling
Development - some age
Dry/Sweet - med dry
Body - medium
Acidity - Tart
Flavor - moderate
Flavors - spicy, pepper, nice vinegar
Finish - short
Wikipedia: About Grenache. Red Wine
Other Names for Grenache: Alicante, Cannonau, Garnacha, Grenache Noir, Garnatxa, Navarra, etc.
Food Pairings: Strong Cheeses, Swiss Cheeses, Spicy Foods, pizza, tomato sauces, others
Abbie's Tasting Notes:
(Pardon my lack of note taking this time around, I was busy serving food, and hostessing. But here are the notes I took anyway. If someone has the names of the wines I would greatly appreciate it. Please email me.)
1) ? Grenache
Depth - Medium color
Hue - Purple Red
Clarity - slight haze
Aroma - aromatic
Development - some age
Dry/sweet - Medium Dry
Body - lively
Tannins - Medium Soft
Flavor - flavorful
Flavors - Black raspberry
Finish - Short
2) ? Grenache
Depth - Deep
Hue - Purple Red (darker)
Clarity - Cloudy
Aroma - weak
Development - some age
Dry/Sweet - smells like alcohol to me
Body - tart, lively
Tannins - medium astringent
Flavor - moderate
Flavors - sweet blackberries
Finish - Medium
3) 2007 Bitch Grenache Barossa Valley
Color depth - Medium
Hue - Purple Red
Clarity - Slightly hazy
Aroma - moderate
Development - young
Dry/sweet - berries
Body - Medium dry
Tannins - light/fresh, hard tannins
Flavor - moderate
Flavors - Blackberry
Finish - short
4) ? Grenache
Color - deep
Hue: purple/red
Clarity - cloudy
Aroma - moderate - alcholic smelling
Development - some age
Dry/Sweet - med dry
Body - medium
Acidity - Tart
Flavor - moderate
Flavors - spicy, pepper, nice vinegar
Finish - short
Malbec Tasting - April 2, 2008 - Hostess: Ms Shannon
Malbec - April 2, 2008 - Hostess: Ms Shannon
Wikipedia: About Malbec . Red Wine.
Food Pairings: red meat, Mexican food, Cajun food, Indian food, Italian
Abbie's Tasting Notes:
1) 2007 La Boca Malbec, Trader Joes
Color/Depth - Medium, Deep purple red
Clarity - Slight Haze
Aroma Intensity - Weak
Development - Youthful
Aromas - Varnish
Dry/Sweet - Medium Dry
Body - Medium
Acidity - Tart, a little red fruit?
Tannins - Medium
Flavor Intensity - Moderate
Flavors - Cranberry
Finish - short
2) 2005 Budini Mendoza Malbec $12
Color - Deep
Hue - Ruby/Garnet
Clarity - Cloudy
Aroma - Moderate
Development - Young
Aromas - Leather, suede
Dry/sweet - Medium dry
Body - medium
Acidity - fresh
Tannins - weak
Flavor Intensity - Moderate
Flavors - Black current, black cherry
Finish - Medium
3) Same wine as #1 - 2007 La Boca Malbec, Trader Joes
Color/Depth - Purpley Deep
Color Hue - Ruby purple red
Clarity - slight haze
Aroma Intensity - weak
Development - Young
Aromas - no odor
Dry/Sweet - medium dry
Body - Medium
Acidity - Lively
Tannins - Medium Soft
Flavor Intensity - Medium
Flavor - black raspberry
Finish - Medium
4) 2007 Cavia Malbec
Color/Depth - medium
Hue - Ruby/Garnet
Clarity - cloudy
Aroma/Intensity - moderate
Development - young
Aromas - Sandlewood
Dry/Sweet - Medium Dry
Body - Medium
Acidity - lively
Tannins - Weak/soft
Flavor Intensity - Moderate
Flavors -boysenberry/mulberry
Finish - Medium
5) 2005 Trapiche Broquel $11-12
Color depth - Deep
Hue - Ruby
Clarity - Cloudy
Aroma/Intensity - moderate
Development - young
Aromas - Elderberry
Dry/Sweet - Medium Dry
Body -Medium
Acidity - Fresh
Tannins - weak/soft
Flavor Intensity - flavorful!
Flavors - Black Cherry
Finish - Medium
Wikipedia: About Malbec . Red Wine.
Food Pairings: red meat, Mexican food, Cajun food, Indian food, Italian
Abbie's Tasting Notes:
1) 2007 La Boca Malbec, Trader Joes
Color/Depth - Medium, Deep purple red
Clarity - Slight Haze
Aroma Intensity - Weak
Development - Youthful
Aromas - Varnish
Dry/Sweet - Medium Dry
Body - Medium
Acidity - Tart, a little red fruit?
Tannins - Medium
Flavor Intensity - Moderate
Flavors - Cranberry
Finish - short
2) 2005 Budini Mendoza Malbec $12
Color - Deep
Hue - Ruby/Garnet
Clarity - Cloudy
Aroma - Moderate
Development - Young
Aromas - Leather, suede
Dry/sweet - Medium dry
Body - medium
Acidity - fresh
Tannins - weak
Flavor Intensity - Moderate
Flavors - Black current, black cherry
Finish - Medium
3) Same wine as #1 - 2007 La Boca Malbec, Trader Joes
Color/Depth - Purpley Deep
Color Hue - Ruby purple red
Clarity - slight haze
Aroma Intensity - weak
Development - Young
Aromas - no odor
Dry/Sweet - medium dry
Body - Medium
Acidity - Lively
Tannins - Medium Soft
Flavor Intensity - Medium
Flavor - black raspberry
Finish - Medium
4) 2007 Cavia Malbec
Color/Depth - medium
Hue - Ruby/Garnet
Clarity - cloudy
Aroma/Intensity - moderate
Development - young
Aromas - Sandlewood
Dry/Sweet - Medium Dry
Body - Medium
Acidity - lively
Tannins - Weak/soft
Flavor Intensity - Moderate
Flavors -boysenberry/mulberry
Finish - Medium
5) 2005 Trapiche Broquel $11-12
Color depth - Deep
Hue - Ruby
Clarity - Cloudy
Aroma/Intensity - moderate
Development - young
Aromas - Elderberry
Dry/Sweet - Medium Dry
Body -Medium
Acidity - Fresh
Tannins - weak/soft
Flavor Intensity - flavorful!
Flavors - Black Cherry
Finish - Medium
Welcome to TWITs Wine Club Blog
TWITs stands for "The Wino's In Training."
We are a wine club in Atlanta, GA, founded by Ms. Sarah.
Then Ms. Sarah moved away, and Ms. Abbie inherited the wine club.
We meet once a month to taste different wines, to gossip, to snack, and to learn.
-
The role of Host/Hostess is rotated amongst the members each month. The Host will usually pick the varietal, region, or theme of that month's wine club.
Members attending will then each bring 1 bottle of wine to the event, (or couples can pair up to bring a more expensive bottle), and a blind tasting is conducted as we talk and take notes. At the end of the night, the wines are unveiled, names, prices, and where-to-buy are also disclosed.
We do the blind tasting method, not to guess the wines necessarily (although some of our members are quite good at it), but to enhance our senses as we taste wine. What do we smell? taste? etc.
-
We try to stay within a wine budget of ~ $20 per bottle. This way it is affordable to attend TWITs Wine Club. Couples attending TWITs can bring one bottle ~ $40, this helps to keep the tasting quantity manageable as our membership numbers have grown in size.
-
There is no "fee" to join TWITs, and there is no membership requirements, so long as you are 21 yrs or older, and conduct yourself appropriately when at the TWITs events.
-
Once in a while, we will do a special event night. For example, Ms. Mina hosted a tasting with a sommelier Stephen Satterfield from ISAW (a non-profit). Steven introduced us to several wines from South Africa. The members attending split the cost of Steven's wine purchases for the event.
-
Sometimes a wine store or restaurant will host TWITs, they curate the wine selection provided, and again we each bring $ to cover the tasting, again trying to stay ~ $20/person.
-
We have also done events, where we hire a van or bus driver to take us around the Georgia Mountain Wineries nearby. These special event costs are split amongst the attendees accordingly.
-
TWITs is all about having fun, trying wines, and growing your palate.
-
Enjoy!
We are a wine club in Atlanta, GA, founded by Ms. Sarah.
Then Ms. Sarah moved away, and Ms. Abbie inherited the wine club.
We meet once a month to taste different wines, to gossip, to snack, and to learn.
-
The role of Host/Hostess is rotated amongst the members each month. The Host will usually pick the varietal, region, or theme of that month's wine club.
Members attending will then each bring 1 bottle of wine to the event, (or couples can pair up to bring a more expensive bottle), and a blind tasting is conducted as we talk and take notes. At the end of the night, the wines are unveiled, names, prices, and where-to-buy are also disclosed.
We do the blind tasting method, not to guess the wines necessarily (although some of our members are quite good at it), but to enhance our senses as we taste wine. What do we smell? taste? etc.
-
We try to stay within a wine budget of ~ $20 per bottle. This way it is affordable to attend TWITs Wine Club. Couples attending TWITs can bring one bottle ~ $40, this helps to keep the tasting quantity manageable as our membership numbers have grown in size.
-
There is no "fee" to join TWITs, and there is no membership requirements, so long as you are 21 yrs or older, and conduct yourself appropriately when at the TWITs events.
-
Once in a while, we will do a special event night. For example, Ms. Mina hosted a tasting with a sommelier Stephen Satterfield from ISAW (a non-profit). Steven introduced us to several wines from South Africa. The members attending split the cost of Steven's wine purchases for the event.
-
Sometimes a wine store or restaurant will host TWITs, they curate the wine selection provided, and again we each bring $ to cover the tasting, again trying to stay ~ $20/person.
-
We have also done events, where we hire a van or bus driver to take us around the Georgia Mountain Wineries nearby. These special event costs are split amongst the attendees accordingly.
-
TWITs is all about having fun, trying wines, and growing your palate.
-
Enjoy!
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