Quick Reviews
Tacama D’Ica Albilla – Peru – 2016
Very very weird fizzy drink made from the albilla grape, usually used for Peruvian pisco. Sweet but not raisiny, this almost tastes like Inca Kola for adults. Still it’s not bad and insanely cheap. Give this to folks who hate wine and they might come away happy nonetheless. Very odd duck.
Gascon Colosal Red Blend – Argentina – 2013
Bad bottle? A tangy unripe mess that disappointed all who tried it. My review doesn’t track with others’ so perhaps disregard it. From Mendoza, which usually provides reliable reds.
Belasco de Baquedano Llama Old Vine Malbec – Argentina – 2014
Fantastic malbec with intense fruit. Needed time to breathe for sure, though, so allow at least a half hour after opening.
19 Crimes “The Banished” Dark Red Blend – Australia – 2016
Very pleasant flavors of blackberry and chocolate but lacking in tannins and finish. Nevertheless it was a hit with a large group of wine enthusiasts; just didn’t hit all my buttons.
Mirassou Pinot Noir – California – 2015
Lacking character but with some bracing tannins that make up for it. Paired OK with traditional Thanksgiving Day turkey, of all things.
Sileni Estates Cellar Selection Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc – New Zealand – 2016
Citrusy lemon overpowers the natural grape here, but otherwise it’s a fine NZ SB. This one is very dry so may not win over those who are not already fans of the region’s sauvignon Blanc. It’s certainly great, but could have benefitted from the tiniest bit more fruit.
Château St. Jean Sonoma County Sauvignon Blanc – California – 2015
Competent but unremarkable SB from Sonoma.
Ponga Sauvignon Blanc – New Zealand – 2016
No tasting notes.
Brancott Estate Sauvignon Blanc – New Zealand – 2016
Bright tart apple smacks bracingly with the usual mineral yumminess of NZ SB proving once more that the kiwis cannot seem to produce a single exception to their standard of excellence. Very nice.
Leonard Kreusch Riesling – Germany – 2016
Mosel reez is like sex, even when it’s bad it’s great, unless too much money has changed hands. This one gets middling reviews but is just great nevertheless. Very slight nose, but on the palate it’s traditional German Riesling. Semi sweet with faint green apple notes and touched with honey. Very nice.