Quick Reviews
Prophecy Sauvignon Blanc – Marlborough – 2015
Middling SB would be better if others in the region weren’t so outrageously fantastic. As a result this one is just good. Non lingering flavors invite a fast glass, but what’s there is nice: grass, asparagus and acidic minerals. Very low sugar. Pair wisely as this doesn’t drink well by itself.
Red Rock Malbec Reserve – Argentina – 2014
An almost perfect glass, this one was drunk under non-ideal circumstances: rushed, crowded dinner affair, not intended for tasting. There was no time or opportunity to take notes, so working from memory alone I can attest it’s fantastic. Meaty, bold, a bit smoky and charming. A fantastic malbec. If given the chance, I will revisit this and update the review.
Mirassou Sauvignon Blanc – California – 2015
A bit high in sugar but otherwise fantastic. Creamy like chardonnay but with the minerals and sour apple you’d expect from a SB.
Tacama Gran Blanco Tres Cepas 2012 – Peru
Another good “tres cepas” blend from Tacama – chardonnay, chenin and sauvignon blanc. Tart, dry with sour apple and floral notes dominant. Paired well with a spicy Peruvian chicken dish.
Tabernero Borgoña 2015 – Peru
Very sweet with strong perfume notes and black cherry on the tongue. Not cloying, this is surprisingly light. I would serve as a dessert wine but Peruvians serve with dinner. Not bad considering it is from Tabernero, which occasionally produces junk wine.
Louis Jadot Beaujolais-Villages – 2014
I am an unabashed lover of the gamay grape and my relationship with Louis Jadot goes back before I can remember, so I am biased towards this wine, for both its reliable quality and the memories it gives me. Give it an hour of air and enjoy a slightly spicy, medium tannin treat.
ValdiVieso Sauvignon Blanc – 2014
Wait, what? This is a Chilean sauvignon blanc? Very light nose belies the wonderful flavor once this SB reaches the tongue. The closest to a new Zealand SB I have ever found in the new world. Apple hits mineraly finish for a glass you will swear is from Marlborough.
Rainer Wess Wachauer Riesling – 2014
A middling reez from Austria, entirely serviceable but nothing earth shattering. If you’re an evil villain planning to shatter the earth, look elsewhere.
Nobilo Regional Collection Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc – 2014
Surprisingly dull, like the latest Tarzan film. But with less ape feces, one hopes.
Augustus Lieblich White – Germany – NV
What cotton candy dreams are made of, and I mean that in the worst way possible. I don’t know what this sweet wine is made of, but I suspect it’s floor sweepings from an amusement park. Your tongue will literally petition to rip itself from your body and roam the world, alone, if you put this in your mouth. Pairs well with your toilet, which is where you should pour this should some ill-advised family member gift you a bottle.