Fumaio

Sauvignon Blanc & Chardonnay 2008

My Review
Quite acidic. Sour, citrusy flavor. Lemon? Lime? Kind of dry, but not too dry. Slight floral notes on the aftertaste. Lingers on the mid-section of my tongue. Not quite sweet enough for my taste. I don't like it, Sam I Am.

Expert Review
This unique, well-rounded Tuscan cuvée offers vibrant melon and
apricot flavors, with a crisp, long finish. Fumaio has a light straw color
with a fresh and intense bouquet of fruit. Served chilled, Fumaio pairs
well with seafood salads, rice dishes and pasta in light sauces as well as
fish prepared in a variety of ways.

** 2 stars out of 5

Bohemian Highway

Merlot

My review:
Full and round bodied. Earthy with spicy undertones. Most definitely got me in the Bohemian spirit. Vanilla, orange, nutmeg, cloves. Sweet aftertaste, doesn't linger too much which I like. It was only $11 for a great big bottle, so bonus points for that.

Experts said:
Full of ripe plum and deep berry flavors. Immediately fruit-forward and lush, the blend is highlighted by hints of vanilla and brown spice. Supple tannins round out the finish of the wine, with lingering flavors of sun-ripened blackberries.

*****

Birdman

Pinot Grigio

My review:
Almost a slight beer flavor, and beer is great, so that's a plus. Tastes a bit like dandelion. Slightly acidic. Citrusy and round in my mouth. Would be good with a sharp cheese, gouda, or spicy food. Also, bonus points for a super cute label!

Experts say:
Comes across first as cool and refreshing, no one element protruding above the others. A just slightly sweet clean fruit (think pear/apple/starfruit) middle pairs with the just slightly acidic edges and is eased along by the just slightly creamy texture into the just slightly bright upper tones.And the finish: Sits just slightly long until it fades to a just slightly clean, crisp ending.

*****

Blue Nun Reisling

My review:
Sweet dessert wine. Would be very good with a mild cheese, such as brie. Floral tones, with a hint of apple. Aftertaste is not too sweet, lingers on the tongue but not bitter. I drank it with a handful of chocolate chips, which was quite excellent.

The experts said:
Quite a reserved, slightly leafy nose with a touch of nettle and a suggestion of lime. There's a nice clean, slaty minerality. Palate is crisp and dry, with clean, juicy apple fruit and good texture. Plenty of citrus acidity cuts through and extends the finish. A modern, appetising dry riesling. Very good.

****

Zen of Zin

Zinfandel, made by Ravenswood.
I was originally drawn to it because I thought the title was quite clever.

My review:
Very smooth. Little bitter aftertaste. Notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, plum. Kind of spicy, but not too overpowering. Good winter wine? Reminds me of Christmas potpourri.

The experts also commented that it has the ripe tastes of strawberry and cherry jam, with orange peel. The wine is juicy, ripe, and flavorful, with the impression of boldness without the heaviness.

I give it 4 out of 5 stars