roxy.cape presents: Wine on a Dime

Buffalo Grove - Cabernet Sauvignon @@ (2 corks)

2011-08-19T22:31:00.009-04:00

Retails: $8.99 ($12.99 1.5 L)

I'm in a funk.

I'm not sure if it's the workplace, a case of the dulldrums, a looming birthdate, babyfever, lack of friends, lack of funds, missing people, lack of creativity, or a simple case of the blahs...or a combination of all of the above (shit).

...and like a good blogger, I reached for a bottle that ALSO turned out to be shit. Great! To make matters worse, I started on this ranting blog and my computer completely rebooted without warning further leading me to believe that I've stumbled on some seriously bad mojo...or something.

Either way, unlike the red zinfandel from this same label, this Cab is awful. It's drinkable but that may be entirely based on my desperation.

So, what's a gal to do when in an unexplained funk? Well, for me, it involves my husband politely leaving me to my mood while I watch old episodes of Sex and the City snuggled up with my dog, Roxy, who celebrates her fifth birthday tomorrow.

Yes, friends, I'm one of those crazy dog ladies. Fully committed and unapologetic, my dog is amazing and yes, she is the namesake from which this blog derives its name. You see, Roxy Cape was the fake name I gave out at bars in college (along with a fake number that led fools to my alma matter's automated daily menu, the "to eat" line...yes, I'm that kind of clever.)

Roxy seemed like a wonderfully ironic name for my puppy who I truly believe chose me--I've never had a dog before, my family's more feline-oriented.

I was on my way to a haircut and happened upon a puppy shop (clearly puppy mill puppies but, you know, fuzzy!) I had been in the market but not super motivated to look. I came upon a pen of adorable puppies when a little black, furry puppy who studied me curiously with an air of, "have we met?"

Needless to say, after my hair appointment, I hurriedly ran back to the shop and snatched her up before the shop closed. I thank my puppy for getting me out of the worst relationship of my life and eventually guiding me to meet my husband --- no, really, we met at the dog park it doesn't get any more blatant than that.

As I turned on the television to begin my Sex and the City marathon this evening, she snuggled up on my lap giving me the look of -- "this again? What's wrong now? Pour yourself a cocktail--it's necessary sometimes, lady-- forget this wine, scratch your dog behind the ears, you'll be fine in an hour." Sometimes my dog really is my best friend (or my unorthodox therapist?)

Either way, Roxy my dear, Happy 5th birthday. You are my little furry soulmate.

Fish Eye - Cabernet Sauvignon @@@ (3 Corks)

2011-04-28T19:06:00.002-04:00

Retails: $9.33 (Per 1.5 L, Total Wine)

Another inexpensive Australian brand, Fish Eye's Cabernet Sauvignon doesn't deliver as fully as some of its other Aussie competitors. However, for the price, this would be a well-received wine to serve for a large group gathering --- especially since the 1.5L are STILL under $10 themselves.

The flavors are pretty overpowering, plenty of oak and tannins, not much complexity in flavor. However, where other "bulk" wines of similar price points provide a flat, flavorless glass, this one definitely packs a punch. It bursts into your mouth with a demanding presence, "I am RED WINE, (bitches)."

For those of us who do enjoy a robust red, this is certainly preferable to the generic, watered-down, bargain variety red. I wouldn't pair this with a delicate meal, it requires equally commanding foods to hold up against its rich flavors. Wine and cheese, totally fine, garden salad, not so much.

Cupcake Vineyards - Red Velvet @@@@ (4 corks)

2011-04-21T19:24:00.004-04:00

Retails: $8.99 (Total Wine)

Life has a *charming* way of throwing gas on the fire just when the flame has smoldered to coals, doesn't it?

Luckily, we have wine.

As rich as a mouthful of caramel centered milk chocolates, Cupcake Vineyard's "Red Velvet" wine delivers on decadence. I do find it a bit too overpowering for everyday drinking or when accompanying a meal, but it is delicious all on its own.

For people (like me) who are not particularly keen on sweet dessert wine, this is a welcome substitute. It holds up well on its own, with rich berry and cherry flavors and very little dryness. I would consider pairing it with a dessert or with light appetizers. I could absolutely see this being served at a wine bar to welcoming palates.

The last six months have proven that you can never be certain what's around the bend. I'm a tried and true over-analyzer and no matter how hard I try and predict the outcome of different situations, I'm always pretty surprised. I'm an "organizer" by career and mentality, and it drives me crazy when things don't go according to plan. It's not that I'm uptight per se, but I do enjoy a certain amount of predictability in the assorted variables that can transpire from day to day. In my moments of shear frustration, my husband will quip, "Well, isn't this life?"

Nothing has prepared me for what life has thrown my way as of late -- kids, marriage, new career, custody battles, merging career, additional work, financial woes, a move, a new pet, significant weight loss, unexpected blessings, a million weddings and babies to celebrate...

To provide each individual variable with the appropriate amount of attention and response has proved mind numbing. Maybe it's just me, but I'm not accustomed to change all at one time. I'm someone who almost requires a waiting period between significant events, but, as life has shown, that isn't always an option or possibility.

It also doesn't help that when I get my mind wrapped around a particular endeavor I can't help but try and accomplish it immediately (see: moving), thankfully my husband is exactly the same way. We may not have the majority of things in common, but we can absolutely agree on accomplishing a common goal as soon as is humanly possible. (re: neurosis).

After all of this, all I can say is, THANK GOD for wine!

Yellowtail - Shiraz-Cabernet @@@ (3 corks)

2011-03-07T18:35:00.008-05:00

Retails: $6.99 (Wal-Mart)

I'm apologizing in advance for the severe lack of posts over the past 4 MONTHS. Holy crap, where did the time go ?

Thankfully, this week, my HUSBAND and I (yes, it's still fun to say 4 months later), have been awarded a kid-free week, thereby affording me some free time with which to reconnect with my beloved wine blog. You see, in this period of adjustment between having the kids full-time, getting married, going on a honeymoon, moving, the holidays, work shenanigans and, um, LIFE in general, there has been little time for the blog. Sorry, blog, won't happen again.

To the wine!

Yellowtail is one of the inexpensive Australian brands that I have woefully neglected in the past couple of years. It's not because I don't have a love for the Yellowtail, I think I just equated it with, if there is such a thing, a wine cliche. You see, back when I first began drinking wine (legally) during senior year of college, every Thursday evening after classes, the members of my "house" at Smith College would get together, drink wine and eat cheese. Yes, I realize that living in a dormitory called a "house" at a women's college and drinking wine and eating cheese are all rather elitist cliches in and of themselves. But, please, allow me to continue the story...

So, every Thursday, a different set of girls would be responsible for the wine and cheese. Given that all of us were fully enrolled in college and um, broke, Yellowtail was a frequent guest at our Thursday evening soirees. Perhaps, you could say, I had been a little tired of Yellowtail and avoided it in order to regain an appreciation for it. Yellowtail is predictably affordable and predictably good. Definitely a solid staple-wine to have around for the unexpected visitors or after work relax-o-glass (yes, I'm coining that term).

Full-bodied, definitely requires ample time to breathe to achieve its full potential. The Shiraz-Cabernet blend exhibits characteristics of both grapes, fruit flavors from the Shiraz, hearty oak and tannins from the Cabernet. Plenty of flavor and a nice dry finish make this Yellowtail blend a solid red wine.

So, friends, my apologies again for the lack of updates and wine critiques, but I've been a tad busy you could say what with the kids moving in, court battles, moving into a house, the holidays, the crazy production schedule at work and well, the um...

Casella Mallee Point - Chardonnay 2009 @@@@ (4 Corks)

2010-10-23T22:25:00.009-04:00

Retails: $7.99 (Total Wine)

Chardonnay has become a new favorite. It has managed to diminish my cynicism towards white wines with its crisp yet buttery, fruitful flavors. This Australian white is no exception, beautifully composed with nuanced flavors that shift from buttery, honey, to apple-tart and very light acidity. It's the perfect compliment to this evenings' existential musings.

To set the scene:

I'm home with the kids after a hell-acious week, that, aside from being strenuous on the work-front, has been intensifying on the home-front due to an escalating custody battle brewing---I'll spare you the details, but in essence, it can be boiled down to a lack of cooperation on the opposing party's side to the extent that we had to hire legal council to remedy the situation. Yes, three weeks before my wedding, this is the kind of egregious battle I'm still having to fight. But, we press on. My fiance is enjoying his bachelor party out with his sister (best man, yes we're not traditional), and I'm home, drinking a bottle of Chardonnay while the kids drift into what will hopefully be a restful slumber and I work on some last-minute wedding details, which led me to the following...

My parents sent me a disc of old photographs of my relatives -- many of whom passed away ages ago. I teared up over the people I didn't have enough time with, or had no time with at all. The photographs of my grandmother who passed away from breast cancer when I was a small child; my great grandparents whom I never had the chance to meet; my mother's father who exists as a mix of small clips and snaps in my memory due to the illness that kept him distant; my three Great Aunts, the last of whom just recently passed in body, but whose mind had long been taken by Alzheimer's. (the photo includes, from left to right, my Grandfather, aforementioned Grandmother and Aunt, and Uncle during WWII)

I have always lived far away from my family. I realize it's not abnormal for people to have grown up far away from their families' roots -- to be displaced from the people who have handed down legacy, heirlooms, traditions, secrets. My folks come from absolute opposite ends of North America -- my mother, a native to Quebec, Canada with a giant, true-blooded, Catholic French-Canadian family. My father, a son of the Deep South (Gainesville, Georgia).

We had our tiny, bi-lingual family nestled in the suburb of Cape Elizabeth, Maine--the compromise after my parents married -- moving my mother into the USA but close enough to drive home.

Every vacation, we made the trek to either end of the continent to visit family. It wasn't that we didn't make the effort to maintain family ties, but the distance, the distance made me feel completely alien to either halves. I was the only New England-er. For the most part, I hardly gave it a second thought, this was just expected for being so far away.

There are coping mechanisms, of course, when your family is so far away, your friends really do become your family and for that, I am truly fortunate.

The whole notion of Family. Legacy. Heritage. Tradition. have really hit me now, at the three week mark before my wedding.

I've been completely blown away by how many relatives I haven't seen in years have written, I mean hand written, me messages of wishes and hope in addition to making the journey to me, here in Florida for my wedding. Perhaps I've been unnecessarily withdrawn from either side, either way I'm so moved by the response.

As I was "thumbing" through the photographs on my computer, I just became overwhelmed by the legacy, the tradition that I am apart of, but never felt apart of...but I'm really starting to.

Bogle - Cabernet Sauvignon @@@@@ (5 corks)

2010-10-11T20:52:00.006-04:00

Retails: $9.97 (Wal-Mart)

Whenever times are tough, my adoring fiance know just what to do to try and calm my nerves. He reaches for a bottle of Bogle. I know he delights in the way my face contorts into a squee of delight when I find it sitting, ever at the ready, on the kitchen counter. No hallmark cards here, kids, my fiance knows true romance. It's an exceptionally rich, velvety wine that fills the palate moving you into a space of true wine nirvana...or something.

Bogle is a brand that is considered "out of my price range" as it typically retails for over $10 (Walmart). It's not that I'm cheap, I just try to be a loyal consumer of good, inexpensive bottles rather than promoting, what I believe, is wine elitism---the belief that bottles should be expensive to be good and therefore making consumption on a regular basis by people of average incomes, like myself, near impossible. It's a big reason why many people never bother with wine in the first place.

So what brought on the occasion? We're a month away from the wedding and it seems the custody battle that we thought we won, is now gearing up to be ten times messier than originally anticipated. And sometimes, sometimes...you just need a solid glass of wine to fill you with perspective. I think wine, more so than any other beverage, opens the mind's arena for thoughtful contemplation. I'm forcing myself to exhibit some (ok, a LOT) of restraint over the periods' events, during what is supposed to be "our" engagement, "our" era of wedding planning and inevitably, "our" day. I do feel like I'm getting robbed. As much as I painstakingly try and fit into the other party's shoes, I just can't seem to discover the empathy to find these actions justified. Warranted. Above all, necessary.

Truth be told, peoples' shear lack of regard for others is both frustrating and disheartening --- as a human race, are we truly becoming that selfish? I sure hope not. For now, there's wine.

Beringer - Cabernet Sauvignon @@@ (3 corks)

2010-09-05T17:24:00.003-04:00

Retails: $7.99 ($11.99/1.5 Litre -- Publix)

Beringer's Cabernet Sauvignon has an earthy, seductive quality. The flavors drift from your palate up unto your nostrils inducing a gorgeous, tranquil haze. As each second passes, the aromas shift from earth to tart cherries to leather and back to earth---quite the metaphor for the month of August, I'd call it the perfect glass for the season.

I wake up early every morning to walk the dog, stealing a luxurious ten minutes to myself while my fiance and the kids bang out the usual morning routine, get-up-get-dressed-eat-brush-teeth-make-beds-tie-shoes. There's a scent in the air this time of year that even the dog can smell. It's hidden behind cloaks of warm, humid weather, but still present---a delicate strand of crisp, cool air, indicative that fall is near. Those who claim that Florida is a season-less state fail to notice the beautiful subtleties of our changing seasons.

August has always held a certain air of melancholy. Summers of my childhood were spent squeezing every last drop of summertime we could in Maine's too short season. No meal was spent inside unless weather forbade, days were spent by the pool or beach. Nights were spent avoiding mosquito bites, taking long drives down winding roads with the windows down, and the smell of the sea wafting in. You see, a Maine summer is always a summer lover --- there for a season and gone as soon as August rolled around. Our seasons end abruptly, and winter is unforgiving and especially long by comparison.

August always carried with it a certain amount of tragedy. This past August was no different, but to appreciate the eclipse from one season to the next, paying attention to the subtle cues around you help bring perspective to the time that lies ahead. For me, it's (step)motherhood, for you it's...

(a decent glass of wine?)

Fetzer - Gewurztraminer @@@ (3 corks)

2010-07-17T18:44:00.006-04:00

Retails: $7.99 (Total Wine)

Gewurztraminer (guh-voorts-truh-mee-ner). As if the guttural, spit-inducing, dry-heave-of-a-word didn't give it away, this is a German white wine (grown in California). Quite a good, German white wine, I might add. About two months ago, a co-worker asked me for a recommendation on a German wine to give as a gift to a neighbor. Having never reviewed a single one, I was at a loss as to what to recommend and put my "roxy.cape dot com" stamp of approval on. How embarrassing! Yes, as of recently, my reputation around the office has been that of "wine connoisseur"--- in truth, I'm probably the office wino, a title I graciously uphold and am honored to have (will they let me have business cards though, that's the question...)

This is a delightfully rich white wine best consumed ALONE--yup, it's a loner. It isn't bad with a meal, but it does tend to be a bit overpowering. It's a solid dessert wine, honey-sweet at first with a slightly dry, crisp finish -- somewhat reminiscent of green apples.

In other news, my fiance and I celebrated our dating anniversary this past weekend --- yes, we celebrate our dating anniversary. By tradition, we head up to Tampa's Channelside district, right near the cruise ship port. We rent a hotel room and walk to all of the bars and restaurants at Channelside. In particular, we enjoy some bowling at Splitsville --- both for its club-like atmosphere and the sense of irony in going to a venue called Splitsville for your anniversary. This particular year, however, we ended up getting food poisoning at Stumps Supperclub, resulting in my making a mad-dash to the bathroom at Splitsville in the middle of our second game, and calling it a night at 9:00 where we spent the rest of the evening taking turns in the bathroom. Happy Anniversary!

Fetzer - Merlot @@@@ (4 corks)

2010-07-06T19:06:00.007-04:00

Retails: $6.99 (Publix)

Strong oak flavor with a tinge of smoke in the aftertaste, Fetzer Merlot is a solid medium-bodied wine that I am enjoying from my new space in the home. Yes, I've reclaimed a piece of it for myself, it's every (wo)man for himself here at the abode !

When you live in a 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom condo with your fiance, space can get a little tight. Although we are fortunate to own a home that encompasses an astonishing 1200 square feet, even still, there could always be more room. When his two children spend the weekends with us, they take over the spare bedroom (and every other available corner). My fiance likes to occupy the living room (that's where the xbox lives). So, that leaves me with few options for a space of my own --- the kitchen (standing room only), the bathroom (an obvious no), or the bedroom (no wine allowed).

I took it upon myself to reclaim a forgotten corner of the condo -- the porch (or lanai as we call them in Florida). One weekend, I took an entire afternoon to scrub every corner of the porch to make it livable. After removing the cobwebs, sweeping the dust and appointing it with some colorful lanterns and a giant fan for the especially hot summer days, I uncovered a small sanctuary. I've dubbed it the "girls club" -- Roxy, my dog, and I can now sit in peace and quite in the giant papazan chair doing as we please--drinking some wine, reading a magazine and in this case, blogging (the wifi reaches out there !) Sometimes, it's not that you need space, it's just that you need a space...

We're in the process of becoming the primary care givers for his two elementary school aged children, two boys ages 7 and 9. It's a long story of how we came to this point in the road so I'll spare the back story, a culmination of the past two years. In essence, things weren't working out with them living with their mother (his ex-wife) for a number of reasons and so, over the past few months, my fiance has been coaxing her into mulling over the idea of exchanging custody rights. To our surprise, two months ago she filed on her own accord. In a month, we'll have the court's official decision.

Where am I in this sudden shift from fiance to step-mom? I'm excited, but it's a bittersweet sort of excitement. I don't know a single person in this same situation and hardly anybody knows how to react to the news. I know that you single guys and gals out there in your mid-twenties (or older) are staring, mouths a-gape at the thought of coming into a situation like this. At one time, I, too, literally said I felt I was "much too selfish" to take care of another human being. But of course, at some point you grow up. At 26, almost 27, I've lived a very full, very incredible life--I've seen and experienced things that most people have not at my age -- and I don't see that stopping just because I'll be helping to raise two children who aren't mine by blood, but whom I love all the same. The adventure of life doesn't have to end just because you have children !

So, to each one of you who has said, or has thought at some point, "wow, that sucks" or "oh, you poor thing," your pity is hurtful. You wouldn't tell your pregnant friend "wow, that sucks" if she told you she was pregnant, would you ?

I knew my fiance had kids from the first day we began dating so I have been fully aware for quite some time of what I could be getting into. For him, it's the first time in six years that he'll be able to reclaim his place as full-time father and provide his children a stable, loving home life. That's a pretty exciting thing for someone who has missed out on many milestones due to the current circumstance and I can't wait to be there for the rest. Yes, it will be challenging, but regardless of whether they are your own or not, children are a challenge. Period.

Life is all about encountering new challenges and learning how to coexist and learn from them. And when times get tough, or require a bit of thoughtfulness over wine, I've got my new space to retreat to.

Grão Vasco - Dão 2007 @@@@ (4 corks)

2010-05-16T16:47:00.007-04:00

Retails: $8.97 (Total Wine)

Portuguese is the sexiest language on earth. With my background in French, I can't make heads or tails of what they're saying but damn, it sounds good. On some occasions, my team and I have produced videos translated into Portuguese. Our voice over artist, who is located in Brazil and enjoys sending me drunken emails during Carnival time (which apparently happens more than once per year), had the most incredible sounding Portuguese voice. It seems that the native timbre and rhythm of the language can make absolutely anything sound exquisite, even something as sterile sounding as business meetings in Orlando (just an example).

This wine is as seductive as a Portuguese voice over. I can't quite figure out what the grape could be but the blood red color, bold fragrance and lilting flavor that seems to dance across my palate keeps making me gravitate towards my glass. This is a man's wine. The intoxicating aroma is almost like a cologne. It man-handles your taste buds into submission with a powerful earthy flavor that fades into a tart cherry essence momentarily before leaving your tongue desert-dry.

There's something mysterious about this wine. If you're the kind of drinker who enjoys a bold red, you absolutely must try Grão Vasco. Apparently "Dão" is a region in Portugal known for its red wines. Although, my research has suggested that this region typically produces mild reds, this one is absolutely the opposite. I've had some success with Portuguese wines in the past but this one might take the cake. Enjoy!

Vicious by Sobon - Petite Sirah @@@@@ (5 corks)

2010-04-30T19:05:00.007-04:00

Retails: $8.97 (Total Wine)

When the wine maker comments on your blog and suggests another of his selection to taste...you do it. Well...in my case, so long as it's under $10, I'm down!

Another gorgeous red and another win for Sobon's wine selections. The flavors are beautifully manicured and engulf your palette with a soft, glowing flavor that lingers with a slight dryness on the back of the tongue.

It has a certain earthy quality to it. I could imagine myself sitting on the back porch of an antique home in late summer overlooking fields of acreage, listening to Eddie Vedder (Into the Wild soundtrack, perhaps). There's a certain simplicity in wine's earthen upbringing that is often over-wrought by pretension. Wine is so influenced by weather, dirt, sun, neighboring vegetation, earth's rotation and what have you, that there's something comforting to the notion of enjoying a product whose flavor isn't compromised by chemical introductions. The unfortunate byproduct is peoples' insistence on making wine into an elitist product to be solely enjoyed by those with "advanced palettes." I think wine's only purpose is to be enjoyed. Go forth and enjoy, my friends.

Bogle - Chardonnay @@@@@ (5 corks) !

2010-04-27T19:37:00.005-04:00

Retails: $9.95 (Wal-Mart)

Let me start this off by saying...I love my fiance. Not only, in his currently unemployed state, does he happily do errands, groceries and clean the house, but he has exceptional taste in wine! He isn't even a wine drinker, not in the least bit. He is, by and large, an avid Captain Morgan drinker with next to no exceptions. When it comes to selecting a bottle for yours truly, he has yet to disappoint.

Just last weekend, we were exceptionally busy so I asked him to do the big-daddy grocery trip entirely on his own. Normally, it's our weekend ritual to do the largest grocery run together. However, as life has a tendency to do, we were overwhelmingly busy with innumerable obligations and so, I sent him, with list and coupons in hand, to grab our grocery load for the week. Included among the typical milk, pasta and deli meats that grace our list regularly, was a bottle of white wine---a dry white that I needed mostly for cooking. Given his less than optimal knowledge of wine, I sent along the following instructions: "the cheapest bottle you can find, a CHARDONNAY would be preferable."

But, taking the opportunity to impress me, he decided to buy me a bottle of Bogle Chardonnay. For reds, Bogle is one of my all-time favorites. When he's usually aiming to surprise me, as he frequently does (lucky me), he will buy me a bottle of Bogle's Merlot (usually priced at about $12). With even more surprise, it turns out their whites are priced below $10--which he specifically noted so that I'd have another stellar wine to ad to my blog. Go, Honey!

It is completely wonderful! Fragrant and light with a very bold apricot, honey and citrus flavor, this white wine is absolutely delightful. Unlike most whites, the flavor is very strong and stands up easily against strong meals. Since I initially intended this bottle to be used for cooking, I'm sure you're dying to know how the meal went---it was incredible and here is the recipe!

Shrimp with Potatoes and Pancetta
Ingredients:
1lb small potatoes (red russet or smaller is good), diced
1 medium onion, diced
1 medium red pepper, diced
2 tablespoons garlic, minced
1lb raw shrimp (deveined and without tails)
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/4 cup white wine
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 cup pancetta (or bacon if not available), diced
salt and pepper to taste
parsley to garnish

- Heat oven to 450 degrees.
- In an oven-proof medium skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high
- Add potatoes, cook 5 minutes while stirring, add peppers and onion. Cook five more minutes until potatoes are tender, constantly stirring,
- Add wine, pancetta, shrimp, garlic and red pepper, season with salt and pepper and stir to combine.
- Cook in oven for ten minutes
- Add parsley and serve
(prep time 15 minutes, cook time 15, serves 2-3 people)
Enjoy!

Lucky Duck - Malbec @@@ (3 corks)

2010-04-26T18:59:00.004-04:00

Retails: $3.97 (Wal-Mart)

At $3.97 per bottle, I had to take a gander for myself (so pun-er-ific!)

I wouldn't call it the world's most incredible wine but for the price, it's really not half bad. I also wouldn't have pinned it for being a Malbec either, but hey, if you're looking for a red with a nice flavor and you've got $5 to your name, you've come to the right place. I would really call it 2 corks if it wasn't for the bargain price!

Aside from the adorably handsome label, you'll enjoy a medium-bodied red that delivers a flavorful combination of chocolate and cherry notes and a bit of a bite--but not too hard. I wouldn't call it sweet, but there's a certain softness about this wine at the start. It's not overly dry but it certainly packs a bit of a chomp on your taste buds towards the finish. It's really quite a good find considering the price. It's equally good alone as it is when paired with a meal.

If you're simply strapped for cash, you'd be hard-pressed to find another bottle under $5 with such a good flavor.

Barefoot - Shiraz @@@ (3 corks)

2010-04-21T19:08:00.003-04:00

Retails: $5.99 (Total Wine)

I've been meaning to write about this one for some time. As usual, Barefoot delivers a totally drinkable wine for just shy of $6. Sure, I'm only giving it 3 corks, but 1) I'm not much of a Shiraz drinker and 2) 3 corks isn't a bad rating especially when you consider the price (I mean c'mon, $6?! One glass of wine is $6 at any given restaurant!) I would say it's the perfect wine to bring to a party because it's not overpowering in any one direction. It has a slight sweetness and finishes slightly dry, any red wine drinker would be content with it.

Over New Years this past year, my fiance and I were up in Quebec City celebrating both our engagement and the New Year with my French-Canadian family. We were invited to my Aunt's house for New Years Eve in Lac Beauport, a country-side suburb of centre-ville Quebec City. I went to the local SAQ to purchase a bottle for the occasion. For some crazy reason, true liquor stores--outlets that serve more than just beer (the national beverage of Canada)--are scarce and as far as I know, SAQ (Societe Alcoholise de Quebec) is the only one that sells full liquor and wine. I was astounded by the prices on alcohol! I didn't find a single bottle of wine under $12 Canadian (which at the time, was about equal in value to the American dollar). I actually ended up purchasing this same Shiraz for the occasion which sold at an astonishing $12.95 plus tax!

Nevertheless, Barefoot Shiraz was well-received, even amongst an assortment of far more expensive wines. Many party-goers commented that it had a very lovely but unobtrusive flavor that complemented the evening's offerings. In fact, we actually dined on raclette--- a Swiss tradition, similar in its communal nature to fondue, wherein an assortment of raw meats is offered (we had everything from chicken to emu and salmon) and a large indoor grill is placed in the middle of the table where people are to cook their selected meats. Underneath the grill, a special kind of cheese is melted (also called raclette) to pour over your meats after cooking.

It was an incredible meal, a fit beginning to 2010. And, Barefoot's Shiraz was present to complement the occasion.

Robert Mondavi Private Selection - Cabernet Sauvignon @@@@ (4 corks)

2010-04-19T19:56:00.003-04:00

Retails: $8.99 (Total Wine)

Rich, almost velvety on the tongue, this Cab gives you more than you bargain for. Cabernet Sauvignon gets a bad rap. It's frequently brushed off as the "neophyte-drinker's" red. I happen to find that there are quite a few Cabs that deserve their time in the sun. Just check out the other Cabs that make my list.

I was recently speaking to a potential print vendor who, as it happened, was fairly well-versed in wines. I get hounded by printers who want our business. At least weekly, I have a sales rep wanting to "get together for lunch," "have a moment of my time" to tell me the wonders of their printing capabilities. And, as usual, after a 20-minute pitch about web presses and 6-color processing, I finally get them to cut the shenanigans and get real. This is where the true business relationships come from---getting real with your potential clients/vendors and showing them who you really are (kind of a like a first date, right?).

Probably about 15 years my senior and married to a woman who wrote for a high-end cruise line, this vendor had traveled the globe as her passepartout to some of the most mouthwatering wine venues on the globe---in addition to other remarkable locales that most of us only dream about. In fact, he had actual been to the famed Chateau Le Fit in France. He gave me recommendations on location in California to visit on my honeymoon (yes, we're thinking about hitting up California to visit San Fran, Big Sur, Sonoma and Napa) but he certainly did have strong opinions about Cab. Oh, and, every bottle he loved was well within the $40 range. But, another part about client-vendor relationships, you gotta talk the talk and honey, I can talk the talk.

Don't hate the Cab. It's one of the most universally grown varietals. It's also the most common "house red" you'll find in bars and restaurants---so if you're looking for un verre somewhere random, you're likely to get a Cab. Embrace the Cab, my friends. Several, like this one, will deliver a smooth, rich, indulgent wine. It's like the comfort food of wines, never underestimate the power of a familiar, glorious glass of cab.

Pilot Mountain - Sweet Red Muscadine Wine @@@@ (4 corks)

2010-04-14T17:38:00.005-04:00

Retails: $7.99 (Total Wine)

First off, Pilot Mountain's Sweet Red Muscadine Wine is the most beautiful light red color. My fiance mentioned that it would be the perfect Valentine's Day wine; it just glows within the glass. As I've previously blogged, I'm a fan of muscadine wines but my father is an even bigger fan. He says it reminds him of his childhood in Georgia, picking muscadines off the vine. I always stock up on muscadine wines from San Sebastian and Lakerdige Winery (both local to Florida) when he's in town, this one may have to make the list.

This sweet muscadine wine is beautiful on its own as a dessert wine. I wouldn't recommend trying to pair it with food except for maybe some brie. It's a delightful find, even if I'm typically true to my red wine affinities, I'm not opposed to the occasional "dessert" glass (yum!) If you know somebody who has a giant sweet-tooth and may not be the biggest wine drinker, I'm sure they would approve of this varietal (here's lookin' at you, Missy Midden).

3 Blind Moose - Pinot Grigio @@@ (3 Corks)

2010-04-11T19:47:00.004-04:00

Retails: ? Gift (assured it was under $10) from Publix

2 1/2 years ago I had the extraordinary good fortune of being hired at one of the premier tourism publishers in the USA. From its crayola-box colored walls to its casual office environment, I couldn't have picked a more suitable work environment for yours truly.

I had original applied to this company as a web editor, a position that had been filled by the time I applied. Due to my semester's worth of video production experience in college, our fabulous HR recruiter steered me towards a burgeoning video production team capturing the best of Florida and beyond--all while riding around on a giant, colorful RV.

For over a year, I traveled from the panhandle to the Keys capturing all of the best hotels, delectable eats, exciting attractions and beautiful vistas Florida has to offer. Everywhere we went, we were treated like rock stars. Free meals at 5-star restaurants. Free theme park tickets. Meeting celebrities. Chillin' out in penthouse suites perched high above the sands of some of the best beaches in the country. How dreamy!

Eventually, and perhaps surprisingly, the constant instability of being gone a minimum of two weeks per month, was too much to deal with. My rock-star treatment had caused me to gain almost 20 pounds due to the lack of a regular fitness regimen and noshing on 5-star meals late at night. I know most of you are shaking your heads at me right now, but at some point in the 200 or so videos we produced, I got bored. I became disenchanted with road life and couldn't wait for a regular schedule...

...and the dawning of a "normal" office job again.
I know, ridiculous, right? Road life was not a permanent fixture for me. And so, for the past year-plus, I've been an office rat--again by a shear miracle that a job as "coordinator" of our exciting video production team became available. I am a cubicle monkey...and I can't say that I'm mad.

One thing that's been a huge plus is getting to know people in the office. It was an odd experience being a part of the elusive "Open Florida crew." (yeah, that's what we were called). People knew who we were, we were plastered all over one particular client's website, but I had no idea who the other people were in the office. My crew was like family, but I still feel weird that there are particular people that I've communicated with via email who I wouldn't recognize on the street (or in the office kitchen).
Two of these lovelies are the heroines of www.sillygoosetravel.com --- an artist from our creative department and a (former) writer from our editorial department. They have graciously given me a recurring guest spot on their blog, and I in return.
On one of my excursions to Total Wine, I came across a wine branded none other than SILLY GOOSE. I promptly purchased it for my silly goose girlie in creative---her guest blog should be up, erm, some day.

As a gift, she presented me with this lovely bottle under $10 in return. I have previously reviewed a red by 3 Blind Moose and I was presently surprised by this white. Fruity, crisp and deliciously aromatic, 3 Blind Moose triumphs again with an enjoyable white that is perfect for every-day drinking (OK, I understand that SOME don't have wine everyday, but I do---hey, it's good for your heart and psyche)! It's a beautiful wine to pour, golden in color, if you intend to serve it at a gathering, your guests will delight in its clarity and sunny radiance.
Enjoy!

Pepperwood - Old Vine Red Zinfandel @@@@ (4 corks)

2010-04-01T19:28:00.005-04:00

Retails: $4.99 (Total Wine)

Pepperwood's Old Vine Red Zinfandel tastes like a film noir---dark, mysterious, smoke-y. As far as Red Zins are concerned, this one has a particularly unusual flavor that I find really intriguing--existential even. I'm sure Albert Camus would approve.

Like most Red Zins, this beauty packs a powerful aroma and a full-bodied, savory flavor. This is a wine best served solo or with an accompanying appetizer, perhaps some sinfully rich dark chocolate or some mild cheese--and, of course, plenty of l'amour. As my friend, Amon Focus would say, this is a wine to truly knock the pants, urm I mean socks, off someone. I would call it a "Valentine's Day" red --- if you're on a first date with someone who you know enjoys a robust red, you're likely going to hit it off if you serve this one up. Bonus: if this is a first date, you won't be dropping beaucoup-bucks trying to impress him/her either.

For true red wine drinkers, this red won't disappoint. I love a powerful red wine, one that completely embodies all senses--that softening of the world's edges, that tantilizing fragrance wafting from your glass, the lingering oak flavor on your tongue. This wine satisfies all of that criteria. What I find particularly interesting is the strong oak flavor present in this Zinfandel--there is hardly any fruit flavor.

Drink up and enjoy, my friends, for this bottle's under $5--heck, buy 2!

Vicious Zin by Sobon - Red Zinfandel @@@@@ (5 corks!)

2010-03-30T19:18:00.006-04:00

Retails: $8.99 (Total Wine)

"Hey, don't let looks or price fool you! There's a lot of heart and flavor in this little scrapper..."

These are the opening words to the commentary on the back of this red zin's bottle and I couldn't agree more! Truly, it had me at first glance. The bottle sports a comic book inspired rendering of a pit bull that immediately caught my eye. As my dog, Roxy, is demonstrating, this is one hell of a buy!

Vicious Zin disappeared faster than I could even realize. My fiance had just poured me another glass and I was shocked to see that the bottle was empty! It's a truly fantastic red zinfandel--full of flavor, not too much bite or dry aftertaste. If you like a full-bodied red, you'll be happily surprised.

Final Words: this might become a regular in my rotation :)

Sobon Estate - California Hillside Zinfandel (2008) @@@@ (4 corks!)

2010-03-26T22:38:00.003-04:00

Retails: $10 (Total Wine)

While browsing the shelves at Total Wine in pursuit of the next round of blog entries, I came across this little number, displaying a stick-on sign announcing that this bottle had been "recently featured on Oprah." Hey, if it's good enough for Oprah, it's certainly good enough for me.

This is probably the first time in the history of Wine on a Dime that I've ever reviewed a bottle that was priced at $10 (really over ten if you count taxes) and boy, was it worth every drop.

I would compare the experience of drinking this wine as to that of consuming dark chocolate: smooth but harboring a powerful array of flavors that fills your palette. It's a full-on sensory experience. Dark cherries and chocolate are present from start to finish with the tart, pucker-y tannins delivering a final blow to your tongue. It's fabulous alone (or with chocolate!) but if you're planning on pairing it with a meal, I would stick with steaks and other super-savory meals.

For those who do not shy away from powerful, flavorful reds, this is a must-try!

Bully Hill - Old Barnyard Red Wine @@@ (3 corks)

2010-03-18T19:36:00.006-04:00

Retails: $7.99 (Total Wine)

I've been admiring this bottle for a year now. It has a cute color pencil sketch on the front of the bottle featuring the wine maker and his "bully animals." In a sea of drab, pretentious labels, it's a breath of fresh air. The way the local Total Wine merchandises its store puts the Northeastern wines right near the rums (where I buy my fiance's bottles of Captain Morgan...yes, bottles). Produced in Hammondsport, New York, Bully Hill's slogan is "rural life is fertile and very lively." Judging by the label, and the contents within, I would have to agree.

I came across an interesting factoid while researching this winery. Apparently, the artist who created the labels was the original wine maker himself, Walter S. Taylor. A number of the bottles feature sketches of the space shuttle --- what does this have to do with wines? Mr. Taylor was commissioned by the government to paint it and you can find the originals at the Air & Space Museum in Washington (yeah, THAT Washington). It could be just urban legend, but I think it's pretty cool.

Curious, however, they do not list on their bottle or on their website what grape varietals are used in this blend. My best guess would be muscadine with a mix of je ne sais quoi. It's a sweet red, much to sweet for what I normally consume, but it would be an absolute crowd pleaser with non-wine drinkers. Sweet, with just a hint of tartness and a tiny bit of dryness, this is a total departure from your typical red experience. It reminds me of Lakeridge Winery's Southern Red (yeah, I still need to blog about that one). Just know, it's a good one!

Lindeman - Shiraz @@@@ (4 corks)

2010-03-16T19:25:00.006-04:00

Retails: $6.99 (Total Wine)

Give this Shiraz ample time to breathe and you will have yourself one indulgent glass of red! At first taste, this wine left me unimpressed, however, after ample breathing room and a little patience, this wine delivered surprisingly good results. This is an important rule for all red wine drinkers to uphold--ALWAYS give your red time to breathe, to bring out its flavors, its complexity, its personality...
I don't deal with grief very well. My entire life my family has lived far away from me. One half of my family lives in the Southern United States while the other half is located in Quebec, Canada. Even into my young adult life, I've somehow found myself many times in long distance relationships---the only exception being my current relationship, to whom I am engaged to be married. I moved to Florida in part to seek a warmer climate, but also to become more acquainted with my Grandfather. I just found out today that he has endured a 3rd stroke (he is 91 years old).

By my saying I do not deal with grief well, by no means do I intend to say that I am in hysterics. I simply do not react how most would expect. There are no tears. It seems that almost every major crisis has been brought to my attention over the phone. In each moment of intensity, I lose my breath, a ball welling within my throat. The response is delayed---days away I might finally feel the release.

I'm saddened to the point that my hands shake and I have a difficult time concentrating and forming my words---this entire blog entry has taken me much too long to write. Constant re-wording, re-working, re-imagining what I mean to say, simply because, I can't find the words.

The first time he had a stroke, I was a day shy of graduating from college. Now, I'm looking forward to my marriage and I feel privileged that it seemed he would be around. Now...who knows. I'm hopeful, he's a fighter even at 91, but I'm worried. And I just can't find the words...

A Follow-up...

2010-03-04T22:20:00.007-05:00

Thank you, to all of you, who have commented, posted words of strength and support over the last 24 hours. Unfortunately, I do not bring you any positive news today other than the courage your words have bestowed upon me.

I woke today with a mask over my face. A giant, heavy, leaded mask burdened my brow and lay heavy over my eyes, fogging me. I ran through the motions of Tuesday's routine, in perpetual motion, and found myself completely weighed down, as if my face were painfully contorted and yet, no emotion had painted a path. Normally, I'm an open book, but with situations like this I'm never forthcoming with information. There's something about situations like these that it feels wrong to be getting attention. However, I don't have a poker face, and all day I could tell co-workers were searching for answers to the questions my body was expressing.

I read energies very easily and being surrounded by the intense emotions and spirits swarming inside hospitals and nursing homes overwhelms me. I've almost fainted before visiting somebody else's relative in the hospital, let alone my own. Being the closest blood relative to my Grandfather, I felt obligated to make sure he was well taken care of. Part of why I moved to Florida was to get to know him better. Growing up, we never saw each other very often but he was still a very important character in my life for many reasons.

I learned yesterday that he had been moved from his assisted living residence to the nursing home facility at his retirement community. It felt uncomfortably warm. The faux wood flooring and mismatched furniture were obvious attempts to create a more "home-y" atmosphere but still failed to create the same comfort of home. The din of old, console televisions turned-up too loud filled the hallways. My grandfather, always a stoic, proud person, lay in a disjointed pile on the bed, nervously pushing against the blankets with his feet. He could speak in mumbles, as if his mouth were filled with marbles. At first, he seemed uncomfortable with us being there, like he was embarrassed that I was seeing him in such a fragile state. He seemed confused. He knew who I was but didn't recognize my fiance. He kept making references to how quickly we had "made the trip from Maine," even though I've lived around the corner from him for four years now.

What do you say to someone in that kind of condition? He's never been the warm-fuzzy grandfather, he's always approached us in a more adult manner. Our relationship mainly developed when I moved to Florida after college so I missed all that granddaughter-grandfather bonding time. I respect him. The primetime-gushy-bedside-meaningful-confessions one does in these situations (OK, I'm assuming here) didn't feel appropriate. I couldn't find words to get around my awkwardness, I felt blatantly transparent. All I could do was watch a re-run of "Deal or No Deal" on a fuzzy, ancient TV. Doing something against the grain feels like walking backwards: unbalanced, uncertain and unnatural.

Bolla - Valpolicella @ (1 cork)

2010-03-01T20:01:00.005-05:00

Retails: $8.99 per 1.5L (Total Wine)

Valpolicella is the most beautiful sounding wine I've ever heard. She sounds like she could have been Boticelli's muse or the mysterious woman in DaVinci's Mona Lisa. Unfortunately, she smells like cat urine and tastes like a dumpster.

No, really.

Talk about a serious disappointment! My forays into Italian wines have not yielded any true favorites. Why am I so obsessed with wanting to like an Italian red...have you SEEN the Sopranos? Not that I condone violence or mobster life, but you must admit that the way they say "prosciutto" and "capricola" leaves you wanting a piece of the old country.

I'll admit it, I'm an Italian wannabe. I'm proud of my Scottish/French-Canadian heritage but there's something about all things Italiano that really resonate with me. Ever since I was a tot, pasta has been my #1 go-to food. If there was pasta on the menu, I'm getting it. In adulthood, it's been the only kind of cuisine I can effectively execute without too much cook book consultation. I feel as if I'm creating a piece of art in perfecting a succulent lasagna or manicotti. When I was single, my cupboards were filled to the brim with boxes of whole wheat pasta and canned tomato sauce...who am I kidding, even in my co-habitation, pasta's still a weekly indulgence. Was I skeptical of the low-carb movement, ABSOLUTELY!

You can imagine my disappointment, then, in such a beautifully named Italian wine. Bolla's Valpolicella is probably the worst wine I've ever tasted. To go on and on about how gross this wine is would be boring and counterproductive. I remain hopeful that somewhere there is an Italian wine under $10 that will knock my socks off. Recommendations are welcome! For now, I would keep clear of this disaster.

At least, with my upcoming nuptials, I'm marrying someone who's ITALIAN/German/Irish. We're a pair of European mutts and I love it.

Target Wine Cube - Pinot Grigio @@@ (3 corks)

2010-02-17T18:20:00.006-05:00

Retails: $8.99 (Target)

My name is roxy.cape and I LOVE this wine-in-a-box.

I went into this with absolutely no expectations. I've never had wine-in-a-box, never thought to even attempt to consume a wine that comes from a box. Don't get me wrong, I adore Target for its inexpensively priced, quality goods--there's a SuperTarget right by my work and I have to admit, 90% of my wardrobe comes from its racks---and I consider myself a relatively fashionable person--No, scratch that, I AM a fashionable person. Boo-yah.

However, I had no intention of liking this wine. At all. I figured the true test of this brand of box-o'-wine would be to try one of their white wines---as we all know, I'm notoriously apprehensive about non-reds.

I'm completely drinking my words. This Pinot Grigio is light but not flavorless. It is a total-mouth experience, attacking the palette with an intensity usually reserved for red wines. There's a presence of dryness in the finish that isn't overpowering but merely serves to cap-off your senses' experience in this box-o-wine exploit.

Essence of honey and apricot lingers on the tongue. My only complaint is the acidity-- it's a little too much for my taste, but this is an attribute that I typically associate with white wines to begin with---too much acidity. As much as this could be a red wine drinkers' white, white wine drinkers won't be disappointed either.

For the price, you can't beat it. Within this compact cube you get the equivalent of two bottles of wine. TWO. The spout doesn't drip and it occupies a nominal amount of space within your fridge (as you can see, it snuggles easily with my coffee creamer and orange juice). If you're having a large group of people over, this is a really inexpensive yet satisfying wine to serve.

Final Word: Consider me converted!

Barefoot - Merlot @@@ (3 Corks)

2010-01-12T20:12:00.005-05:00

Retails: $8.99 (4-pack, BP Gas Station)

I'm sitting in a hotel room in the middle of nowhere--the Everglades to be exact. I'm on a shoot tomorrow at the Miccosukee Reservation and I decided to stay the night before at their hotel/casino---yes, apparently the stereotype holds some truth in this instance. As soon as I walked through the doors, the fairy-princess-twinkle of slot machines and the overwhelming stench of cigarettes greeted me. The decor is identical to the "entertainment decorating" of Disney World and Carnival cruise ships---nauseating patterns accented by over-the-top bright colors with neon lights for an accent. Opting for the economical dinner option, I chose to eat at the buffet (what casino doesn't have a buffet?!), big mistake. The only thing on the menu was a heartattack. As I awkwardly ate half-ass bites of lard-encrusted roast beef alone, I noticed that in an entire room I was the only person under 50. I know you snarky non-Floridians out there are saying "But Florida is ALL old people." No. It isn't. It's about 65% old people, thank you, and I cannot remember a single instance where I literally could not find anyone within 20 years of my age. (20 YEARS!!)

Luckily, I came prepared. Fully knowing that this hotel would be located in the middle of nowhere, I stopped into a BP and picked up a "classy" 4-pack of Barefoot Merlot. No, I'm not planning on drinking all four, but from experience, the 4-pack is a better bet on the road than a full bottle. So, before hopping on Alligator Alley (the passageway between Naples and Miami that runs you right through the Everglades), I stopped into a BP for a pee break and to snag some wine for the destination.

Considering that I got this from a gas station, I'm impressed. I was shocked that this BP carried something other than Sutter Home, heck, I didn't even know Barefoot came in a 4-pack. As far as Merlot wines are concerned, it's nothing to write home about, but it's not bad. It's absolutely drinkable. It's making an otherwise lackluster evening watching American Idol (don't judge, all hotels offer an appaulingly small amount of channels) and surfing the net in an ashtray, into a slightly more luxurious experience. Slightly.

Travel for pleasure and travel for work are two different experiences. I've stayed in some extremely terrible and extremely lovely locales and in each instance, relaxing with a glass of wine at the end of the day has been able to keep me from completely going mental. So, should you ever find yourself under similar circumstances, I suggest you run down to your local gas station and snag yourself a 4-pack of Barefoot Merlot.

Lindeman - Merlot @@@@ (4 corks)

2009-12-23T18:26:00.008-05:00

Retails: $4.87-$6.99 (Wal-Mart / most grocery stores)

First off, I have some very exciting news. This past month my live-in boyfriend and I became engaged! On 12/4/09, he proposed at the dog park where we met (yeah, we met at the dog park, no, he does not have a dog, he was there with his sister---I have a poodle). It was pouring rain out, we were supposed to be going out to dinner and a movie and he took a "wrong turn" and suddenly we were at the place where we met. He dragged me out of his truck and dropped down to one knee in the pouring rain and said: "This is where I first asked you out on a date and this is where I'd like to ask you to be my wife." Funnier still, I got engaged around 6:30pm, it wasn't until 9:30pm at night before I could get a hold of either one of my parents. Mom was in Quebec visiting relatives and Dad, recently retired, is in a folk band and had practice. I must have called both of them about 100 times a piece until I finally got someone on the phone--there was no way I could allow myself to call anyone else until they knew. To bide my time while waiting and re-dialing, I browsed wedding dresses on The Knot while killing a bottle of Kitchen Sink red wine.

In other exciting news, I've teamed up with the good ladies at Silly Goose Travel , two co-workers who have a passion for food, travel and all the wonderful things in life. From time to time we will be guest blogging on eachothers' websites.

Back to the wine... Lindeman's Merlot was probably one of the first wines I ever sampled. My parents always kept it in-stock at our home due to its inexpensive price tag and flavorful presence. My Grandfather and Step-Grandmother, here in Florida, have caught on to this brand and so there isn't a cocktail-hour-visit with them that doesn't include a Lindeman's bottle.

I recently became re-aquainted with this Australian varietal when Wal-Mart put them on sale for $4.97 a bottle (!!!) Full-bodied and bold, Lindeman's Merlot is full of rich berry and tannin flavor. For the price, you really can't beat this wine for its richness and complexity. I've sampled wines priced at x10 the amount that haven't tasted as beautifully as this Merlot.

Norton - Malbec @@@@@ (5 corks!)

2009-11-12T18:52:00.004-05:00

Retails: $6.99 (Total Wine)

Malbec is an intellectuals' wine. The tastes are so nuanced and subtle but so incredible that if you're solely drinking wine for the sake of drinking, you'll miss the opportunity to savor Malbec's showcase of flavors. If you're in a contemplative or pensive mood, Malbec is an excellent wine for meditation and reflection.

Fall has always been a reflective time for me. The impressive undulation of changes within the season that occurs during this time is inspiring ---the first crisp evening in September, the nostalgic instances of warmth during October's Indian Summer, the occasional flurries that fall prematurely in November (depending upon your latitude); it begs to be pondered and illicit change and movement within yourself.

I can take the bit of cold during this time but it's the lack of sunlight that really makes it difficult. It strums a morose chord within me, a notion of solitude that isn't present during the warmer months. Things seem lonelier, emptier, without a solid dose of sunlight daily. Despite my best efforts to be social, somehow it seems everyone is preparing for impending hibernation--even here in Florida where we won't see temps below 40. I'll try not to project too sullen a tone, I guess it's only a change of season at heart. Cheers to a Malbec worth calming the woes of society and societal ills.

Santa Rita 120 - Merlot @@@ (3 Corks)

2009-10-28T22:02:00.003-04:00

Retails: $6.99 (Total Wine)

A friend of mine recently gave me a very useful gift as a birthday present: a wine journal. This one made its way to me by way of Williams & Sonoma, which was coincidentally this same friends' choice for her wedding registry (affordable? um, no.)

This gracious present has actually been extremely useful. As of recent times, I'm back on the road pretty much full time. Thankfully, for the time being, I'm as local as a half hour away so I'm still privileged to have some time at home.

This economic climate has not fared well in the world of video and unfortunately, as previously mentioned in some of my entries, half of our team has been thrown to the wayside. I'm fortunate to be kept afloat, however, it comes at a high price to my leisure time. This wine journal has provided a sacred place to store my opinions an thoughts on each bottle I'm too pressed for time to write about in real-time.

This Merlot comes my way via Chile, although lacking body in flavor, this varietal provides a strong variety of flavors -- slightly wheat smell, some concord grape taste with peppery accents and a very dry finish. It tends to leave a pucker-y flavor on the palette so for those of you who prefer a less tannin-infused wine, this is certainly not for you.

Beringer - Pinot Noir @@@ (3 corks)

2009-10-03T17:51:00.005-04:00

Retails: $6.49 (Total Wine)

After the succcess of Beringer's Merlot at our Girls Night wine tasting, when I came across the Pinot I HAD to give it a shot.

At the same time, I've just recently acquired a Sam's Club through my work, which if you happen to have an employer who offers this as a benefit, you should absolutely take them up on it. I did a little bit of research while I was there today, mostly loading up on bulk toiletries, and the wine/liquor section's prices are IDENTICAL to Total Wine! Although Sam's Club offers awesome discount on most bulk items, if you happen to have a Total Wine nearby you'll save just about the same amount off of normal retail prices (without the cost of a membership!)

Beringer's Pinot Noir is quite good, it definitely requires some breathing time after uncorking. The flavor tends to rest in the middle of your palette, be sure to give it a good swish in your mouth to really get a full sense of the flavors. Tons of beautiful cherry notes with good deal of dry, tannin flavor in the finish. For the price, not a bad wine in the slightest.

Casella - Malle Point Shiraz @@@@ (4 corks)

2009-09-29T19:02:00.005-04:00

Retails: $5.99 (Total Wine)

As usual, Total Wine's "Wine of the Month" has not failed me. Almost always priced under $10, Total Wine's monthly selection is almost always stupendous, this is no exception.

I've never been a huge Shiraz fan. Frequently, they're too sweet or acidic for my tastes. This one is very well balanced. Very aromatic, hints of vanilla and cinnamon fill your nostrils. This Shiraz is full-bodied, slight smoke-y flavor with a nice bit of dryness in the finish. There's an interesting, warm, butterscotch flavor within the palette which is especially unusual. It's a smoldering, seductive quality about this wine that makes it difficult to not stop at one glass. Enjoy!

Nobilis - Vinho Verde @@@@ (4 corks)

2009-09-26T21:20:00.004-04:00

Retails: $5.99 (Total Wine)

Refreshing is the word that best describes this Portuguese wine. Almost crystal-clear in color with a faint gold tinge, this extremely light wine is a true rarity. It's the perfect summer wine. Even a few days after being opened, it retains its fresh flavor.

Champagne fans will definitely enjoy wine, it tickles your tongue with a faint effervescence. It's not overly sweet and has a pleasant dryness that isn't overpowering. The only remarkable flavor is a balanced sweetness, almost like a granny smith apple (the green ones). It's really unusual, I haven't tasted anything like it before. Then again, I'm not horribly familiar with Portuguese wines, nevertheless, for the price it definitely should be commended for its originality.

Vinho Verde is a very subtle wine, you could easily getaway with serving it at lunch. It's definitely an easy crowd pleaser. It's also of a lower alcohol content than most (around 9%) so don't feel too bad if you drink it all in one setting!

Anakena - Sauvignon Blanc 2008 @@@ (3 corks)

2009-09-26T20:52:00.004-04:00

Retails: $7.99 (Total Wine)

This perky little number is a surprising find. In general, everyone should take my cork-ratings for white wines with a grain of salt--most of you out there know I'm pretty keen on reds and a little critical of whites. I think most white wine drinkers would enjoy Anakena's Sauvignon Blanc.

This bottle comes to us from Valle Central in Chile. A luminescent champagne color fills your glass, it's a truly beautiful wine to behold and looks equally stunning in a simple white wine glass. As far as wine vessels are concerned, I'm a purist and prefer simple wine glasses with clean lines, as opposed to crystal or something extravagant. I have a friend who bought me a set from Target (another weakness of mine) that I adore--they don't need to be expensive. Especially in my household where my live-in boyfriend has a tendency to break at least one dish per month. For those of you unfamiliar with the "proper" glass for each wine, the general rules are: the fat, rounder glasses are for reds, this allows them to be slightly warmed by your hand. The taller, narrower glasses are for whites which need to maintain a cool temperature, away from your hand. I believe, so long as the wine looks appetizing and elegant, rules can be broken :)

Upon first taste, you'll notice a slight effervescence furthering the champagne-like qualities. The flavor is very subtle but sweet--apples, apricots and honey are the defining notes. This wine is easily overpowered by other flavors so be careful with what you pair it with. I'm slowly discovering what I like in white wines and this one can definitely be appreciated for its delicate bouquet.

Nostrada - Garnacha @@@ (3 Corks)

2009-09-15T19:10:00.006-04:00

Retails: $6.99 (Total Wine)

A sea change is upon us and nothing accents this movement in tempo, time or place like a simple glass of wine. I've had the profound good fortune of being surrounded by an extremely talented group of colleagues with whom I've traveled extensively, laughed full-hearted-ly and bonded with more than any other group of professionals. I've experienced the elusive "dream-job." The kind of work environment where creativity and eccentricity are encouraged and you enjoy your colleagues enough to actually hang out with them in your spare time--despite spending copious amounts of time together on the road. Due to the current economic climate, unfortunately, a new hand has been dealt. A group of eight has slowly been reduced to two and although I'm thankful for my job retention, I feel a sense of loss and broken hearted-ness over the deconstruction of our beloved crew. My day-to-day is being altered. The energies surrounding me will never be the same.

Adjusting is never easy but I find that somehow the mystic powers that wine bestows upon us somehow makes the transition less of a confounding experience. Wine's great wisdom imparts better judgement somehow. Miraculous, really.

Nostrada's old vine Garnacha comes to us from the Campo de Borja region of Spain. I'm not thoroughly sold on this bottle but the more I sip it the more I'm impressed with the complexity. Like many Spanish wines, it is characteristically dry with strong tannins and a smoke-y flavor looming in your palette. Garnacha or Grenache as it is known in France, is one of the most common varietals cultivated. It requires a hot and dry climate to flourish, making Spain, the South of France and the San Joaquin Valley in California each an ideal location. This particular grape is one of the last to be harvested, well after Cabernet Sauvignon, allowing it to reach alcohol levels in excess of 15%. In other words, if you're looking for a good buzz, you've come to the right place.

Douro Doc - Vinzelo @@@ (3 corks) 2006

2009-09-13T19:18:00.004-04:00

Retails: $6.99 (Total Wine)

This was a recommended wine by Wine Spectator in 2005, unfortunately 2006 really isn't super impressive. It's not a horrible buy, but for the price I've sampled similar wines with more versatile qualities.

It's color is beautiful, however, a deep purple-red with a luscious quality to the liquid. Unfortunately, the taste is not horribly interesting: huge oak flavor with a hint of leather and spice, the after taste is super dry and pucker-y in the cheeks. This is a very full-bodied wine, it's better alone than coupled with something else, it's too overpowering. It was slightly better after it was allowed to breathe, but not much improvement. If you enjoy wines with a whole lot of bite, you may find this one more palatable than I did.

Jindalee - Merlot @@@@@ (5 corks!)

2009-09-11T21:35:00.004-04:00

Retails: $6.29 (Total Wine)

This South African Merlot is an incredible find. Unlike typical California or Australian Merlot, the Jindalee Merlot's flavor is sweet with a dry finish. A strong muscadine, grape-y flavor greets your mouth upon the first sip and the finish is just a subtle hint of dryness.

For those of you who happen to live near a Total Wine, I suggest you get on their e-mailing list. Periodically, they send you coupons and other offers. Just in time for my birthday this past week, Total Wine had a coupon out for 10% off a "mixed case" (any 12 wines). So, in truth, this wine actually cost me around $5.50 with coupon. Not a bad deal!

Carlo Rossi - Sangria @@@@@ (5 corks)

2009-09-08T14:27:00.003-04:00

Retails: $9.99 per jug (Total Wine)

Nothing screams "I'm cheap" like Carlos Rossi. No offense to the rather rotund man on the label but I'm somewhat embarrassed to say that I absolutely love his Sangria. However, when one submits his or herself to jug wine, there are a few rules to be followed before "gettin' jugg-y with it" (y'ouch):

1) DRINK THIS SANGRIA ICE COLD. It's jugg-y-ness is only amplified when warm so do yourself a favor and stick it in the fridge and be sure to put some ice in your cup.

2) Given that it is, after all, JUG WINE, it's perfect for serving at a party due to volume. Just pour into a pretty pitcher and pour into some fun cups and no body will know it came from a jug. Or you can keep it classy like I did with plastic bright red solo cups a.k.a. chalises of kegdom.

3) Add fruit. Slice up some oranges, apples, limes, whatever. It takes five minutes and it really makes it taste as if its homemade.

I celebrated my birthday poolside last weekend with a few friends and successfully served up some Carlo Rossi Sangria with fruit in a pitcher and all I received were compliments. Fools. Mwahahaahahha.

Spier - Pinotage/Shiraz (2008) @@@@ (4 corks)

2009-08-31T20:02:00.007-04:00

Retails: $6.99 (Total Wine)

I hate Miami.

In the past year I've been to Miami no fewer than five times, all for work purposes, and every time I find it repulsive. Most people would clamor for the opportunity to spend time in this glistening land of fake boobs, money and never-ending parties...not me. Yet, every time I go, I psych myself up for a "fun" time that never ends up happening. This past week I found myself at the current "it" spot, the Fontainebleau, for a conference. Yes, in these economic times, I was sent to a five-star resort in Miami. Don't even get me started on that bit of hypocrisy...

Anyhow, so in this plasticine land, I was holed up in a 5-star hotel where security guards tell you not to take photos for fear of "disturbing the guests..." as if every over-paid celebrity/doctor/poseur was not there to see and be seen...where a glass of wine costs no less than $13. A. GLASS.

I arrived at 8pm on a Saturday at the Fontainebleau. The gliteratti were just starting to filter in

It's not that I hate big cities... I love Boston, love Paris, love London, love San Antonio, (hate NYC)...I hate feeling like I have to be someone else in order to enjoy my time there. So, you can imagine my happiness when I made the 4-hour trek home where I could enjoy my BOTTLE of wine---priced well below $13.

I digress...so Spier's Pinotage/Shiraz is excellent. Full fruit flavors subtly engulf your tongue, leaving a nice, dry finish that's not overpowering. Swishing the wine in your mouth, you'll discover a lovely, spicy taste in your cheeks. One must never forget to 'swish.'

Rosemont - Cabernat/Shiraz @@@@ (4 cork)

2009-08-21T18:32:00.004-04:00

Retails: $5.97 (Total Wine)

Rosemount's Cabernet/Shiraz mix encapsulates what it is to be a blended red. Gorgeous, flavorful presence on the tongue with a dainty application of dryness as the penultimate flavor. For the price, you can't ask for a more enjoyable wine. I'm absolutely shocked at how delicious this wine is for the price. Even the "look" of the bottle signifies a "couture" wine--a delightful pentagonal shape with a simple royal blue label. I would highly recommend this wine for any other opportunity where wine is an appropriate gift.

Barefoot - Pinot Noir @@@ (3 corks)

2009-08-18T19:37:00.003-04:00

Retails: $5.97 (Wal-Mart)

So, today is a fine day. In an homage to my French heritage and to Julia Child, who shares my same alma matter (Smith College), I'm attempting to cook a French meal. A seriously French meal. Coq au Vin. Yeah. For those of you who understand this meal and my cooking abilities, you are absolutely keen to the fact that I am definitely biting off more than I can chew. In my household, my live-in boyfriend is the primary chef. I tend to have a general know-how about Italian cooking, but outside of that realm, I'm well, out of luck. I once made a hamburger helper so soup-y it was an absolute mockery of American speed-cuisine.

I originally bought this wine because coq au vin absolutely requires either a Bordeaux or Pinot Noir. I opted for the Pinot out of pure favoritism. Being the Frenchie that I am, you can't cook with wine without sampling the wine. And by sampling, I mean like 2 glasses...

My thoughts...as an ingredient, it has a lovely flavor that fills your home with an air of Giverny on a beautiful spring day---no really, the only time I've ever had coq au vin was during a spring break excursion to Paris with my best friend and her family. we visited Monet's gardens and had a lovely, 3-course pastoral lunch on a hillside. Yet, I digress...

In short, it's an OK wine for the price and as an ingredient to a meal that calls for a flavorful wine, it's definitely an excellent, inexpensive choice. I've had better Pinots... I'm about to burn my meal so I must leave you friends, pray for me.

Coastline - Cabernet Sauvignon @@@@ (4 corks)

2009-08-17T20:32:00.004-04:00

Retails: $8.99 (Total Wine)

Coastline's Cabernet Sauvignon actually has quite the informative label. As the name implies, Coastline Cellars is all about its coastal California location: the fertile valleys caressing the Pacific ocean, the sweet breath of the ocean creating the perfect atmosphere to cultivate grapes...to me it sounds like prime real estate.

It also mentions something about Franciscan Friars being the first to cultivate grapes here...not sure if this is factual, I'll have to consult Wikipedia later...

Let's get down to taste: definitely heavy on the plum flavors, slight peppery taste with a hint of dryness in the finish. A very flavorful wine, it will absolutely overpower delicate flavors, however, it's the perfect compliment to a hard day's work. My honey had a glass waiting for me when I returned home today, I knew there was a reason I kept him around. Today is Tuesday. All I have to say is forget Mondays as being the hardest, I think Tuesdays are the new Mondays. Here's to wine, the perfect apres travaille aperitif.

Banrock Station - White Shiraz @@ (2 corks)

2009-08-12T19:51:00.002-04:00

Retails: $6.99 (Wal-Mart)

This rose wine lacks the fortitude to win me over. The strongest flavor within this wine is a distinct strawberry essence. Its flavors are pleasing, but I could get the same effect from drinking a soda. It's not a bad wine, as in, it tastes OK. It's slightly unsual, I haven't come across many blends labeled as a white shiraz, but it's just...underwhelming. I've enjoyed other varietals from this maker but this one leaves me wanting something more.
Final Words:
If you're looking for a delicious white or rose varietal, this one will leave you unsatisfied.

Kitchen Sink - Red Table Wine @@@@@ (5 Corks)

2009-08-12T19:15:00.003-04:00

Retails: $8.99 (Total Wine)

One of the things about Total Wine I enjoy most is the professionalism of the staff. If you're a first-time buyer with absolutely no clue, they are dedicated to helping you find something you'll enjoy. If you're a seasoned buyer, they're equally as willing to help you find something new. This past week while shopping at my local Total Wine, I was appraoched by one of the sales staff. After explaining that I wrote for a blog, he was full of useful recommendations, including this blend of reds, Kitchen Sink.

Kitchen Sink's mentality is to aproach wine like a chef would aproach creating a new meal to enjoy. A careful selection and balance of different grapes has created the interesting complexity found within this wine. I am almost certain that no bottle would taste exactly the same.

A power-house blend of California-grown grapes, this red wine is delightfully fruity with a slight peppery taste that finishes with a beautiful tannin flavor. Within this wine you will find Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petit Syrah grapes lending to its complex flavor. It is an excellent 5 o'clock drink on its own but isn't overpowering. I would caution novice red wine drinkers---I tested this wine on my boyfriend and he found it a little too strong for his liking. I'm restraining myself from drinking the entire bottle in one sitting by myself, it's just that good.

Le Cep - Cotes du Rhone @@@@ (4 corks)

2009-08-09T17:56:00.005-04:00

Retails: $8.99

Drinking French wines makes me feel as if I need to be sitting at a bistro overlooking the Seine, wearing a ridiculous beret and smoking foul smelling cigarettes while waxing philosophic about Camus' L'Etranger. Poetic, yes?

I was an art major in college, the kind of college kid who couldn't wait to be un-institutionalized and released into the world. Senior year couldn't get over fast enough, but I had no direction and almost moved to Paris to be a starving street artist all for the sake of authenticity. I could see myself working for mere sheckles, in my French beret, drinking wine at lunch and holding a paintbrush in one hand while chain smoking in the other.

Ahhh what a pipe dream.

Cotes du Rhone wines come from the Rhone region in France where grape cultivation is said to have started in 600 BC. There is some serious wine tradition going into these bottles. There are several appellations in the Rhone region, the names of which are divided by where in the valley they grow and what tradition they come from. The northern sub-region is known as Rhone Septentrienal, the varietals produced here are developed from Syrah and Viognier grapes. Southern sub-region is referred to as Rhone meridional and includes a variety of reds, whites and rose wines blended from a many grapes. Cotes du Rhone happens to be the largest appellation by volume in the area and can come from either sub-region, however, it usually denotes a lower-priced wine so typically it will be made of grapes grown in the Southern region.

This is a beautifully composed red wine. Like many others in its region, it exhibits rich flavors of dark chocolate and plum with a distinct tannin flavor in the finish. My recommendation is to consume this bottle in one sitting, the flavors tend to vanish slightly when left open to air for too long---then again wouldn't it be considered unpatriotic if a Frenchman didn't consume a whole bottle in one sitting?

Hardy's - Merlot @@@@ (4 corks)

2009-08-07T20:18:00.002-04:00

Retails: $3.99 (Total Wine)

Shockingly lucious for a wine priced under $5!

Beautiful, full fruit flavors create a bouquet of tastes to be enjoyed. Berry, ripe cherries, tart pomegranite whisk away to reveal a smoke-y flavor that lingers within your entire palette. It's thoroughly enjoyable and delightful by itself but is even more enjoyable with a flavorful meal. My one word of advice is to not let this wine breathe too much. It is best consumed in one sitting, the flavors become a little less pronounced, the tannin flavor begins to take over. Otherwise, enjoy this super-cheap, excellent wine!

Gumdale - Chardonnay @@@@ (4 corks)

2009-08-06T20:11:00.004-04:00

Retails: $6.99 (Total Wine)

It seemed fate that I should have a positive Chardonnay experience with Summerfield, and low-and-behold Total Wine's "Wine of the Month" is a Chardonnay. With July whisked away and into August, temps in Florida are still in the high 80's, low 90's. It's been rainy and miserable this summer in the Sunshine State. Good wine is keepingn our morales high and spirits up.

It was long believed that the Chardonnay grapes were a mix between Pinot Noir and Blanc. However, recent DNA studies have concluded that Chardonnay is in fact a result of Gouais Blanc and Pinot combinations. Of course, the Romans are to blame, it is believed that Gouais Blanc came into the posession of the Romans by way of the Balkans. It was widely cultivated by peasants in France closely with the French aristocracy who preferred Pinot varietals. Chardonnay grapes were born.

Gumdale has yet to truly fail me. The Chardonnay is no exception. Crisp, fruity and very smooth, Gumdale's Chardonnay is a beautifully composed wine. Just enough body and flavor to compliment a meal or hold its own solo, Gumdale Chardonnay is a MUST for both hardcore red wine drinkers and white wine enthusiasts alike. White wine, for me, usually fails when not paired with a meal, the flavors of food can dwarf its flavor. I have truly enjoyed sipping this wine during cocktail hour just as much as I have while devouring a sumptuous repas. Enjoy!

Real Sangria @@@@ (4 corks)

2009-08-04T22:01:00.004-04:00

Retails: ? gift, though I've been assured it's under $10

I live with my boyfriend and one of the many bonuses to being in this living arrangement is that he completely embraces my (absurd) obsession with cheap wine. I haven't been horribly successful in getting him into drinking wine on a regular basis, but I have introduced him to the joys of sangria.

As a very sweet surprise, he bought us a giant litre of (so-called) Real Sangria to sample and write about. According to the bottle is imported from Spain, not sure how factual that is but still an interesting attribute. Like I've said, I live in Florida, it's August and it is SO time for some refreshing wine-infused beverages. This one hits the spot for sure! He even compared it to the best sangria ever at our favorite restaurant, Ceviches in Sarasota. I wouldn't go that far, but it's still an impressive bottled sangria. Unlike other bottled varieties, this one actually has a strong fruity flavor with just a hint of dryness. I think the strongest attribute is that it tastes fresh, it doesn't have an overwhelming mass-produced, bottled taste to it. It is smooth and refreshing like a good sangria should be.

Final Words: With a handful of ice cubes, this is an excellent summer treat!

Barefoot - Red Zinfandel @@@@@ (5 corks!)

2009-07-31T19:55:00.006-04:00

Retails: $7.99 (Wal-Mart)

Smooth is what best defines this red zinfandel. It has just enough flavor to be interesting but not overpowering. I'm shocked, truly. I've tried other Barefoot wines befoore and have never been overly impressed but this Zinfandel has knocked my socks off. The fact that it is also considered a Wine Buyer's Guide "Best Buy" doesn't hurt either.

I think what's really interesting about this wine is that it tastes expensive. I'm pretty sure you could serve it at a seriously fancy gathering and hear nothing but compliments, it's just that good. From the subtle berry flavor that turns peppery, to the carefully placed dryness that rests on the center of the tongue post-gulp, this is a fantastic wine.

There's a French wine drinking tradition called the "le gout d'amour" (luh goo d'amoor) or the love drop. It's extremely romantic, so all you dudes out there, listen up. After finishing a bottle of delicious wine with someone you love--or are romantically inclined to--place the empty bottle of wine on its side, wait about five seconds, carefully pour the drop into your girl's glass and explain that it's a French tradition...not only will she think you're dashing for extracting the last drop for her, but worldly and cultured. Let the festivities begin!

Summerfield - Chardonnay @@@@ (4 corks)

2009-07-29T19:28:00.005-04:00

Retails: $5.99 (Total Wine)

Drum roll please...I LOVE this Chardonnay. There. I said it. Contrary to my typically un-conformist, failing to go with the popular majority on wine (or pretty much anything)...I Love Chardonnay...or at least THIS Chardonnay.

Crisp, fruitful yet deliciously tart and dry in the aftertaste, THIS is a Chardonnay to conform die-hard red wine drinkers (like me). Unlike many, some expensive, Chardonnays I've encountered in my past, this one bares none of the astringent undertones or lack of flavor. It may have successfully transformed my palette into one that will openly accept whites with baited breath and excitement, as opposed to the snarky cynicism which has been my trademark towards white wines.

One of the most ubiquitous wine varietals produced, Chardonnay grapes are said to originate in Burgundy but can now be found from England to New Zealand. It is said that as far as growing grapes are concerned, growing the Chardonnay varietal is a "rite of passage." It is the white wine's cabernet sauvignon, dominating over 400,000 acres (which is, in fact, more acreage than cabernet currently commands). The grapes have a taste that lends itself very well to being infused with other grape varietals or taking on some of the flavors of whatever kind of material it is aged within (in most cases, oak).

I highly recommend this wine to anyone who has previously turned their nose at white wines. Consider me convereted.

Chateau Montet - Bordeaux @@@ (3 corks)

2009-07-24T12:15:00.006-04:00

Retails: $5.99 (Total Wine)

I'm not horribly familiar with Bordeaux wines, but I do know that like many other kinds of wine produced in France, a Bordeaux is technically any wine produced in the Bordeaux region of France. Wine in this region is said to have started in Roman times, 48 AD is one estimation. That's one of the things i love about wine enormously is how historically important it is.

Any interesting fact, all wine producers in Bordeux prefix their brand name with chateau (sha-tow). Traditionally, the word means "castle" in French. However, in Bordeaux, no matter how humble the producer's estate may be, they are all "chateau's."

I'll be honest, the pink label really caught my eye. Chateau Montet's reasonably priced varietal needs to breathe for atleast ten minutes. Right out of the bottle it's not particularly good. There's a weird tart aftertaste initially that goes away with some breathing time. Given proper time, it has a nice robust flavor with a slightly cigar-smoke-y after taste. I'm consuming it with garlic fish and noodles and it's a lovely compliment.

Turning Leaf - Merlot @@@ (3 corks)

2009-07-19T19:23:00.003-04:00

Retails: $4.97 (Wal-Mart)

Another inexpensively priced gem from brothers Ernesto and Julio Gallo, Turning Leaf Merlot is actually quite a tastey bottle for the price. Certainly, I've had other reds within this similar price range that have wow'd me more, but it's not bad. Frankly, I'm pretty surprised, after my previous post on their Gallo brand Zinfandel, I was not expecting a whole lot.

The marketing for each brand under the Gallo umbrella is fascinating to me. This particular brand follows the tradition of allowing a wine to "breathe" by encapsulating their entire marketing strategy on wine as allowing the consumer to breathe: "Before you uncork a bottle of Turning Leaf wine, we invite you to take a deep breath, let the day slip away and renew."

Let's get down to taste: it's not quite as flavorful as I'd like it to be but it's pleasant nonetheless. The best part is the finish: slightly dry with a smokey aftertaste. No offensive tastes on the palette so this is definitely a good choice for beginner red wine drinkers.

Maison Louis Jadot - Beaujolais Villages @@@ (3 corks)

2009-07-14T19:44:00.009-04:00

Retails: $8.97

Il n'y-a rien comme un bon Beaujolais! C'est vrai, n'est pas? Maison Louis Jadot makes primarily Burgundy wines in France, the Beaujolais Villages is one of the more affordable wines under this brand. Hey, it's Maison Louis Jadot ("House of Louis Jadot") so it must be good. The Gallo is just a pair of bros, this guy's got a whole HOUSE. This is also a wine company that's been around for a while. Started in 1859 by THE Louis Henry Denis Jadot in Burgundy, France, though, it is said, that the Jadot family started making wine around 1826 with the purchase of their first vineyard.

The Beaujolais-Villages wines are made in Beaujolais, near Lyon in the Rhone River Valley. On their website (http://www.louisjadot.com/) you can actually pull up exactly where the grapes come from with fancy flash-maps.

It's a smooth wine with very little offensive dry aftertaste so I consider this a good introductory red wine for non-drinkers. This is definitely a varietal that needs to breathe before consumed otherwise the flavors can run a little flat. According to their website, this is a wine to be consumed young, no need to let it age forever.

Gnarly Head - Cabernet Sauvignon @@@@ (4 corks!)

2009-07-14T19:33:00.006-04:00

Retails: Gift :)

My parents have a condo in a subdivision located across the street from mine. They don't live permanently in Florida (yet) so most of the time their condo sits idle...and I tend to use it as my guest house. One of my closest friends from home who currently lives in Jacksonville has been using it as her home while trying to find a job in my county. Even though it's not technically my guesthouse, I still get a lovely bottle of wine every time she visits; therefore, I LOVE her. She also makes sure every time that it's under $10 so I'll have something to write about.

This Gnarly Head Cab is EXCELLENT. It's everything you'd want in a Cab. Excellent, forceful smell with an equally flavorful taste, but not so overpowering that it doesn't pair well with anything you're eating. There's a slight bit of dryness in the finish, but overall this is a very smooth red. Even my non-wine-drinking boyfriend said "oooooo!" when he sampled it. When paired with Italian food, it's a dangerous combination. It's also satisfying when paired with something spicy -- just had some chips and salsa and it was stellar as a compliment. Delicious!

Washington Hills - Riesling @@@@ (4 corks)---GIRLS' NIGHT PART 4

2009-07-11T21:58:00.009-04:00

Retails: $9.99

<--serious brownie action

To recap our Girls' Night Panelists: Sunshine, Mrs. Almighty, Pineapple, and S. Breezy (Fo Sheezey) (scroll down just a weeee bit to see the full story)...

To top-off our evening as we were enjoying some delightful brownies baked by my own live-in sweetheart (we'll call him Sharpie). To compliment dessert, we were treated to a selection by Pineapple: Washington Hills-Riesling. Pineapple loves sweet whites, her current favorite is Relax-Riesling . This may become a new favorite. Much like the Relax, it's sweet like a muscat, but more crisp and refreshing. It complimented the brownies perfectly! For those of us who prefer dryer wines, this was more palatable than the Allegro Muscato we reviewed earlier in the evening. Don't get me wrong, the Allegro is delicious but very sweet. I will warn you, however, that after a couple of days the flavor begins to fall a little flat. It's best to consume this Riesling in one sitting.

Our Girls' Night Wine Tasting was a huge success, many thanx to my lovely ladies for their insight, input and outrageous ability to make me laugh my pants off. Wine is always best when enjoyed in the company of those whose company you enjoy :)

Beringer - Merlot @@@ (3 corks!)---- GIRLS' NIGHT PART 3

2009-07-11T21:45:00.005-04:00

Retails: $9.99

To Recap: The panelists are: myself, Mrs. Almighty, Sunshine, Pineapple, and S. Breezey (Fo Sheezey)

Aside from Mrs. Almighty---note: I only call her this because we call my boss "Ben Almighty," --- I was in a sea of white wine drinkers at Girls' Night. She shares my passion for dry wines, therefore I LOVE her. :)

This selection comes from S. Breezey and I consider it a total win in that Sunshine, an avid Mike n' Ikes consumer and wine neophyte who currently enjoys sweet whites, actually said: "For a red...I actually like this! The aftertaste is good!" SCORE!

Pineapple found it a little too strong for her liking but she DID say it's the best red wine she's had, so proceed with caution with strict white wine drinkers.

Beringer Merlot had a smooth, oakey flavor with a buttery after taste that was slightly dry. It's very drinkable and as far as reds go, it's quite low in tannin flavor so I can understand why infrequent red wine drinkers would find it palatable. I can say that I was completely shocked at how good this Beringer was. Apparently, S. Breezey used to work in a restaurant where this was the house red. It was such a hit with myself and Mrs. Almighty that we finished off the last two glasses in the bottle. Yum!

Canyon Oaks - Merlot Rose @ (1 cork) -- GIRLS' NIGHT PART 2

2009-07-11T21:29:00.009-04:00

Retails: $4.99 (Total Wine)

To recap, we had a Girls' night at my abode to sample a variety of moderately priced bottles. The panelists? Pineapple, Sunshine, Mrs. Almighty, and S. Breezy (Fo Sheezey) . Here's our 2nd selection, chosen by yours truly.

This. Wine. Was. Horrible. Yuck.

<---Sunshine's clearly not enthused

To quote Mrs. Almighty: "It tastes too alcohol-y...like astringent." We all gave it 1's and 2's and one of us gave it a zero. (WAH WAAAAAAH). Don't even bother with this one it's entirely terrible.

The only reason I saved it is to use it for cooking. Yes, among my list of uses for awful wine is for cooking. If a recipe calls for wine, you can often use a wine that wasn't palatable for drinking. Although a flavorful wine is preferable, the wine flavor will suffice in recipes that don't require a generous amount (i.e. pasta sauce). So, instead of flushing the bottle down the drain, go ahead and save it in your fridge for use in cooking.

Speaking of cooking, Total Wine now has a small section devoted to wine pairings. They will even supply you with the recipe for free! My one critique is there were no pairings for junk food...what wines go well with doritos? Discuss...

Bolla - Bardolino @@@@ (4 corks)

2009-07-10T21:21:00.004-04:00

Retails: $8.29 (Total Wine)

I have a routine when I shop for wine. I usually head right for the wine picks to see what's new and recommended in the world of wine. This time though, I decided to bypass my usual route in favor of exploring formerly overlooked territory: the Italian Reds section.

To an average wine drinker, the Italian Reds section is quite daunting. Not only are you venturing into sacred territory, you're also contending with a bunch of bottles in a completely different language. Oh, but what a gorgeous language it is.

I'll be honest, when I shop in Italian Reds, I go almost entirely by how gorgeous sounding the title is. Bardolino...sounds like a hot Italian model--one of those one-namer types, like Iman.

My initial reaction wasn't positive, definitely needed some time to breathe, but after a few minutes of open-air time, Bardolino delivered. Smooth, sweet in the beginning and slightly dry in the finish. I had it last night with leftover lasagna, today I enjoyed it beside some spicy tuna rolls, both were equally satisfying pairings.

Like visiting another country, my adventure in Italian reds has been gratifying so far, I'm anxiously looking forward to my next delightful bottle.

Allegro- Moscato @@@@@ (5 corks) ---Girls' Night: An Impromptu Wine Tasting PART 1

2009-07-09T20:23:00.010-04:00

I work with amazing people. Seriously. I don't dread going to work every day. My co-workers and I actually enjoy each other so much so that even when we were on the road for months together every day we'd still have lunch together when we were back in the office.
So, now that I'm not on the road anymore, my girl friends and I get together and have a girls' rendez-vous. It usually consists of thrift store shopping (Plato's Closet being a favorite) and eating copious amounts of food (usually brownies).

This particular girls' night, we decided to enhance our evening activities with a bottles under $10 wine tasting. There were five of us: myself, Pineapple, S. Breezy Fo sheezey , Sunshine, and the newest member, Mrs. Almighty (my boss' wife). Everybody brought a bottle under $10 to blog about --- EXCEPT Mrs. Almighty, who happened to have a bottle of Provencia di Pavia Pino Noir hanging around her closet (retails: $30, FAIL)

So, our under $10 line up was unusual but interesting:
Allegro - Muscato
Canyon Oaks - Merlot Rose
Beringer - Merlot (courtesy of S. Breezy)
Washington Hills-Riesling (courtesy of Madame Pineapple)
and a random bottle of Chambourg (courtesy of Sunshine...not that I'm surprised, apparently the WINE memo didn't make it...though she was trying to convince us that she heard it sweetens up dry wines---Sunshine is a sugar addict!)
Of course, everyone comes to the wine tasting table with their own set of preferences and personalities...

Mrs. Almighty the token light-weight. We went out to a wine bar once, two drinks in we were done for the night. My boss enjoyed telling everyone, including his father (owner of the company), how "I got his wife drunk." Lies. All. Lies. Current favorite: An $80 bottle of Pinot she had once, otherwise strictly Chard.
Pineapple is a classic wine neophyte--sweet whites for the moment, but open to new territory. Current favorite includes: Relax-Riesling (thanks to yours truly).
S. Breezy (Fo Sheezey) is a wine enthusiast and seasoned traveler -- she's my freelancer who rocks the socks off of New Jersey (http://www.visitnj.org/ kids)
Sunshine is filled with sugary goodness. Sweet whites only, anything containing less sugary sweetness than Mike n' Ikes is strictly forbidden.
Anywho, so the next few entries will be a collaboration of sorts from my notes taken during our Girls' Night. First up...

Allegro - Moscato @@@@@ (5 corks!!!)
Retails: $9.99 (Total Wine)
This wine was a giant hit with the gals. I can't take credit for finding it, though. My dear friend http://www.amonfocus.com/ introduced me to it. We were doing some videos in Orlando, his old turf back in his post-college days. We had a random afternoon off due to some bad weather and so he decided to take me on a journey around his old stomping grounds. We went to Altamont, where he used to live, and popped in a wine shop that was within walking distance of his old apartment. Cute place. All of the wines were categorized by flavor as opposed to varietal. He told me I had to try this one, this was his "lady's wine"--the wine he'd buy to drink with a girl he um, liked.
So, I definitely needed to see if it passed the test! Most of us agreed DELISH! S. Breezey gave it a 4.5, Sunshine gave it a six (apparently...5 just wasn't enough), and Pineapple gave it a five. Mrs. Almighty, however, couldn't stand the sugary-sweetness and gave it... a zero. Y'ouch. :)
Final words: Definitely a delicious dessert wine or even an every day wine if you happen to be a sugar addict and/or a wine newby. Yum!

MORE TO COME...

Cardiff - Cabernet Sauvignon @@@@ (4 corks)

2009-07-04T22:26:00.006-04:00

Retails: $6.99 (Total Wine)

Now here's a Cab with some serious flavor. Cardiff's Cab is smoke-y and mysterious. Tannins and dryness? Check. Is that cherry I taste? Is it blueberry? Whatever it is, I'm having another for sure.

It's the 4th of July and I've had an amazing evening. I live relatively near the famous Sunshine Skyway bridge that connects Palmetto, Florida to St. Pete. Years ago, there was a different bridge in its place that collapsed after a boat struck a pillar. The remaining landings on each side are now fishing piers. From these piers, you can see no fewer than 10 firework displays going off all around you, Palmetto, Bradenton, Anna Maria, St. Pete Beach, St. Petersburg, Tampa. Probably the most incredible place to celebrate the 4th for sure.

I hope everyone is enjoying a festive, and most importantly safe, 4th of July weekend. Cheers!

Vin Ordinaire - Cheap Red Wine @@ (2 corks)

2009-07-03T20:40:00.007-04:00

Retails: $5.99 (Total Wine)

"The most important thing about wine is that you enjoy it, regardless of vintage or style." Vin Ordinaire's Cheap Red Wine claims to be nothing else than a very straight forward California red. A melange of several varietals, this red wine presents a no-frills approach to wine drinking. To use a metaphor, most of the bottles I rate are like designer knock-offs--equally delicious bottles, gussied up like their pricier counterparts that don't come with the designer pricetag. This bottle makes absolutely no attempt at being anything but cheap. The bottle's simple brown label with "cheap red wine" stamped on the front conveys quite simply, what thrifty wine shoppers are looking for. It's shabby-chic--something kinda ugly and unkempt that is made to be kind of modern and forward in thinking. Is Vin Ordinaire (Ordinary Wine) onto something? I think this all sounds like a bunch of marketing ho-ha if you as me. I'd almost be insulted if it wasn't clever at the same time.

But, as they say, proof is in the punch. Cheeky label aside, this is an OK red wine. Not horrible, not great, just OK. After a couple days of being open, it begins to sour so it's best to be consumed on the day you open it. It would have been far more impressive if hidden within the unremarkable packaging there happened to be a true gem of a wine. Unfortunately, Cheap Red Wine turned out to be just that.

Madria Sangria @@@@ (4 corks)

2009-07-02T20:03:00.005-04:00

Retails: $7.99 (Winn Dixie)

OK, so this isn't technically a wine but it is made of wine...and it's mighty delicious on a hot day in Florida, if I do say so myself. Given that it's about 96 degrees outside and 100% humidity, drinking red wine in this weather will give me hot flashes--not that I'm anywhere close to menopause. So, as a brief departure from more commonly found entries, I'm reviewing bottled sangria.

Sangria was the first alcoholic beverage I ever liked. Granted, the first time I had it, it was freshly made--dry Spanish red wine with fresh fruit, seltzer and a splash of brandy. For those of you out there who have never experienced a good sangria, I suggest you hit up your local Spanish tapas restaurant--- some of my favorites locally include : http://www.ceviche.com/ and http://www.columbiarestaurant.com/. Waiters will actually make a pitcher right at your table at both restaurants--Columbia uses Sangre de Torro Spanish red wine, yum! They are both located throughout Florida so, if you happen to be visiting, it's definitely worth a visit. Ceviches in Sarasota, Florida has an awesome rooftop bar and a flamenco dance hall. The Columbia is a Florida tradition, the original in Ybor City (Cuban neighborhood outside Tampa) began at the turn of the century!

There are many bottled varieties of Sangria available. Most of them can be a little lacking in flavor, but Madria Sangria is actually quite tasty. To enjoy bottled sangria you kind of have to forget the fact that it isn't freshly made. Appreciate it for what it is. Madria's is refreshingly crisp: good fruity flavor with undertones of red wine---which is exactly what you want. Sangria isn't made with sweet wines, typically--though some places have started making it with champagne and white wines. There's structure to sangria--fresh, sweet flavors that hide a slightly dry taste underneath. You shouldn't be able to taste the alcohol too fully. This one does a nice job of maintaining the structure a good sangria should have.

Final words: I think I'll have another :) If you'd like to try my sangria recipe, go here: http://roxycape.blogspot.com/2009/04/hazlit-vineyards-red-cat-zinfandel-5.html

Little Penguin - Merlot @@@ (3 corks)

2009-06-29T20:17:00.005-04:00

Retails: ? (gift)

I'm thoroughly enjoying the fact that since I've launched my blog I've been gifted no fewer than three bottles under $10. I'm thrilled to have material to write about but I can't help but wonder--are my friends and family thoughtful...or just plain cheap? :) There's also many more questions that arise about whether I'm gifted bottles of wine because my people think I'm in a wino but that's for an entirely different conversation.

This past weekend I had an old friend visiting me. To make a long story short she screwed up and in an effort to apologize, gifted me TWO bottles of wine--one expensive and one I could blog about. The Little Penguin was, obviously, the blog-worthy wine.

As many of you have probably realized, Australia has become quite the exporter of inexpensive brands. Some, of course, are better than others. I'm not much of a fan of Yellow Tail but Little Penguin makes the cut. Very drinkable, smooth berry flavor with a hint of dryness. Even after being uncorked for a day or two, it still holds up in flavor. I wouldn't say it's an incredible buy, but it's definitely not half bad.

So, cheers to friendship--nay, family--who can forgive the errors in each others' ways. I drink to you, my dear friend. Thanks for the cheap hooch.

Trapiche - Pinot Noir @@@@ (4 corks)

2009-06-23T19:32:00.005-04:00

Retails: $6.99 (Total Wine)

I love Total Wine. Seriously. I call it the "Wal-Mart" of wines, ONLY because it has absolutely every wine imaginable---including some super obscure wines I've only experienced in rare locales. It also happens to be about two minutes from my office, making for an easy and affordable stop on my way home. Totally off topic, but there's also a Super Target...you KNOW where my paycheck goes... I have to go there anyway. My live-in boyfriend is a huge Captain n' Coke (zero) fan and we traditionally have cocktail hour as soon as I get home. He's a big guy, 6 foot 3 and about 220, and goes through about a handle a week. (I have never seen him drunk. Ever.) I make a visit about every-other week.

After picking up his handles of Captain Morgan, I peruse the wine section like a woman peruses the shoe section. I love reading the commentaries. I love the monthly wine selection. I love that while providing an amazing collection of wines to choose from, it's still maintains a classiness and helpfulness that isn't present at so-called "big box" stores. In no way shape or form is Total Wine paying me for this...though they should (wink wink) Anywho, so...my favorite part is the "recommendation" section. As I've mentioned before, it presents a wide variety of tastes to choose form. Being a devoted wine blogger---and a lady in my 20's who's handling a mortgage---I'm always drawn to wines under $10.

This was one of those lovelies who made it into my repertoire by way of a recommendation. I love Pinot Noir. Long before it became a favorite due to its notoriety in Sideways, I loved Pinot Noir. An ex-boyfriend of mine was in the air force and was gone every other week in Europe, Germany in particular, and would always return with interesting European wines. Many of were quite dry and many of which were Pinots'.

This is a lovely Pinot from Argentina. Very drinkable, slightly tart taste at first that crossfades (there I go with video terms) into a soft, subtle, vulnerable berry flavor. Slight tannin flavor in the end with a subtle dryness in the finish. Lovely. Velvety. Delicious.

Oak Grove - Red Zinfandel @@@@ (4 corks)

2009-06-22T19:54:00.005-04:00

Retails: $6.99 (Total Wine)

At first taste I wasn't really taken by this wine. However, after a day of adjusting to room temperature, today it tastes like an entirely different wine. It's delicious!

I have to actually give props to Total_Wine on http://www.twitter.com/ for presenting me with the recommendation. I tweeted that I needed some recommendations on wines under $10 for my blog, and I was greeted by some awesome Zinfandel suggestions from my twitter-pals at Total_Wine.

Twitter is sort of an oddity. While I was on the road with the Crew, my videographers introduced me to the twitter-concept. We did so many crazy things and met so many crazy people that it was often difficult to remember all the fun we were privileged to have. So, initially, twitter was merely a way for me to encapsulate my experiences--and oddly enough people somehow enjoyed my bizarre musings enough to "follow" me on twitter. Now that I'm a desk monkey/cubicle gnome, twitter has become a way to hold brief conversations with colleagues, kill time while importing/exporting video, keep up with the Crew on the road, and "follow" interesting people. It sort of makes you feel like a rock star when you get "followed."

Anywho, so back to the wine. It's a very mellow red. Easily drinkable with just a slight dryness in the aftertaste and hardly any tannin flavor. The flavor has a certain pomegranate flavor mixed with a slight woodsy quality. It's about 95 degrees outside and 100% humidity here in Florida (it's summertime) and I'm finding it to be a relatively refreshing red wine to consume.

Final word: YUM

Gallo Family Twin Valley - White Zinfandel @@ (2 corks)

2009-06-16T20:03:00.003-04:00

Retails: $5.99 (Wal-Mart)

The Boss family in America when it comes to exporting wine is Gallo. If Tony Soprano (of The Sopranos) were into wines, he'd be Julio and/or Ernest Gallo.

The Gallo name is a paradox for me. They are synonymous with both high-end wines and also the crap that comes in a four-pack at your local 7-11--don't lie, we've all been there. I can remember days when I was on the road with the video crew and we'd be in some po-dunk town and have nothing better to do than raid the local convenience store for cheap beer and wine in a 4-pack. Gallo distributes wines under several brands including Ecco Domani, Bella Sera, Turning Leaf and Barefoot. If you're an avid wine drinker, you know that there's quite a bit of difference in price between Ecco Domani and Barefoot.

Twin Valley is one of their lower-priced varieties and I can say truthfully, it tastes more like a very diluted cranberry juice than wine. Don't get me wrong, if you're not in it for the taste and rather, in it for the after effects, it's not a bad wine--FYI white wines will give you less of a hangover than reds because the amount of sulfates in this and other light colored liquids is less. But, if you do enjoy a more full-bodied wine, this is probably going to leave you somewhat disappointed.

Pacific Edge "Hell n' Back" - Red Zinfandel @@@@ (4 corks)

2009-06-15T20:02:00.003-04:00

Retails: $7.99 (Total Wine)

This is a devilishly good red zin for under $10. Zinfandel is a new endeavor for me and I've been enjoying every bit of it--it may become my new favorite red! I skipped the whole process of acquiring a taste for wine and started my love affair straight up with merlot---I don't play around. Though, to be honest, this was mostly influenced by the fact that my folks had a big merlot phase right around the time I became of age to drink (legally).

Typically, I enjoy my reds at room temperature, but I was gifted a wine cooler that I've been using to chill my reds slightly. In some cases, the wine needs to warm up to exude all of its flavors. However, in the case of red zin, I've found that being slightly chilled works to its benefit (I keep it at about 59 degrees Fahrenheit--which is cool since I live in Florida and keep my house at 70).

For people just beginning to venture into more full-bodied reds, Zinfandel is a good choice. It's a stepping stone from sweeter reds, like Shiraz/Syrah. It contains some of the dryness found in more full-bodied wines like merlot and pinot noir, but it's not quite as heavy on the tannins. For people who are just acquiring the taste, it's not a heavy wine to partake. It's light, some berry flavor, and just a slight dryness in the finish. I strongly suggest a red zin for "intermediate" red wine drinkers. Pacific Edge's Hell n' Back Red Zin is an excellent choice.

Final Word: YUM!

Banrock Station - Merlot @@@@ (4 corks)

2009-06-13T18:58:00.003-04:00

Retails: Gift (but again, I was assured it was under $10) :)

My parents have a home in Maine and a condo in Florida. Unlike many people my age, my folks are retired and come down to Florida to visit almost every month. We get along extremely well so I'm thrilled that we get to visit this often. I'm originally from Maine and have little reason to visit anymore other than my folks and my best friend from high school. When my parents visit, we usually eat fantastic food cooked by my live-in boyfriend and kill a bottle (or two) of wine each visit.

This last time around, they were only here for a couple of days. The last day of their visit, they surprised me and my boy with a bottle of Captain Morgan for him, and a bottle of wine for me--which my father assured was under $10 so I could write about it. Having been an English major in college, he used to critique every essay I wrote in elementary and high school. I think he's somewhat surprised that in my spare time I've taken up writing as a hobby. Granted, I'm writing about wines, still, but no doubt his mentoring in my youth served as the template for later works. He encourages my blog writing not only for creative expression but also so that he does not waste his time on cheap wines that aren't worth the trouble--I've figured you out, father!

Regardless, I'm familiar with Banrock varietals, they make a complete line of wines and they really are rather good. As a word of note to other cheap wine enthusiasts, wines from Australia tend to be on the cheaper side but they are quite good nonetheless. This one is no exception---delicious!

San Sebastian - Vintner's Red @@@@ (4 corks!)

2009-06-13T18:08:00.005-04:00

Retails: $7.99 (Total Wine)

This post is a follow-up to a previous post about Lakeridge Wineries here in Florida. San Sebastian is the sister winery, located in historic St. Augustine -- you may remember Ponce de Leon's quest for the Fountain of Youth and apparently he found it in St. Augustine, Florida.

It may seem peculiar that wine is made in Florida but apparently the humidity helps in grape production, however the soil tends to be poor so wine production in Florida is limited to a few varieties. Vintner's Red is made of muscadines, a native grape to Florida. They can be almost black in color, a characteristic that muscadine wines carry with them--this one is a very deep crimson color. Wines created by muscadines are pretty relatively uncommon, definitely not something you'll find in your local grocery store. Fun fact: apparently they contain more antioxidants than more common wine varietals. Muscadines traditionally have more than five times the amount of resveratrol than common varietals. Resveratrol is an organic compound that plants create as a defense against bacteria and other pathogens, but has also been found to halt cancer formation in clinical tests---hence why red wine has been touted as an aid in cancer prevention.

Vintner's Red has a very mild and sweet flavor, almost like grape juice---with a kick! The consistency of the liquid feels silky on the tongue, more so than common reds. There is absolutely no dryness, no tannin flavor in this red. It's so sweet it's almost like a muscato. Many muscadine varietals are, in fact, dessert wines -- like port or sherry.

Last Words: Muscadine wines, in general, are hard to find in local shops. If you'd like to try this one for yourself, I'd suggest ordering straight from their website : http://www.sansebastianwinery.com/ If you're ever in the St. Augustine area, the winery offers tours and tastings free to the public and also holds periodic events throughout the year. Lakeridge Winery, their sister winery who also makes interesting varietals from muscadines, (http://www.lakeridgewinery.com/), located in Clermont, Florida, is also a good destination for tastings, tours and events.

La Delizia - Pino Grigio / Pino Blanc @@@ (3 corks)

2009-06-11T19:56:00.007-04:00

Retails: $8.99 (Total Wine)

As many of you know, I'm not much of a white wine drinker. When I do consume a white wine, it's typically some sort of dessert wine like a Riesling or a muscat. But, to be fair to all wine drinkers out there, I'm trying to venture out and educate myself in the ways of whites.

I was not aware but apparently pino is French for pinecone. Granted, my French heritage is Quebecoise, but, nonetheless, I'm surprised by the translation. This word relates to the way in which the grapes grow, much like a pinecone in a triangular formation--"classic grape" as I'd like to call it. The French will call this same varietal pinot gris while the Italians translate it as "grigio." They are rather poetic in their nomenclature, aren't they? Maybe just hammered...

A delicate aroma wafts up from the bottle as soon as you uncork it. To me, it smells like bathroom cleaner. Not. Gonna. Lie. But, I find this white to be a pleasant surprise. The flavor is almost flowery in your mouth. I feel as if I've taken a sip of lavender, not nectar, straight-up flower petals. The taste drifts to the back of the tongue, like a ballet dancer flitting across the stage and pique-ing her delicate foot upon the taste buds in the back of my mouth. The aftertaste is a delicately dry pirouette to finish. Cheeks slightly puckered, nostrils ouvert as the slightly acidic smell lingers.

Final Word: Lovely.

Lakeridge Wineries - Chablis @@@ (3 corks)

2009-06-05T20:18:00.004-04:00

Retails: $6.99 (Total Wine)

I discovered Lakeridge Wineries when I was still on the road as the producer for a traveling road crew producing tourism videos for the beautiful state of Florida. Located in Clermont, Florida, just outside of Orlando, Lakeridge Wineries produces a series of wines in collaboration with their sister winery, San Sebastian, in St. Augustine, Florida. Primarily, they use muscadine grapes to create their varietals, producing some really unusual flavors.

Lakeridge Wineries is a charming, family owned operation out in what has traditionally been an orange producing area of Florida. A brief half hour drive outside of Disney, Lakeridge offers free tours and wine samplings. They make 7 different wines and two varieties of sparkling wine which you can order from their website: http://www.lakeridgewinery.com/
SPOILER ALERT: Look for future reviews of their other varietals -- their Southern Red is an especially good DESSERT RED (yum!)

Chablis is typically grown in northernmost wine district in Burgundy, France, so I'm certain Lakeridge is borrowing the title a bit from the French. It does not hold the same characteristics as the chardonnay grapes grown under the same title -- dry with moderate acidity.

This chablis, upon first sniff, smells like motor oil. Unlike the first sip, it envelopes your tastebuds in a smooth sweetness that requires a bit of swishing in the mouth to achieve its full taste potential. The finish has quite a bit of acidity which makes this only a "3 cork" rating in my book, however for its unusual qualities I would give it a "4 cork" rating. If you're looking for something really different, I would give this one a sample.

Each taste brings me back to that year in my life when I lived out of a suitcase and experienced all of the best (and worst) that Florida has to offer. I'm now a desk monkey, managing the video production and loving being home and having a routine again--for a while, it seemed my fridge was filled with condiments and expired milk. Every once in a great while, duty calls, I get back out on the road and experience another adventure.

Big Tattoo - Syrah @@@@ (4 corks)

2009-06-04T21:20:00.006-04:00

Retails: $8.99 (Total Wine)

Last time I was shopping for wines to drink um...I mean blog about...I decided I needed to broaden my material and write about a Syrah. I don't normally drink Syrah, or Shiraz as it is often called, nor do I know much about them. The thought of venturing into this uncharted territory was kind of exciting for an avid wine drinker like myself.

I was really excited about this bottle in particular.

For Christmas this past year, I bought my family tattoos. No, really. After I got inked for the first time, my mom mentioned she was somewhat envious and upon further conversation, I soon learned that she and my father would be open to the possibility of a family tattoo--both are in their sixties and neither one had ever been inked. Something important and symbolic of our tight-knit family. My mother is French Canadian and since I was a child, my father's only piece of jewelry other than his wedding band, has been a gold fleur de lys on a golden chain. THIS was going to be our tattoo. So, on Christmas Eve, my self, my parents and my younger sister set out to a tattoo parlor in Portland, Maine, with heavy metal blaring, got the symbol of the fleur de lys tattooed: dad on his shoulder, sister on her opposite shoulder, mom on her ankle and me on my foot.

So, you can imagine my excitement when I came across a bottle called Big Tattoo with a giant fleur de lys on the label!

As it turns out, the two brothers who created this wine made it as an homage to their mother who died of breast cancer. One was a tattoo artist the other a wine distributor, hence the name Big Tattoo. The fleur de lys was their mother's favorite symbol. A portion of all their wine sales goes to breast cancer research, as well, making this a worthwhile wine to at least sample. Having lost a grandmother to breast cancer, I was especially touched by the sentiment in this simple bottle of wine.

But, let's get down to the flavor. Like I said, I'm no expert on Syrah, but the flavor strikes me as pretty unusual. The smell is sweet, almost like muscadine grapes, and the initial flavor carries this sweetness. As you swish the wine around in your mouth, however, it begins to turn tart and pucker-y, ending with a big swallow of tannins and dryness in the finish. Pretty unusual, but pretty darn delicious, too. If you're a fan of pinot noir or other robust reds, you'll love this one.

Final Words: Delicious, but I would recommend drinking the bottle in one sitting--no really--the day afterwards it loses some of his sweetness and the finish becomes slightly sour. So, grab a friend and drink up.

Coyote Creek - Zinfandel @@@@ (4 corks)

2009-06-01T21:05:00.006-04:00

Retails: $6.99 (Total Wine)

Like I've said, red zin has been a wine I've long neglected---but no more! A wonderful addition to any collection, red zinfandel delivers on flavor.

Coyote Creek red zin is a delightful bottle to add to your repertoire. Smooth. Sweet. Sparkling. This red zin delivers an array of fruity flavors on the tongue: the sweetness of strawberry, earthiness of blueberry, finishing with the tartness of pomegranate. I'm keeping it short and sweet because you must find this wine for yourself and envelope your taste buds in its exquisite flavors.

Final Words: I'll have another.

3 Blind Moose - Merlot @@@ (3 corks)

2009-05-31T20:00:00.007-04:00

Retails: ? (gift...but I've been assured that it's under $10 :) )
So...I have a live-in boyfriend, we'll call him "The Boy." Occasionally, he gets himself in trouble with me, but I'm fortunate enough to have a really considerate guy in my life who realizes when he's done wrong--or at least, realize when he's upset me enough to make HIS life miserable. He quotes the comic, Ralphie May, when he remarks: "I can be right...or I can be happy."
This week, he screwed up and we had a minor argument and surprised me with a bouquet of flowers and a bottle of wine for us to try together. He told me he looked "specifically for a bottle under $10," he knows me well. It's also cleverly titled and labeled---who doesn't love a moose?--- so I was smitten with my new wine to try.

It was a really sweet gesture but I couldn't help thinking he was nuts. He's a newcomer to the wine scene and I'm slowly introducing him to wines, we're currently at the Riesling stage. So, a merlot, was quite a huge leap of courage for him...annnd of course, I'm going to end up drinking the whole bottle by myself because he quickly realized that we're not in the merlot stage in our relationship. More for me!

I've actually had this wine before, ages ago. It's an easily drinkable Merlot, very smooth, with a slightly dry/bitter aftertaste. It creates that delightfully pucker-y feeling between your cheeks. I would definitely let it breathe. Straight from uncorking it's not particularly flavorful.

Last Words: It's a good merlot made only better by the sentiment by which it came. :)

Waltzing Vine - Shiraz @@@ (3 corks)

2009-05-25T20:35:00.008-04:00

Retails: $6.99 (Total Wine)

My boyfriend and I have a friend, Biker Tim, (we have to differentiate this way because he has a co-worker named Tim as well) who occasionally joins us for dinner. One night while he was over, and I was preparing my excellent pasta carbonara, he decided to ask me for financial advice while I was trying to cook the bacon, the primary ingredient to this Italian Masterpiece.

Like the amateur chef that I am, I am incapable of making conversation while cooking. I'm half French Canadian, which means I tend to gesticulate a lot with my hands. I tend to forget all about the food and get absorbed in conversation and potentially splatter sauce all over the kitchen. In this instance, I managed to thoroughly burn the main ingredient in my meal: bacon. Needless to say, the meal was terrible, but edible. Biker Tim's phrase of the evening, which I found completely a propos : "it'll make a turd."

What's the equivalent expression for wine? It'll give you a buzz? It'll cause you to urinate? I don't know. This is pretty much what this wine does for me. It has a smoke-y smell, sort of average taste, and a little dryness in the finish. It's not great, it's not horrible, it's just *eh*.

Generally speaking, this is how I feel about Shiraz. It never manages to thrill me like other reds. Somehow, it lacks the pizzazz that other wines bring to the table. But, being the wine blogger that I am, I wanted to represent all ranges of wines, not just my favorites. this particular Shiraz came highly recommended by "Bob" at Total Wine. Well, "Bob," this wine is about as boring as your first name...if that really is your name. I suppose I was enchanted by the label, shocking I know. It depicts a jolly farmer dancing with his grape vine in sort of a faux wood block print style. Being a dancer, I can appreciate a farmer who dances with his vines, how enchanting. Unfortunately...you've led me astray, enchanted dancing farmer. Your Shiraz is neither enchanting, nor dancing or delicious.

Final Words: Meh. Forgettable but not bad, 3 corks.

Buffalo Grove - Zinfandel @@@@@ (5 corks!)

2009-05-23T21:42:00.005-04:00

Retails: $7.99 (Total Wine)

After my disappointing Sangeovese, my boyfriend offered to pour me another glass and I couldn't handle another sip of that varietal. It's now sitting in my fridge probably to be used in cooking somehow and/or eventually drained down the sink. So, I had to open another bottle. We had company, there was no WAY I was going to serve them that. So, I opted for a Zinfandel that came highly recommended at Total Wine's famous employee recommendation aisle.

Until this year, I had never really explored red zinfandel but I'm certainly happy I did. Buffalo Grove's Zinfandel is DELICIOUS. I really did have to stop myself from attempting to drink the entire bottle it was so good. It's a smooth, velvety wine on the tongue. The flavors are a mix of berry and pomegranate with a kick of pepper. The finish is light with a hint of dryness and no overwhelming after taste. Currently, I'm polishing off the bottle with some chips and salsa and it holds up exceptionally well against the spicy salsa.

Final Word: SUPER!

Terre di Chioti - Sangiovese @ (1 corks)

2009-05-21T18:15:00.008-04:00

Retails: $5.99 (Total Wine)

You can't get more Italian than a Sangiovese. It is the most common grape varietal planted in Italy, accounting for 10% of all vineyard production. This grape gets its name from the Latin phrase sanguis jovis or "Blood of Jove." It is often mixed with other grape varietals to create such famous Italian wines as Chianti. The grape, itself, is said to be native to the Tuscan region.

Sangiovese is kind of a picky varietal. It is late to ripen but rots easily in damp climates. It also does not grow well in altitudes exceeding 1500 feet. Regions like Tuscany with hot, dry climate, seem to be the perfect place for this varietal. It's a difficult grape to get just right. It presents a challenge for wine makers due to its high acidity and low body. Winemakers have tried many techniques to add more complexity to its flavor. This is probably why it is most often found combined with other grapes.

This is also probably why it is difficult to find a truly good Sangiovese wine. This one doesn't hold a candle to other Sangiovese wines I've tried. It is extremely bland. No flavor except for a bit of dryness in the finish. Blah.

Final Words: No bueno.

Forest Ville - Cabernet Sauvignon @@@@@ (5 corks!)

2009-05-18T20:29:00.006-04:00

Retails: $5.99 (Total Wine)

My parents live up North and call me every weekend to discuss our lives---primarily weather related since I'm 2,000 miles south and blessed with continuously beautiful weather here in Southern Florida. This past weekend, my father, an avid mandolin player, had a "gig" which my mother attended. At the "gig" they ordered a glass of cabernet sauvignon. It was so good they "each had two glasses a piece!" They found out what the name of the wine was and the waiter kindly noted, "it's so cheap you'll want to buy a case of it." With a review like that, I had to try it for myself.

Total Wine, being the Target of all things alcohol-related, had it in stock so I had to try this out for myself. WOW. For $5.99, you can't beat this highly drinkable red table wine. Fruit flavor bursts onto your palette; swishing it around in your mouth, the robust flavor explodes on your taste buds and ends with a slight dryness on the back of the tongue. Perfection in a glass all for under $6.

Final Words: It's easily drinkable by itself but the flavors will stand-up against even the most sumptuous of meals. Tasty!

Beringer - Moscato @@@@ (4 corks)

2009-05-17T21:14:00.006-04:00

Retails : $8.99 (Total wine)

If you have a serious sweet tooth, this is the wine for you. Muscats are to wine as chocolate cake is to food---a decadent treat. Perfect as an aperitif or complimented by a simple assortment of cheese and fruit, Moscatos/Muscats are what I imagine the gods refer to when they talk of "ambrosia."

Like Riesling, muscat is an easy wine to acquire a taste for. It's a distincitive taste: a syrupy consistency, sweet honey, fruit or floral accents and just a hint of acidity. There is absolutely no dryness in this kind of wine.

For my personal tastes, this isn't the kind of wine that I could handle a lot of--say the entire bottle. One glass is plenty as the sweetness can be overpowering. The Beringer Moscato is an excellent choice when confronted with Muscats -- which can be expensive and come in tiny bottles. The initial taste is like an explosion in your mouth: sweet and flavorful, plenty of honey and apricot flavors. The aftertaste is a little too acidic for me, but for most habitual white wine drinkers, this won't come as a surprise. I wouldn't pair this (or any) muscat with a main course, it's much too sweet to work well with most meals. But, as a compliment to, or alone, as a dessert, it's perfect.

Final Words: Muscats are a MUST for people just starting to get their feet wet in the wine world. This is an excellent (and highly affordable) choice in this series.

Double Dog Dare - Merlot @@@@ (4 corks!)

2009-05-15T18:15:00.006-04:00

Retails: $2.99 (!!) (Total Wine)

Seriously, for the price, this is one heck of a deal!

It may not be fancy like many other wines I've got on here, judging by the name they are apparently aware of how inexpensively priced their wine happens to be. I took the dare, and darn it all, it's a super good value.

Rich, crimson color; bold, classic, merlot taste. The flavors edge on the berry-side of taste with the teeniest bit of dryness in the finish. It's good with food or without, it has enough flavor to hold up against a sumptuous repas.

Final words: I'm speechless, really. I can't get over the explosion of flavor in contrast with the price. I've had way more expensive merlots in the past that weren't nearly this good. Seriously, worth a shot.

Relax - Riesling (@@@@@ 5 corks!)

2009-05-13T16:19:00.009-04:00

Retails: $9.99 (Wal-Mart)

OK, so although this is pushing the "under ten" mark, this riesling deserves a ton of credit for being awesome.

My co-worker, we'll call her Pineapple (http://leimomia.com/), was asking for wine suggestions. She can't do reds so I really had to think hard about enjoyable whites for her to try---I'm not trying to be a red wine snob but unless it's fruity and refreshing, whites just don't do it for me.

Back in the day, when I just turned 21 and finally got to peruse the wine section, and not simply swallow whatever an "of age" wine drinker would give me, I started buying anything that "looked" good. Back then, I really didn't know the difference between different varietals of whites or reds so I just bought wine entirely based on how pretty the bottle was. This modus led me to purchasing my first bottle of riesling--the Relax Riesling.

Cloaked in a beautiful royal blue bottle with the word "Relax" inscribed down the side in san-serif, silver letters, this simple design caught my eye. Being fresh out of college and trying to figure out the rest of my life, this was EXACTLY what I wanted to do--relax.

After a couple hours in the fridge, I popped open the cork and sampled my very first taste of the Riesling from the pretty blue bottle while watching episodes of Sex n' the City on DVD--another guilty pleasure. Sweet, refreshing and unbelievably smooth, it was like drinking nectar. I'm pretty sure I drank the whole bottle in one sitting it was that good.

This wine is a FABULOUS "starter" wine for people who aren't necessarily wine drinkers to begin with. It has a crisp, smooth taste with a slight effervescent that makes it very drinkable. It's also a great wine to serve at a gathering or bring to the host of a party. It isn't overpowering so it goes great with just about any meal.

Final Word: If you're a newcomer to wines or just looking for something fresh tasting, this is a great purchase!

Obviously - Argentina Malbec @@@ (3 corks)

2009-05-12T21:09:00.006-04:00

Retails: $4.00 (Wal-Mart)

Good wine lurks in the most uncommon of places. You don't need to go to an expensive wine boutique to get something unique and unexpected.

I was doing my usual grocery shopping at Wal-Mart --- in this economy it's cheap and it happens to be right around the corner from my condo complex --- and I just happened upon this Malbec.

I'm a sucker for good advertising. I'm often caught buying a bottle because it has a good label or a clever name --- in this case, the name struck me...I've been told I'm somewhat of a smart ass. I thought, "what the hell, I might as well give it a shot." Malbec's aren't a common wine found at most Wal-Marts anyhow, so the novelty was intriguing as well.

To my surprise, it's not half bad! Hidden beneath the smirky title is actually a pretty decent wine. (As you may recall from a previous blog, Malbec is quickly becoming the unofficial "wine of Argentina")

Good, smooth taste with a kick of dryness in the finish. I'm tasting some rich blackberry flavor, the finish is delightfully dry with the essence of tannins, but not overpowering. The only part I don't like is the slightly sour aftertaste, but it's not overwhelming. It's a very drinkable red wine that holds up well against a hearty meal (we had parmesan encrusted chicken and rice with cheese). I wouldn't serve it at a dinner party, but, if you're looking for a cheap, every-day kind of red, this is a good find.

Final Word: Again, not a stellar Malbec but drinkable for sure!

Pacific Peak - Cabernet Sauvignon (@@ 2 corks)

2009-05-07T18:20:00.005-04:00

Retails: $4.99 (Total Wine)

Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most ubiquitous wine varietals in the world. Almost every region that wine is produced grows this varietal. Although common, it is a relatively new grape, a cross between Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon Blanc (hence Cabernet Sauvignon) said to have been hybridized in the 17th Century. Easy to grow due to its thick skin and hearty vine, Cabernet Sauvignon grapes do well in a variety of climates. This is probably why you'll find Cabernets from virtually all over the world.

If you like tannin flavor, you'll like this wine. Commonly, Cabernet Sauvignon can offer a bouquet of flavors, ranging from mint to even green bell pepper. But, this particular varietal is limited in flavor. From its smell all the way to the after taste, everything reeks of tannins. The dryness is almost unbareable for my personal taste.

Last Words: Eh, not terrible, but not necessarily something I'll buy again.

Gnarled Vine - Zinfandel @@@@ (4 corks)

2009-05-04T20:29:00.006-04:00

Retails : $7.99 (Total Wine)

One thing I love about wine stores is the aisle of employee recommendations. It's always filled with a nice mix of tastes, like a party with co-workers. There's always a couple wine snobs -- people who will only recommend expensive bottles of wine--like people who only buy full-price designer clothing. There are always a few recommendations that clearly come from people who don't particularly like wine and are probably more into beer or liquor but are forced to make recommendations. Then there's the wine enthusiast---who appreciates wine but understands that the flavor comes from the wine and not from the price.

Gnarled Vine came into my collection via the fantastic recommendation aisle at Total Wine---and, no, Total Wine does not pay me anything to write (though they should). I haven't experienced many red zinfandels, so I've been trying to expand my understanding and appreciation for this grape.

Zinfandels are not a melange, but an actual grape that supposedly came to America from Croatia and/or the "heel" of Italy's "boot"--there is much debate on this matter. For those of you who love a good wine buzz, Zinfandel is definitely your grape of choice. It can be fermented past normal levels of 15% alcohol by volume due to the grape's high sugar content. This grape's flavor in the finished product is highly influenced by the climate it came from---cooler regions will produce a fruitier flavor, while warmer regions will bring out the grape's peppery flavors.

This particular varietal is grown in California and the berry flavor is by far the dominant essence found in this wine. Unlike other zinfandels, however, it has quite a bit of body. You can truly taste the "grapey-ness," slightly reminiscent of varietals made from muscadine grapes (muscadines are used for wine making here in Florida). There's a nice bit of tannin flavor in the finish that is accentuated with a subtle dryness on the tongue.

Final Words: If you're not a fan of the sugary-sweet flavors of white zinfandel, you'll prefer red zinfandel. This one combines the best of both worlds.

Mendoza Station - Malbec @@@ (3 corks)

2009-04-28T18:25:00.007-04:00

Retails: $5.99 (Total Wine)

For those of you who enjoy reds with deep flavor (Merlot, Pinot Noir) I suggest that you try a malbec. Rich with tannins, this red varietal is a wine to be savored. Malbec, an actual grape and not a blend, originated in France and later became popular in Argentina, where this wine originates.

The Mendoza Station Malbec is a decent wine for the price. Although not my favorite malbec, it's a decent introduction to this varietal. Rumored to be quickly becoming the "national varietal" this Argentine Malbec is a deep purple-crimson. Tannins are the flavor that resonate the most within this wine. Tannins are quite present in the smell and from the initial flavors enveloping your taste buds. If you love tannins, you'll love this wine.

For you wine neophytes out there who may not be hip to the lingo (which is cool, I don't claim to be a pro, just a fan), "tannin" is an organic compound that causes the dry, puckery flavor in wines. It is present in the skins, seeds and stem of the grape which are fermented along with the pulp in many varietals, thus causing the tannin flavor to come out in certain wines. This is particularly true with reference to the skins which are fermented with the pulp to extract color. You may recognize the term from the chemical used to treat leather. If you're new to the wine world, you may find wine with tannin flavor difficult to drink. Try pairing it with a savory steak or some other dish that provides a very robust taste in the palette (Italian dishes with rich meat sauces, for example).

Final Words: If you try this Malbec and hate it, don't let it discourage you from trying other Malbecs.

Rex-Goliath - Cabernet Sauvignon @@@ (3 corks)

2009-04-26T20:16:00.005-04:00

Retails: $4.97 (Wal-Mart)

This is a popular wine whenever you order wine at any ordinary bar. It's a pretty standard, very drinkable red that covers all the grounds---Gorgeous red color, oak smell, nice sweet start with a hint of dryness in the finish. I'm about to enjoy it with one of my favorite simple meals--whole wheat pasta and sauce.

My parents were in their early forties when I was a child. It was the 80's and light beer was all the fashion. I can remember my mother cooking dinner with a can of Coors Light or Natural Light popped open. She always had a drink while she was cooking and often a bowl of chips n' salsa to accompany. Somewhere in my pre-teens, my parents made the switch from beer to wine. I have absolutely no idea why. My mother, being Quebecoise and of European decent, always drank wine in restaurants, but for some reason drank beer at home. Was it an effort to adopt American culture? Was it cheaper? Did it just go better with chips?

Somewhere in time, the taste for wine grew within my parents and influenced my passion for wine. I don't dislike beer -- I always keep a few Corona Lights in the fridge for guests and also for myself when the Florida heat gets a little too intense for wine drinking...but wine will always hold a special place in my heart. For one, it has helped my inherited cholesterol go down ten points (hardy har har, I know bad joke...but it's true!) I have cocktail hour every day when I come home. He prefers a rum n' coke, I prefer wine. It's a ritual that we enjoy together.

But truly, what strikes me most about wine is that every time I drink it, it holds something new to experience. Even within the same bottle, the wine changes over time and no two feel exactly the same. In a world of globalization, where there's an intense mantra of "sameness" in everything we encounter (think how disturbingly similar every McDonalds is)---wine is affected by weather, by soil, by harvest and there's something comforting, natural and "green" about that.

Gumdale - Merlot @@@ (3 corks)

2009-04-14T18:50:00.006-04:00

Retails: $6.99 (Total Wine)

After having so much success with Gumdale's Cabernet Sauvignon, I decided to give Merlot a try. Surprisingly, Merlot wine was the first I was introduced to and it has remained one of my favorites. Frequently, it's the first variety I'll try within a particular brand. I decided to try this one while performing a ritual I try and do weekly: a bubble bath. Not just any bubble bath, I always drop a Lush "bath bomb" or "bubble bar" into the tub, and soak while drinking a glass of wine and reading The Week magazine. No, none of these companies are paying me to promote them! A little Lush, politics, and wine make for a wonderful combination.

This Merlot, however, didn't strike me as anything particularly out of the ordinary. If you like Merlot, you will like this one. It has a smooth flavor that contains a hint of spice. The one thing about this glass that I'm not particularly keen on is the slightly sour after taste coupled with the dryness.

Final Words: Not distinctive but not bad.

Hazlit Vineyards- Red Cat @@@@@ (5 corks)

2009-04-08T20:01:00.006-04:00

Retails: $8.99 (Total Wine)

I'm usually an absolute skeptic when it comes to white wine. I'm not quite certain why. I find that more often than not, they are flavorless or extremely acidic with very little complexity. Very few have ever knocked my socks off enough to polish off a whole bottle in one sitting (that's my "excellent wine" barometer).

I also used to date a guy who loved white wines---cheap whites. He once showed up at my house with every bottle of white wine Arbor Mist and Gallo makes (and yes, for the record, Gallo does make some decent wines but their whites are like drinking rubbing alcohol). He also had this annoying habit of opening a bottle, sampling, and re-corking it and moving on to another. I was forced to choke down sip after sip of awful white wine all for the sake of love. Needless to say, the guy is a goner and I'm left with a house full of disgusting half-drank bottles of cheap white wine. At least cheap reds make excellent Sangria...recipe to follow...

ANYWHO, so, Total Wine always features a wine every month and this month it happened to be Red Cat, a ruby red wine with a clever label that sparkled through a clear bottle. I'm a sucker for good design and anything sparkly. Total Wine has yet to lead me astray with their monthly wine picks, so I decided to take my chances and try a bottle. To my delight, it was fruity, refreshing and beautifully light. This is an excellent summer wine---when the weather gets so hot that red wine makes you sweat bullets, pick up a bottle of this and enjoy the cooling sensation of this crisp pick. Living in Florida, this is an excellent all-the-time wine. The color is exquisite, almost the same color as grenadine. You'll taste pomegranate, cherries and even the pucker

roxy.cape's "Bad Red Wine Sangria" Recipe

Ingredients:
- 1 bottle of bad red (or super dry red such as a Burgundy)
- 2 oranges, 1 sliced, 1 juiced
- 2 green apples, sliced
- lime juice
-lemon juice
- 1/4 cup brandy
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup seltzer water

Mix all of the ingredients together in a giant pitcher with a wooden spoon. Mix until the sugar has disolved and the fruits are well mixed. Store in the fridge, serve over ice. Ole!

Oak Leaf - Cabernet Sauvignon @@@@ (4 corks)

2009-04-06T20:22:00.006-04:00

Retails : $2.97 (Wal-Mart)

This is probably one of the cheapest wines I have ever purchased and one of the most surprising cheap-wine buys! I remember about 3 years ago, Barefoot was one of the cheapest brands you could buy at most major grocery stores, retailing for under $6 on average. Now, with its gained popularity due to its cheap price, it has risen in price to about $8 on average. I'm almost convinced this is the case with Oak Leaf.

For a wine priced at basement prices, Oak Leaf is a hearty. My father, quite the wine enthusiast, enjoyed a glass with me over dinner and was astounded at this flavorful varietal with an unbelievable price. I'm less enthusiastic about other varietals that this brand makes. The cabernet, however, is a great every-day kind of red. Very drinkable, slight dryness in the finish, but overall it’s every bit as tasty as its higher-priced brothers. When you break it down, that's about 75 cents a GLASS!

Final Word: Cheap in price, but not cheap in taste!

Pacific Peak - Merlot @@@ (3 corks)

2009-04-02T19:51:00.006-04:00

Retail: $6.99 (Total Wine)

Pacific Peak Merlot is your classic California merlot. It needs time to breathe, a swift swirl of the glass, and a little swishing in your mouth, and its flavors are fully delivered. Not for the novice wine drinker, this wine requires a certain fondness of earthy flavors and dryness. The dryness playfully dances on the tip of your tongue and slowly makes its way back to the roof of your mouth. The dryness resonates but is not a disadvantage to this wine: slight, not too hindering to other flavors. You will enjoy the earthy tones of cinnamon and bergamont hidden within the dryness of this classic merlot.

Final Words: Enjoyable, but nothing I'd keep in stock on a regular basis.

Solestium-Salice Solentino Reserva 2005 @@@@@ (5 corks!)

2009-03-26T12:42:00.008-04:00

Retails: $6.99 (Total Wine)

I've been on an Italian Red kick lately. The Solestium Salice Salentino is a dynamite wine. Named for a small municipality in the "heel of the boot," this wine is a wonderful alternative to Chianti. Unbelievably smooth but full-bodied, I served it at a dinner party and it was extremely well-received. It's a very drinkable red, smooth oak taste that lifts into your nostrils. It finishes with the most delicate bit of dryness. This is a superb wine alone or as a compliment to cheese---to be honest I drank it with a shake n' bake pork chop and it was equally satisfying. As you know, I have tried a multitude of wines and although many are unimpressive or with no extraordinary definitive character, this is truly a remarkable wine that deserves commendation for its exquisite flavor from start to finish. As good wines should, the flavor only improves over time. It was just as tasty the next day as it was when I popped the cork.

Gumdale - Cabernet Sauvignon @@@@ (4 Corks)

2009-03-23T19:01:00.007-04:00

Retails: $4.99

Gumdale's Cabernet Sauvignon is a bargain that doesn't sacrifice on flavor! Deep crimson in color, this Australian varietal comes from a vineyard surrounded by eucalyptus trees. Oddly, some of the crispness of eucalyptus comes through in the wine. The earthy aroma greets your nostrils with a full-bodied texture of smells. The initial taste is crisp and tingles on the taste buds, finishing with a smoke-y, slightly dry favor that politely lingers on the tongue without overpowering.

Final Word: DEEEELISH! @@@@ (4 corks)

Vecchia Cantina - Chianti @@ (2 corks)

2009-03-19T19:44:00.008-04:00

Retails: $6.99 (Total Wine)

Have you ever been subject to elitism when buying cheap wine? I know I have. When I moved here from Maine three years ago, I remember shopping at the local grocery store, perusing the selection of cheap wines. A red headed fellow kept eyeing me until he finally came over and said in a thick Italian accent: "Cheap wine! Ugh! eeets like drinkeeng kemikals! eet eez a deesgrace to wine!" I was being harassed by a random Italian man, in Bradenton, Florida! In a Publix! First off, if you're going to be a wine snob, why are you buying wine at the local grocery store?? Secondly, why are you living in Bradenton? (Bradenton, although lovely, is by no means as fancy as its sister city, Sarasota.)

Mind you, in Maine thrifty-ness was not only applauded but expected in a state that is primarily rural with no major cities to speak of--I lived in a suburb of its "major city" (Portland) which has a population of approximately 250,000. There are more cows in Maine than people, no joke. The thought of paying more than $20 for a bottle of wine is virtually unheard of for locals---tourists, however, well...that's another story. I grew up in a semi-European household, so it's not like I haven't experienced expensive wine but I was taught early on not to confuse expensive with "good," hence, my passion for cheap wine. Thankfully, places like Total Wine make it exquisitely easy to be thrifty on your wine purchases.

So, on to the review! Chianti will always hold a sacred place in my heart. One of my dearest friends and I used to split a bottle of Chianti and watch chick flicks when we were fresh out of college. I distincitly remember us being unable to uncork a bottle of Rufino Chianti which ended up with us on the floor, me holding the bottle with both hands and her attempting to pull with all her mite. A cork-ridden bottle ensued. Hilarious. Vecchia Cantina Chianti lacks the characteristic immediate sweetness I associate with a Chianti. Although easily drinkable, like most Chiantis, this one has a pucker to its flavor. The after effect is dry, to the point of turning your tongue like sand paper. Normally, a little dryness doesn't bother my taste buds but when you're in the mood for Chianti, this just won't do.

Final Word: It's drinkable, but not memorable. If you seek a Chianti, try a bottle of Rufino instead.

Strada - Montepulciano D'Abruzzo @@@@ (4 corks)

2009-03-17T21:12:00.006-04:00

Retails: $6.99 (Total Wine)

This 2007 Italian red (no shit, right?) is incredibly smooth. Smoother than a Chianti and without the tartness of a Sangiovese, Montepulciano D'Abruzzo delivers a tasty varietal that is extremely drinkable. Let the wine breathe slightly before sipping. I found that this one only gets better with time---like a true wine should. From the time you allow the first delectable sip through your lips, your palette is instantly hit with a rush of flavor--it will tingle the front taste buds with a sweetness that will turn to dryness moments later. But it's a slight dryness that allows the fullness of the flavor to linger in your mouth. I consumed my (first) glass with a pasta carbonara which was a fantastic pairing. The smoke-y flavor of the bacon was heightened by the flavorful, somewhat dry experience of this wine. Delicious!

Final Words: Smooth and delightful, never overpowering, perfect when paired with a flavorful dish.

Pinot Evil - Pinot Noir @@ (2 corks)

2009-03-13T18:16:00.005-04:00

Retails: $6.99 (Total Wine)

Pinot Noir has enjoyed a surge in popularity due in part to the movie Sideways where the lead character, played by Paul Giamatti, is a wine enthusiast who has a particular affection for pinot. I, for one, am a huge pinot noir fan and am always dazzled by the array of flavors pinot noir can contain.

I'm a sucker for good design and clever titles (clearly!) and frequently I am swayed to buy a wine with a pretty label. Aside from the fact that this bottle has a totally kickass name, and also includes the famous see no evil monkeys on the label, this is a relative harsh pinot noir to enjoy. Minimal scent masks an extremely dry tasting wine. The initial flavor is smooth, but the after taste comes on strong and abrupt leaving you with a throat so dry you'll be begging for water. There really isn't much complexity to the flavor of this wine, actually, sort of tastes like chemicals to be honest.

Final Word: If you love dry wines, this one's for you. For me personally, I'm not going to be able to manage more than a glass' worth. @@ (2 corks)

Carlo Rossi - Burgandy @@@ (3 corks)

2009-03-11T15:42:00.008-04:00

Retails - $9.99 / gallon (Total Wine)

I used to be a part of a traveling video crew who ventured to San Antonio, Texas on a week-long trip. During our exploration of the famous River Walk, we followed our ears one evening to a tiny Italian Restaurant called Delores del Rio that featured live jazz music nightly. We were thrilled, for one, to find a restaurant serving something other than Tex-Mex, and second, this place had a certain off-kilter charm that drew us back night after night. Delores del Rio was the kind of hangout where all of the furniture was mismatched and dimly lit by 70's style lamps found at a garage sale. (Photo: My fellow blogger Amon Focus )The clientelle looked more like New Yorkers than Texans. Tiny circular tables had candles protruding from empty wine bottles, they drizzled candle wax all over the bottle and table. The food was incredible and the restaurant was about the size of your living room. My co-workers and I had found our "hang" in San Antonio. Plus, the house red was delicious. So, delicious, that it prompted us to ask, after three glasses a piece, what the wine was.

The waiter stammered and said "oh, it's some bulk wine we buy." We persisted until finally he admitted that the "bulk wine" was in fact none other than JUG wine---Carlo Rossi to be exact. The funny part was, they were passing off the Carlo Rossi Burgundy as a "Chianti" and pricing it at $7 per glass! We were completely fooled.

This Burgundy/Chianti is undefined, undoubtedly a mix of a few grapes, hence why this restaurant was able to pass it off for something other than true Burgundy. Having none of the signature brusqueness that Burgundy possesses, this wine was extremely drinkable. Very light, fruity, with a touch of acidity, the wine went down easily with our Italian fare. The moral of the story is, although we may turn up our noses at jug wine from time to time, there are in fact some good varieties out there that are worth a shot. And for under $10 per GALLON, throw a party and fool your friends with your bulk "Chianti."

Final Word: Totally drinkable especially if you're pinching pennies @@@ (3 corks)

Misterio Malbec - @@@ (3 Corks)

2009-03-10T18:43:00.006-04:00

Retail: $7.99 (Total Wine)

Not for the faint of heart, the Misterio Malbec is a full-bodied, robust wine. Almost smoke-y in smell, this wine delivers on flavor. Aged in oak for four years, this particular malbec starts with a tartness that transforms into a dry finish that lingers on the tongue well after your final sip. I'm not entirely sure what someone would pair with this--- perhaps something Italian, it has a very commanding taste that deserves every bit of your attention.

One thing is for certain, that signature wine buzz that we all associate with reds is quite prevalent in this tasty varietal. So, I urge you to drink (with caution). I personally think it is best paired with a good book---or trashy gossip mag--curled up on the couch on a cold winter's day.

Final Word: Not for wine neophytes. A soloist, it should be enjoyed alone in flavor. @@@ (3 corks)

Rosa Bianca - Pinot Noir @@@@ (4 corks)

2009-03-10T15:20:00.007-04:00

Retails : $7.99 (Total Wine)

From the moment you pick up this delightfully pea green bottle with the elegant white rose on the label, you know you're in for a classy glass that will bring a burst of surprise to your palette. Unlike many Pino Noirs in this same price range, this one hasn't a hint of dryness. Very smooth and almost velvety on the tongue, the Rosa Bianca Pinot Noir is an exceptionally good buy for its price point.

The fragrance is bold and full, the viscosity of the wine is fluid but not thin. The flavor contains elements of spice --perhaps cinnamon --- with a finish that has a hint of cherry. This is an extremely drinkable wine -- even my boyfriend who happens to be a die-hard Captain n' Coke guy found this to be a delightful find. I practically consumed the entire bottle in one sitting. The flavor does become drier as the bottle breathes so I would suggest drinking this one in one sitting to keep the fruitiness intact.

Final Word: Excellent and well worth the price. Four enthusiastic corks of approval! @ @ @ @

This is only a test

2009-01-21T11:55:00.001-05:00

I'm almost embarassed to admit that this forray into the world of blogs is directly influenced by a New Years Resolution. I've resolved to find a creative outlet for all the musings, mindlessness, and mess inside this head of mine. Who knows if the resolution with stick, as seldom they do, but for the time being I'm ecstatic at the idea of creating a safe haven for all the jingling inside my skull. In case this should happen to be my final post -- I suppose I should leave you, internet world, with some thoughts--my one opportunity to express my words of infinite wisdom. (hardy har har)

If it works it isn't work.
The moment you stop caring what the world thinks of you, your life will improve by a substantial margin.
Live as if each day was your last.
Red wine, a hot bath, and essential oils calm the savage beast.
Radiohead is the best band ever.
You are imperfect and that's ok.
There may be no more perfect food on the planet than pasta.
A teaspoon of apple cidar vinegar in a glass of water cures the bloat like no other.

enjoy.