Articles from July 2008 What's New Wine (July 23) |
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Lechthaler Trentino Lagrein RosatoThis is an Italian Rose. Lechthaler is the producer, Trentino is the region in northern Italy, and Lagrein is the grape varietal. Lagrein can be vinified into deep, dark reds (known as Lagrein Dunkel or Lagrein Scuro) and roses’ (called Lagrein Kretzer or Lagrein Rosato). The rosés are considered to be some of Italy's best; the Lagrein Rose’ is also often called “lagrein kretzer”. Kretzer is the wicker basket that was used during vinification to separate the skins from the must. With ancient winemaking tradition, unique microclimates, and Roman, German, and Austrian heritage, Trentino-Alto Adige remains Italy's best kept secret. Loacted in the Northernmost province of Italy, a mountainous zone squeezed between the borders of Austria and Switzerland, it is one of Europe's oldest wine-growing sites, predating 15 BC.

Sterling Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc
The fruit for the Sterling Vineyards 2006 Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc was hand picked in the cool morning. Sterling destemmed 95% of the grapes, then pressed the whole berries. Fermentation took place at 50 degrees F to retain the fresh fruit characteristics. The wine was aged for 3 months in stainless steel, with a small portion (5%) aged in neutral oak barrels. Light straw in color, this wine offers expansive aromas reminiscent of grapefruit, melon, figs, and pears. Crisp and refreshing in its acidity, the wine has a rich mid-palate and a long, fruity finish. Wonderful with citrus-marinated shrimp, chicken salad, and grilled trout.

Lyeth Sonoma County Chardonnay
The nose on this California Chardonnay exhibits aromas of honeydew melon, guava with hints of Granny Smith apple. On the palate it’s fruit forward, with seductive highlights of soft spice. This is a crisp, well-balanced wine, with creamy traces of vanilla, buttery smooth finish. Excellent with Dungeness crab, linguine with scallops, or roasted chicken.
 Fleur de Carneros Vin GrisFleur de California Vin Gris of Carneros Pinot Noir is this vineyard’s expression of a bright, fresh,and flavorful Rose. Made in a crisp, dry style designed to accompany food, the wine displays aromas of strawberry and honeysuckle while exhibiting a mouthwatering finish that cleanses the palate. Delightful for hot summer nights.

Penley Estate Phoenix Cabernet Sauvignon
Balance is a key feature in all Penley wines. It ensures the wines will mature successfully in the bottle. This wine shows dominance of spicy cabernet fruit, a dense ripeness with hints of smoky oak and grape tannin. A wine made to enjoy while young, ripe but elegant, distinct Coonawarra cabernet sauvignon characters are evident. 60% French Troncais Oak and 40% American Oak was used. 50% of this oak was new, 50% was second hand. Barrel fermentation provided a balanced integration of oak and fruit. To maintain the style, the amount of time in oak each year will vary with the vintage.

Bridlewood Central Coast Syrah
The wine opens with aromas of smoke, cedar, and chocolate leading to bright cherry fruit framed with spicy oak. As it evolves, a nose of dark fruits and violates gives way to dark chocolate. On the palate, this wine shows rich flavors of blackberry, dark cherry and sweet brown spice with a hint of mocha. Full of soft, chewy tannins, this wine has a long, clean finish.
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