Blends: Art or Science

February 15, 2008

Foppiano Lot 96 $9.97
Foppiano Vineyards Lot 96, Bin 001 is crafted from Alexander Valley Sangiovese, Dry Creek Zinfandel, as well as a touch of Russian River Estate Petite Sirah. The flavor profile of this wine is soft and approachable. On the nose, its Zinfandel offers blackberry spice; while the Sangiovese delivers delicate strawberry, blueberry, and violet flavors on the palate. The Petite Sirah brings a modicum of tannic structure,
Allyson’s Pairing: Cypress Grove Midnight Moon

Basel Cellars 2005 Claret $22.97
Their Estate Vineyard, Pheasant Run, provided the majority of the fruit for this wine. This blend of 68% Cabernet Sauvignon, 24% Merlot and 8% Cabernet Franc is meduim ruby red in color and has an amazing floral, herbal scent which leads to flavors of red Cherries, Cassis, Raspberries, and some Tea Leaf. The tannins are well integrated and the acids are elevated enough to pair with rich foods.
Allyson’s Pairing: Etorki Basque Style Cheese

Maryhill Winemakers Red $10.97
This vintage of our “Bordeaux Blend with a twist” has a gorgeous garnet red Bordeaux appearance. Predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon, the structured palate begins with a ripe nose of boysenberry, fresh black cherry cranberry and dustings of Dutch chocolate. The palate is darker with rich black fruit and juicy black currents.
Allyson’s Pairing: Sublimity With Herbs

Vin De Table Du Vaucluse 2005 $9.97
Little needs to be said about Kermit Lynch, the quality of his portfolio, or the impact he's had on French-wine-loving Americans. Occasionally Mr. Lynch supplies his name to a cuvée of exceptional quality and value. His 2005 Vin de Table du Vaucluse comes from the greater region in the Southern Rhône Valley, Syr. The Lynch Vaucluse opens with a bright ruby color and a spicy nose of ripe plums, cherries and wet stones.
Allyson’s Pairing: Delice d’ Bourgorgne

Saviah The Jack 286 $17.97
If you are looking for a great red wine at a value price…The Jack is your best bet! This wine has appealing aromas of black cherries, raspberries, plum and spices with a touch of oak. The Jack is a friendly wine offering a mouthful of juicy fruit flavors that are complemented by fine tannins.
Allyson’s Pairing: Brie Le Chatelain on a Fruit and Nut Crostini

Stevenot Danza Roja ’04 $12.97
Potent, complex, and aromatic, this beautiful Spanish blend is rich and fresh in the mouth with an intense dark cherry color and ruby lining. This wine bursts with aromas of ripe black cherries, blackberries, currant, nutmeg, vanilla bean, black licorice and espresso with hints of cedar and clove.
Allyson’s Pairing: Rogue Creamery Crater Lake Blue with Algerian Date’s