What To Drink Tonight

Dead Canyon

2012-01-28T21:22:00.006-05:00

2009
Horse Heaven Hills
Cabernet Sauvignon

I haven't had a really tasty wine in awhile - one that makes me take notice. Tonight we celebrated my mom's birthday and she brought a wine that someone had given her as a gift. It was Dead Canyon and it was extremely good and it made me take notice. Especially for a Washington State wine. Wine Out West. Loved it alot. I liked it best on its own. It had herb undertones, peppery heat, vanilla oak, a healthy dose of earth and a lasting 1 minute finish. As I knew my mother was bringing this wine for before dinner, I went through my recipe books and found an appetizer to accompany a hearty cabernet. It was Ricotta and Mushroom Crostini out of my Food & Wine 2011 Annual Cookbook and the two were a great pairing together. The spiciness and heat of the wine came out with the appetizer, but the more herbal and earthy tones of the wine were more evident prior to any food. Very good either way.

I feel I've lost my creative edge all the way around. I follow the same pattern of: go to work, come home make dinner, help with homework, attend school meetings, go to bed, get up and do it all over again. I have no time to take drawing classes like I was, I am too tired to take pictures, I rarely feel inspired. There just isn't enough time in the day. However, I devoted all of today to making a meal for my mother's special dinner. I made a gourmet meal for the first time in awhile. I haven't put any effort into dinners in a long time for a lot of reasons. But today I felt like making it my mission for the day. So we had the ricotta mushroom crostini for our appetizer and a spicy rosemary lemon marinated pork loin for the main meal, accompanied by Boston lettuce with cranberries, feta and roasted walnuts, roasted rosemary and thyme baby potatoes, homemade organic applesauce (and all three of my children assisted with each phase: washing, peeling, coring and cutting of apples), South Beach Diet Mashed Potatoes (cauliflower mashed with butter and half and half), and a tomato and scallion warm salad with ricotta and lime. Aside from the tomato and scallion salad being warmer than I wanted, the rest was pretty darn good and it felt nice to make a decent meal again.

Water is my eye, most faithful mirror, fearless on my breath
Teardrop on the fire of a confession
Fearless on my breath most faithful mirror
Fearless on my breath

Teardrop on the fire, fearless on my breath
Stumbling a little, stumbling a little

Teardrop
by Massive Attack

8.25 out of 10
13.9% alc. by vol
$18 / 750 ml. bottle

Vitiano Umbria

2012-01-20T18:47:00.006-05:00

2009
Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese & Merlot Blend

This was an improvement over Big House red, which I am beginning to think I over-rated. I don't like that I have to cool it to keep it - which means I have to pour it an hour or so before I want a sip so that it comes to room temp. And then it tastes so different. It would probably come to room temp sooner if I didn't keep our house temp at only 60 (Brrrrrrr!) to save $$ on oil! However, that said, it never really "warms" up the way I like my reds.

Anyway, this isn't about Big House at all, it is about Vitiano. And Vitiano is a really good vanilla-oak-cherry dry wine with thyme essence.

I enjoyed this on its own, but it was very good with fettucine and broccoli rabe, chicken sausage, mushrooms, Gouda and some crushed red pepper with a little grape seed oil. I highly recommend this "Super Tuscan" category wine.

So, I am a Steve Poltz fan. He played for awhile on the road with Jewel and they have co-written songs together. But my absolute favorite song of his is from the soundtrack of the movie Notting Hill. The song from the actual soundtrack is electrified and has bagpipes, whereas other versions do not. This, for me, is the sexiest song ever written. Word is that he wrote it for Jewel, though they have not been romantically linked, but whoever it was he had in mind, is the luckiest girl in the world to have someone seeing her in this manner.

I love everything about you
I love the way you comb your hair
And I love the way you sachet in the room
Your perfume lingers in the air
I love everything about you, whoa-oh, about you

I love the way you lick your lips, dear
You got fireworks in your head
And I love the way you bring me water
When I'm thirsty in your bed
I love everything about you, whoa-oh, about you

You were surely kissed by angels
Look at the freckles on your face
You got the devil in your eyes
You disappear without a trace

I love sneaking up behind you
When you're looking in the mirror
The way your eyes lock into mine, dear
Without guilt, without fear
I love everything about you, whoa-oh, about you

8.25 out of 10
$12 / 750 ml. bottle
13.5% alc. by vol.

Big House Red

2012-01-12T21:04:00.008-05:00

2010
BLEND: Petite Syrah, Syrah, Petite Verdot, Carignane, Mourvedre, Barbera, Zinfandel, Tannat, Sangiovese, Malbec, and Grenache.

So I do believe I've gotten away from the whole point of this blog. To recommend "budget" wines for those with less who still want to enjoy the finer things in life. Let me make amends tonight.

I noticed a friend MONTHS ago had several Black Box Merlot and Shiraz and other Blackstone boxed wines on her counter. When I asked her how she liked them, she said she loved them. She was expecting over (20) family members for a family party and she said it was the most cost-effective way to go without sacrificing a lot of flavor. I barely made a mental note of it because, a boxed wine was still "a boxed wine".

If we are going to talk about having on hand an everday wine for one to enjoy after a hard day's work, then we need to seriously consider the boxed wines that are out there. This is the first one I am reviewing tonight. I hope to do a series of boxed wine reviews in the coming months.

Another friend, who happens to enjoy some of the more expensive and finer wines, loves Big House for her every day on-hand wine (though she buys it in a bottle). I have listened to her mention it numerous times over the last year. I was in the package store the other day, looking for something new to try, and saw a whole "boxed" section. I went right to the Big House. She happens to really like the Big House White, but I thought I'd try the red. I know she likes the red almost as much as the white, but she tends to drink more white than red - hence her preference.

I brought it home and poured a glass. It was very fruity, tasted medium-bodied, and had a slight vanilla cherry finish. I was rather impressed. I mean, I just brought home basically 4 bottles of wine for $21 including tax and I actually enjoyed my glass. I baked a Berkshire pork loin roast with garlic and baked some organic sweet potatoes. The wine was delicious with the meal. Both, I felt, enhanced the other. Tonight, I had another glass after work while cooking dinner and finished my glass with my dinner: baked salmon with lemon and fresh ginger, risotto, and organic mixed peas, carrots, green beans and corn. Another delicious match. Could this be too good to be true? Not so far.

Just so you understand, I am not touting this as a velvety, rich, full-bodied gem. But as an every day, ENJOYABLE, glass of wine for casual meals or alone, this is it. It also tasted good with a handful of white cheddar Cheez-its by the way. Now, I will tell you, when I purchased this box I found myself looking over my shoulder and making sure the parking lot was clear before making a run to my car. I was actually self-conscious that I'd run in to someone I know who might laugh that I was the owner of a box of wine. Also, I must tell you, the Guy was not as enthusiastic about my purchase. He said it tasted: "grapey". BUT - he then added: "with a finish (surprisingly)". I politely disagree with him. It is more berry than grapey to me, and it does have a pleasant low-key finish. It is not thin, it is not metallic, it is not watery. It's got something. Something that is way worth the price and amount.

So, I texted my friend today that I bought her Big House and enjoyed it. I also mentioned that I bought a box of it. Her response? You had such a bad day that you bought a boxed wine???? It completely didn't matter to her that I bought her favorite stand by. She only paid attention to the "box" part. My first reaction to her response? "It's the same wine you dingleberry." No matter what, it seems to be the initial response to hearing the wine is in a "box". Well, guess what? It's 4 bottles for less than the price of 1. Oh, and it's vacuum sealed so it stays fresh. Oh, and it will keep for 4 to 6 weeks. Oh, if it actually lasts that long before I drink it.

8.0 out of 10
13.5% alc. by vol.
Such a DEAL!!!! $19.99 / 3 L ***** That's (4) bottles for under $5 each

Cantina Zaccagnini Montepulciano d'Abruzzo

2012-01-06T21:59:00.011-05:00

2008
Red Dry Wine
Italia

This is a highly enjoyable wine to have with Italian fare. Great with pizza and/or such Italiano spices as oregano and garlic. This was my birthday bottle at a restaurant. It was enjoyed with prosciutto and arugula pizza. I liked it so much I gave it as Christmas gifts. Word is that the wooden piece that comes attached to each bottle (not seen in this image) is attached by students at a deaf school near the vineyard.

Tonight we had it with spaghetti with oregano and sauteed garlic and organic turkey and roasted garlic crushed tomatoes topped with a four-cheese combo of fontina, provolone, asiago, and parmesan. It was just as good as it was the night of my birthday with the pizza.

Nothing like beginning your day with a speculum and an anal probe. My doc laughed at me and told me he wished he had a camera so he could take a picture of my face. Good thing I happen to like him. I even thanked him after it was all over - isn't that worse than thanking a police officer for giving you a speeding ticket??? Anyway, that's how my day started and it never got much better. So I decided to purchase a bottle of this after leaving the doctor's office. It was a no-brainer. Hmmmm, how do I erase the bad memories of this morning's wake-up call? I fantasized about wine as I drove away and decided: Lets just end the day with a vanilla-cherry chocolate bomb the likes of a full-bodied red zin.

I sat in the waiting room surrounded by pregnant women. I waited in line to check out with pregnant women in front of me and pregnant women behind me. I should have been happy for them all. But I selfishly felt old and sad that my own were growing up and I have had my day. I am menstruating again for the third time this month. That is after having not menstruated at all for two and a half months. And that is following a month of feeling extremely warm when I am always cold and a month of extreme emotions. Yes, I am losing my child-bearing years. I am also being gross for any male readers out there. But this is my reality. I am beginning a new phase of life and it is not easy to grasp. I miss the spit up, and drool, and gummy smiles, and beautiful-smelling bald heads of yesteryear and I wish I could spend my life surrounded by them. Life goes incredibly fast. That's why we all need our own personal cantina!

I count the cars out on the highway
I think about you now and then
The stars are out and no one knows me
Til I'm home again

The sun breaks across the water
A warm reminder on the wind
The days are sweet but what I want is to be home again
To be home again

HEM -Home Again

8.0 out of 10
13% alc. by vol.
$12 - $15 / 750 bottle

Montecillo Crianza

2012-01-01T18:57:00.002-05:00

2007
Rioja
Spain

This was our Christmas main meal wine served with honey baked ham, creamy parmesan mashed potatoes, brussels sprouts, green beans and peasant bread. As consumed with the ham, I found this wine very good. Made from Tempranillo grapes, this was a burst of cherry-vanilla flavor with a bit of musty earthiness mixed in. It reminded my brother too much of a French red due to the earthiness and he did not like it - one bad night of too much Beaujolais - he opted for pinot noir. However, the Guy and I enjoyed it.

It just didn't feel like Christmas. I guess I was not alone as almost everyone I have spoken with since Christmas Day has concurred. Everything just felt different for some reason. I never felt "in the spirit" no matter how hard I tried. I listened to my favorite carols and appreciated the beauty of my tree and the gathering of family. I attended Christmas Eve candlelight service. Nothing brought it to the forefront. This was a hard year for my family. We lost three very important people. And life has changed as a result. But it seems, it is not just my family feeling off this year.

Christmas night I went in to check E-mail and saw the horribly sad headlines of the Badger family fire. I became immersed in the story and have felt incredible sorrow ever since. I don't know how Madonna Badger's life will ever feel right again. Christmas is forever sad for her and Matthew Badger. The firefighters on scene will never be the same either. It seemed like it was so close to being preventable - that each child and their grandparents were SO close to almost escaping. And everyone did the best they could to save them, yet it just wasn't enough.

Be thankful for each day you've got with your family and hug the children in your life.

8.0 out of 10
13.5% alc. by vol.
$14 / 750 ml. bottle

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T12:37:00.009-05:00

My brother is here and we went shopping for our Christmas weekend wine enjoyment. :) Not included here is our champagne we will be having with our brunch, as of yet an undecided label but it won't be anything special - just good quality for mimosas. We will be having Pinot Noir with our Christmas Ham and it is also an unknown label as it is to be brought by others.

For our appetizers and afternoons/evenings enjoyment as we see fit, we have got Hess Mount Veeder 19 Block Cuvee, 2006; Honig Cabernet Sauvignon, 2008; and Stag's Leap Karia Chardonnay, 2007.

Reviews to hopefully follow in a later post.

So I was at my husband's Christmas party a couple of weeks ago, and I found myself wondering in horror whether or not I had become a wine snob. I was not happy with the selection offered and didn't want to have any of what was out on the table. I had spent the day driving and had a headache and was tired and hadn't seen my children all day and I really didn't want to go to the party. A friend of mine said she would go if I would go, and my husband told me that I had to go because "they" had purchased special wine just for me. So, I decided to go. My friend never showed up and the wine was Forest Glen.

Isn't it my prerogative to decide that I don't like a certain wine? Am I a snob for not drinking it when everyone there knows I enjoy wine? I made that mistake at a wedding over the summer - I drank the only wine they had so as not to appear rude and ended up with a monster headache. So, when I was asked at this party why I wasn't drinking any wine, I stated I did not want to have Forest Glen. So, a bottle of Bogle Phantom emerged just for me. That was a much better choice, and I DID enjoy it, but I found myself still disappointed and I possibly slightly portrayed that emotion on my face and/or in my tone without thinking. On the way home that night, I had to analyze whether or not it made me a snob and I had to think about it logically. I determined I was not a wine snob. To reach this conclusion, I started with the following:

1. SNOB (as defined by Merriam-Webster): one who blatantly imitates, fawningly admires, or vulgarly seeks association with those regarded as social superiors. (This is so NOT me.)

2. I then analyzed who "they" were (the ones who were supposed to have wine especially for my enjoyment): two wine cellar owners with good taste and a vast supply to the different wines they drink. Therefore, my expectations were set higher in anticipation of the wine to be offered.

3. The fact that I had already had a long day and was tired and didn't really want to be there to begin with and was basically only going because a "nice" wine was supposedly purchased on my behalf and to not show would have been plain rude.

There you have it. I was just tired and thought there was something special purchased on my behalf other than wine I am already familiar with. In retrospect, I realize that my husband may have misquoted what was actually said as well, adding to my expectations versus reality. It was just an off night and I should have paid attention to my gut instincts and kept me and my tone home.

Then again, if I had to ask if I was being a snob, maybe there was a slight truth to it?!!!

A very Merry Christmas to you and yours. I wish you peace and comfort and an enjoyable wine experience with friends and loved ones and the magic of the season.

Markham Merlot

2011-11-25T20:25:00.006-05:00

2007
NAPA

Vanilla oak, heat, blackberry, pepper ~ worth it

THANKSGIVING 2011

The room was so quiet

Not like when you were in it

The walls weren’t echoing your laughter

The wine glasses emptied

Without you here to refill them

We go on because we must

But life just isn’t at the level you brought it to

Your grandson is just learning to walk, he was lucky, though he may never remember

You held him, you spoke to him

You’ve got a grand-daughter on the way

She should have heard your voice, your laugh, your off-key notes, your poems, your songs

Still, we must be thankful for the times we had

For you rarely turned down an opportunity

You made the most of the life you had

You knew how to live and embrace life

You were a burning star to be followed

And though we can no longer see your brightness burning

We can remember the light of your presence and bask in the remnants of its warmth

$24 / 750 ml. bottle
8.25 out of 10
14.2 % alc. by vol.

Kistler Pinot Noir

2011-11-20T23:02:00.005-05:00

2007
Sonoma Coast
Sebastopol, CA
Bottle #00319

Not a budget wine. Sorry again. But it was our anniversary. A berry good wine - this is very fruit forward with a hint of minerality and wood. It tasted even better with French goat cheese, smoked gouda and aged cheddar and each tasted equally as good with the wine.

I wanted to go out to eat tonight - we never do that anymore. I didn't want any of the super expensive places, just a place that's worth the money: da Capo - my favorite italian ristorante. But it just wasn't meant to be.

So I went to the local grocery and bought various cheeses I thought would accompany a Pinot Noir well. We had the smoked gouda, aged cheddar, and French goat cheese which I baked for a bit drizzled with olive oil and thyme and spread over heated ciabatta. We also bought Sopresseta and red and green pears. It was a pretty good "at home" feast.

Upon our return, we discovered our house could have burned down. We left our kids home while we went 2 minutes to the store (16, 14 and 10 - old enough to be OK for less than half an hour). When we pulled in the driveway, our eldest was opening windows and doors. I immediately asked what was wrong. She announced that the oven wasn't "acting right" and had smoke billowing from it for no reason. She was correct -I'd turned it OFF before we left. I put pumpkin bread in it to keep it warm from when the oven was previously on an hour before. I walked into the smoke-filled kitchen to find the oven was still OFF but smoke was indeed billowing forth. I opened the door and found the pumpkin bread was BURNED black and smoking. It looked as though it had been on fire. The oven was indeed OFF, yet the temperature setting was registering at 500 degrees!!!! So, it's (4) days before Thanksgiving and I have no choice but to go get a new oven. I just finished getting my SEARS credit card down below $250 and now I have to throw an oven on there! One step forward, two steps behind.

Anyway, the wine was indeed NOT lost on me this evening. I just sucked it up and put together an appetizer plate for me and the Guy and we sat and ate and sipped in the haze of charred pumpkin bread with the distant sound of an upstairs fire alarm still beeping.

This wine was a gift my aunt brought to me from dear and late Uncle Bob's cellar. As Thanksgiving is nearing, and that is the holiday I will always remember him at, I felt it apropos to have on my husband and my eighteenth anniversary. A deeply felt thank you once again to my uncle for providing me with some of my greatest wine experiences - we miss him so incredibly so and can't believe he is no longer in our lives.

8.5 out of 10
$95 / 750 ml bottle
14.1 % alc by vol.

the Dreaming Tree; Crush

2011-11-16T20:32:00.012-05:00

2009
Red Wine
North Coast, California

A blend of Merlot and Zin, this was not what I was hoping it would be. A collaboration of winemaker Steve Reeder and Dave Matthews, Dave should maybe stick with his songwriting and singing. It was not bad - it's just, for the price, I expected more. I've had better for less.

The description on the bottle hints there is some smoky berry-ness, but it just isn't as dream-worthy as the label makes it out to be. There is definite berry and slight smokiness, which means there is potential, but it was a bit flat, a bit thin, and lacking general ooomph. I would have priced this at $8.99/750 ml. bottle. But, it appears to be a designer label alone.

Honestly, I think it just needs a little more of what we all need: TIME. How long, I'm not sure.

So, my eldest daughter told me awhile ago that there is this new song that a few people have told her reminds them of her, but she didn't know the specifics of it other than she keeps hearing it and it is about someone dying young and it was making her nervous that so many thought of her. Shortly after our conversation, I kept hearing a song that I liked a lot, and it reminded me of her, though I didn't really listen to the words until one day when I did and it suddenly clicked that the song I kept hearing must be the same song that reminds others of her. The lyrics now slay me whenever I hear it and my eyes spill over. However, I believe that because my daughter is 16, and pretty, and just starting out having met someone special, and she sings beautifully, and dresses up a lot, and she writes, sings, and plays love songs on her guitar, and she isn't sure of her belief in God but she knows its my greatest hope for her, there really is no question why we think of her with this song.

Lord make me a rainbow, I'll shine down on my mother
She'll know I'm safe with you when she stands under my colors, oh and
Life ain't always what you think it ought to be, no
Ain't even grey, but she buries her baby

The sharp knife of a short life, well
I've had, just enough time

If I die young, bury me in satin
Lay me down on a, bed of roses
Sink me in the river, at dawn
Send me away with the words of a love song

The sharp knife of a short life, oh well
I've had just enough time

And I'll be wearing white when I come into Your Kingdom
I'm as green as the ring on my little cold finger,
I've never known the loving of a man
But it sure felt nice when he was holdin' my hand
there's a boy here in town says that he'll love me forever
Whoever thought forever could be severed by

The sharp knife of a short life oh Well,
I've had just enough time

...So put on your best boys,
and I'll wear my pearls . . .

--The Band Perry--

www.youtube.com/watch?v=7NJqUN9TClM

7.5 out of 10
$14.99/750 ml bottle
13.5% alc. by vol.
DreamingTreeWines.com

Old Vine Red Lot Number 50

2011-11-13T20:34:00.005-05:00

OLD VINE RED #50
MARIETTA CELLARS
CALIFORNIA

I had Lot #42 in April of 2007. I gave it an 8.0 at the time and I concur that this one is around the same. It is nice to know the Lots are consistent, but I was excited to try this and I was hoping it would be even better than Lot #42. Lot #50 is peppery with floral notes and fruit bomb remnants. It is another blend based off of Zin. I had it with grass-fed beef and asparagus, but it was really good with a piece of home-made fudge.

Tugged the moon into the ground

Turn this bedroom upside down tonight

Took my faith and I breathed it out

Walked right through a cloud of flashing lights

Bright lights

Pain takes my heart's place

The love we made we can't erase it

Don't wanna face it

Erin McCarley, Pitter-Pat

8.0 OUT OF 10

$12.99/750 ML. BOTTLE

13.5% ALC. BY VOLUME

Meiomi Pinot Noir

2011-10-23T19:42:00.004-05:00

2008
Pinot Noir
Belle Glos

Sonoma County 65%
Monterey County 20%
Santa Barbara County 15%

A Christmas gift to the Guy from his boss, this Pinot Noir was finally enjoyed tonight.

I have previous Belle Glos Pinot Noir memories - my brother bought a Belle Glos pinot noir for Christmas in 2007? Awesome. I think I have it at a "higher" rating (8.75). Well, the Meiomi was a pretty darn good runner up. Hints of the same - earth, berry, and herb (thyme) make this a phenomenal wine for the price. People: If you want to impress any wine aficionados, buy this (usually less than $20) wine. It tastes more expensive. I've heard it's good with pizza. I made organic chicken soup and added a wee bit to the broth and found it terrific as an accompaniment to the soup.

They say time will make all this go away
But it's time that has taken my tomorrows
And turned them into yesterdays
And once again that rising sun
Is droppin' on down
And once again you my friend
Are nowhere to be found
And it's so hard to do
And so easy to say
But sometimes
Sometimes you just have to walk away
Walk away
And head for the door

Ben Harper, Walk Away

8.25 out of 10
$19.99
13.9% alc. by vol.

Plungerhead Old Vine Zinfandel

2011-10-07T20:36:00.010-05:00

2009
Lodi
California

Pepper. Alcohol. Oak. Baking spices (nutmeg? cinnamon?). In that order. Much better than whatever else I drank a few days ago that wasn't worth writing about. This had some personality. And some awesome baking spice scent up close. And a heluva kick, which I don't normally like. Not that I do tonight. I don't. But if you're looking for a wine with a kick - grab this. Loved the funky new twist on a twist-off cap. See pic below.

Before I begin, I have lost another dear person in my family that I cared for more than I knew I did. My grandmother's wonderful husband of only 4+ years passed away in a short period of time a couple of weeks ago. He was an incredibly classy, gentle, funny man. I respected him greatly and my grandmother was in love with him. They were beautiful and happy together. They made four years of bliss look like Heaven. My friends and colleagues stood in awe at my tales of their courtship and marriage and travels. Their time together was indeed short, but they packed decades of happiness into their limited time together. DD, thank you for the happiness you brought my grandmother. You will remain in our hearts forever.

For some reason today, an image popped in my head that hasn't been there for a long time. My parents divorced when I was 11. I had a really hard time with it. I dealt with it. I moved on a bit. Then I heavily reminisced for a few years that made me feel very nostalgic and sad - every song from that time period would bring me right back to it. Then I eventually stopped reminiscing and moved on with my own life and just figured all that time spent feeling nostalgic and sad was for a reason - like it was a rite of passage I had to go through in order for me to get to the next phase of my life.

Not long after my parents separated, I was in the car with my mother and we were visiting old friends that she and my dad were friends with when they were together and our families congregated. We were leaving their house and we'd reached the end of the road and were turning to head back to the road to take us home to our house, an hour away now. We passed a house that I couldn't help noticing. It was dark wooden, rustic - slightly haunted looking, yet something about it I liked. It had a bit of junk in the front, but it was big, and I loved the woodeness to it - there were various shades of natural planks making up the house and it gave me an interesting feeling to look at it - not scared, not sad, just a feeling like I had a connection to that house - it made me want to be there. In spite of its degradation, it wasn't really old - just in need of TLC. My mother at that moment as I was silently taking it in at my younger age exclaimed that she and my dad had contemplated buying that house a couple of years ago before separating. I remember thinking in my head: "I sure wish you'd bought it." As I sat at my desk today at work, that image shot into my head and I was filled with a longing for a life that never happened - a corner that wasn't turned and every path changed course from that point on. I felt sure that if they had purchased that house and fixed it up like they had once discussed, my life would have turned out much differently - maybe more happily.

As I began to write tonight, I turned on my Pandora as usual and two songs affected me, back to back, compelling me to write verse from two separate songs. So, here they are, in honor of my memories and my deepest thoughts and reflections today, and in all of their irony:

How can you say, Forever is at your command?
How can you say, The future is in the palm, in the palm of your hand?

When the house was standing,
You'd never have believed it,
When the house was standing,
You'd never have believed...
That gaping hole was once a foundation,
Where you stand now were tools in a basement, And...

How can you say, Forever is at your command?
How can you say, The future's in the palm, in the palm of your hand?

--Palm of Your Hand--
by Cake

So I wanna live in a wooden house,
where making more friends would be easy.

Oh, and I don´t have a soul to save.
Yes, and I sin every single day.

We never change, do we?
We never learn, do we?

So I wanna live in a wooden house,
Where making more friends would be easy.
I wanna live where the sun comes out ...

--We Never Change--
by Coldplay

$13/ 750 ml. bottle
15% alcohol by vol.
8.0 out of 10

Kendall Jackson Chardonnay 2009

2011-09-18T19:18:00.013-05:00

Vintner's Reserve
Santa Rosa, California
2009

My friend and I FINALLY walked our almost-5- mile power walk last night. It's been a really long time. It felt good and I was surprised that I handled it so well. I wasn't too breathless! Afterward we had a glass of vino. Hey! It was Saturday night after all and we haven't been together in awhile, and she's had some stuff happen to her recently, and my eldest was on a pseudo date up the road picking apples. We deserved a glass of wine that we'd worked off ahead of time! :)

She is a fan of "Big House". I don't believe I've ever reviewed it, and I won't tonight. She told me it was more sweet, with a Riesling-like flavor. She gave me a choice of the Big House White or her other standby: Crane Lake Merlot. She is a HUGE fan of the Sonoma-Cutrer that I love and, especially, Conundrum - we like this best. However, for an every day wine, she likes the Big House and Crane Lake. So, I chose the white due to being hot and desiring a cold glass verses a warm one. It was enjoyable but I kept thinking about what I was going to buy on the way home.

I decided to pick up one of my own old standbys to accompany dinner: Kendall Jackson Vintner's Reserve Chardonnay. However, it is the 2009 vintage. I decided to form dinner around it and made fettuccine alfredo with grilled chicken, fresh parsley and organic peas. It was a nice, pleasing match. After the Big House, the KJ was awesome. I personally enjoy oak flavor and it was oak-heavy with vanilla and wonderful minerality. I don't believe I have reviewed the 2009 before. I love the 2008. This was just as good, though there was a bit of an "after taste" upon drinking alone. However, the after taste went away with the fettuccine and it went away again tonight with tofu and curry and brown rice and sweet potatoes. It was in a different league than the Big House white, though I did enjoy the Big House following our walk. The Big House is only $8.99 and the KJ is $14.99. but they are very different.

I long to just write. And this isn't the forum I prefer. But I will continue to write here for now until I find my true dream writing niche. So I share my thoughts from the weekend:

My grandmother's husband's health is failing. He is in his 90's and it is to be expected. But they've only had about 4 full married years together. However, they have been great years, and they were very fortunate that they had those few perfect years together. They spent time in their "main" home in CT, their "winter" home in Barbados, and their "summer" home in Maine (Squirrel Island). Up until very recently, they were driving themselves to JFK and around NYC and to Maine. He is a wonderful man. He has made my grandmother very happy, and I have an affection for him that I can't explain - as though he was always meant to be there, but wasn't until recently.

I visited with them yesterday and things are not well for him - the doctors believe he has 6 to 7 weeks left here on earth. He is in my prayers every night. My grandmother is having a hard time. She is very devoted to him and will not leave his side even if it is at her own well being's expense. By that I mean that she is not so steady anymore on her feet and she is getting him up and showered and dressed every morning. I am humbled by their love. And I am sad that their life together may be coming to an end. They have been such an inspiration to my friends and colleagues as they met and fell in love and married in their late 80's. I am praying my grandmother can make it through the next few weeks and survive the loss of her second husband as she did her first. She is my last living grandparent and I am filled with emotions as I witness yet again another loss halfway through my life, and the second loss of love for her. They have been so happy together.

As they struggle with this impending change to their love and life together, my own eldest daughter is beginning her future. She likes someone. This made my grandmother so happy for a moment as she dreamed about being "Sweet 16" and liking someone for the first time. Life changes so fast. It goes through its cycles and we ebb and flow with each wave. I love my family and my memories and I miss the past and sometimes fear the future and then again I will embrace change when I feel brave and I think everything is going to be okay, but then I worry that maybe it won't and I am resigned to just take each day as it comes.

For now, I am happy for my daughter as I reflect on my own life's journey, while remembering that of my grandmother. One is coming to an end, one is just beginning, and the other remains in the middle. And, as I look at my beautiful girl, I still see that beautiful baby from just 16 years ago and can't believe how quickly time has flown.

I am a Duffy fan as much as I am Adele. They both take me back to the past in their current music styles. This is a song I love:

I'm scared to face another day
'Cause the fear in me just won't go away
In an instant you were gone and now I'm scared

DUFFY, I'm Scared

8.25 out of 10
13.5% alc. by vol.
$14.99 / 750 ml. bottle

Schild Estate Shiraz

2011-09-03T19:02:00.008-05:00

2008
Barossa
Australia

Wow. 94 points from Wine Spectator. Really?? I was disappointed. Don't get me wrong. This is a good wine. Dark berry, vanilla flavor with a hint of smokiness. Flavors that I normally would be totally in love with. I expected this would be so much more.

I still believe it WILL indeed be so much more in a couple of years. I think it has fantastic potential. It was just a little too early just yet.

Had a great time with family during a too short beach vacation. Misquamicut was fantastic fun with my eldest and I riding waves together and laughing. No jellyfish. A lot of fun in the sun.

We had no power, but we didn't need it. Beach by day, kayaking, candelight on the deck at night overlooking the moonlight and water. My children and their beautiful cousin, my brother-in-law with his guitar, a visitor from Barcelona, and a sister-in-law with a bottle of red. Just what I needed. :)

Sometimes it lasts in love, but sometimes it hurts instead
You know how the time flies
Only yesterday was the time of our lives
We were born and raised in a summer haze
Bound by the surprise of our glory days

Adele, Someone Like You

8.25 out of 10
14.5% alc. by vol.
$20 / 750 ml. bottle (but I received a $3 discount so it cost me $17) :)

7 Deadly Zins

2011-08-14T16:09:00.005-05:00

Old Vine Zinfandel
2008
LODI Appellation, CA

I believe I have reviewed this wine before. However, tonight it was really good. I served it with lasagna. I make an Americanized verison of lasagna that includes provolone, mozzarella and parmesean in lieu of the traditional ricotta and egg, etc. The provolone gives it a "smoked" flavor. The 7 Deadly Zins added to that smokiness. It was a fab combo that I enjoyed immensely.

Tonight is a very special night. I have just learned of the impending birth of a baby for my dear cousin, whose father, my uncle, just recently passed.

In addition, today I feel I was given a gift to forward. I went in search of vacuum cleaner bags that I purchased a couple of months ago, but cannot find. While looking for them, I found a postcard from my dear uncle from last year's Thanksgiving. As you may know, this is the uncle who always made Thanksgiving extra special with his presence, as well as his wine.

One thing I was reflecting on, upon learning of his death, was, while I truly believe and know he was bringing GOOD wine, his presence alone made the wine so much better. I kept wondering, was it the wine, or was it Uncle Bob? It was definitely the man that made the experience better. It was a bit like Pavlov's dog. Had my uncle been feeding me sour milk every Thanksgiving, I truly believe I would have learned to love sour milk. It was the man who made the difference.

Well, tonight I sent my postcard findings along to my aunt and cousins. Last year, he did not come to my house (and I thought confidently that there will be many more Thanksgivings ahead) because my cousin had his first baby and they all spent Thanksgiving together, understandably so. As per usual, he sent a case of his wine ahead for us to enjoy on the day despite his absence. But, honestly, it just wasn't the same without him.

Anyway, today I found his postcard written to my girls during Thanksgiving of last year. The postcard was a botanical photo of one of my favorite plants: the Bleeding Heart. In it he wrote how sorry he was that he wasn't with us and that he hoped the picture on the front conveyed that. In addition, he told them how he added a verse to his favorite Thanksgiving blessing (he would sing the hymn "We Gather Together" for grace). He shared his altered version with us to include a beautiful verse about the birth of his first grandchild. That being the "grace" he sang at the Thanksgiving table he shared with his "new" family last year. I forgot about all he wrote in that card because I obviously didn't know he was going to die before our next Thanksgiving. So, to me, it was a gift that I found that card tonight. I shared its contents with my aunt and cousins in an Email so that they would have the exact blessing he sang at their last Thanksgiving together.

Approximately 10 minutes later, I received a phone call from my aunt who is visiting one of my cousins down South. This was a trip she and my uncle had set in motion weeks before he died. She carried on alone. She called me to tell me that they got my Email and to let me know that my cousin had just shared with her on this trip that she too is expecting a baby. Her brother had a most beautiful baby last year, and now she too will have a baby. To me, everything has come full circle. It is bittersweet, as I wish my uncle could have seen BOTH of his children's first child, but I know, as I said to my cousin, that he already knows this baby. I am totally blessed that I found his postcard and I forwarded it this particular weekend. I truly believe it was his doing.

This wine was fantastic with lasagna and garlic bread. A smokey cherry bomb with a bit of leather nuances.

In the circle of life
It's the wheel of fortune
It's the leap of faith
It's the band of hope
Till we find our place
On the path unwinding
In the circle, the circle of life

Some of us fall by the wayside
And some of us soar to the stars
And some of us sail through our troubles
And some have to live with the scars

There's far too much to take in here
More to find than can ever be found
But the sun rolling high through the sapphire sky
Keeps great and small on the endless round

Elton John, The Circle of Life

8.0 out of 10 (with food / lasagna)
$15.99 / 750 ml. bottle
15.0 % alc. by vol.

6th Sense Syrah

2011-08-02T19:42:00.007-05:00

2008
Lodi Appellation

This wine was all chocolate, leather, rasberries and smoke.

I have not felt like posting or even writing much of anything since the untimely passing of my uncle. Everything just feels . . . different. More importantly, wine isn't so great anymore. I used to taste zealously and with anticipation and fun. I just don't feel the same. I go about my days as usual, but now with less zeal when I remember he's gone (which is several times a day). When I catch myself laughing, I feel bad. But I do remember how important laughter was to him and how much joy he brought others and I know he would want me to laugh as much as I can.

So, I am back to review the first wine I've had in awhile that inspired me and that I thoroughly enjoyed. But, more importantly, I felt compelled to write again due to re-connecting with my husband's younger brother. He is at an age finally where he realizes what is truly important. He has been out of our lives for too many years. He came for dinner and we talked, played wiffle ball, rode around in a golf cart, drank wine and toasted life, and ate birthday cake in celebration of his recent birthday. It was the best I've felt since Uncle Bob died, and I am thankful.

Chocolate and rasberries . . .

The hardest day awaits me this year - Thanksgiving. It is my favorite holiday and it was the one I totally enjoyed sharing with Uncle Bob. He truly was the best. I said some words at the burial of his ashes, and I ended with this poem by the great Emily Dickinson. Life is, truly, too short.

You will not see me, so you must have faith.
I wait for the time when we can soar together again, both aware of each other.
Until then, live your life to its fullest and when you need me, just whisper my name in your heart, I will be there.

--Emily Dickinson--

8.25 out of 10
$16 /750 ml. bottle
15.5% alc. by vol.

Kendall Jackson Chardonnay

2011-07-26T21:53:00.002-05:00

Vintner's Reserve
2008

I walked with a friend tonight
We hit 5 miles at a good pace
I was sweating
My heart was pounding and it felt good
My heart has been sore and broken
I wanted to feel it pumping out of my chest
I pushed myself harder

Later I drank lemon water, 2 glasses
And then she took out a well chilled bottle
Kendall Jackson Chardonnay, Vintner’s Reserve, 2008
I could not resist
I raised my glass to toast you
But she was on to something else
She didn’t know you
So I toasted you in my head

My boss asked me today how I was
I burst into tears
He didn’t know what to do
He stood up and reached across his desk
I couldn’t stop the tears

You weren’t even mine
I don’t have your blood pumping through my veins
But I always felt I should have
Maybe that’s just me, being me, always overreacting

I will miss you forever.

8.o out of 10
$13.99 / 750 m. bottle

2011-07-11T04:28:00.004-05:00

July 1, 1945 - July 8, 2011

The whole room was alive with joy when he was in it. For he was either laughing, singing, telling a story, or pouring wine. There is now such a big hole in this world for me and so many others who loved him, and our lives as normal are no more. There are no further words to express the shock, incredible sorrow, and heavy heart I feel.

Sonoma-Cutrer Chardonnay

2011-07-03T20:49:00.009-05:00

2008
Sonoma, CA

This is one of my stand-by favorites. I am surprised that the ratings aren't higher than they are. Wine Spectator only gives this an 87, Wine Enthusiast, however, gives this a 91. I, being a Chardonnay FREAK, agree with WE. The minerality and creaminess of this Chardonnay are capable of transforming me to a more enjoyable place, if only temporarily.

Last weekend, following weeks of end-of-year stress (8th grade graduation, confirmation, dance, town tornado, death of my grandmother) I looked for solace and peace overlooking the ocean at my MIL's summer place. However, my middle child fell off the see-saw on the beach playground and broke her arm in less than 24 hours of being there and the weekend turned into a bust financially, stress-wise, and everything inbetween. Resigned to all I can't control, I went out and splurged on one of my favorite Chardonnay stand-bys: the Sonoma-Cutrer 2008 Chardonnay. I went back to the cottage, sat on the deck in the late afternoon sun overlooking Fisher's Island Sound, and opened my Keith Richards book and sipped for all of 30 minutes before something else needed my attention. But it was a blissful 30 minutes.

My grandmother is forever on my mind. I realize my last post was hardly a budget wine (and this one isn't particularly ""budget" either)- it was the day she died and I turned to my uncle's gifts for a wee bit of solace in remembrance of a truly lovely lady. Her memorial service and burial is next week and I am to speak. I am feeling nervous and sad and anxious and am beginning to doubt my capabilities. As usual. I miss her terribly, and the way of life she provided me. I feel I am blindly wandering through my life lately. Time goes by too fast. Friends who were, disappear. Loved ones move on. I am still searching . . . for what I don't know.

Did I say that I need you?
Did I say that I want you?
Oh, if I didn't I'm a fool you see
No one knows this more than me
As I come clean

Nothing you would take
Everything you gave
Hold me 'till I die
Meet you on the other side

Pearl Jam, Just Breathe

8.25 out of 10
$24 / 750 ml. bottle

Kistler Cuvee Natalie Pinot Noir

2011-06-15T20:25:00.006-05:00

2008
Pinot Noir
Silver Belt Vineyard
Sonoma County

Many thanks to my dear uncle for providing me with the ammo I would need tonight a couple of years ago. It is most likely advisable that I should have saved this wine a couple more years. However, today was one of those days that call for something out of the ordinary. The world looks different tonight. A light has gone out in my corner of the planet. My wonderful, supportive, unconditional-love-giving grandmother died today.

This velvety, silky, heavy-bodied cherry in the woods wearing a leather jacket was just what the doctor ordered. I've no regrets. Life is too short. I've enjoyed every last drop and am . . . comfortably numb.

Come on, come on down,
I hear you’re feeling down.
Well I can ease your pain,
Get you on your feet again.

Relax, relax, relax
I need some information first.
Just the basic facts.
Can you show me where it hurts?

There is no pain, you are receding.
A distant ship's smoke on the horizon.
You are only coming through in waves.
Your lips move, but I can’t hear what you’re saying.

I have become comfortably numb.

Pink Floyd, Comfortably Numb

9.0 out of 10
14.1% alc. by vol.
$145 / 750 ml. bottle

Wrangler Red

2011-06-14T19:43:00.012-05:00

REVISIT (See my April 12, 2011 review as paired with chicken pot pie.)
Shannon Ridge
2008
Lake County, CA

I have already reviewed this wine and was going to review Monte Oton Garnacha but had to comment on the Shannon Ridge Wrangler Red when paired with a curried dish. My rating goes up .25 points with a change of food.

I went in to the wine shop last night to purchase another (cheap) bottle of Montepulciano D'Abruzzo which I really wanted to try with my home made pizza. I previously had it with good company, a warm fire, and Spanish dark chocolate. As it is an Italian wine, I thought I would mesh it with some oregano and crushed tomatoes and basil and fresh mozzarella and Italian bread crust. However, upon entering the wine shop and telling the owner that I didn't see the Montepulciano I was looking for (I could only find the $13.99 bottle), he told me I needed to look to the "cheap" table. At that same time, my hand danced across a bottle of Tres Picos Garnacha. As he pulled the $5.99 bottle of Motepulciano and went to hand it to me, I bit my lip and gave him an apologetic look and told him my desire was quickly focusing on the Tres Picos. He told me that he and his wife had just recently had the wine located to the left of my Tres Picos at a local favorite restaurant of mine. And it was half of the price of the Tres Picos, but it was also a Garnacha and he had been very impressed with its taste. So, I decided to try something new and grabbed the Monte Oton in lieu of the cheap Italian, and took it home to sample. The Monte Oton review is to follow in a day or two.

However, tonight, I made brown rice and sauteed tofu, organic sweet onions, garlic, Curry and Turmeric Root. I topped the dish with fresh organic avocado. I finished the Monte Oton as I cooked. Meanwhile, the CS Guy decided to finish the Shannon Ridge he brought home again the other night. He offered me a sip just after I had a bite of my brown rice concoction. The wine was SO GOOD - it took on a silky spiciness and the curry in the dish totally came flying to the front of all other flavors. I just had to re-review the Shannon Ridge Wranger Red as an accompaniment to curry flavored meals - I highly recommend it.

I was driving in a bit of a fog yesterday to visit my grandmother who has been in failing health and mental capacity for a little over a year now and, this time, they say it is for real that she is on her way out. She has pneumonia, she is on O2, and she is receiving regular doses of Morphine. My little one and I haven't seen her since Easter due to severe time constraints, and I must confess on my part, also due to a sadness that she has no twinkle in her eye anymore upon seeing us. When I received the call from my mother that the nursing staff feel "this is it", I decided not to go into work. I stayed home long enough to get my little one on the bus and then I was going to leave. However, upon learning where I was headed, my daughter insisted on accompanying me. She was "torn" she said as she knew she shouldn't miss school, but she didn't want to miss seeing her "nana" maybe one more time. And I couldn't argue with that sentiment. So, with my 9 year old in the back seat silently thinking, and me driving in the front deep in my own thoughts, and the radio playing quietly on a station I don't remember putting on, this song came up and I just cried because it immediately made me think of Nana.

I am not a Lionel Ritchie fan by any means. And the following lyrics are to a "silly love song" I actually never did like. That said, as I was on my way to see my wonderful, beautiful grandmother for possibly the last time, and the darn song came on the radio, tears welled up in my eyes and I could only think of one lady:

Thanks for the times
That you've given me
The memories are all in my mind
And now that we've come
To the end of our rainbow
There's something
I must say out loud
You're once, twice
Three times a lady . . .

Lionel Ritchie, Three Times A Lady

I love you forever and ever, Nana.

8.25 out of 10 (as paired with CURRY!!!!!!!!! YUM.)
14.2% alc. by vol.
$19.99? / 750 ml. bottle

Montepulciano D'Abruzzo

2011-06-11T19:29:00.006-05:00

2008
Italian Red Wine

My friends invited me to their house to sit by the fire pit and drink some wine with dark chocolate from Spain. They brought out this CHEAP wine and wanted to know my opinion. It was actually pretty good. I mean, it is $6.00. $6.00!

It wasn't heavy bodied like I prefer, but I really had no expectations. It had a mini kick of fruity dryness. I enjoyed saying the name over and over. I even recorded it, but can't get any help from the CS Guy other than to get an audio widget, which I tried but failed to embed.

Maybe it was the company, or the music, or the flames dancing before my eyes and warming my bare feet, or perhaps, the dark chocolate flown home from Spain, I may never know, but it was good for the price.

Your the one that I wanted to find
And anyone who tried to deny you
Must be out of their minds

Honey you are the sea
Upon which I float
And I came here to talk
I think you should know

Cold Play, "Green Eyes"

7.75 out of 8.0
$6 / 750 ml. bottle (that is not a typo)
12.5% alc. by vol.

LAN Rioja

2011-05-22T18:37:00.002-05:00

2006 Crianza
Spain

Wine Spectator gave this a 90.

I have not been a fan of Rioja and just figure it's because I haven't found a good one yet. But once I saw the higher WS rating, and the cheaper price, I thought I'd give this a try.

It's good, just not standout. Dry, heavy cherry flavor, medium-bodied, it is recommended with pasta and cheese, or alone. I enjoyed it alone. But I did have a headache a couple of hours later. It wasn't like I overindulged - I only had two small glasses. The headache adversely affected my rating, although I DO realize a plethura of environmental or other influences could have caused the headache.

Look at all my trials and tribulations
Sinking in a gentle pool of wine
Don't disturb me now, I can see the answers
Til this evening is this morning, life is fine

The Last Supper, Jesus Christ Superstar

7.75 out of 10
13.5% alc. by vol.
$11 / 750 ml. bottle

Barbaresco Valgrande

2011-05-09T18:02:00.011-05:00

2003
CA' Del Baio
Treiso - Italy

As this was enjoyed over Easter, and I am just now getting around to its review, all I can say is plain and simple: it was really good. It had full flavor and a nice, soft finish. It tasted good on its own and good with pork roast and potatoes. I would definitely love to have it again.

My brother took me wine shopping and asked me to pick. I so LOVE when that happens!

I must say, part of a "past" life that I miss the most is the fantastic food and accompanying wine. Along with the likes of Billie Holiday playing while we ate dinner. Some of my most favorite things came from a relationship that is now in the past that sometimes makes me sad to reminisce about, mostly because my children do not remember a side of their family. That said, I have come a long way on my own, with a limited income, in deciding what I like. I enjoy cooking and deciding what wine will accompany the meal. However, my mother has filled a huge void that was left from the past with her fantastic gourmet meals. Coupled with my brother's shared love of wine, and no-strings-attached-paycheck, I get to sometimes revisit some of my favorite memories. All that is missing on those occasions, is the fantastic jazz-blues greats of years gone by. Unless of course we are entertaining at my house. :)

OH! This song! It is amazing. It is me, sadly.

I've lost my sense of right and wrong
Well-justified my soul to carry on
It feels so damn good to write off the rules
But when a new day breaks
I'm left a fool
I'm such a fool.
Pain takes my heart's place . . .

Erin McCarley, Pitter Pat

8.25 out of 10
14% alc. by vol.
$29 / 750 ml. bottle

Shannon Ridge

2011-04-12T20:39:00.013-05:00

2008
Wrangler Red
Lake County, CA

A wonderful blend of many: Zin, Syrah, Petite Sirah, Mourvedre and Tempranillo. This was very smooth - creamy for a red. It had slight vanilla and herb flavors with light toasted oak. I really liked this wine. For $10 this was a good deal. It tasted good on its own and accompanied chicken pot pie nicely. In addition, it even tasted good following a bite of SALAD with olive oil and vinegar dressing!!! There was a creamy authentic Feta (my favorite - Mt. Vikos) in the salad and I wonder if it was possibly the cheese that made the wine good even with salad.

So today was one of those quirky days where I was thinking of a memory, which involved a friend and a song, and on the way home, right as I hit the highway and turned on the radio, the song came on. Later tonight I went to a school meeting and that friend was there, even though its been a long time and I don't see much of her around town. We used to dance together years ago at a local bar to a local band. They were a bunch of guys, but they sang a song Michelle and I liked, by a bunch of girls - 4 Non-Blondes. We would dance and sing the song out loud on the dance floor. So tonight's music meanderings are for Michelle:

And I try, oh my God do I try
I try all the time
In this institution
And I pray, oh my God do I pray I pray every single day For a revolution
And so I cry sometimes when I'm lying in bed
Just to get it all out what's in my head
And I'm, I am feeling a little peculiar
So I wake in the morning and I step outside
And I take deep breath and I get real high
And I scream from the top of my lungs
What's goin'on
4 Non-Blondes, What's Going On
8.o out of 10
$10 / 750 ml. bottle
14.2% alc. by vol.

Santa Rita Reserva

2011-04-10T14:31:00.004-05:00

Merlot
2008
Chile

This SUCKED. That is, until I paired it with dinner. I am sorry. It's just not great on its own. The Guy brought it home tonight, excited because it was something different. He said it had rave reviews. I asked if it was the 2008 he was sure had the rave reviews. He wasn't sure. Yup, that's what I was afraid of.

Rather watery, it smells musty at first, which is not necessarily a bad thing. But while I made dinner, I had sips and it was just weak and unflavorful. However, I will say, once dinner was served - "Japanese Steak House-Style Chicken" from one of my favorite cookbooks "High-Flavor Low-Fat Cooking" by Steven Raichlen, the wine was very good. Herbs and Vanilla came out when paired with dinner, and the The Guy asked if there was ginger in our dinner and he was right. He didn't notice the ginger until he drank the wine following a mouthful of chicken. Difficult to rate, this wine was much better with food.

I'm losing patience now
oh leave me alone (oh leave me alone)
stop asking for more
I'm goin' home on my own
oh leave me alone (oh leave me alone)
I'm walking out of the door
I'll make it on my own
leave me alone
leave me alone
leave me alone
JUST leave me alone

Natalie Imbruglia, Leave Me Alone

7.75 out of 10 (as reviewed WITH food)
13.5% alc. by vol.
$10.99 / 750 ml. bottle

Tres Picos Garnacha

2011-03-29T18:46:00.006-05:00

2008
Borsao

First, I wish to extend my prayers to the people of Japan to overcome and rebuild and move beyond the heartbreaking conditions. I see pictures of such young children being scanned for radiation as they willingly lift up their little chins, the lonely elders, the hungry, the cold and the grief stricken and my heart goes out to them. To one day have your home and the next day have nothing but your life - humbling, painful, devastating. And to have children you need to be strong for and create a whole new future for. I know how truly blessed I am at this moment and will NOT take it for granted.

Dark berry, leather, earth, vanilla - the makings of a great wine experience for me. This was a warm welcome. When I added two squares of Hershey's Dark I was wonderfully propelled into a bit of bliss for a short time.

I was so excited to bring this home. I had the 2007 last summer in Vermont in good company and breathtaking views, accompanied by some seriously good organic dark chocolate. The 2008, I believe, was just a tad bit better. This is a good buy. $16 is not exactly cheap, but I think it easily tastes like a $20+ wine. I am eagerly awaiting a Spanish friend's opinion. :)

Get your hands on the 2008, it is selling out in various places. I don't know how the 2009 is.

I've got a feeling, it's hard to explain
Feels like the devil rents a room in my brain
The things I'm ashamed of feel like dear old St. Paul
The things that I wanna do I don't do at all . . .

...Wake me when its springtime in Heaven
When I'm strong enough to walk in that place

Blanket of Ghosts, Dustin Kensrue

8.5 out of 10
$16 / 750 ml. bottle
14.5% alc. by vol.

Sebastiani Cabernet Sauvignon

2011-03-16T18:28:00.016-05:00

2007
Sonoma County, CA

NICE. Finally, a good wine for the first time in awhile. While not quite a "budget" wine, the black fruit flavor with slight vanilla, and bit of herbs and creamy oak on the nice finish make it worth the price. It accompanied very nicely a pork loin roast I made (see recipe below) with mashed, buttered and peppered cauliflower.

Tonight, I am opening the Spanish Tres Picos Borsao (Garnacha) which I have not had in a couple years (since summer's July in Vermont, spent with my brother who introduced me to it). If I recall correctly, it is wonderful; with chocolate especially. I am looking forward to opening it once again. I am trying the 2008. I previously reviewed the 2007, so I will review tonight's bottle soon. Surprisingly, the price remains the same so I am wondering if flavor has been sacrificed with the more recent vintage.

Sage and Rosemary Pork recipe adapted from Arthur Agaston's The South Beach Diet Cookbook.

FILLING:
1-1/2 T chopped fresh sage
1 T chopped fresh rosemary
3 cloves garlic, crushed
3 T extra virgin OliveOil
2 t Dijon Mustard
1/4 t salt
1/4 t black pepper

PORK LOIN
1 boneless center loin pork roast (approx. 2 lbs.)
3/4 t salt
1/2 t black pepper
1 T extra virgin Olive Oil
fresh sage leaves for garnish
fresh rosemary sprigs for garnish

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

In a small bowl, combine the sage, rosemary, garlic, oil, mustard salt, and pepper.

Butterfly the pork loin. Spread the filling across the loin and close up again. Rub entire loin with olive oil, salt and pepper.

Place the loin in a small roasting pan and position on center rack in oven. Roast for 1 hour, or until internal temp reaches 155 deg. F and juices run clear. Let stand 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with sage leaves and rosemary sprigs.

Don't forget the time
I wooed him with red wine.
The devil he wore such a fine, fine shirt
and it stayed so clean while he dragged me through the dirt.
--Deb Talan, Rocks and Water--

8.25 out of 10
13.5% alc. by vol.
$19.99 / 750 ml. bottle

Oberon

2011-02-15T23:46:00.007-05:00

2007

Cabernet Sauvignon

Napa Valley

Here it is. One of those wines you pay more for . . and get less. I was really disappointed. And the bottle was so PRETTY! Just kidding - that is SUCH a girl thing. "I don't know, the label looked nice."

Smelled a little French. Earthy dirt meets dark berry. That's not a bad thing. But the flavor just wasn't there. :( Really, really dry with some dark fruit flavor and oak, but not much of a finish.

I made prosciutto and fontina pinwheels and couldn't wait to try this with them. We once had a Justin Cab that was AWESOME with the pinwheels. For $5 more, we could have had the Justin again and it would have been a nice evening. But I wanted to try something we haven't had before. There really wasn't much change in the flavor with or without the pinwheels.

I next set my hopes on chocolate fudge brownies I was making. I was sure the wine's taste would improve with dessert. It didn't. Not even after having been exposed to some air time did things change.

I’m taking a ride off to one side
It is a personal thing.
Where?When I can’t stand
Up in this cage I’m not regretting.

I don’t need a better thing,
I’d settle for less,
It’s another thing for me,
I just have to wander through this world
Alone.

Pete Yorn, "Lose You"

7.50 out of 10
13.7% alc. by vol.
$22 / 750 ml. bottle

Cupcake Chardonnay

2011-01-16T15:24:00.007-05:00

2009
Central Coast
California

Okay. This is my favorite "new" Chardonnay. It reminds me very much of Kendall-Jackson's Grand Reserve Chardonnay. Creamy vanilla spice and wonderful minerality - my favorite. This was excellent. It is recommended with crab cakes and/or french bread and cheese. I can't wait to try it with crab cakes and salmon. I think it will be an awesome pairing.

BIG taste, LOW price.

You didn't ask for this
Nobody ever would
Caught in the middle of this dysfunction
It's your sad reality
It's your messed up family tree
And all your left with all these questions

Are you gonna be like your father was and his father was?
Do you have to carry what they've handed down?
No, this is not your legacy
This is not your destiny
Yesterday does not define you
No, this is not your legacy
This is not your meant to be

I can break the chains that bind you
I have a dream for you
It's better than where you've been
It's bigger than your imagination
You're gonna find real love
And you're gonna hold your kids
You'll change the course of generations

Matthew West, FAMILY TREE

8.25 out of 10
13.5% alc. by vol.
$11/750 ml. bottle

Bear Boat Pinot Noir

2011-01-09T20:42:00.010-05:00

2006
Russian River Valley
Arroyo Grande, CA

First, before I post, I just have to say how sad I am at the shootings in Tucson, Arizona. As the mother of a 9-year old girl, I am especially devastated at the death of 9-year old Christina Taylor Green. Christina was involved in her school's student council and was at the grocery store to meet Representative Gabby Gifford because she was interested in learning more about politics. Christina was born on 9-11-01 and was considered to be a "child of hope". I sit here and ponder deeply at the irony.

Christmas Day dinner was accompanied by Bear Boat. We thoroughly enjoyed it. Another Pinot Noir breakthrough. It was red and black berries meet herbs and a bit of spicy black pepper on the finish. Very good.

I sit immersed in Mel Torme singing "The Christmas Song" on my Pandora with my cranberry votives glowing and feeling melancholy for my favorite time of year which comes only once a year and fills me with joy and anticipation and then leaves me lonely and sad and nostalgic EVERY time. So I continue the carols, and let the Christmas decorations linger and continue baking and reflecting. My children and husband don't mind and reinforce my behavior because when I suggest taking the tree down I am met with fierce objection. I smile to myself and feel I am keeping a wonderful secret as all my neighbors, and even my retro town's Main Street, remove all traces of December 25th.

A few days ago I drove home from work the long way. I went through a quaint little town that gets a bad rap (unfairly) for being filled with inbred dingbats. Their town green was illuminated with at least (20) gorgeous evergreens lining both streets, each filled with the old-fashioned large colored bulbs. All streets were lined with old fashioned lanterns, each adorned with simple but elegant wreaths hanging under look-alike gas lit lamps. Tears came to my eyes and I felt like I was in a Norman Rockwell setting. It was awesome. That same night (mind you this is way past Christmas now) my friend gave me a boxwood wreath she'd made because she knew I admired hers.

And so the Christmas spirit and feeling lingers on in my life and I am thankful for it, even if it is a bit melancholy.

I heard the bells on Christmas Day
Their old, familiar carols play,
And wild and sweet
The words repeat
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

And thought how, as the day had come,
The belfries of all Christendom
Had rolled along
The unbroken song
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

Till, ringing, singing on its way,
The world revolved from night to day,
A voice, a chime,
A chant sublime
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

Then from each black, accursed mouth
The cannon thundered in the South,
And with the sound
The carols drowned
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

It was as if an earthquake rent
The hearth-stones of a continent,
And made forlorn
The households born
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!

And in despair I bowed my head;
"There is no peace on earth," I said:
"For hate is strong,
And mocks the song
Of peace on earth, good-will to men!"

Then pealed the bells more loud and deep:
"God is not dead; nor doth he sleep!
The Wrong shall fail,
The Right prevail,
With peace on earth, good-will to men!"

--Henry Wadsworth Longfellow--

8.0 out of 10
13.5% alc. by vol.
$17 / 750 ml. bottle

Four Vines Zinfandel

2011-01-02T20:05:00.007-05:00

The Sophisticate
Paso Robles
2008
Sonoma County, CA

The first night we had this, which I believe was on Christmas Eve, I SO loved it that I couldn't stop commenting on it. My brother brought a couple of bottles along with many others. As we had only so many days and so many wines to try, we didn't get to the second bottle. He, very kindly, left the second unopened bottle with me upon his departure.

I kept it to have with a roast turkey on New Years Day. It just WASN"T the same - I HATE that!!!! I raved about the first bottle. Over the years I have found that red zins accompany turkey nicely so I couldn't wait to open the second bottle with our New Year's Day dinner. And it was good. It just wasn't as good as the first night. I don't know why. The food was different for sure. However, I had a glass prior to food BOTH times and the first time surpassed the second. Reason unknown.

Now, on New Years Day, I did open a bottle of Bogle's Phantom which we enjoyed while I was preparing dinner. I must say, The Sohpisticate then paled in comparison following in the footsteps of the smokey smooth flavors of Phantom. THAT said, I had another bottle of Phantom tonight that was just as disappointing the second time around as The Sophisticate was the second time around. Both Phantoms were the SAME vintage. I had both with no food at first. Totally perplexing!!!

As this review is for The Sophisticate I am going to go with my first impression with the first bottle. It was delicious. It was very smooth, with a lingering vanilla and oak finish.

You don't look at Daddy the way I look at Noah. You don't touch or laugh. You don't play. You don't know anything about love.

---character of Allie in The Notebook by Nicholas Sparks

8.25 out of 10
14.8% alc. by vol.
$20 / 750 ml. bottle

Sassy Bitch Cabernet Sauvignon

2010-12-12T20:27:00.007-05:00

2007
Central Valley
Chile

This medium cherry bomb with ever so slight vanilla and herbal flavors and a slight pepper heated finish was a birthday gift from me dah. Thanks Dah.

With every bubble she sank with a drink
And washed it away down the kitchen sink.
The dog days are over
The dog days are done
The horses are comin' so you better run
Run fast for your mother; run fast for your father
Run for your children all your sisters and brothers
Leave all your love and your longing behind.
You can't carry it with you if you want to survive

Florence and the Machine

7.75 out of 10
14% alc. by vol.
$10/750 ml. bottle

Duck Walk Vineyards Rose

2010-12-01T20:09:00.003-05:00

2009
The Hamptons, Long Island (must be said with a Thurston Howell, III-type voice Lovey)

This was part of the Thanksgiving Day lineup. I have made it a mission to find something that this accompanies well, though I did use it mostly in cooking. On Thanksgiving, our appetizers were shrimp cocktail, aged upstate NY Cheddar with rosemary crackers, curried cashews, and prosciutto and fontina pinwheels. The Riesling we had accompanied all very well. The Rose was weakened by the other powerhouse flavors. However, I added it to my turkey soup and it tasted good accompanying the soup as well as with risotto and ginger and garlic sauteed chicken breasts that I made for dinner tonight (I did add 1 cup to the risotto). I would have thought the ginger and garlic were too strong of flavors and would have drowned out the wine, but they tasted surprisingly good together.

I was pleasantly shocked by this wine's dryness. I expected it would be weak and sweet, but it had more flavor and punch than I thought it would. Made from Merlot grapes, it was better than I anticipated. It was somewhere between a sauvignon blanc and a light summer chardonnay. It had a light strawberry like flavor with a crisp, almost floral finish. As it states on the bottle, it is better served with "light fare".

Let the angels sing around us
Christmas time is here
Let our children's love surround us
Laughing and filled with cheer

Harry Connick, Jr.
When My Heart Finds Christmas

7.5 out of 10
12% alc. by vol.
$14 / 750 ml. bottle

THANKSGIVING Line Up

2010-11-11T15:38:00.002-05:00

A shot of labels to accompany my Thanksgiving 2010 wine list shown on the right. The zin will be served with the bird and the main course. The Riesling and Rose will accompany appetizers pre-dinner, the challenge of which I am still planning, around the wine of course. The cuvee will hopefully be enjoyed at day's end, with the kitchen cleaned up, relaxing in front of a warm fire. :)

Cakebread Chardonnay

2010-11-07T19:20:00.009-05:00

2009

Cakebread Cellars

Chardonnay

NAPA Valley, CA

This one is short and sweet. It was a good wine. It was recommended highly by a friend. It was given to me by another friend. (I have nice friends.) It was big citrus fruit and slight apple, and enjoyable, but just not the heavy body or minerality I look for in a chardonnay.

Given the choice between this $32 bottle and my previously reviewd $19 bottle of Kendall Jackson Grand Reserve chardonnay - I am going with the KJ Grand Reserve ALL THE WAY. The distinct flavor and minerality, as well as the extra body make the KJ a way better deal in my opinion.

I've been doubting yours, baby

I've been doubting mine

I've been out of circulation

Where the sun don't shine

. . .Have to draw the line

David Gray, Draw the Line

8.0 out of 10

$32 / 750 ml. bottle

14.1% alc. by vol.

Kendall Jackson Grand Reserve Chardonnay

2010-10-28T20:26:00.007-05:00

2008

Grand Reserve

55% Monterey and 45% Santa Barbara County

California

I've got a real simple description: EXCELLENT. Mineral notes, hint of vanilla, big time pear and oak. My current chardonnay favorite for the year. Reminds me greatly of the 2006 Clos du Bois chardonnay.

Fantastic alone and very good with homemade organic chicken soup. All around total SOUL FOOD evening.

Off to do some yoga. Ciao.

well it wasn't me says the boy with the gun

sure i pulled the trigger but it needed to be done

because life's been killing me ever since it begun

you can't blame me cause I'm too young

you cant blame me sure the killer was my son

but I didn't teach him to pull the trigger of the gun

it's the killing on this TV screen

you can't blame me it's those images he's seen

well you can't blame me says the media man

well I wasn't the one who came up with the plan

and I just point my camera at what the people wanna see

man it's a two way mirror and you can't blame me

you can't blame me says the singer of the song

or the maker of the movie which he based his life on

it's only entertainment and as anyone can see

it's smoke machines and make up man you can't fool me
it was you, it was me, it was every man we've all got the blood on our hands we only receive what we demand and if we want hell then hell's what we'll have

COOKIE JAR, Jack Johnson

8.5 out of 10

13.5% alc. by vol.

$18.99 / 750 ml. bottle

Conundrum White Table Wine

2010-10-16T20:20:00.008-05:00

2008
Muscat Blanc, Semillon, Viognier, Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay
Conundrum Wines, California

Yes, sometimes I AM a complete idiot. THIS is NOT the wine I intended to buy. Only I didn't know it. I didn't realize there was more than one Conundrum. I wanted to try Caymus Conundrum and purchased instead Conundrum Winery's Conundrum. :( I saw it and grabbed it without reading the label!!! Do not do this faux pas - READ your labels.

Although a little sweeter than my preferences, this was good, especially with curried butternut squash and pear soup. The scent was all pear for me and that's what made me crazy with anticipation to pair it with my soup I'd been brewing a few hours. The two were very good together. The wine's flavor was more tropical with slight pear and vanilla.

. . .and theres always been laughing, crying, birth, and dying
boys and girls with hearts that take and give and break and heal and grow and recreate and raise and nurture
but then hurt from time to times like these
and times like those
what will be will be
and so it goes

and there will always be stop and go and fast and slow
action, reaction, sticks and stones and broken bones
those for peace and those for war
and god bless these ones
not those ones
but these ones made times like these
and times like those
what will be will be
and so it goes . . .

Jack Johnson, Times Like These

8.0 out of 10
$20 / 750 ml. bottle
Didn't catch the alcohol content because my idiocracy continued and I chucked the bottle :0

NAPA RIDGE Zinfandel

2010-10-02T20:00:00.003-05:00

2005
NAPA Valley

I wasn't sure at first that I liked this. It had a scent that was reminiscent of another wine which I couldn't quite place. It was a kalamata olive scent with some slight smoke. The flavor was right on with the first tip-of-the- tongue taste, then it seemed a bit watery or weak. But THEN with subsequent sips, the finish lasted much longer. With a hint of oak, and smoke, and olive, I really enjoyed this. It is recommended to serve with red meat or cedar-planked salmon (which I would have LOVED to have it with). However, I made pizza this evening.

I came across my favorite cookbook by Susan Branch, Vineyard Seasons, that my mother gave me at the hospital on the day of my first daughter's birth. I found my old favorite pizza dough recipe in there and was so happy! The wine was good on its own, not bad with the pizza, and fantastic with dark chocolate brownies.

One of my favorite magazine advertisements (which I haven't seen in quite awhile) was the old Jim Beam ad which stated: "You always come back to the basics." That saying kept going through my head today especially after working my pizza dough and letting it rise. My daughter popped in my Frank Sinatra "I've Got a Crush on You" CD and life came to a nice, slow relaxing pace for a bit. Add to it the note my mom wrote in the cookbook: " . . .This has wonderful ideas for special family times. Now that you are a family I hope you will find it as special as I do! And enjoy it together - " The best part of this note was that she spelled my daugher's name wrong. When she learned the true spelling of her name she wanted to change it in the book, but I told her to leave it. It showed how "new" my daughter was, that her own grandmother didn't know how to spell her name yet. It's so awesome! :)

8.0 out of 10
$12? / 750 ml. bottle
14.1% alc. by vol.

Bogle phantom

2010-09-26T19:43:00.008-05:00

2007
Petite Sirah, Old Vine Zin, Old Vine Mourvedre
California

There's that word I love to say over and over: "Mourvedre". It is indeed time again for "phantom". If you've never tried it, buy some. It is only released in the fall and its usual distinct flavor I await with anticipation.

I wish I could say I am a sophisticated taster. However, upon first heady smokey "sniff", I declared in my head "Yes!". I then tasted and the first words that totally popped into my head were (in the accent and bass of "Austin Powers"): "YEAH, Baby!" I then proceeded to thank God out loud for his blessings over the vines and allowing the conditions needed to present this awesome flavor. The Guy was put off by my outward devotion to a being who did not actually physically purchase the bottle.

I am indeed thankful tonight for a nice wine experience that I haven't enjoyed in awhile. Smoke, creosote and BIG stone fruit flavor and my personal favorite "warm rocks in the sun" taste enveloped my tongue in ecstasy. :)

He, amid his figs and wine
Cried, "Oh, loving friends of mine
Pleasures come but not to stay
Even this shall pass away"

Theodore Tilton, 1866 poem, resurrected in Robert Plant's, "Even This Shall Pass Away"

8.50 out of 10
14.5% alc. by vol.
$20/750 ml. bottle
boglewinery.com

Clos Du Bois Merlot

2010-09-24T21:14:00.003-05:00

2006
North Coast
California

It's been awhile. This wasn't my first choice for a review following such a long absence. However, it is what it is. For the price, I expected more. It's a good wine, just didn't knock my socks off. Not a lot of big flavor. Smooth with some subtle berry and oak, but not enough wham to catch my attention. About the same with food. However, I didn't have it with red meat as suggested. I had it with grilled chicken. The Guy really liked it. A lot more than I did.

I am forever looking for a repeat of the year 1993 and it just never happens. Interestingly metaphoric.

Oh the rain is falling (blow blow down)
And the wild wind roars (blow blow down)
It'll shake your windows (blow blow down)
And rattle your doors (blow blow down)
Ah blow down this house of cards
Blow down this house of cards

(Written by Richard Thompson, sung by Robert Plant and Patty Griffin)

7.5 out of 10
$18 / 750 ml. bottle
13.5% alc. by vol

Edna Valley Pinot Noir

2010-07-29T20:41:00.002-05:00

2007
PARAGON
San Luis Obispo County, CA

First, I must apologize for the earlier post that follows this one (Dancing Bear by Cakebread Cellars) - once again, I was supremely lucky enough to not have it be a budget wine (or one that I paid for!). But I apologize to any readers truly looking for a "real" budget wine. As I've mentioned earlier, if we are gifted or fall into the throes of a more expensive wine, we ARE going to review it, even if it's not budget. Just like, if you readers were out visiting friends, or were invited to a function where you didn't have to pay for, but received a glass of expensive but truly magnificent wine, you would rave about it. So, that said, I move on to more budget-friendly material. Thank you for your patience. :)

This was a Pinot Noir with some substance. This tastes bigger than it is. I was impressed. It was a nice surprise from a co-worker, MC, who has been telling me about this "great Pinot Noir" he's been having for several months. As we don't see each other very much anymore (he has been relocated to our other building), I was SO very happy when our QA girlfriend brought it back for me following her inspection time up at P2. Meanwhile, MC had called me and told me it was coming back with her. As it is recommended to serve with grilled seafood (as well as lamb chops, game hens & rich pastas), I waited for Thursday when I knew our "Fish Man" would be in town and grabbed some salmon.

I enjoyed this on it's own, but it was really enjoyable with the salmon too. I made out pretty well this week - wine from one co-worker and fresh, Swiss Chard from another. Salmon and sauteed Swiss Chard accompanied this wine nicely.

Interestingly enough, I couldn't quite place the fruit I was tasting. It was a bit cherry like in addition to black pepper, but there was something else I couldn't quite describe. I try to find my own likes prior to reading the label descriptions, but after giving up guessing, it came in handy to turn the bottle over and read the label. The label mentions pomegranate and that's what the missing flavor was that I couldn't quite place (I am a "POM" juice freak).

The Guy was totally impressed with the substance of this Pinot Noir. He felt it tasted more like a Cab. Interestingly enough, I had an Edna Valley Chardonnay last month that was good, but I didn't write about it. I got it through the WSJ Wine Club. We have previously received very obscure run-of-the-mill wines from them. A few catch our attention, but nothing that I am usually inspired enough to write about. I find it pretty cool that this was bought at a local store and recommended to me and it's from the same vineyard as the Chardonnay I had a ways back. I can't wait to tell MC that it's a winery I was unknowingly familiar with!

8.0 out of 10
$14 / 750 ml. bottle
13.9% alc. by vol.

Cakebread Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Blend

2010-07-25T21:24:00.006-05:00

2006
Dancing Bear Ranch
Howell Mountain
NAPA Valley, CA

79% Cabernet Sauvignon
4% Cabernet Franc
17% Merlot

The first 3 words to come to mind upon first sip: "Oh My God". The next 3 words that followed: "Yes! Yes! Yes!" This wine blew the sandals right off my feet and into LI Sound. I have not had a wine that tasted SO good in SO long. The flavor was AMAZING. The finish was SILKY. The scent prior to tasting was buttery lobster. I don't like lobster. But I used to. The scent of of this wine was how lobster tasted to me at the height of my actually really liking lobster. The flavor was super dark fruit with herbs and oak and a bit of wonderful minerality. The flavor just lasted and lasted. It has a fairly high alcohol content - but I never even knew it - it was so incredibly smooth.

What was amazing to me was it tasted just as phenomenal with food as it was on its own. And we had food that was more conducive to white wine. I actually was drinking a Pinot Grigio prior to this wine being introduced. I made chicken sauteed in olive oil, garlic and basil. I made a brown rice dish with spices. We had regular summer salad with cukes and tomatoes. ANY of which I was sure would ruin the flavor of the wine for me. NONE of it did. This wine just stood right up and dominated!! It MADE me come home tonight and finally post something again. I am its slave.

9.5 out of 10
14.8% alc. by vol.
$100 / 750 ml. bottle

Jada

2010-06-07T19:19:00.012-05:00

2005
Mirror
Pasa Robles, CA

A blend of 47% Syrah, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 23% Merlot, I liked this wine. Although the alcohol content was higher than I like, it had a wonderful, warm black cherry scent followed by similar flavor, mixed with peppery heat and slight oak with a little kalamata olive thrown in. I have absolutely NO idea if I ate food with this. I think I did not!

We went to Johnny Bravo's (a.k.a. the Guy) cousin's house for a wine party. We had a good time and got home WAY too late. I proclaimed repeatedly the whole next day that I did not ever want to consume another glass of wine, or anything with alcohol, again. I somehow made it to church and back, then plopped down on the couch for many hours. My brother came and stood over me and said: "So, I guess this means you're not making margaritas tonight?" Ooohhhh - just the thought of smelling Tequila made my head pound with dizziness. I am MUCH better today. But I had to pound three bottles of Naked's "Green Machine" into myself over the last 24 hours. (Nothing like a litte spirulina and chlorella to "fix" me on bad days - my "mowed grass juice" as everyone at work likes to say.)

We had many delicious wines that night, including Halter Ranch Rose which was excellent with an arugula and salami salad. As I am partial to blends, Jada's Mirror stood out, surpassed only by just one glass of Halter Ranch GSM (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre blend). I could have stayed with the GSM all night and probably should have. I am positive I didn't have food with my glass of Jada. However, I did have vegetable tapenade and melted smoked gouda on crostini with the Halter Ranch and it was pretty darn awesome.

We also enjoyed taking a blind taste test by a California guest whose conversation and wine savvy I enjoyed very much. He had us try 4 different red wines and try to guess which varietal each was. I believe no one got it right. However, I was pretty proud of Johnny Bravo for exclaiming to me that he believed, whatever varietal we were tasting, they were all the same. He was right. They were all Syrah. The point of the tasting being all the same was to prove that each individual person has their own way of tasting, and each wine tastes different to each person. It was, to say the least, California Cool.

I'll be a flame burning in the darkness
And I will light what's in your heart
I'll be a flame in the dark
But I can't light what's not in your heart
-Beth Orton-

8.25 out of 10
16.3% alc. by vol.
$39 / 750 ml. bottle

Sangre de Toro

2010-05-21T21:46:00.004-05:00

2007
Rose
Spain

I wanted something chilled, but not beer, and I didn't want my usual summer Chardonnay. I was making black bean and guacamole tacos. So I wanted something that could stand up to strong flavors without canceling each other out. I decided on a cheap Spanish Rose.

I brought it home and chilled it and then had a glass while cooking dinner. It was OK. Not bad. Just not great. No knocking off of the socks. As I mashed avocados for my guacamole, I ate a slice of avocado. I then had a sip of the wine, and THEN I smiled. NICE combo. I put sliced fresh hot red peppers in the guacamole and found a sip of the wine really brought out the pepper in the meal as well. Later, way after the tacos, when cleaning up the kitchen, I had a spoonful of organic ground turkey that had been sauteed in olive oil and red onion and had another sip of wine and had another smile. Really good accompaniment.

The really nice part is you get your own little plastic toy BULL (Toro) attached to each bottle of Sangre de Toro! It was like when I was a kid and I chose the box of cereal by the prize inside. Oh, but THIS wine has a bull attached to it! Every girls dream come true.

7.75 out of 10
13% alc. by vol.
$9 / 750 ml. bottle

ETIM Seleccion

2010-05-03T20:33:00.004-05:00

2006
Spain

I really enjoyed this wine. Tremendously. Our friends gave it to us to try. They thoroughly enjoyed their first experience with this wine, but not their next one. They thought their first experience involved food and their second one didn't. But they really couldn't recall. And they weren't sure if they had two different vintages - what a difference a year can make :)

They found the wine "dry". And I agree. It is dry. But there was a LOT of wonderful flavor there. And a lingering finish that I just loved. Dark berry, slight smoke, slight earth, and mushrooms. It especially tasted well with our meal. I tried to make a "Spanish" oriented meal and made spinach with roasted pignolia nuts, Spanish olive oil, and garlic. I marinated shrimp in olive oil and garlic and grilled it. And we had the wine with it. It was all very good and I was happy.

"Give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish, and wine unto those that be of heavy hearts. Let him drink, and forget his poverty, and remember his misery no more."
- Proverbs 31:6-7:

For those of you who prefer a rating from a higher authority: Robert Parker gave this wine 91 pts.

8.25 out of 10
$14/750 ml. bottle
14% alc. by vol.
www.etim.es

Mark West Pinot Noir

2010-04-29T19:54:00.008-05:00

2008
Sonoma, California

I reviewed the 2006 awhile back and enjoyed this so much more! :) Pinot Noirs tend to be a little on the lighter side for me, but this one was highly enjoyable. I had a nice big glass last night after work while watching Where the Wild Things Are with my two youngest. Then, tonight, for some reason I just HAD to go buy a jar of olives. I brought home a jar of Greek garlic-stuffed green olives and consumed the whole damn thing, along with another glass of Mark West. Both were SO smooth! In anticipated horror, I decided to read how many servings were in the jar of olives: 12! Well, at least I didn't consume 12 servings of wine. Together, the wine and olives were awesome. I was pretty happy.

Many, many thanks to my "farway" southern friends who magically put this bottle in my mailbox as a "get well" wish last week. You guys definitely made me smile. And I smiled 3 more times too with each glass I poured this last week. THANK YOU. :)

I was feeling stupidly down and out for the last couple of days, in spite of receiving great news that "abnormal" cells removed last week are only pre-cancerous and not cancer. Tim, a co-worker, came up to me with a big sigh and asked how my day was going today. I smiled and said "OK". Then I added that "it could always be worse." He said (not even knowing about my little cancer scare thing): "True. Let's put it in perspective." He then proceeded to tell me about his good friend whose wife just had her first round of chemo today following the diagnosis of advanced metastatic breast cancer. She's in her early 40's with two young children. That zapped me right back to reality. And I am keeping thoughts of her right here with me for constant perspective.

Life is short. Too short. If you feel like buying a jar of olives and consuming the whole thing, just do it.

"Wow. He has a double re-cracker."
Alexander the Goat, WHERE THE WILD THINGS ARE

8.0 out of 10
13.8% alc. by vol.
$12 / 750 ml. bottle

The Velvet Devil

2010-04-25T13:09:00.003-05:00

2008
Merlot
Washington State

I am not a huge fan of Washington State wines, though I continue to try to be. Some vintages of Columbia Crest merlots and chardonnays have caught my attention and I have enjoyed a few of them for the price. But every now and then I like to pick up another vineyard whose wine I haven't tried. The Guy brought this one home last night and I liked it enough to go look up the winery and thoroughly enjoyed everything I could find on Charles Smith, and loved his no-nonsense blog. I very much intend to give his 2006 Royal City Syrah a try hopefully one day soon (not current budget friendly, but I am totally intrigued).

Washington State merlots I sometimes feel I could blind taste-test. Though many have potential, I usually find them a bit weak in taste. This one was a little different, however, and I did enjoy it. With its hints of dark chocolate cherry flavor and herbs, I will seek it out again.

"It's just booze - drink it!"
Charles Smith

kvintners.blogspot.com

8.0 out of 10
$11 / 750 ml. bottle
13.5% alc. by vol.

Walker Road Vineyards

2010-04-21T19:19:00.009-05:00

Red Table Wine
Woodbury, CT

In addition to tasting this wine, I had the privilege of meeting the demure and unassuming owner of this small vineyard in Connecticut. This full-bodied red wine, made from 70% St. Croix grapes is actually quite delicious and grew on me. I served it with homemade lasagna and it was a fantastic accompaniment. And, two days later, the remainder of the bottle tasted so fine on its own.

Wine making in Connecticut is, to say the least, challenging, given the cool and sometimes wet climate. Jim Frey seems to have worked his way around that fact. This wine has herbal tendencies (thyme) with mushroom earthiness that I happen to love. I highly recommend this as an every day drinking wine.

I don't care if we don't sleep at all tonight
Let's just fix this whole thing now
I swear to God we're gonna get it right
If you lay your weapon down
Red wine and Ambien
You're talking sh*t again, it's heartbreak warfare

-John Mayer, Heartbreak Warfare

8.0 out of 10
12.5% alc. by vol.
$14 / 750 ml. bottle
walkerroadvineyards.com

Kendall Jackson Chardonnay

2010-04-03T19:34:00.007-05:00

2008
Vintner's Reserve
California

I haven't had this in a while, probably not even this vintage ever - can't remember. I know I posted something earlier here. My workout partner likes it for her every day summer Chard, so I had the Guy pick it up on his way home this weekend. I had some last night with grilled asparagus and chicken wraps. Then I had more tonight with grilled shrimp, mushrooms, onions and brown rice. I enjoyed it once again. This wine seems to be relatively consistent from vintage to vintage - which is somewhat remarkable. It is very fruit tropical and citrus-filled with a creamy edge. Not bad for an every day wine.

However, tonight the Guy surprised me and brought home Clos Du Bois Chardonnay, 2008, which is more my style and slightly blows the KJ out of the water. I will give it a review in a few days. I know we are having a Malbec with Easter dinner at my mom's tomorrow so that will take precedence over the Clos Du Bois, but I WILL get back to it.

I made a shocking discovery this evening: my text library does not recognize the word "Chardonnay" - I need to somehow make that more regular! :)

8.0 out of 10
13.5 % alc. by vol.
$13/750 ml. bottle

The Chocolate Block

2010-03-22T20:12:00.005-05:00

2008
South Africa
69% Syrah /12% Grenache / 10% Cabernet Sauvignon / 7% Cinsault / 2% Viognier

I have posted previously on The Chocolate Block - in December. However, I posted on the 2007.
BIG DIFFERENCE between the 2007 and 2008. I am not too fond of this one. Needs more time I guess.
It is AMAZING to me the difference a year makes. It just goes to show you how volatile wine-making
can be. Each year provides a different taste. It's really intriguing. And sometimes disappointing.
My brother bought a bottle of 2007 in December and we enjoyed it while watching the movie Bottle Shock.
BIG difference in price (almost $20 more for the 2007), but a BIG difference in taste too.

I came home from a SOAKING wet walk with my Gfriend to find The Guy had purchased a bottle of this
and left it on the counter. I was pretty happy to see it. Until I saw the vintage. However, I have not
previously yet tried the 2008 so I tried to have an open mind. :( I am sorry to report that it just wasn't
near as good as the 2007. This one was extremely dry with little distinguishing flavor. It packed a punch,
and wasn't bad, it just wasn't what I was expecting.


There's indecision when you
Know you ain't got nothing left
when the good times never stay
And the cheap thrills always
seem to fade away
When will we
When will we fall down
Jump back, got to get out of here
been too long this time

--Toad the Wet Sprocket--


7.50 out of 10
$17 / 750 ml. bottle
(I was unable to find the alcohol content!!)

Columbia Cabernet Sauvignon

2010-03-20T20:07:00.013-05:00

2006
Columbia Valley
Washington State

This vintage actually got some good reviews. For me, it was OK. A little "grape-y" at first taste. The scent was of dark berries and green olives. It was recommended to serve with red meat, especially steak. I don't do that. I actually had it with rice pasta, white beans, roasted asparagus and roasted sweet onion, mixed with olive oil and balsamic and it tasted better than on its own. This is one of those freaky things where it did seem to improve with being exposed to air for an hour. And it seemed to be a good match with the balsamic. The taste was very Spanish olive like. It tasted quite better on its own the next night - smokey. Tonight. I am tempted to change my rating below, but I won't.

Which brings me to a discussion I previously had recently with a friend with regard to decanting. He believes, and was told, that decanting a young wine is necessary. I was always under the impression that you did not need to decant young wines. But older wines, especially ports, should be decanted to separate out the sediment mostly. The idea of airing a young wine didn't seem necessary. But I have to say I've recently found a few younger wines seemed to taste better upon opening up for a bit. I loved the fact that some of their scents filled the room and made my mouth water.

I consulted my Kevin Zraly book to find that he feels there is NO difference whether a young wine is decanted or not. Old wines should only be decanted to separate sediment. However, if you've got a pricey old wine, DO NOT decant for any more than 15 minutes as you may actually miss the best moments of tasting for that particular wine. The longer it sits, the more its taste evaporates. He does state that he's had a few students swear to him that they notice a younger wine tasting better upon decanting for an hour. So, his suggestion is to decant for an hour if you wish, though he doesn't feel it's necessary. At best, it will fill the room with the wine's aroma for the arrival of any guests for the evening. If you have an old wine, with possible sediment, let it sit for 10 minutes, light a candle, and hold the bottle and decanter up to the candle and pour slowly, watching for any sediment arriving at the bottle neck. Then put it down again and let rest for 5 more minutes to let remaining sediment settle again, and do again.

--Men are like wine, some turn to vinegar - the best improve with age.--
Pope John XXIII (was this Pope fond of wine, or fond of men???????? Regardless, I find this statement to be fantastically true)

7.75 out of 10
$12 / 750 ml. bottle
13.5% acl. by vol.

HJ Fabre Malbec

2010-03-11T21:23:00.006-05:00

2008
Mendoza - Argentina

I think it needs more time. Then I might drink it again.

Initially disappointing for me. The Guy liked it. It was high alcohol taste for me, and quite bitter. It was definitely better after air time, and rather enjoyable a couple of days later with chicken and sweet potatoes.

Once I got past the alcohol, I got a black fruit flavor and a bit of licorice and warm spice.

Something about the bitterness of the wine and the sweetness of the roasted potatoes made a positive difference. It is recommended to serve with red meats and fine cheese.

I think a re-visit is necessary in the future with some of my brother's NY State sharp, aged cheddar and the decanter.

The rain is like an orchestra to me
Little gifts from above meant to say
Girl, you're falling at his feet
Isn't lovely or stunning today

The rain'll bring me down

--Rachel Yamagata--

8.0 out of 10 (from The Guy)
7.5 out of 10 (from The Gal)
$12 / 750 ml. bottle
14.5% alc. by vol.

Domaine de L'Herbe Sainte Chardonnay

2010-02-28T21:37:00.009-05:00

2008
Famille Greuzard
France

I couldn't stand it anymore. I broke down. I've been on an elminiation diet for 8 weeks now to try to determine if I've got food allergies. It's a strict diet with no dairy, no wheat, no sugar, no chocolate, no alcohol (NO WINE!), no garlic, no peppers. All vegetables and fruit and poultry are to be organic, salmon should be wild, and only well-treated, grass-fed beef (if I were to eat beef). I have done 85% well as I have been eating mostly organic fruits, vegetables and poultry (and wild salmon) for quite some time now. I was allowed a couple of times to go off for one special meal or invitation, but I was to not have it be two days in a row. Except for two wine tasting events, and my mother's birthday, (oh and a Fashion Show I just remembered - SHOOT!) I have followed it completely . But tonight, I broke down and opened a bottle of French Chardonnay I've had chilling since Christmas.

All I wanted to do was add a bit to my California Basmati brown rice along with some organic chicken broth to give it a more gourmet flavor. I opened this bottle, and the tropical aromas made me salivate. I told myself I'd have just one glass and ended up having almost two. Nice pear and citrus flavors with a hint of thyme and ever so slight mineral notes and a creamy finish. It was really good.

She's just the way she is, but no ones told her that's OK.

And she would change everything, everything just ask her.
Caught in the in-between, a beautiful disaster,

And she would change everything for happy ever after.
Caught in the in-between, a beautiful disaster.

--Jon Mclaughlin--

8.25 out of 10
13.5% alc. by vol.
$15 / 750 ml. bottle

Tobin James Fat Boy Zinfandel

2010-02-18T19:31:00.011-05:00

2007
Zinfandel
Paso Robles, CA

We had the pleasure of attending another super fun wine tasting over the weekend. We actually started the event with an AWESOME daquiri that was the favorite of John and Jacqueline Kennedy. This is totally going to be a summer 2010 patio cocktail for me - it was so unbelievably smooth and drinkable. It was made with Oronoco rum and fresh lime and it was fantastic.

Anyway, we also drank Seghesio Vineyards 2006 Old Vine Zin which I have had in the past, but totally loved recently with the lavender chocolate we had later. We were served Cockburn's 2000 Vintage Port with our chocolate, which was enjoyable, but I preferred to revisit the Seghesio with the chocolate.

After the wine tasting, we went back to our friends' for wine in the cellar and we had more Tobin James. This time we had two TJ zins, and an Opolo zin. I really liked the Fat Boy which had been decanting a couple of hours. It was really jammy, with mushroom & oak nuances, and slight thyme which made me very happy. I love hints of herbs in wine.

I had invited the Guy's college friend Patty for dinner and she came with us to the wine tasting. It was really good to see her again and be around her intelligence and wit. It was a great night and I felt blessed to have laughed and drank in happiness.

I know a man of healthy girth,
He's been a lover of beer, quite possibly since birth.
Pleasantly surprised was I to find,
He's let the ale go in favor of fine wine.
Salty chips and M&M's in the past we were sharing,
Have been replaced with fine chocolates and cheeses worthy of wine pairing.
And, I've witnessed an accomplishment most stellar,
He's invested not in a keg house, but a fantastic little wine cellar.

8.5 out of 10
15.4% alc. by vol.
$55 / 750 ml. bottle (I know, not buget material either)

The Reunion

2010-02-07T20:20:00.006-05:00

2006
Mourvedre, Shiraz & Grenache Blend
Rutherglen, Victoria
Australia

Hints of cherry, herb, and vanilla encompass this Australian blend. Although good on its own, it moves up a few notches when paired with aged Gouda. It especially tasted fantastic with gemelli pasta, vegetable tapenade, and shredded Gouda.

Twisted words
Falsified assumptions
A master retreat

Silence
Mind games
A cracked heart

A friendship severed and bleeding out

8.0 out of 10 (8.5 out of 10 with the Oakvale Aged Gouda cheese pairing)
14.5% alc. by vol.
$20 / 750 ml. bottle

Favorite Wines of Late

2010-01-28T20:07:00.007-05:00

November 2009
Turley Zinfandel
Howell Mountain
Dragon Vineyard
California
2004

December 2009
Kistler Cuvee Natalie
Pinot Noir
Silver Belt Region
California
2007

Cesari Amarone
Classico
Italy
2005

January 2010
Tobin James
Blue Moon Reserve
Syrah
Paso Robles
California
2006

No surprise to me, but I tend to be a California Girl :)

And as we drank our wine and let the world fade away, the sunrise tried to end it while we tried to stay.

--Joshua Radin--

2010-01-27T18:32:00.003-05:00

Guess I'd rather hurt than feel nothing at all
It's a quarter after one I'm all alone and I need you now
And I said I wouldn't call but I'm a little drunk and I need you now
And I don't know how I can do without

-Lady Antebellum-

Twomey Merlot

2010-01-24T22:17:00.010-05:00

2001
NAPA Valley
Oakville, CA

This was a highly enjoyable wine. A Christmas gift from my partner in crime during the work week, we drank this with my mom's birthday dinner. Terrific on its own, it accompanied my Rioja Chicken with prunes and olives nicely. It also tasted great with our chocolate cake dessert.

Herb and earth scents opened upon pouring. The taste was on par with the bouquet, with a little of cocoa and black berry mixed in. This was delicious overall.

I'm sorry, again :( Not a budget wine.

Rioja Chicken called for Rioja wine. As I didn't have any, I turned it into Merlot chicken just as well. I made long grain brown rice, caramelized carrots and fresh popovers to accompany it.

This Devil's Food chocolate cake recipe of my grandmothers tasted good with the wine as well.

Night and day, you are the one
Only you beneath the moon or under the sun
Whether near to me, or far
It's no matter darling where you are
I think of you
Day and night, night and day, why is it so?

--Cole Porter--

$75 / 750 ml. bottle
8.25 out of 10
14.4% alc. by vol.

Chateau Les Vallees Bordeaux

2010-01-24T21:52:00.003-05:00

2005
Grand Vin De Bordeaux
Gironde - France

We got this at Christmastime and decided to open it tonight for my mom's birthday as our opening wine. Although it was disappointing for me on first sip, it tasted much better with roasted cashews. It at first had a watery-musty brief finish but it became much more meaty and enjoyable with the nuts.

Not bad for the price.

$12 / 750 ml. bottle
8.0 out of 10
13% alc. by vol.

Tobin James Syrah

2010-01-24T00:37:00.008-05:00

2006
Blue Moon Reserve
Paso Robles, CA

I'm sorry for apologizing yet again for another non-budget wine. I LOVED this wine. But I don't think I would pay the $150 price tag for it on my own. It was oh so fantastically SMOKEY. NICE distinctive flavor and finish. Great with dark chocolate.

I am on an elimination diet and have done well until tonight. My doc told me I could afford one or two nights during my (30) days to go slightly astray. Tonight was the night. But I've had too much. This has been a totally tough week for me. I immersed myself in old movies and LOVED "Night and Day" (the Cole Porter story) with Cary Grant. It helps (sometimes) to go back to a simpler time of romance and life.

Anyway, we had some good wine and food pairings tonight with some friends. And, when I shouldn't have had anymore, the Tobin James Blue Moon Reserve was opened up and I enjoyed it immensely. I would have enojoyed more but my little one (who was at a sleepover) got homesick and needed to be picked up.

This is a distinctive, delicious wine if you've got $ to blow. Mussels are the recommended accompaniment for this wine. I've got a great Gourmet magazine recipe that includes garlic, organic chicken broth, white wine and chicken flavored stuffing mix and fresh parsley that might be awesome with this wine (maybe just replace the recipe's white wine with the red).

Defense is paper thin
Just one touch and I'll be in
Too deep now to ever swim against the current

So let me slip away, so let me slip away
So let me slip away, let me slip against the current
so let me slip away, so let me slip away
so let me slip away, so let me slip away

Vindicated, I am selfish, I am wrong, I am right
I swear I'm right, swearI knew it all along
And I am flawed, but I am cleaning up so well

--Dashboard Confessionals--

$150 / 750 ml. bottle
8.75 out of 10
15.8% alc. by vol.

Chateau Lafite Rothschild

2010-01-18T20:14:00.004-05:00

1994
Grancru - Pauillac
France
Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere. We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly affects all indirectly.

Martin Luther King, Jr.

My stepbrother-in-law posted on his Facebook page last night that he wondered what Martin Luther King, Jr. would think today about how far we've come. Sadly, it's no way near far enough in my opinion. I am shocked and dismayed in the last couple of months to witness (or be told of) remarks, comments and actions of blatant prejudice from people who I respect and/or consider friends. The ignorance of those who I deemed educated and/or caring comes as a great surprise. Prejudice makes even beautiful people ugly.

ONTO THE WINE:
I find myself once again feeling the need to apologize for reviewing a big-time expensive wine on a "Budget" wine blog. It really doesn't happen that often, but when I am fortunate enough to have such an experience, I must let you know my thoughts just in case.

My stepfather-in-law held a birthday party for his wife (my mother-in-law) and shared this wine with us for the occasion. It was gifted to him upon his retirement from Merrill Lynch. A blend of cabernet sauvignon, merlot, cabernet franc and a tiny bit of Petit Verdot, I must say that on first sip I was disappointed. So I let my glass remain out in the open for more air time and it was slightly better, but for the price, disappointing. Although there were some interesting and promising scents and flavors of leather, slight herb, and mushroom with hints of blackcherry, the fullness just wasn't there that I truly expected, and the finish wasn't as long as I anticipated. My mother-in-law commented to me on how surprised she was that it didn't open up like a big juicy cab, which is what she thought it would be like. I don't know how my stepfather-in-law stored it over the last few years, but I don't think it was mistreated, though it definitely wasn't in a temperature-controlled environment. But my gut really doesn't think that was the issue. I would love to know what others' experience with this label have been.

I want to get out of this
I wonder
Is there anything I'm going to miss
I wonder
How it's going to be
When you don't know me
How's it going to be
When you're sure I'm not there
How's it going to be
When there is no one to talk to, between you and me
'Cause I don't care
How's it going to be
How's it going to be
Where we used to laugh
There's a shouting match
Sharp as a thumbnail scratch
A silence I can't ignore

Third Eye Blind

8.0 out of 10
12.5% alc. by vol.
>$275.00 / 750 ML bottle

Chateauneuf-du-Pape

2009-12-31T18:12:00.006-05:00

2007
Red Rhone Wine
Domaine Du Vieux Lazaret
France

67% Grenache
22% Syrah
5% Mourvedre
6% "others"

As a child, I loved the "old" Christmas Carols (Perry Como, Glenn Miller, Doris Day, the Andrew Sisters, Benny Goodman). I still do today and find it harder and harder to find any station that plays the original stuff that makes Christmas extra awesome for me.

Christmas is like a wedding - lots of planning and excitement leading up to the event, then it's all over in a whirlwind and there's this feeling of "where'd it all go"? It is truly my most favorite time of year - I LOVE presents and I love giving presents. I love the food and WINE and family gatherings that I crave so much (and never seem to have enough of).

New Year's Eve is my second most unfavorite time of year (Halloween being first). So, I found a religious radio station that continues to play Christmas Carols for 12 days after Christmas and they have been making my week this week. THIS is the week I spiral into a depression. I can't help it. But this station is playing the most awesome eclectic old stuff mixed with some real good newer stuff (think Harry Connick, Jr.) and I am slightly more happy because of it. And, thanks to receiving almost 3 cases of wine in gifts this year, I have something to look forward to every day (or at least every few days!). I just have to come up with the food pairing. We have old friends coming for dinner Saturday and we are going to new friends for the big countdown tonight. So I am hanging in there. :)

My brother brought a couple of bottles of this wine (and I miss him now), and I enjoyed it more with him here with his aged cheddar cheese. However, it was still enjoyable on its own (and with him gone home).

Although I have not previously given much value to decanting, I did buy the Guy a decanter for Christmas and we have been enjoying how the wine aroma fills the room upon doing so. Well, I was blogging after Christmas and my brother decanted this and left it in front of me and left the room. My mouth started watering and I couldn't wait for us to pour it into glasses. We had some aged cheddar with it and had an awesome afternoon together tasting the two. This wine has a stone cherry scent and flavor and is one of the few French wines I thoroughly enjoy. Not a bad value for the price.

Happy New Year.

My world is changing
I'm rearranging
Does that mean Christmas changes too?

Where are you Christmas?
Do you remember
The one you used to know?
I'm not the same one
See what the time's done.
Is that why you have let me go?

Faith Hill

8.5 out fo 10 (when served with OLD cheddar cheese)
8.0 out of 10 on its own
14.5% alc. by vol.
$17/750 ml. bottle

Sonoma-Cutrer

2009-12-28T22:35:00.004-05:00

2007
Chardonnay
Russian River Ranches

We went out to dinner tonight thanks to my mother-in-law and had a good dinner, though way too pricey. I had a glass of my old favorite Nora Albarino, 2007, but it just didn't taste as good as the first time. So, when my dinner came (shrimp with green beans and peas and garlic aioli sauce) I switched. I told the waitress I liked a heavier wine and she gave me a glass of the Sonoma-Cutrer. It was perfect with my shrimp. It was creamy lemon with butter and minerality. A nice match to both the shrimp and a bite I had of my stepfather-in-law's lobster and spinach provolone mac and cheese.

The highlight of my night was Dustin Hoffman showed up. I am a sucker for Hollywood types. I contained myself though and didn't act like a fool. Unlike the wait staff who came out of the woodwork to wait on him and ask him if he needed anything, repeatedly! Even the chef made a miraculous appearance shortly after he arrived. She acted casually, bringing out dinner to a table that she barely paid attention to. But on her return to the kitchen she made a strategic b-line to his table.

Anyway, I hate it when things are way over-priced, and our meal was for sure. But I enjoyed my wine with my meal. I just won't make a hearty attempt to return to that restaurant in the near future.

I'll bet she's beautiful
That girl he talks about
And she's got everything
That I've had to live without

-Taylor Swift-

8.0 out of 10
$19/750 ml. bottle

Passing Clouds

2009-12-27T22:15:00.006-05:00

2005
Reserve Shiraz
Bendigo

Hope everyone had a Merry Christmas. I hate it when it's over. I luckily still have some celebrations to go so its not quite over yet. But all that anticipation and watching the wonder of my children and that "magic" in the air has faded. :(

My brother has been here since the 24th and he brought a case of wine which we have continued to enjoy daily. Yesterday was a great wine day. We tried (3) and enjoyed them all. Passing Clouds was definitely my favorite of the day. The finish on this was long and deliciously flavored. Black cherry mixed with ever so slight smoke and vanilla and oak, this wine went down very smoothly. Although awesome on its own, Passing Clouds went very well with aged cheddar cheese.

8.5 out of 10
15.2% alc. by vol.
$24 / 750 ml. bottle

Turley Zinfandel

2009-12-24T02:03:00.007-05:00

2004
Howell Mountain
St. Helena, California
Dragon Vineyard

I am still in shock after coming home to discover a friend had left me two bottles of wine as a Christmas present in my absence. That, in itself, was not surprising. But the fact that one of the bottles purchased was a bottle of 2003 Shafer Cabernet Sauvignon, Stags Leap District, has me speechless. Morning can't get here fast enough for me to call him and tell him how crazy he HAS to be! I will not be drinking that anytime soon. It's good now through the next 20-25 years. I need a wine cellar now for sure as I don't want to ruin it while storing it for the right moment to eventually open it.

Regarding the Turley: this is our usual at Thanksgiving dinner. However, this year we had 3 different regions. I only have the bottles of two and I definitely know that Dragon Vineyard was my favorite. The other was a 2002 Old Vines also out of St. Helena. The third was from Paso Robles and I can't recall the vineyard. Please note: The other Turley wine was a 2002 Presenti Vineyard from Paso Robles. All three wines are a great match for turkey dinners, I just enjoyed the sweeter baking spice flavor of that from Dragon Vineyards.

The Dragon was awesome with the meal and especially pumpkin bread I'd made. With my first sip I knew it would be terrific. It smelled of baking spices: especially cloves and nutmeg and allspice. And that's exactly how it tasted too. The clove flavoring was enhanced by the pumpkin bread. It was highly enjoyable.

Oh there ain't no rest for the wicked
Money don't grow on trees
I got bills to pay
I got mouths to feed
There ain't nothing in this world for free

--Cage the Elephant--

16.0% alc. by vol.
Approx. $55 / 750 ml. bottle
8.5 out of 10

The Chocolate Block

2009-12-17T23:23:00.005-05:00

2007
A Beautiful Blend of Syrah, Grenache Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cinsault & Viognier
South Africa

This was a wine we enjoyed the weekend after Thanksgiving. Herbal notes and flavor with a hint of tobacco, this was a rather smooth wine that tasted even better with a piece of dark chocolate. Of course, the warm atmosphere of fire at the hearth, and my brother at my side, and a good movie rolling (Bottle Shock) probably contributed to my overall enjoyment.

I am up late baking a pie, drinking organic chocolate chai tea rather than a good wine, and reflecting on those I am indebted to. I wanted to be in bed by 10:00 but my evening unraveled in a frustrating fury when I locked not only my car and office keys and money inside my car, but the spare car key as well, as I hurried to grab my two younger children to bring them to the high school to see my older daughter's first "GLEE" performance. The show started in 10 minutes and I had no way to get there. The Guy didn't pick up his phone and neither did my mother (who was meeting me there). In a most frustrating frenzy of actually considering bundling my children up and walking to the high school in 18 degrees, I called my boss. He was there within 9 minutes and we made it. After the show my mom and stepdad called triple A for me and waited patiently in my kitchen (which, when we returned, wreaked horridly of canine gas). When triple A didn't show after an hour, I had a revelation and went in mad search of a backpack I brought to Maine over the summer. Inside, sure enough, was a third and only other spare key. It was 10:00 before I had even started making the pie, and I needed to clean the kitchen first.

So, as I wait for the pie to finish baking, I am thinking of how lucky I truly am. My brother was here for almost a week and fixed broken chairs for me and mowed the lawn and collected neat piles of leaves that my stepdad spent two full days leaf-blowing into clean, workable piles. I am honestly grateful to these men in my life who provide rides in bad weather or for locked-in car keys, who buy me lunch, fix things around my house, help me with the lawn, provide ladders or a hand in cleaning my gutters, and buy me fine wine. I know The Guy gets a little miffed at times at these gestures, but where would I be without all of their kindness and caring? Things get done and I am happier and calmer. And it's one less thing he has to try to eventually get to. So, now the mad pie baking begins to return thanks to all those who make my life easier. Being up late is a small price to pay in return to those who give unselfishly all year long.

8.25 out of 10
14.5% alc. by vol.
$37 / 750 ml. bottle

Cesari Amarone

2009-12-11T23:48:00.010-05:00

2005
Della Valpolicella
Classico
Veneto, Italy

The week of Thanksgiving was a totally fab wine week. My brother purchased this Amarone in honor of my birthday, along with a bottle of 2003 Pio Cesare Barolo. Here is a terrific case of higher price not being indicative of a great wine. We all agreed the Della Valpolicella was superior to the Barolo. It was $36. The Barolo was $67.

The Amarone was really smooth, with a long finish, herbs and black fruit, and a bit of minerality. A most excellent Italian wine (and now my favorite Italian wine thus far). This wine was delicious on its own, and with my prosciutto and fontina cheese pinwheels.

I highly recommend the Amarone if you are looking for a pricier wine that is worth every penny (sorry for the photo blur factor to the right but I wanted to show the label for anyone interested in purchasing).

The Barolo was good, just not in the same league as the Amarone in spite of its heftier price. It was more dry with less finish time, and less flavor variation.

After dinner at our mother's we came back to my house, opened a bottle of The Chocolate Block, lit a warm fire, and kicked back and watched Bottle Shock (LOVED this movie based on the rise of California wine in the 1970's).

I have to throw in to this blog tonight how incredibly awesome it was to be back in the company of my high school Soul Sister, JAM, and her wonderful, fun sisters with their priceless sense of humor. I haven't laughed so much in quite awhile. You ladies are so much fun to be with. Thank you for always making me feel like part of the family. I've missed you!! Tonight I am happy.

I feel stressed out,
I wanna let it go.
Lets go way out, spaced out
and lose all control.

Fill up my cup,
Mazel Tov!

Black Eyed Peas (This little ditty causes me to spaz out whenever it comes on - I just gotsta MOVE.)

8.75 out of 19
$36 / 750 ml. bottle

Kistler Cuvee Natalie

2009-12-05T16:23:00.006-05:00

2007 Pinot Noir
Silver Belt Vineyard
Bottle No. 05109 (12,456 bottles produced)
California

The Dead Arm Shiraz, The Holy Trinity and Kistler's Cuvee Natalie. Those, so far, are my top three wines of my life. :)

I had a wonderful winetasting week last week and have listed my Thanksgiving week wines on the left of this blog which I will be reviewing. However, following the fantastic wines from last week, I opened this. Cuvee Natalie easily moved to the top of the posting list.

Let me tell you, it is recommended to let this age for the next 10 years, and I can't imagine how incredibly awesome it might evolve to as it was beyond pretty darn good right now. The scent is black fruit with warm, slightly sweet baking spice mixed with herbs. The flavor is right on with the scent and is LONG and heated and really SMOOTH with a subtle minerality (it's a bit like ME actually - hah!). A most excellent wine.

This wine was a gift from my Uncle Bob and it was indeed a gift. We loved it SO much that we have savored it. I shared some with my mother when she dropped by last night. I gave her half a glass which she downed in no time, commenting on how delicious it was with each sip. After she finished, she reached over and popped the cork again and said she wanted "just a little bit more". Yes! It is that good. You don't want to take it or leave it. You just want to take it. Yet, you also want to leave it . . . for later. Because you just don't want it to be gone.

Robert Parker gave this a 94-96 rating.

I want a perfect body
I want a perfect soul
I want you to notice when I'm not around

~RADIOHEAD~

9.5 out of 10
14.1% alc. by vol.
:0 $120 - $159/750 ml. bottle :0 (clears throat, not quite budget material)
www.kistlervineyards.com (You can buy it direct from the vineyard for *only* $90)

Stag's Leap ARTEMIS

2009-11-24T20:38:00.007-05:00

2006
Cabernet Sauvignon
NAPA

Oh. That's so more like it. I am content. The Bro and I went wine shopping tonight - he did the purchasing and we brought home some good stuff. The Artemis gave off a braised meat-herb sent and tasted like black berry fruit with rosemary mixed in. I loved it. The Bro (I have to find a new handle for him - not only does he hate it, but I do too) wasn't sure at first and thought there wasn't much of a finish. I experienced a subtle, slow to arrive finish that was just fine. The Guy liked the tannins he experienced right off. Once we introduced aged Old Quebec cheddar cheese and La Panzanella Croccantini peppercorm crackers to the wine, we were all pretty happy. Something about the peppercorns brought the wine to a new level. Highly recommend.

This wine on-line is regularly $55, on sale for $47. The Bro and I found it locally at a regular price of $48, on sale for $37. The taste and sale price are well matched. I highly recommend this wine if you can get it for the lower price. I think $55 would be paying too much. $48 would be pushing it.

May no man's touch ever tame you.
May no man's reigns ever chain you,
And may no man's weight
ever lay freight your soul...

And as for the clouds
Just let them roll . . .

Roll away

RAY LaMONTAGNE

8.25 out of 10
$37 / 750 ml. bottle (on Sale)
13.8% alc. by vol.

Morgon Beaujolais

2009-11-21T00:41:00.008-05:00

2007
France
Georges Duboeuf (Blah!)

I apologize to any Georges Duboeuf fans out there. But, had I really looked at the label, I wouldn't have purchased it. I have never had a Georges Duboeuf wine I've liked. Once again, the French wines just don't have enough substance to keep me interested. This was weak, watery, uninteresting.That said, I am sure there is a "right" pairing out there somwhere for this Beaujolais, just not my dinner tonight.

I told the guy at the counter I was making grilled crab cakes and tuna. I was looking (as I always am damn it!) for an Albarino (come rescue me SPAIN!!!!!!). THIS was what was recommended. I decided against it, walked around some more. Didn't see ANYTHING interesting and went back to this. I didn't even study the label. I completely trusted the young, eager fellow behind the counter (he looked more like a Budweiser connosieur to me).

I didn't think the Beaujolais would be a good accompaniment to the crab cakes, but I thought there was a chance it would work with the tuna. But the tuna was nice and meaty like a steak would be and I prefer a full-bodied wine with a hearty piece of meat or fish, not something light.
Luckily, I had a Kendall Jackson Vintner's Reserve Chardonnay, 2008 on hand. The KJ was excellent with the crab cakes, as I expected. It tasted good with the tuna too, at least much better than the Morgon. But it was still no Albarino. :(

I am putting all my trust and hopes into next week. The Bro and Uncle Bob will hopefully save me. It is Thanksgiving, my favorite time of year and I am just in a complete funk. I am sadly thinking I need to find a non-budget wine to be happy. I know, intellectually, that I don't have to spend a lot to be pleased. But I also know I don't have a lot of time to shop around for a great bargain. I need a pleasant change.

Ironically, as I have not been partaking in any wine, the Morgon actually gave me a slight "buzz" after one half tumbler. Oh!!! I bought The Guy a couple of Reidel Merlot tumblers. I have always loved them. I bought some for The Bro for Christmas a couple of years ago and always wanted some myself. They are just awesome. I love wine glasses and their wonderful stems. But there is also something very beautiful about a well made tumbler too. :)

I toss and turn like the sea
If I drown tonight bring me back to life
Breathe your breath in me

Shinedown

6 out of 10
13% alc. by vol.
$15 / 750 ML bottle

Montepulciano d'Abruzzo

2009-11-06T22:03:00.017-05:00

2006
La Valentina
Italy

**See update below for additional food pairing**

I was at a restaurant the other night and I had a glass of a Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, but not La Valentina. I never did get any further info on it. But it was excellent alone, with calamari and with pizza Caprese. I went to my local wine store this weekend actually looking for a pinot noir to accompany some organic chicken soup I was making a big pot of. I had to walk past the Italian section on my way over to pinot noir. As I walked past I remembered the wine I had and decided to look at the labels, thinking it would be cool if they had a bottle, highly doubting that they would. In fact, they did, only it was the La Valentina versus the other that I can't recall. So I bought it anyway because the other was so good.

This was good. The other was better, but I would buy this one again. I feel like the other was more full. This was more medium bodied, but it was smooth, with black cherry and herb flavors. I made a hearty lean turkey and black bean stew this evening and I added this to it and also had a glass with my meal. They were very good together.

I have found another Italian red that I like very much.

**UPDATE: The Montepulciano was excellent with leftover organic chicken soup.

I go about my business, I'm doing fine
Besides what would I say if I had you on the line
Same old story, not much to say
Hearts are broken, everyday.

Jewel

8.0 out of 10
13.5% alc. by vol.
$14 / 750 ml. bottle

Phantom

2009-11-01T21:25:00.016-05:00

2006
Bogle Vineyards
California

A blend of Petite Sirah, Old Vine Zin & Old Vine Mourvedre - I just LOVE saying that word!!! MOURVEDRE (more-vay-drrruh)

Well, the night started off well enough. Halloween. My most not favorite night of the year. I was looking forward to it ending and pouring myself a glass of phantom (something I was hoping to make a Halloween tradition actually).

Each of my children desired to be at someone else's house and I was taxi driver. I eventually got into it though and even dressed up for my little one. We matched. And we stayed together. The first song that came on the radio as I started driving was my old favorite, Donovan's Season of the Witch. And I thought: this is going to be a great night.

I was ending the evening at a party where my oldest daughter was and couldn't wait to get there. However, I was tired and it was pouring and I was the only one dressed up and I was given a glass of Little Penguin Merlot upon my arrival there. Hah! I deserved that. I wrote not that long ago about it being a decent wine for the price. It was the last thing I wanted. I'd brought a Cab with me and didn't know how to tactfully request that it be opened instead! I caught up with some old friends that were unexpectedly there and had a few laughs and then headed home minus my daughter who randomly wanted to go to her friend's house for the night with another friend. I drove home in the pouring rain after getting pelted by acorns and felt the beginning of a bad headache. Damn that Little Penguin! I got home and went to bed, without any desire to visit with the phantom. So much for my "new" tradition.

Finally, the next day, after taking the dog for a workout and raking leaves for a couple of hours, I opened the phantom and watched the sun go down across the field. The scent of the wine had that wonderful "stone" characteristic to it - I've likened it previously to the scent of rocks baking in the sun. And a strong scent of cherry was mixed in.

Initial taste was rather chalky but it opened up to a black pepper creosote followed by a smooth rather quick finish. I liked it, it was better after sitting open for a bit, but I was disappointed as the 2004 was rather awesome two years ago. In case you don't know, Bogle releases the phantom each year around August's end and then it's done until the following year. It always comes out in time for fall, and Halloween appropriately. I totally missed last year's 2005 production and decided to make a point going forward of getting it for Halloween evening. The 2004 had an awesome smoke flavor to it. There was only a hint of that this time around. Still a good wine - it might be better in a few months time. I will now look forward to next year.

Carving the pumpkins.

Preparing the seeds for roasting.

Me and my sunshine.

Oh when I look over my shoulder
What do you think I see?
Some other cat looking over
His shoulder at me
And he's strange, sure he's strange
You've got to pick up every stitch
You've got to pick up every stitch, yeah
Beatniks are out to make it rich
Oh no, must be the season of the witch
Must be the season of the witch, yeah
Must be the season of the witch.

Donovan, Season of the Witch

8.0 out of 10
14.5% alc. by vol.
$19 / 750 ml. bottle

Opolo Merlot Reserve

2009-10-26T20:22:00.010-05:00

2006
Paso Robles, CA

The scent of this reminded me very much of Tawny Port meets Kalamata Olive. The taste was like a Robitussin cherry mushroom with a bit of earth mixed in. I do not wish to insinuate that this wine tasted like cough medicine with my reference to Robitussin. As a child, I very much enjoyed the taste of Robitussin and therefore, the slight reminder this wine brought forth was a characteristic I liked.

The finish was dry yet had a smooth, lingering, warm, slight spice flavor. This was very good. It was a nice and welcome change from the usual.

Oh Lover, hold on
'till I come back again
For these arms are growin' tired,
And my tales are wearing thin

If you're patient I will surprise,
When you wake up i'll have come

All the anger will settle down
And we'll go do all the things we should have done

Rachael Yamagata / Duet (with Ray LaMontagne)

8.5 out of 10
Approx. $24 / 750 ml. bottle? (can't buy easily)
14.8% alc. by vol.

St. Francis Chardonnay

2009-10-16T20:58:00.007-05:00

2007
Sonoma County
California

I was very happy with this choice to accompany (and use in) an angel hair pasta dish I made last night. I am constantly in search of minerality in my wines. It is one of my absolute favorite characteristics that, when it's there, usually promises me a highly enjoyable glass. This wine did not let me down. A magnificent yellow diamond sparkle in hue, this emitted an awesome fresh flower/strawberry essence when I held it in my mouth. Upon swallowing, it was slightly bitter which worried me in the first millisecond. Then as it went down, a burst of mineral heaven sprang forth and I smiled a très heureux smile and relaxed for awhile.

I seem to be on an emotional roller coaster lately. It's my grandmother's birthday today. She's 92 and alone at her nursing home. I am going to go see her tomorrow. But it's days like this that I long for more time. I wonder if the nurses wished her a happy birthday this morning and if she wondered if she would get any visitors today. She was such a big part of my life and I feel terrible that I haven't been there often enough due to too many other obligations and an hour's drive. She means so much to me and I know we have limited time left. We are very similar as she raised 3 children and made family the most important part of her life. She knew what was most important was raising her children in a loving and safe home. She taught me that other things could wait until their due time, but children are here but for a short while. Yet a part of her always felt like she was inferior and longed to be more . . . shiny. I too struggle along that line, knowing what's right, but sometimes wishing for just a bit more, wondering if this is where I am supposed to be. Nothing a little dark chocolate can't snap me out of. I am baking Devil's Food cupcakes right now to bring to her and hope that our visit will stay in her mind awhile. (Hah!!! I was just listening to Chris Martin of Coldplay after a live version of "In My Place" and, after thanking fans for sticking with them through thick and thin, he said - no joke - "Eat More Chocolate" YES!!!!!)

I go from thinking of my life growing up and visiting with my grandparents in their sunny, happy home which always smelled of some delicious meal cooking, to seeing my grandmother now in the end stages of life, to watching my own children grow up before my eyes and wondering exactly where I myself am headed.

I listened to my oldest daughter sing behind closed doors and cried. Her voice is awesome. She was trying out for Glee Club and was a nervous wreck. She's never sung before and was going to be judged on stage in front of others. She refused to practice in front of me. She toyed with singing one of her favorite harder edged rock songs, but decided on one of my favorites, a more recent pop song: Anna Nalick's 2 AM. I came up the stairs and heard her practicing. I stood outside in the hall and was overcome with listening to my first child singing like a young woman. And doing something I was always too shy to pursue. I just stood there and quietly sobbed!! It was an awesome feeling though. I was, once again, in awe of her.

I am really missing my children being little and am yearning for a little one SO badly. I wish I was in a better position to adopt. I am often overcome with the feeling lately, especially as my own grow older. There are SO many children out there in need of a good home, it slays me. I truly believe that children are divinely bestowed upon us and entrusted to our care. The every day headlines bring word of one atrocity being committed against a child after another. It is beyond heartbreaking.

My youngest has a cheery, sunny room and an extra bed. And my children all tell me that they always feel like there's someone missing at the dinner table. Of course, we have 6 chairs and there are only 5 of us, so I am sure that plays a part. But sometimes I am flooded with the same sensation and feel the only way I can "fix" it is to bring some less fortunate child into my home. I believe that whatever was meant to be, will be. And I trust that if it was meant to be, I will some day be in a position to give another child a chance at a better, more love- filled life. And, maybe by then, I'll be exactly where I was always meant to be.

I have an eclectic repertoire of music always churning in my head, on a daily basis. I've come to rely on the dimension music adds to my life, almost as much as that of wine. And I enjoy the two together. My favorites run the gamut of Radiohead to Sam Cooke. Today, it's Sam Cooke who's in my head:

There been times when I thought I couldn't last for long
but now I think I'm able to carry on
It's been a long, a long time coming
but I know a change gonna come, oh yes it will

~Sam Cooke~

8.25 out of 10
$12 / 750 ml. bottle

ZIN91

2009-10-09T22:59:00.008-05:00

2006

Old Vine Zinfandel

California

This was just OK. Had a bit of a bitter taste that I couldn't get past. It wasn't bad, it just wasn't great. Mostly plum and slight cherry flavors with a bit of black pepper mixed in.

I'm stepping back in time tonight to remember my good old best friend John B. from college. A boy I was very fond of, but just not fond enough to make it work. (Harry was right in When Harry Met Sally - sometimes guys and girls just can't be friends without it having to go somewhere else, which then either ruins the friendship, or maybe, just maybe was the right thing after all.) Anyway, he was my best bud for awhile there (we're talking a couple of years), until we made out on my birthday and I felt like I was kissing my brother and pushed him away and he left all mad and pretty much didn't want to ever talk to me again. :(

A favorite song of his was running through my mind tonight and made me think of him:

Might as well go for a soda, nobody hurts and nobody cries
Might as well go for a soda, nobody drowns and nobody dies. . .
It's better than slander

The Kim Mitchell Band

$15 / 750 ml. bottle
7.5 out of 10
14% alc. by vol.

Chateau Leoville Poyferré

2009-09-27T20:00:00.022-05:00

1996
French Red
Apellation Saint Julien

LOVED this wine - NOT budget material. I looked it up and found case pricing to be (on average) $1,600.

We went to my cousin's pre-wedding party this weekend and had a really nice time at a beautiful home filled with nice, good people, delicious food, and . . . my uncle and his wine.

We had an intriguing 1999 German white (Alsace Pinot Blanc Vielles Vignes Zind-Humbrecht), the Poyferré, and champagne. The Pinot Blanc was delicious with Mozarella, tomato and olive appetizers and prosciutto wrapped melon, and, I'm told, is perfectly matched with bacon wrapped scallops. The Poyferré I loved on its own. It was fine with my meal (salmon) and The Guy's beef filet.

My dear Uncle means the world to me. He and my aunt are kind, gracious, intelligent, giving people and fabulous parents to their two great, now-adult kids. I don't believe they have any idea how much they are an inspiration to me and how much I admire them as parents. But, together, they have become an important part of my life.

(Once I downloaded this photo I so thought was going to be great, I realized it was, sadly, blurry - especially the hand holding the wine. Then I thought about it and laughed because I realized no wine shall stay still in my uncle's hands.)

This wine was very good. I would have enjoyed having much more than I allowed myself to. Deep in color, it's flavor was heady earthiness with wood, a hint of tobacco and a velvet finish.

It even tasted good with the cupcakes from Two Little Red Hens.

So how do I do normal?
A smile I fake
the permanent wave of
cue-cards and fix-it kits
Can't you tell?
I'm not myself

I'm a slow motion accident
Lost in coffee rings and fingerprints
I don't wanna feel anything but I do

Frou Frou ("Hear Me Out")

8.50 out of 10
About $133 / 750 ml. bottle

Kendall-Jackson Pinot Noir

2009-09-21T22:16:00.012-05:00

Vintner's Reserve
California
2006

Will drink again for sure.

I am not a big pinot noir fan except for but a few I've had in the past with the right food. The Kendall-Jackson had more body than most and had me swooning when I least expected it. It packed a black cherry punch with ever so slight vanilla notes that I enjoyed. It took on a more brazen pepper flavor when introduced to our dinner: mushroom crostini. I recommend this pairing for anyone looking for a light supper and an enjoyable wine experience.

The following recipe I got from my desk calendar at work, which is of course wine-related, written by Karen McNeil (author of the Wine Bible). Karen recommends a pinot noir accompaniment to the dish.

Mushroom Crostini Recipe:

-4 c coarsely chopped mixed-variety mushrooms (chantrelles, porcini, shitake & oyster are the recommended mixture - I used baby portabella, shitake & oyster)
-2 sprigs of fresh thyme (this I have plenty of in my little kitchen garden and was so happy to make use of in such a delicious way)
-4 T Olive Oil
- 1/2 t ++ Salt
-(1) baguette, thinly sliced on an angle
-Freshly grated Parmesan Cheese

Cook the mushrooms in covered skillet over med-low heat with thyme, 1/2 t salt, and olive oil until the mushrooms give up their liquid and then reabsorb it. Uncover the skillet, increase heat to med-high, and saute the mushrooms until lightly browned. Season with more salt to taste and set aside.

Drizzle the baguette slices with olive oil and toss. Then place in a single layer on a baking sheet at the oven's lowest setting until they're crisp.

Top the crostini with the mushroom mixture, sprinkle with Parmesan on top, and place under the broiler briefly to just brown the cheese gently. Serve immediately with a glass of pinot noir. (I recommend the Kendall-Jackson.)

"And it's not California here"
Hem
Not California

8.0 out of 10
13.5% alc. by vol.
$17 / 750 ml. bottle

Mirassou Riesling

2009-09-06T13:44:00.012-05:00

Monterey County
California
2006

Floral and citrus notes, pleasing finish. Really good buy for the cost.

This was very good with chicken, wheat crackers and cheddar cheese, and, especially, a dish I can't remember and I'm disappointed in myself for taking so long to post that I forgot what it was good with! But, I believe it was a creamy poultry dish.

Update: I remembered what dish it was that accompanied the Mirassou so well - It was zucchini fritters.

8.0 out of 10
$9/750 ml. bottle
12.5% alc. by vol.

"Oh, kiss me
Flick your cigarette, then kiss me"

No You Girls
Franz Ferdinand
(This song is just awesome. I like to turn it up loud.)

Yellow Tail Chardonnay

2009-08-01T15:43:00.013-05:00

2007
South Eastern Australia

This is a good all around enjoyable summer wine that goes well with pasta and/or chicken. It fits in a tighter budget yet tastes better.

A little peach and vanilla, this can be surprisingly rich with the right food.

Walking by my little barrel of herbs outside my kitchen, I noticed my basil practically jumping out at me. I picked a whole bunch and then grabbed some pignolia nuts and garlic and got out the blender. A little olive oil and I was ready. Fresh pesto to add to my grilled chicken and otherwise boring pasta. I poured a glass of chardonnay and I was happy at the end of the day.

8 out of 10
13.5% alc. by vol.
$12 / 750 ml. bottle

And all I wanted was the simple things
A simple kind of life
And all I needed was a simple man
So I could be a wife . . .
I'm so ashamed, I've been so mean
I don't know how it got to this point . . .

A Simple Kind of Life, Gwen Stefani

Ballet of Angels

2009-07-25T14:33:00.004-05:00

American White Wine
Sharpe Hill Vineyard
Pomfret, CT

When I went to pick up my daughter from a visit with friends, the parents gave me a glass of this and I really enjoyed it. Well chilled, this is a very refreshing medium-bodied semi-dry white wine. It is supposedly comprised of (10) grape types. Although I originally had a glass on its own, the mom and I had been talking over fresh cut watermelon and she had a bite right after a sip of wine and, mid-sentence her eyes widened and she quickly had another sip of wine and smiled and indicated for me to do the same. What ensued was a wonderful unexpected pairing. Needless to say, I had another glass of wine with watermelon.

Priced right, this is a definite summer recommendation.

And so there's a change...
In your emotions
And all of these memories come rushing
Like feral waves to your mind
Of the curl of your bodies
Like two perfect circles entwined
And you feel hopeless, and homeless
And lost in the haze
Of the wine . . .

Around Midnight, The Airborne Toxic Event
(This is currently my favorite song - a genius crescendo of raw emotion and lyrics that, if this has ever happened to you, hits close to home)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E2YnDlEMXiU

8.0 out of 10
12% alc. by vol.
$11 / 750 ml. bottle