White & Rose Wines

• The Riesling is grown on the slopes of the Mosel River Valley as far back as Roman times, and offers a slate soil to draw out the best grapes on any vine. This 2007 vintage shows flavors of crisp apple, lime and passion fruit. Perfect companion to fruits, spicy dishes, and desserts.

• 2007 was a nearly perfect vintage in Eastern Washington. Fermented in stainless steel and aged in French oak, only 15% of which was new, this Chardonnay from Columbia Valley is made in a crisp, lean style—very Chablis-like in character—with an underlying mineral-rich nose suggesting shell or chalk and veiled by more floral aromatics reminiscent of apples—honey crisp apples—and apple blossoms. Richly textured, this medium- to medium-full bodied wine delivers a crisp, dry finish.

• This 2008 Rose from Chile's Colchagua Valley is a very seductive wine. Fresh and well-balanced, it has a bright, intense pink color. Both on the nose and palate, it has a distinct Syrah character, with some spiciness and hints of strawberries and lively floral flavors of roses and orange peel. With good fruit concentration, it shows richness in texture across the palate that leads to a delightfully long finish. This is a fresh, young, fruity wine. We suggest drinking it within the first two years. This wine will benefit from decanting before serving.
  

Red Wines

• This 2007 from Washington's Columbia Valley is fermented in stainless steel, then aged 10 months in French oak. Bright ruby-red color extends to primary aromatics revealing soft red plums, and suggestions of smoke and cedar. A purposely slightly elevated tannic profile puts this Merlot in an entirely new category, providing a robust character that will appeal to all palates.

• This 2006 old vine Zinfandel from Lodi, California is filled with flavors of blackfruits and cranberry, with a lively, spicy cinnamon note, accompanied by mystic tea leaves and resonating oak tones. Aged for 10 months in French and American oak.
  
  
• The wine is a blend of 49% Syrah, 37% Mourvedre, 13% Grenache, and 1% Viognier. Beautifully vibrant and ruby/purple in color, this 2006 from Paso Robles shows a wide array of spicy blackberry, black cherry and blueberry fruit which is contrasted by hints of pepper, savory spice and cola. The flavors match the aromas with spicy red and black fruits persisting on the finish. Touches of vanilla and toast round out this opulent, smooth, velvety textured wine. The tannins are ripe, inviting and well-integrated, making it hard to resist drinking right now.

Appetizer of the Week

Fresh Basil & Tomato Soup - $8

 

For more specific information on these great wines, or to taste for yourself, stop by the Tasting Room at Wines by Jennifer this week. We look forward to seeing you!