Wine Appraiser

I just read an article in Wine Enthusiast that Riesling is one of the fastest-growing wine varieties on the market. According to the article, people are looking for crisp-bright wines; of course, Riesling fits that bill. Our first wine says it pairs well with chicken, fish, and spicy cuisines. Nero D'Avola is known for its dark fruit-driven flavors, full-bodied, and medium to medium-high tannins. In addition to the dark fruit, may get flavors of licorice, tobacco, and pepper.Meritage is a wine blended with the Bordeaux grape varieties, typically from outside of Bordeaux. The five Bordeaux grapes are Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and Petite Verdot. Pronounced like “heritage”. Tonight, we try these three wines from Trader Joe's.2023 Emma Reichart Dry Riesling, purchased for $5.99. Aromas of apricot, honeysuckle, citrus, minerality, and green apple. This wine comes from Germany with 11.5% alcohol.2022 Epicuro Nero D'Avola is from Sicilia DOP. Trader Joe's had this wine for $5.99. Fermented and aged in stainless steel. It has 13.7 g/L of residual sugar making this an off-dry wine. Reverse Wine Snob says aromas of red berry and cherry cough drop fruit, with touches of licorice and spice. Less complex but still a very affordable example of Nero d'Avola. It has 12.5% alcohol.2022 Roustabout Meritage from Paso Robles, California. Purchased for $7.99. Aromas of dark fruit with cola, tobacco, and pepper. Many reviews mention a jammy or over ripe fruit taste. 13.6% alcohol. This wine has 44% Merlot, 39% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Malbec and 2% Cabernet Franc. Next week we are learning more about blind tasting. We are also going to reminisce about the 70's.

Viognier is a full-bodied white wine. Primary flavors of tangerine, peach, mango, honeysuckle, and rose. Cooler climate styles have greater citrus and floral traits with more acid and crispness. These wines are typically aged in stainless steel. Warmer climate Viognier is barrel aged, goes through malolactic fermentation, and therefore has richer tastes such as apricot, rose, and vanilla. These wines have less acidity and more creaminess. Viognier has become more popular in recent years with more plantings in California. Languedoc in the South of France is located south of the Rhone Valley and stretches to the Mediterranean Sea. It is west of Provence and the French Riviera along the Mediterranean and extends west into the Pyrenees Mountains. Tonight, we try these three wines from Trader Joe's. 2023 Honey Moon Viognier, purchased for $5.99. Aromas of peach, apricot, and honeysuckle. Flavors of honey, mango, and nectar. Floral scents, lush, full-bodied. This wine comes from California. 13.5% alcohol. Pairs with many cheeses, fish, white meats, and spicy foods. Hard to find much information, but two websites said it does not have residual sugar, even though it has a sweet taste. Many reviews also said it is a great summer sipper all by itself. Both of us scored this wine a 2 out of 5. 2024 Carayon La Rose is from the Languedoc in the South of France. Trader Joe's had this wine for $6.99. It has strawberry and fruit aromas and tastes. It is crisp yet ripe. It has 12.5% alcohol. Denise scored a 2. Dennis scored a 2023 Rain Cloud red blend from Napa, California. Purchased for $6.99. Aromas of blackberry, cherry, and currant, with hints of vanilla and spice. Many reviews mention a jammy taste. 14.5% alcohol. According to the Blonde Voyage Nashville, this wine is made with 50% Merlot, 30% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 20% Petite Syrah. Denise scored a 3 and Dennis scored a 2.Next week we will continue our tasting of Trader Joe's wines.

I had never done a ten-year vertical wine-tasting and didn't know what to expect. A vertical tasting is done with the same wine variety from the same winery and maybe even from the same vineyards, but for different years.However, if you get the chance, take it. I was very impressed. You can taste how the wine changes over time, and with information regarding the growing conditions for each year, you can also taste how the weather affects the wine.Stone Hill Winery in Hermann, Missouri, is one of the best in the state. Norton is the Missouri State Grape. Norton is also called Cynthiana which is the State Grape in Arkansas.Because of its acid and tannins, Norton wine can age well. It is known for its flavors of plum, tart cherries, blackberries, and earthiness and spice.Tonight, we talk about the Ten-Year Norton Vertical Wine Tasting that we did at Stone Hill Winery. Next week we are hunting for a great Trader Joe's wine. We will try to describe the three wines we taste and help you decide which wine you need to try next. We will be tasting: 2023 Emma Reichart Dry Riesling, purchased for $5.99. Aromas of apricot and grapefruit. It is crisp and dry with notes of mineral, almonds, and herbs. This wine comes from Germany. 11.5% alcohol. 2022 Roustabout Meritage from Paso Robles. Trader Joe's had this wine for $7.99. Meritage is a Bordeaux Red Blend made up of 44% Merlot, 39% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Malbec, and 2% Cabernet Franc. The bottle says silky tannins. Notes of black cherries, blueberries, and cigar box. Some hints of dark chocolate and expresso. 13.6% alcohol.2022 Epicuro Nero D'Avola from Sicilia DOC. Purchased for $5.99. Aromas of blackberry, black currant, forest floor, and pepper. RWS gives it a 7.0 rating and recommends BUY.

I have never considered these two wines to be similar. However, they have many similarities. Both are full-body, fruit-forward red wines with medium to medium-high acidity and similar alcohol levels. Both have plum and blueberry fruit flavors. Subtle differences do exist between the two. Malbec has vanilla, sweet tobacco, and cocoa flavors. Syrah has milk chocolate, tobacco, and green peppercorn. Syrah can also have gamy notes. Tonight, we are comparing:2018 Zuccardi Q Malbec from Mendoza, Argentina. I purchased this from Costco for $14.60. It has a deep purple color with bluish reflections. Intense aromas of red and black fruit, raisins, dried figs and blueberry jam. The aging in French oak brings notes of snuff and chocolate. Soft and silky with sweet and firm tannins. Long finish. Robert Parker 92 Decanter Magazine 92. 2021 K Vine Syrah from Washington. I purchased this wine from Costco for $9.99. Aromas of dark berry fruit, black pepper, and a little smoked meat plus some mint and other assorted spices. The wine tastes rather meaty, smooth mouthfeel and similar flavors to its nose. Be sure to give it plenty of time to breathe.Next week we will report on our 10-year Norton tasting, as well as do a deep dive into the Norton wine grape.

I had never tried a dessert wine till last year. I must admit they can be delicious and a great alternative to coffee. Vignoles is a high acid and high sugar white grape. Because of its high sugar content, it can be made into a late-harvest style sweet white, but is also produced into a dry and off-dry white wine. It is moderate in winter hardiness. Port wine is a Portuguese fortified wine produced in the Douro Valley of northern Portugal. It is a sweet wine, and can be either a white or red wine. It can also be produced using two different processes. First is a “reductive” ageing process where the wine is aged in a sealed container and not exposed to air. Because of this, there is no exposure to oxygen and no evaporation. This produces a wine that is smoother on the palate and less tannic. The second style is matured in wooden barrels, and known as “oxidative” aging. Because is has some minimal exposure to oxygen and some evaporation, the wine that remains is slightly more viscous. Our second wine is not a true "Port" wine, but is made using the same grapes and process.Tonight, we are comparing: 2021 Stone Hill Winery Late Harvest Vignoles. I purchased this wine at the winery for $24. This is an estate-bottled wine from Hermann, Missouri. They report it had 29-degree Brix at harvest and the wine is bottled with 12.6% residual sugar. The wine has aromas of honey, peach, and floral, and has 9.7% alcohol. This wine was awarded 90 points in the 2024 Decanter World Wine Awards. Our second wine is a non-vintage Nightjar from Cooper's Hawk Winery and Restaurants. The wine pairs perfectly with chocolate or rich cheese. It has the flavors of black cherry, blueberry, dried fig, toasted pecan, and cocoa bean. It has a long finish with hints of fruit preserves and has 18% alcohol. This is a port-style wine made with a blend of Tempranillo, Touriga Nacional, Tinta Cao, Bastardo, Alvarelhao, and Souzao. All are traditionally used in Port wines. Part way through the fermentation process, brandy is added to the wine, which kills the yeast and raises the alcohol content. It also leaves residual sugar in the wine. Port-style wines are sweet and fortified wines. Nightjar cannot be called a Port because it is not made in the Duoro Valley, a region in northern Portugal. The wine cost $24.99. Next week we will compare a Malbec wine from Argentina with a Washington State Syrah.

Petite Pearl is a newer red hybrid grape. The grape was developed in Minnesota and has been available for less than twenty years. Regardless, some sources say it is one of the most planted grapes in the central northern states. According to the limited information available on Petite Pearl, its juice has a similar makeup to the common European varieties.It makes a dark and heavier body red wine with dark fruit flavors. We are drinking the 2022 Soldier Creek Petite Pearl. We purchased this wine at the winery for $21.00. A virtual wine tasting of this wine can be seen online at:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VsdL8TKLNyII hope you will give it a try, we both loved it.Next week we will be having our second dessert wine show and will be tasting.2021 Stone Hill Winery Late Harvest Vignoles.Coopers Hawk NightJar.

Pinot Gris and Pinot Blanc are both mutations of Pinot Noir. First, let's look at Pinot Gris, also called Pinot Grigio in Italy. These two wines come from the same grape. Pinot Gris originated from Burgundy in the Pinot Noir fields. It can be hard to tell the difference between the Pinot Gris plants and Pinot Noir and they were sometimes used in the Pinot Noir to soften tannins and add acid to the wine. It is now mostly grown in the Alsace region in France. Pinot Gris is a soft, perfumed, and higher body wine than most whites. Pinot Grigio has a lighter body and is normally crisp with high acid.Pinot Blanc is called Pinot Blanco in Italy. It is a full-body aromatic white wine. Because of its fuller body, it is often confused with Chardonnay. It is more popular in Germany where it is called Weissburgunder.Chenin Blanc is one of the most versatile white grapes in the world. It can be made into a sweet white wine, wide range of dry white wines, and also sparkling wines. South Africa is the capital of Chenin Blanc where it is their number one grape variety. It is an aromatic light-bodied high-acid white wine. Can be barrel aged to add to its richness and complexity. Light styles will have lime and tarragon flavors. Heavier styles have peach, nectarine, and honey flavors. Tonight, we are comparing: 2021 Arendsig Chenin Blanc Inspirational Batch 3 purchased at Wall to Wall Wine for $29.99.Next week we will explore a new hybrid grape variety "Petite Pearl". We will be tasting a 2022 Soldier Creek Winery Petite Pearl.

What is a GSM blend and why is it called a Rhone Blend? The G, S and M stand for Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvedre. The Rhone Valley is the original home of GSM blends and of course the reason why it is sometimes referred to as a Rhone Blend. The Rhone Valley has two parts: the Northern Rhone Valley is known for its steep-sloping vineyards, where Syrah is produced. The Southern Rhone is a much larger region and lacks the steep slopes of the north. This is where the GSM blends are produced. Probably the most famous area in the Southern Rhone is Chateauneuf-du-Pape. Wine Folly says these wines will have more red fruit flavors with notes of herbs. While, GSM blends from California or Australia will have darker fruits with notes of clove.Tonight, we are enjoying two GSM Blended wines including:2019 Delas Freres Cotes du Rhone Saint-Esprit purchased at Costco for $13. It has delicate tannins which is unique for the Côtes-du-Rhône appellation. The nose is classic syrah, with berry fruit, violet and licorice.2018 Skylark Wine Company Red Belly Rhone Blend. This wine was purchased from Wine Styles for $17. It is juicy and creamy black fruits plum, blackberry and crushed cherry fruit coat the entire palate, with intricately woven tannins.We scored both wines a 3 out of 5. Denise would buy both again. I would pass on both. Next week we will explore the differences between Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, and Chenin Blanc.

Fume is a French word meaning a smoke-like vapor or substance. It makes many people think of Pouilly-Fume, the famous Loire Valley wine and region. Robert Mondovi coined the name Fume Blanc in the 1960s. He decided to differentiate his Sauvignon Blanc by aging it in oak. He believed the toasted oak barrels gave the wine a smokey character, thus the term Fume was used. However, United States wine law does not differentiate Sauvignon Blanc and Fume Blanc. Therefore, you can buy a non-oaked Fume Blanc. Although the wine's popularity has declined in the United States, Mondovi still makes it using the same 1945-planted vines. These vines are believed to be the oldest Sauvignon Blanc vines in the United States.Tonight, we are enjoying two California Zinfandels including: 2023 Ferrari-Carano Fume Blanc. This wine was purchase from Costco for $10.99. Comes from the North Coast region of California. 70% came from stainless steel tanks and 30% from older French oak barrels. It has aromas of pineapple, mango, peach, lemon grass, and lychee. Flavors of ripe fruit and crisp citrus, yellow peach, apricot, pear, lime zest, and lemon. Crisp with a subtle oak character. We both gave this a 4 out of 5 rating and would buy again.Next week we will compare a Rhone GSM blend versus a California (Rhone blend). 2019 Delas Freres Cotes du Rhone Saint-Esprit purchased at Costco for $13. 2018 Skylark Wine Company Red Belly Rhone Blend. This wine was purchased from Wine Styles for $17.

Zinfandel has been in America since the early to mid 1800s and was once the most popular wine grape in California. It is known for its old vine wines.In fact, in the past it was a victim of its own popularity, and became known as a common cheaper wine. A lot of Zinfandel juice kits were sold during prohibition which also hurt its reputation.However, in the 1980s and 1990s it gained in sales and acreage because of the popularity of White Zinfandel. Currently Zinfandel is the third most planted wine grape in California behind Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir and just ahead of the fourth most planted wine grape Merlot. California is the world leader in Zinfandel. Most popular regions in California are Sonoma, Napa, Paso Robles, and the Sierra Foothills. Many old vine Zinfandels are also found in Lodi. Other regions includes the Languedoc, South Africa, and Australia. Additionally, Puglia, Italy, grows the same grape, where it is called Primitivo., and in Croatia it is called Tribidrag.Zinfandel is known as a medium-body, higher-alcohol wine. According to “Wine Folly,” it is commonly produced into two types of red wine: a lighter style with lower alcohol and flavors of raspberry, rose petal, spice cake, sage, and black pepper, and a richer style with higher alcohol and flavors of blackberry, cinnamon, caramel, jam, chocolate, and smoky tobacco. Tonight, we are enjoying two California Zinfandels including: 2019 Kirkland Signature Old Vine Zinfandel. Purchased at Costco for $9.99. This wine comes from Sonoma, CA. 2019 Seghesio Family Vineyards Zinfandel. This wine was purchased at Costco for $16.99. The wine comes from Sonoma County, CA. Next week we will learn about Fume Blanc.2023 Ferrari-Carano Fume Blanc. This wine was purchase from Costco for $10.99.

Tonight I have secretly selected a wine for Denise and she has chosen one for me. In the show, we will discuss the blind-tasting process. After discovering the true identity of each wine, we will discuss the characteristics of each.Blind-tasting involves the 5 S's.SeeSwirlSniffSipStateYou can get a “Deductive Tasting Form” from the Court of Master Sommeliers online. https://www.mastersommeliers.org/Tonight, we are blinding tasting two wines including:2021 Chianti Classico Basilica Cafaggio Vendemmia. This wine was purchased at Costco for $9.89. Cherry and milk Chocolate with notes of soil, freshly cut grass and herbs. Tastes of strawberry and cherry with some salty, crushed stone, and grassy-herbal soil. Relaxed tannins. The Wine Enthusiast rated this wine a 90 and also a Best Buy. We both liked this wine and gave it a score of 3. We would both buy again.2020 The Herdsman Cabernet Sauvignon, from Zamora, California. I purchased this wine from WineStyles for around $22.00. Flavors of black cherry, plum, maple and mocha. Maybe not the most complex wine, but very tasty and easy drinking. We both scored it a 4 and will purchase again.Next week we will learn about Zinfandel.2019 Kirkland Signature, Old Vine Zinfandel. This wine was purchased from Costco for $9.99, and comes from Sonoma County, California.2019 Seghesio Zinfandel. This wine was also purchased from Costco for $16.99. The wine comes from Sonoma County.

Tonight we are testing the differences between a French Sancerre and a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc.Sancerre is one of the most famous French white wine regions, and the top region for Sauvignon Blanc. According to the Oxford Companion to Wine, it has quadrupled its output during the past 50 years. It is known for its bright and complex wines, and for pairing with locally made goat cheeses. On the other side is the Wairau Valley, New Zealand. Sauvignon Blanc has made New Zealand famous for wine around the world. New Zealand is known for producing bright and fresh wines. Tonight, we are tasting a: 2023 Wairau River Sauvignon Blanc purchased from Costco for $11.99. The wine is produced in Marlborough, New Zealand. This wine scored an 85 from the Wine Enthusiast. They called it green and a touch underripe; with sulfuric, onion, lime, and passion fruit aromas. Tastes are better with tangy lime zest and a slightly chalky texture. Acids keep it fresh.2022 Domaine des Cotes Blanches Sancerre purchased from Costco for $23.99. Sancerre comes from the Loire Valley, France. I've read that Sancerre is Taylor Swift's favorite wine. The vineyard practices organic farming. They don't use pumps in the winery and rely on gravity systems exclusively. The name “Cotes Blanches” pays homage to the stony white soils gracing the slopes of Sancerre. It has a color of Pale yellow with notes of light flint, plum, peach, and citrus fruit. Round with a nice mineral finish. Pairs with light appetizers, grilled fish, poultry, and goat cheese.Next week, we will have a blind tasting, so the wines will be unknown. Join us to see if we can guess what we are drinking. We will also learn about the wines and their characteristics.

Tonight we are tasting another hybrid wine. Chambourcin is a French-American hybrid.According to the website Pinot Days https://www.pinotdays.com/chambourcin-complete-guide/ Chambourcin has zero foxy taste or aromas, grows well in hot and humid environments, medium tannins, and high acids. It says it is most similar to a Merlot or Cabernet Franc. It is most popular in Australia, Canada, and the central United States. Flavors of plum, black cherry, herbs, black pepper, chocolate, and some herbaceous notes.Normally is oak aged to tone down the acid and add complexity. Known for pairing with pizza and enchiladas.Tonight, we are tasting a: 2019 Stone Hill Chambourcin purchased at the Winery https://stonehillwinery.com/ for $20.00. It was a Governor's Cup Winner in Missouri. It is fermented on the skins and then aged for one year in French and American oak barrels. It has 13.2% alcohol and 0.2% residual sugar. It has earthy and herbal aromas with notes of dark fruit and chocolate. Fresh acidity and soft tannins. Pairs well with grilled meats, pastas in rich red sauces, and ripe cheeses such as Brie or Camembert.Next week we will have a challenge show and compare a Sancerre to a Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand: 2023 Wairau River Sauvignon Blanc purchased from Costco for $11.99. Comes from Marlborough, New Zealand. 2022 Domaine des Cotes Blanches Sancerre purchased from Costco for $23.99. Sancerre comes from the Loire Valley, France. I've read that Sancerre is Taylor Swift's favorite wine.

Tonight we are tasting our first Iowa wine on the show. We just tasted this wine for the first time last week and enjoyed it immensely. Petite Amie is French for “Little Friend”. I'm told it often refers to your little girlfriend.This dry white wine has fruit and floral aromas. There is also a hint of melon on the nose. The wine is aged in Neutral oak (barrels that are not being used for the first time), adding subtle flavors and body without overpowering the flavor.Petite Amie is described as being a Muscat type wine. This would include rose and fruit flavors. It also typically has lower acids.Tonight, we are enjoying an Iowa Petite Amie and a California Chardonnay: 2023 Petite Amie purchased at the Soldier Creek Winery (https://www.soldiercreekwinery.com/) for $17.76. It has 11.0% alcohol and was aged in neutral oak barrels. Aromas of melon, pear, and rose with similar flavors. 2020 Z Alexander Brown Uncaged Chardonnay. This wine was purchased for around $19.00. White peach, floral orange blossom with hints of honey and baking spice. A rich, velvety mouthfeel is supported by core flavors of juicy stone fruit, vanilla, and toasted oak. Fermented and aged in a combination of stainless steel, French oak, and American oak. Some of the wine goes through partial or complete malolactic fermentation. The wine comes from Monterey, CA.Next week we will continue to explore Hybrid wine grapes, and will taste:2019 Stone Hill Winery Chambourcin purchased at the winery for $19.00. Stone Hill is located in Hermann, Missouri.

Tonight we are tasting our first ever Greek wines.Yamas is a Greek word that means “to our health” or “cheers”. (accent on the second syllable)According to retailers in Des Moines, good Greek wine is hard to find here. According to the “Oxford Companion to Wine” over 85% of Greek wine is consumed in Greece. We were also told that much of the better wine is sent to high-end Greek restaurants in the eastern US. Tonight, we are enjoying two Greek wines including:NV Merastri Red Wine. Blend of Kotsifali and Mandalaria. 12% Alcohol. Fermented in stainless steel tanks. Aromas of plums, leather, and pepper. Flavors of dried red fruit and round tannins. Serve with meat BBQ, sausages, and medium-aged cheeses. NV Merastri White Wine. Vilana, Vidiano, Moschato, and Moschofilero grape blend. 11.5% alcohol. Each variety is separately fermented in stainless steel tanks before blending. It has aromas similar to Muscat with citrus fruits, and tastes of stone fruits with lemon notes. Pair with seafood and white meats.Next week we have our first Iowa Wine Challenge. We will blind taste an Iowa Petite Amie and a California Chardonnay: 2023 Petite Amie purchased at the winery for $17.76. 2020 Z Alexander Brown Chardonnay purchased for around $19.00.

Tonight we have our first challenge show of 2025.Bordeaux is home to some of the world's most famous and expensive wines. Bordeaux wines are blends made mostly of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. However, additional grape varieties can include Cabernet Franc and Petite Verdot, and Malbec in small amounts. According to the Oxford Companion to Wine, four new red wine grape varieties were approved for Bordeaux in 2021. We will compare the Bordeaux blend to a Cabernet Sauvignon from California. Tonight, we are enjoying a California Cabernet and a Bordeaux Blend: 2018 Tribute Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine was purchased from Costco for $9.99, and comes from Livermore, California. It received a 90 rating from the Wine Enthusiast. Packed with black fruit flavors and robust in texture, this full-bodied wine offers oodles of blackberries and black cherries that are lightly accented with cinnamon and vanilla. It's moderately tannic and well balanced. 2019 Chateau de Marsan. This wine was also purchased from Costco for $7.99. The wine comes from the Lestiac-sur-Garonne district in Cadillac and is made up of 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet. It is aged 12 months in French oak barrels. Reverse Wine Snob says: Dark fruit, coffee, a little earthiness and some Asian spice. Smooth and juicy. Opens up after a couple of hours. Wine Enthusiast gave the wine a rating of 91.Next week we will taste two wines from Greece: Merastri Red Wine from Crete. This is a three-wine blend Merastri White Wine from Crete. Four-wine blend.

Tonight I have secretly selected a wine for Denise, and she has chosen one for me. In the show, we will discuss the blind-tasting process, and after discovering each wine's true identity, we will discuss the characteristics (tells) for each.Blind-tasting involves the 5 S's.SeeSwirlSniffSipStateYou can get a “Deductive Tasting Form” from the Court of Master Sommeliers online. https://www.mastersommeliers.org/Tonight, we are blinding tasting two wines including:2022 Tread Softly Pinot Noir from Western Australia. This wine was purchased at Wine Styles for $14.39. It is a translucent cherry juice color, with aromas of ripe strawberries and raspberries, white pepper, dried herbs, and gentle flower nuances. The Wine Enthusiast rated this wine a 89. 2016 Senorio De Villarrica, Rioja Reserva, from Spain. I purchased this wine from Costco for $16.99, and the Wine Enthusiast rated it a 94. Aromas of black cherry, butterscotch and violet, with a touch of black-olive. Flavors of black cherry and pomegranate, sleek tannins and notes of milk chocolate, lavender, and roasted fennel bulb.Next week we will have a challenge show. It is Bordeaux versus California Cabernet. 2018 Tribute Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine was purchased from Costco for $9.99, and comes from Livermore, California. 2019 Chateau de Marsan. This wine was also purchased from Costco for $7.99. The wine comes from the Lestiac-sur-Garonne district in Cadillac and is made of 70% Merlot and 30% Cabernet.

Tonight we are exploring Merlot wines. Merlot normally has a nose of red plum and cherry in cooler climates to blackberry and baked fruits in warmer climates, with notes of vanilla and spice from oak aging. As it ages, you will get notes of chocolate, meatiness, and tobacco.Merlot is smooth compared to its half-sibling Cabernet Sauvignon. The warmer the region it is grown, the smoother the tannins, higher the alcohol and body, and the darker the fruit flavors.Tonight, we are enjoying two Merlots: 2020 Monterra, Merlot. Purchased at Trader Joe's for $6.99. This wine comes from Monterey, CA. Cellar Tracker says “Not too shabby for a $7 wine”. Many reviews said aromas of cocoa and floral. Tastes of cherry cola, plum, chocolate. Soft tannins and fruit forward. Alki 2018 Merlot. This wine was purchased at Costco for $14.99. The wine comes from the Columbia Valley, WA. 90 rating from the Wine Enthusiast. Aromas of Caramel, vanilla, spice, and brooding black cherry. Luscious but well-balanced fruit and oak flavors follow and unfold in equal measure from start to finish.Next week we will have a totally blind tasting. Dennis will pick out a wine for Denise and she will pick out a wine for Dennis. We will go through the tasting process.

Tonight we explore Champagne. Champagne can be made from any one or combination of the following three grape varieties; Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, or Pinot Meunier.Champagne is normally not a vintage wine and is made from juice of different years. Tonight we have broken into Denise's private Stache and will enjoy her favorite Champagne to celebrate our final episode of 2024. Tonight, we are enjoying a Champagne: Pol Roger. We purchased this wine from Costco for $64.99. This champagne has a golden straw color, fine bubbles, and a powerful nose with aromas of pear, mango, honeysuckle, and white jasmine. It has cooked fruit flavors, such as quince jelly and apricot jam, with hints of beeswax and acacia honey cardamom. The finish is long-lasting with notes of candied orange peel, tangerine, , and anis. Next week we will enjoy Merlot wines: Alki 2018 Merlot. This wine was purchased at Costco for $14.99. The wine comes from the Columbia Valley, WA. 2020 Monterra, Merlot. Purchased at Trader Joes for $6.99. This wine comes from Monterey, CA. 2021 Markham Merlot. Purchased at Wall to Wall Wines for $28.99. This wine is from Napa Valley.

Champagne, Prosecco, Cava, Cremant, Traditional Method (classic method or methode champenoise), Tank Method (Charmat Method), Brut, Extra Dry, and Dry.Tonight we will delve into the world of sparkling wines. First, what is a sparkling wine?A sparkling wine is one with carbonation. So we can start with how the carbonation gets into the wine. First, there is the Traditional Method where the carbonation is produced through a secondary fermentation of the wine in the bottle. This is how Champagnes are made, as well as many other sparkling wines from around the world. It is often a more expensive wine due to the labor involved in production. Sparkling wines can also be produced using the tank method or (Charmat Method). Prosecco is made by the tank method which involves a second fermentation that takes place in a large tank. Then the wine is bottled under pressure to maintain the pressure.If you like a dry wine, look for a Brut or Extra Brut. If you prefer a sweeter wine, look for a Dry, Sec, or Doux.Tonight, we will try two sparkling wines including: Sterling Vintner's Collection California Brut. We purchased this wine from Costco for $12.89. The Wine Enthusiast rated it an 88, and noted a touch of sweetness with notes of cherry and jasmine blossom, nectarine, apricot, and cut grass. Cooper's Hawk Sparkling Lux. We purchased this wine from Cooper's Hawk for $34.99. The wine is produced in the Traditional Method and is made from grapes grown in the Bordeaux region of France. It is made from 70% Semiillon and 30% Cabernet Franc. Aromas of green apple, lemon, yellow pear, and toast. Called a Cremant de Bordeaux.Next week we will have our year in review show. Our final wine of the year is Denise's favorite Champagne: Pol Roger. We purchased it at Costco for $64.99.

In this episode, Dennis and Denise taste various wine cocktails. Join them to see if one is right for you. Each recipe will be listed below.Tonight we attempt to have a wide range of flavors and a cocktail that you will want to try.All of our cocktails will include wine and have a festive flare. Tonight, we will try six different cocktails including: Cranberry wine and Prosecco. Serve ice cold in a flute. Pour about 1 oz cranberry wine and top with Prosecco.Kir Royale. Serve in a flute. Add .5 oz Crème de Cassis and then fill the glass with Prosecco. Air Mail. Serve in a Collins glass. Add 2 oz Golden rum, 1/2 oz lime juice, 1/2 oz orange juice, 1/2 teaspoon honey, and sparkling wine. Mix all ingredients except sparkling wine in iced shaker. Shake and then pour into glass. Fill with sparkling wine. St.Germain Royale. Served in a flute. Add ¾ oz St-Germain and fill with Sparkling wine. Give a little stir and garnish with a blackberry. New York Whiskey Sour. Serve in a rocks glass. 3 oz bourbon Whiskey, ½ oz Simple syrup, ½ oz lemon juice and 1 oz dry red wine. Add all ingredients except red wine to an iced shaker and shake for 30 seconds. Pour over ice. Then float the red wine on top using the back of a spoon. The Caribou. Served in a rocks glass. 1 oz Rye Whiskey, a splash of maple syrup, 3 oz port or dry red wine, garnish with a cherry or orange twist. Add all ingredients in a mixing glass filled with ice, stir and then strain into a rocks glass over ice.Next week we will taste three sparkling wines including:Kirkland Prosecco. We purchased it at Costco for $7.99. Sterling Sparkling Wine from California. I purchased at Costco for $14.99. Cooper's Hawk Lux Sparkling Wine. Cremant De Bordeaux purchased from Cooper's Hawk for $34.99.

Have you ever had an Ice Wine? It can be a great wine to pair with dessert. What is Ice wine? It comes from the German word Eiswein. It is a sweet wine made from ripe and healthy grapes that are picked after being allowed to freeze on the vine. The grapes are pressed while frozen resulting in a juice with a higher sugar content. Canada is the world's leading producer of ice wine where they have trademarked the term “Icewine.” Onterio is the leading province in Canada for the production of Icewine, and Canada has strict rules on its production. It must be naturally frozen. The air temperature must be -8 degrees C/17.6 degrees F or less during the harvesting and pressing of the grapes, which must be a continuous process. The grapes must not have less than 35 Brix sugar and the bottled wine must have at least 100 g/l residual sugar. All Icewine is a varietal wine and must be Vinifera grapes or the French hybrid Vidal Blanc.The bottles are typically 375 milliliters, or half the size of a normal wine bottle. Some of these wines are not cheap. They are more expensive because the wines are not easy to make, the yields are lower, and there are many risks in making them. First, the grapes can rot or animals can eat them. Then after harvest, yeasts or bacteria on the grapes can affect the taste. Also, the grapes and processing must also occur in the cold and normally at night.What is Brix, pronounced “Bricks”? It measures the amount of sugar in the grapes. It is measured by a handheld refractometer and is measured in degrees. Each degree equals 1 g of sugar per 100 g of juice. A typical white wine has between 20- and 24-degrees brix and red wines between 22- and 26-brix. Sparkling wines range around 17- or 18-brix. The alcohol potential of the wine can be calculated from the Brix by multiplying the degrees of brix by between 0.55 to 0.65. Higher alcohol levels can be achieved by adding sugar during the fermentation process.Tonight, our two wines include: 2023 Northwind Vidal Icewine, purchased at Costco for $19.99. It has 10.5% alcohol. It has aromas of wildflower honey, candied orange peel, and lychee. Flavors of pineapple, peach, and honey. High sugar is balanced by high acidity. NV Cooper's Hawk Ice wine, purchased at Cooper's Hawk for $29.99. Aromas of apricot, peach puree, ripe pineapple, candied mango, butterscotch, and honeycomb. Similar on palate with a burst of tartness on the finish. Pairs with Crème brulee and pineapple cake. 13.5% alcohol. Next week we will have something a little different. We will sample a few wine-based cocktails to help you get ready for Christmas.

Dennis and Denise have a budget-friendly show tonight, with each wine costing less than $10. Also, see if you can catch ten references to different songs.Tonight we will have a Picpoul from the South of France. This is a new wine for us. Picpoul (Pronounced peek–pool) Means "stings the lips" is grown mostly in the Languedoc in southern France around the Mediterranean. It was rewarded its own AOC in 2013, and its popularity has grown considerably in the past 15 years. This wine pairs great with seafood or spicey dishes or for a summer sipper. Our second wine is from the Columbia Valley in Washington. This is the State's largest wine region. It is an arid region that receives lots of sunshine during the growing season (more than Napa Valley). It also has some cooler weather that gives the grapes good acidity.Our final wine is a Le Grand Noir Chardonnay from France. This is a PGI (Protected Geographical Indication) wine from the Pays D'Oc. The wine is a 85% Chardonnay and 15% Viognier blend. Unlike other French wines, PGI wines are allowed to list the variety of grape. Tonight, our three wines include:2023 Foncastel Picpoul De Pinet, purchased at Trader Joe's for $8.99. Reverse Wine Snob rated it a buy. It has 13% alcohol. Mostly citrus on the nose. Lemon and lime smell. Palate is more acidic and also has some salinity. 2022 Pacific Rim Riesling, we purchased at Costco for $7.89. The wine comes from the Columbia Valley in Washington. The Wine Enthusiast rated it a 90. The grapes are picked early, so has good acid and then bottled with 25.2 g/l of residual sugar. Pairs well with with spicey Asian or Mexican food. 2022 Le Grand Noir Chardonnay. We purchased this wine from Costco for $9.99. It is made with 85% Chardonnay and 15% Viogneir. 30% of the Chardonnay spends sometime in French and American Oak. The wine maker said they wanted to make a lightly oaked Chardonnay that was drinkable alone and pairs well with food. Pair with seafood or white meats. Wine Enthusiast rated it a 92 and gave it a "Best Buy".Next week we will have something a little different. It's Denise's birthday, and to celebrate, we will have ice wine and birthday cake. The two wines we will taste include: 2023 North Wind Vidal Ice Wine. We purchased it at Costco for $19.99. NV Cooper's Hawk Lux Ice Wine that was purchased at Cooper's Hawk for $29.99.

What wine is best for Thanksgiving? That is a hot topic at this time of year, and I have seen many answers to that question. In the past we have enjoyed Chardonnay and Pinot Noir with our Thanksgiving meal, but what if you want something different? Tonight we will taste several typical Thanksgiving foods with our wines to see if we can find a perfect pairing. Tonight, we taste:2021 Domaine Fillastreau. This is a Saumur from the Loire Valley, purchased from Sarasota Wines for $22.95. A rich, luscious wood-matured wine, this is dense and smooth. Honey and crisp apple come together in this ripe, full wine with its total freshness at the end. Drink the wine from 2023. Organic and biodynamic. 2022 Quinson Cotes de Provence, purchased from Trader Joes for $8.99. Cellar Tracker says light salmon colored, peaches and cherry aromas. Strong earthy mineral base. Light peach and good zip. 2021 Octopoda Pinot Noir purchased from Costco for $7.99. It received a 91 from the Wine Enthusiast. It has 14.5% alcohol. Fresh and fruity aromas of black raspberry, red flowers and star anise. This ripe and well-rounded wine offers palate-warming plums, strawberries and cherries on a relatively soft texture, with accents of vanilla, clove and cedar from oak. Next week The wines we will taste include: 2023 Foncastel Picpoul De Pinet. This Languedoc, France wine was purchased at Trader Joe's for $8.99. 2022 Pacific Rim Riesling. Purchased from Costco for $7.89. 2022 Le Grand Noir Chardonnay purchased from Costco for $9.99.

Chianti is the most popular Italian wine. It is mostly made from the Sangiovese grape, but is normally a blend. How does it compare to a Sangiovese wine? Tonight we will find out. In a prior show we did a Chianti tasting. I love Chianti and I believe I liked all three wines we tasted that night. It is normally made from a blend of grapes, but is mostly made from the Sangiovese grape. It comes from the Tuscany region of Italy. Sangiovese produces a wine that is medium in body, has medium to high acid and medium to high tannins.You can pick out a Chianti Classico by looking for a black roster on the label. This means the wine comes from the classic region known for the production of Chianti.Sangiovese wine from California is more fruit-forward and is known for having more floral aromas. If drinking a wine by itself, you may prefer the Sangiovese, but I believe Chianti is more of a food wine.Tonight, we taste:2018 Carpineto Chianti Classico, purchased from Costco for $19.99. This wine was rated a 93 by the Wine Spectator and a 92 by the Wine Enthusiast. Made from Sangiovese and Canaiolo (Merlot like grape with soft tannins and bright acid) and other red grape varietals. Aged in Slavonian and French oak barrels for at least a year. 13.5% alcohol. Serve at 64-68 degrees in a decanter. Tastes of tar, stone, and umami of mushrooms, seaweed and soy sauce before sour cherries and cranberries emerge. Palate has black cherries, blackberries, milk and dark chocolate, bitter orange. Long finish. Pair with game and roasts. 2016 Idle Sangiovese purchased from Wine Styles for $37.00. Aromas of licorice, smoke, violets, herbs, and cherry. Pair with spaghetti, roasted vegetables. Comes from Knights Valley AVA in Sonoma. Picked in the early morning fog, transported to the winery in the back of a flatbed. Hand sorted at the winery, destemmed, cold soaked for 4 days. Fermented for 2 weeks with punch downs done 3 times/day. Aged 16 months in 30% new (medium-long) toasted French oak barrels, 70% aged in French oak. Blended with 3% Merlot. Next week The wines we will taste include: 2021 Domaine Filliatreau. This is a Saumur, Loire Valley purchased from Sarasota Wines for $22.95. 2022 Quinson Cotes de Provence. Purchased from Trader Joes for $8.99. 2021 Octopada Pinot Noir purchased from Costco for $7.99.

After reading about and tasting New York wine, I have a strong desire to visit the Finger Lakes AVA. Until the 1970s and 1980s, New York was known for producing wine made from the Catawba and Niagara grapes. Many people still have that perception. However, back in the 1950's, Dr Konstantin Frank started the cultivation of Vitis vinifera (the old world grape varieties people are familier with). Today it is now well known for its Riesling, Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir production. In addition to the Finger Lakes AVA, it is also home to the Niagara Escarpment, Hudson River and Long Island AVAs. New York is now the 2nd or 3rd largest wine-producing state in the country. Tonight, we taste:2022 Dr Konstantin Frank. Purchased from Wall to Wall Wine and Spirits for $18.99. Aromas of vibrant perfume of honeyed apple, citrus blossom and peach. Dry but with richness and lots of fruit and floral flavor. The grapes are de-stemmed, direct pressed, and stored in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks. There is no oak and no Malolactic fermentation. It has 7 g/Liter of residual sugar which is considered an off-dry wine. It has a pH of 3.0. Pairs with lightly prepared chicken, pork, and fish; as well as a creamy goat cheese. 2019 Heron Hill Eclipse red-blend. Purchased from Wine Styles. I saw online from $16.00 to $21.00. This is a Bordeaux blend wine made up of 44% Merlot, 31% Cabernet Franc, and 25% Cabernet Sauvignon. Aromas of black and red currant fruit, tobacco leaf, herbs and cola-like oak. Grapes come from a variety of sources from growers in Long Island and Finger Lakes. Aged for 15 months in a combination of French and Hungarian oak barrels. Pairs with lamb, prime rib, grilled salmon, sharp cheddar or rich blue cheese. Next week The wines we will taste include: 2018 Carpineto Chianti Classico. Purchased from Costco for $19.99. 2016 Idle Sangiovese. Purchased from Wine Styles for $37.00.

Is price important for Rioja? Tonight we will blind-taste three Rioja wines and find out.Rioja is the leading wine region in Spain. Broken into three parts.- Rioja Alto- Rioja Alavesa- Rioja OrientalKnown for its red wine production and aging in oak barrels. (predominately American oak) Tempranillo is the most planted grape and makes up nearly 90% of the vineyards. Garnacha is the second most planted red grape, with smaller amounts of Mazuelo, Carinena (Carignan), and Graciano. Most Rioja wines are blends, with Garnacha added to the Tempranillo for added body.Tonight, we taste:1. 2017 Marques de Caceres, Rioja. This wine was purchased from Costco for $17.99. The grapes were hand-picked and aged in new French oak barrels for 15 months. Bouquet of blackberry and chocolate-covered orange peel. The wine has an inky garnet color and feels juicy on the palate. Flavors of black cherry and raspberry are joined by clove, bittersweet chocolate, and black olives. Lingering tannins complete the profile.2. 2022 Vina Torcida Tempranillo, Rioja. Purchased at Wine Styles for $20.00. Ripe fruit and spices on the nose. Black pepper, clove, and vanilla. 87% Tempranillo, 8% Mazuelo, and 5% Garnacha. Grapes come from vineyards located in all three zonas of Rioja. It is aged 27 months in American oak barrels. Pairs with spicy meats, stews, and roasts.3. 2018 Trader Joe's, Rioja. Purchased at Trader Joe's for $9.99. Reverse Wine Snob gave this wine a highly recommended, and described it as having flavors of ripe strawberries, leather, and tobacco.Next week The wines we will taste include:1. 2022 Dr Konstantin Frank Riesling. Purchased from Wall to Wall Wine and Spirits for $18.99. 3. 2019 Heron Hill Eclipse red blend. Purchased from Wine Styles. I saw online from $16.00 to $21.00.

Tonight, we will learn about and taste two wines, made from grape varieties unfamiliar to many of us. First, we will taste a Vignoles (white) and then have a Norton (red).Both wines come from small AVA's in east central Missouri, along the Missouri River. The first wine we are tasting is a Vignoles from the first AVA in the US. It comes from the Augusta AVA. Vignoles is a hybrid grape originated in France from a cross of Seibel and Pinot de Corton. It was imported to the US and the Finger Lakes Wine Growers Association named it Vignoles in 1970. However, it has since been DNA tested and found to have very little if any genetic markers in common with Seibel or Pinot Noir. Therefore, its parentage is in question. Vignoles is the most common white wine grape grown in Missouri but is also grown in other states including New York. The wines can be sweet, semi-sweet, or dry. Vignoles is also used for dessert wines or ice wines. Wines are medium in body and crisp; with flavors of tropical fruits, citrus, and floral. Our second wine is a Norton from another small AVA in east central Missouri. The Hermann AVA is located along the Missouri River. German settlers came to the area in the 1830s, finding it similar to the Rhine River region of Germany. They immediately started growing grapes. Norton is the official state grape of Missouri and the number-one-grown grape in the state. Dr. Daniel Norborne Norton developed the variety in Richmond, Virginia in the early 1800's. It produces a dry red wine with complex flavors.A Stone Hill Norton was named the “Best Red Wine of all Nations” in 1873 at the Vienna World Exposition. Norton wine is a full-bodied, dry, red wine. Aromas of red and black fruits, coffee, chocolate, flowers, cloves, and leather. Tastes of raspberry, cherry, pomegranate, blackberry, blackcurrant, plum, vanilla, and spice. It also has a rich mouthfeel, smooth finish, and oak notes. It is also known as Cynthiana.It is very age-worthy. High-quality Norton wines reach their peak around 8 years of age and remain that way for another 8 years.Tonight, we taste:Balducci Vineyards – 2021 Vignoles purchased at the winery for $30.00. Tastes of pineapple, apricots, peaches, lemon, orange. Vignoles pairs well with salty foods, Brie cheese, spiced pecans, candied walnuts, Asian chicken, spicy pork ribs, seafood green or yellow curry, spicy peppers, spicy barbecue, chutney, and apricot. 2020 J Cross Norton from Stone Hill Winery of Hermann, Missouri. Purchased at Vineyard for $40.00. Aromas of ripe plum, blackberries, tart cherries, moist soil. Taste of plum, blackberry, leather, oak, chocolate, tobacco, and licorice. Pairs with steak, red meats, game meats. This wine can replace Cabernet Sauvignon.Next week We have an election show special and we will taste some Rioja: 2017 Marques de Caceres, Rioja. Purchased from Costco for $17.99.2022 Vina Torcida Tempranillo, Rioja. Purchased at Wine Styles for $20.00.2018 Trader Joe's, Rioja. Purchased from Trader Joe's for $9.99.

Tonight, our blind-tasting duo will taste three wines chosen by our listeners. We have one white and two red wines. Our first wine is a white wine from Burgundy, France. It is from the Chardonnay grape. Tonight, we taste:2022 Bourgonge - Maconaise - Macon Villages. Purchased at Costco for $12.79. Stored in stainless steel tanks. This is 100% Chardonnay. Tastes of Citrus, orange, orange peel, apple, green apple. 2022 Porta 6 Red from Lisbon Region of Portugal. Purchased at Trader Joes for $4.99. Wine Enthusiast rated this wine an 86 and called it a best buy. It is juicy, spicy, and ready to drink. Oak and Barrel - Porta 6 Red shows jammy cherry and plum flavors with a touch of vanilla and cacao. Extremely smooth and a great value red.2022 Ruggero Di Bardo from Puglia, Italy. Purchased at Trader Joes for $9.99. Made from the Susumaniello grape. Aged in stainless steel and oak for 3 months. Dark ink color. Aromas of black cherry, blackberry, clove, cinnamon, forest floor, vanilla, and cedar. Taste is bold and fruity, cherry flavors, sweet oak spice, and firm tannins. Next week The wines we will taste include:2021 Balducci Vineyards, Vignoles. Purchased from the vineyard for $30.00. 2020 Stone Hill Winery Cross J Norton. Purchased from Stone Hill Winery for $40.00.

Tonight, our blind-tasting duo explore uncharted wine, at least for the show. Shiraz is the most planted and #1 grape from Australia. Shiraz is the same grape and wine as Syrah, but for some reason, Australia and South Africa call it Shiraz. It is a big, bold, full-body wine with high levels of tannin and acid. Because of the tannins, it is normally oaked and is a great pair with red meats.In France, Syrah is a single variety wine from the northern Rhone Valley, and is popular in the southern Rhone where it is part of the GSM blend wines. GSM stands for Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvedre.Syrah is also a popular grape grown in the US, mostly in the State of Washington and California. Some of the most popular Shiraz regions of Australia include Barossa Valley, Eden Valley, Clare Valley, Heathcote, Hunter Valley, McLaren Vale, Yarra Valley, Grampians, and Adelaide Hills.While Syrah and Shiraz wines will have many similarities, they will also have some differences. Syrah wines from France, Chile and Washington (State) are more of a cooler climate wine. Australian Shiraz and California, Spain, Italy, and Argentina Syrah are warm-weather wines. Syrah from cooler climates will be lighter in body, with more earthiness and floral notes. Warm weather Syrah/Shiraz will be fruit forward full-body higher alcohol wines. Tonight, we taste: 2021 Yalumba Barossa Shiraz. I purchased this wine at Wall to Wall Wine for $19.99. It comes from the Barossa Valley, Australia. It is plump and fruity, with lucid aromas of black cherry, plum, mint and ground pepper. A full body gentle frame of spicy tannins frames everything, and a nice level of acidity helps wash it all down. Winery is Vegan and started in 1849. 2019 Greg Norman, Limestone Coast Shiraz, $15.50 at Wall to Wall Wine. This wine comes from Coonawarra, McClaren Flat, Argentina. Nose: Bright aromas of ripe black and blue fruits, spice notes. Palate: Medium to full-bodied. Cola, black cherry, mixed berry jam and cloves. Other notes: plum and cherry. Peppercorn, mint, oak. Firm structure and balanced acidity. Area is known for having poor well draining soils. 2022 Yellow Tail Shiraz purchased at Walmart for $5.99. Rich and smooth, with juicy red berries and hints of vanilla and spice. Hints of mocha. Bold and smooth. South Eastern Australia includes all of Victoria and parts of South Australia and New South Wales. Next week The wines we will taste include: 2022 Bourgonge – Maconaise – Macon Villages. This is a Burgundy white made from the Chardonnay grape. Purchased from Costco for $12.79. 2022 Porta 6 Red from Lisbon Region of Portugal. Purchased at Trader Joes for $4.99. 2022 Ruggero Di Bardo from Puglia, Italy. Purchased at Trader Joes for $9.99.

Our wine-tasting duo discuss their favorite wines and why they like them. Do you know your favorite wine and why you like it? Do you know the characteristics of your favorite wines? Why do you like a certain wine? This episode will help you make better buying decisions, find alternative varieties, and understand why you like the wines you do.Tonight, we are tasting:1. Denise's favorite wine is the 2022 Gerard Bertrand Cote de Roses. We bought this wine at Costco for $12.99. It is a Rose' Wine blended with Grenache, Syrah, and Cinsault grapes. It comes from the Languedoc region of France. Aromas of red fruits, black currant and red currant. Palette - floral notes of rose, citrus and grapefruit. Fresh finish with notes of English candy.2. Dennis' favorite is the 2016 Rivallana Rioja Reserva. We purchased this bottle at Costco for $9.99. The Wine Spectator rated this wine a 92 and the Wine Enthusiast a 90. It is a blend of 90% Tempranillo - 5% Mazuelo -3% Graciano - 2% Garnacha. Inky garnet in the glass, this wine has a nose of black currant, purple plum, rosemary and oregano. It is soft at first sip, then tannins build in volume, mingling with flavors of cassis, blackberry, dark chocolate, coffee bean, and salted almonds. There is a touch of salinity on an otherwise bright finish. Next week our tasting will include:1. 2021 Yulumba Barossa Shiraz. We purchased this wine from Wall to Wall Wine for $19.99.2. 2019 Greg Norman, Limestone Coast Shiraz from Wall to Wall Wine for $15.50.3. 2022 Yellow Tail Shiraz from Walmart for $5.99.

Dennis and Denise have a budget-friendly show tonight, with each wine costing less than $10. We randomly selected and tasted three white wines. Also, see if you can catch ten references to different songs.See if Dennis and Denise can figure out what wines they are drinking tonight. Tonight, our three wines include:2022 Bouchard Aine & Fils, Chardonnay, purchased at Costco for $9.99. Wine Enthusiast scored it a 92. It has between 11% - 14% alcohol. Floral notes on the nose, Palate is rich with vanilla, lemon, and peach notes.2023 Famille Perrin, Cotes Du Rhone Reserve, from Costco for $9.99. 13.5% alcohol. Made from Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, Roussanne, and Viogneir. Nose – floral, apple, and peach. Clean and balanced with minerality. Serve with Mediterranean food, white fish, white meat, and Asian food. Serve at 50 degrees.2023 Vignobles Lacheteau. We purchased this 100% Sauvignon Blanc wine at Trader Joe's for $6.99. It is fermented in stainless steel tanks with 11.5% alcohol. According to Blonde Voyage Nashville https://www.blondevoyagenashville.com, it has a pale/medium straw color, lemon, peach, green apple. It has slight grassiness on the nose with moderate acidity. Serve chilled. Perfect with cheddar, Gouda, or Havarti cheese. Also pairs with seafood. Next week we will have something a little different. The Episode is called “What is Your Perfect Wine?” The two wines we will taste include: 1. 2022 Gerard Bertrand Rose. We purchased this wine at Costco for $12.99. 2. 2016 Rivallana Rioja Reserva that was purchased at Costco for $9.99.

Tonight, our wine-tasting duo takes part in our first-ever head-to-head challenge. We will examine the differences between the two wines and help you decide which wine is right for you. Pinot Noir is the wine that made Burgundy France famous, but what about Pinot from the New World, specifically, California and Oregon. Oregon is known for its Pinot, and its cooler climate has perfect growing conditions. Oregon Pinot is known for its earthiness, minerality, and fruitiness. California Pinot is often a slightly heavier body, darker, and more fruit-forward wine. Tonight, we taste:1. 2019 Talbott, Kali Hart Pinot Noir. https://www.talbottvineyards.com/ Purchased from Costco for $17.49. James Suckling gave this wine a 93. Wine Enthusiast rated it a 92. It comes from Monterey, Central Coast, California. Estate-grown, fruit-driven with just a touch of French Oak. Wine Enthusiast said aromas of cedar, grilled strawberry, and cracked pepper. Flavors of mace and cumin.2. 2021 Willamette Valley Vineyards Pinot Noir. https://www.wvv.com/ Purchased from Costco for $17.00. This wine comes from the Willamette Valley in Oregon. The Vineyard has iron-rich volcanic soils. They thin the grapes to increase the intensity of the grapes. It has raspberry, strawberry preserves, cardamom spice, and earth aromas. Another source says aromas of dried dark cherries, cinnamon, and cranberry. Taste of cherry, leather, tobacco, and fresh acidity. Ph of 3.33 - 3.50. Stainless steel barrels are used for fermentation. Next week we will have a Bargain Hunt Show looking for great tasting white wines under $10. The wines will include:1. 2022 Bouchard Aine & Fils, Chardonnay, purchased at Costco for $9.99.2. 2023 Famille Perrin, Cotes Du Rhone from Costco for $9.99.3. 2023 Vignobles Lacheteau, Sauvignon Blanc purchased at Trader Joe's for $6.99.

Tonight, our blind-tasting duo heads down south, way down south to Argentina. Malbec is a Bordeaux grape that has become less popular in France but is king in Argentina. Malbec is the most planted grape by far in Argentina. It produces over half of the worlds Malbec. (According to the Oxford Wine Companion) Malbecs from Argentina are riper and more velvety than those from France. Malbec was a widely planted grape in California before prohibition. Plantings have again been growing in California.Malbec is a medium to full-body wine, normally fruit-forward. It has red and dark fruit flavors. The warmer the climate, the darker the fruit. Many Malbecs have little oak aging. Cahors in Southwestern France produces a lot of Malbec called Cot. It has darker fruit flavors with higher tannins and smoke or earthiness. Malbec often has a purple tint. Tonight, we taste: 1. 2022 Kirkland Signature Malbec $6.99 at Costco. The wine is produced in Mendoza, Argentina. Aged 12 months in French Oak Barrels. The Wine Adventure Journal and Reverse Wine Snob say - Aromas: Plum, blackberry, cola, licorice, vanilla, dusty spice, fig, and leather. Taste – Vanilla, chocolate, plum, black cherry. They call it an easy-to-drink wine with earthy characteristics. Reverse Wine Snob calls it a bulk buy. 2. 2022 Zuccardi Serie A $11.99 at Costco. I saw online for $14.00 to $17.00. This wine comes from the Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina. Robert Parker gave it a 92. The winemaker says, Aroma: cherry and prunes, with black pepper and tobacco. Also get chocolate, cherry liqueur, and spicy notes. Soft and velvety with firm tannins. 3. 2022 Wapisa Malbec $14.99 from Costco. The wine comes from Patagonia, Argentina. James Suckling gave it a 94. Flavors of dark plums and blackberries, chocolate, ripe tannins, and good acidity. Next week we are having our first challenge show. It is a Pinot Noir Challenge and features a California Pinot verse a Oregon Pinot. The wines will include:1. 2019 Talbott, Kali Hart Pinot Noir. Purchased from Costco for $17.49. 2. 2021 Willamette Valley Vineyards Pinot Noir. Purchased from Costco for $17.00.

To honor the start of the Football season (tailgate season). Dennis and Denise are having a canned and boxed wine show. We have never tried a canned wine, so we are excited to see if they are good. These wines are becoming more popular because of their user-friendliness. See if Dennis and Denise will recommend any of these three affordable wines. One of these may be a great option for your next picnic, hike, or canoe trip. Tonight, our three wines include:Bota Mini Sauvignon Blanc. I purchased it from Wall to Wall Wine and Spirits for $5.99. This is a crisp and refreshing wine with notes of lime zest, lemon grass, citrus and melon, and complemented by a touch of minerality. This 500 ml package contains the equivalent of three 5.6 oz glasses and features a 12.5% alcohol by volume content. The wine is produced in Chile and comes in environmentally-friendly packaging made primarily from paper, a renewable resource, which contributes to a smaller carbon footprint compared to traditional glass bottles.Black Box Australia Chardonnay. Purchased at Wall to Wall Wine and Spirits for $5.99. This is a light and clean wine with hints of pineapple, green apple, tart lemon, and lemon blossoms with a touch of sweetness on the finish.Canned Oregon Red Pinot Noir. Again, purchased at Wall to Wall Wine and Spirits for $5.99. This wine comes from the Stoller Family Estate, a family of veteran winemakers with deep roots in Oregon's Dundee Hills. Light and lively, this crushable red is filled to the brim with ripe red cherries, raspberries and hints of rose petal. It's perfect for sipping in the park or by a cozy fire.Next week we are tasting Malbec from Argentina. The three wines we will taste include:2022 Kirkland Signature Malbec, purchased at Costco for $6.99. 2022 Zuccardi Serie E, it was purchased at Costco for $11.992022 Wapisa. This was purchased from Costco for $14.99.

Dennis and Denise have a budget-friendly show tonight, with each wine costing less than $10. We randomly selected and tasted three red wines. Also, see if you can catch ten references to different songs. We learn some wine terms. We also discuss why we look at the wine before we swirl, smell, and sip.See if Dennis and Denise can figure out what wines they are drinking tonight. Tonight, our three wines include:1. 2018 Bogle https://boglewinery.com/ Petite Sirah from California. I purchased it from Costco for $8.49. Wine Enthusiast gave this wine a 91 and called it a Best Buy. 2. 2016 Chateau Le Grand Moulin, Blaye Cotes De Bordeaux. I purchased it from Costco for $8.00. The Wine Enthusiast gave this wine a 92 and was the Editor's Choice. This Bordeaux blend is mostly made up of Merlot with Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. It is aged in cement vats and is described as being fruit-forward. Aromas of dark currant, blackberry, cassis, int, and spice with a touch of earthiness. Medium bodied. Refined tannins and balanced acidity. 3. 2020 Aglianico Puglia IGP. The Epicuro Vino Rosso https://www.femarvini.com/en/brand-en/epicuro.html was purchased at Trader Joes for $5.99. Cellar tracker gave the wine a 88. Flavors of Blueberry, plum and fig with a medium level of jamminess. Dark fruits with oak, vanilla and tobacco. Very smooth with full mouth feel. Need to let breath before drinking. Next week we are tasting canned or boxed wines that you can take to the tailgate. The three wines we will taste include:1. Bota Mini Sauvignon Blanc, purchased at Wall to Wall Wine for $4.99. 2. Black Box Australia Chardonnay, it was purchased at Wall to Wall Wine for $4.993. Canned Oregon Red Pinot Noir. This was purchased from Wall to Wall Wine for $5.99.

Tonight our blind-tasting pair looks for a wine you can enjoy before summer is over. We will delve into some facts about Rose' so you can make an informed purchase.We will also talk about wine characteristics, terms, and general rules you may want to follow to make your wine tasting experience the best it can be.We are also changing our format from a double-blind tasting to a single-blind tasting. NOOOOO! DON”T DO IT!!! Oh wait, what does that even mean? We will explain. Tonight, we taste:1. 2023 Kirkland Provence $7.99 from Costco. The blend includes 36% Grenache, 28% Cinsault, 12% Syrah, 10% Vermentino, 5% Carignan, 5% Tibouren, and 4% Ugni Blanc. The Reverse Wine Snob says - Aroma: strawberry, cherry and a little watermelon plus some salty minerality and pleasing touches of wild herbs and flowers. (Bulk buy) 2. 2023 Ro Substance Rose $9.99 from Costco. This wine is made from the Syrah grape and comes from the Wahluke Slope, Columbia Valley, Washington State. The Reverse Wine Snob says – Aroma: strawberry, melon and cherry, along with some light herbal notes. Tastes: Watermelon and some other tart fruit notes are added to all the other flavors from the nose. Smooth and a bit creamy, the wine also has great depth of flavor on the rich, juicy fruit.3. 2023 Illahe Tempranillo Rose' $19.99 from Wall to Wall Wine and Spirits. The wine comes from https://www.illahevineyards.com/wines in the Willamette Valley from 100% Tempranillo Grapes that are picked early to give acidity. 25% barrel and 75% tank fermented. 3.22 pH (this is low so should be bright and crisp). The winemaker says Aromas of Lemon zest, spruce, rhubarb, and fleshy watermelon rind. Taste: juicy honeydew melon and Oregon strawberry finish. Next week we will have a red wine Budget Bargain Hunt Episode. Each wine will cost less than $10. We will be tasting three wines that will include:1. 2018 Bogle Petite Sirah that we purchased at Costco for $8.49.2. 2016 Chateau Le Grand Moulin, Blaye Cotes De Bordeaux, purchased at Costco for $8.00.3. 2020 Aglianico Puglia IGP, Epicuro Vino Rosso from Trader Joes for $5.99.

Our blind-tasting pair are in for a treat, and so are you if you taste along with them. Garnacha originated in northeastern Spain. It is a heat-loving drought resistant grape. It spread around the Mediterranean and up into France where it is known as Grenache. Grenache is mostly a blending grape so getting a single variety wine can be difficult. Winemakers love it for blending because of its darker color and fuller body, medium tannins, and fruitiness. Denise loves it. Tonight, Dennis and Denise taste three affordable Grenache wines. (maybe two that are affordable, the third is pricey, but again it's hard to find a single variety Grenache) Our three wines include:1. 2017 Granito del Cadalso from Madrid, Spain. I purchased it from our local Wall to Wall Wine Store for $14.63. It comes from a co-op in the Sierra de Gredos, made from all old-vine Garnacha and grown in granite soils. It was destemmed and brought up all in concrete tanks. This Pinot Noir-like beauty offers notes of wild strawberries, rose hips, violets, and crushed rocks. Medium-bodied, with remarkable purity and vibrancy, it still has ample power and richness. This fabulous expression of Grenache is almost too good to be true.2. 2018 Centenaria Garnacha from Campo De Borja, Spain. We purchased from our local Wall to Wall Wine Store for $15.83. Rich and velvety, big but gentle with raspberry jam, cherry pie and vanilla flavors. Well-integrated tannins give subtle structure, while citrusy acidity keeps this fresh. Fruit centered.3. 2017 Idle Cellars Grenache from Sonoma County, a wine we purchased at Wine Styles for $37.00. Dry, fruit-forward but well balanced with acid, tannins, and body. Raspberries, cinnamon, cherries, strawberries, star anise, and black cherries are some of the flavors that come through. An adult fruit roll-up if you will. It pairs well with seared tuna, steak, roasted root vegetables, braised short ribs, and carnitas tacos.Next week we will be tasting Rose. The three wines we will taste include:1. 2023 Kirkland Provence, purchased at Costco for $7.99. 2. 2023 Ro Substance Rose', it was purchased at Costco for $9.993. 2023 Illahe Tempranillo Rose'. This was purchased from our local Wall to Wall Wine Store for $19.99.

Chardonnay is probably the most loved and hated wine in the world. Have you heard of ABC – (Anything But Chardonnay)? Some people dislike it, but it is still the world's most plantedwhite wine grape. Why is it hated? We will try to find the answer in this episode. If you think you don't like Chardonnay, maybe you haven't tried the right one. Chardonnay is grown in nearly all wine regions, and it produces wines from bright and crisp to heavily oaked and buttery.Vineyard owners like Chardonnay because it is a hearty grape that grows in various climates. Winemakers like Chardonnay because of its versatility. Tonight, Dennis and Denise taste three affordable Chardonnays. Our three wines include.1. The 2022 Domaine Seguinot-Bordet Chablis https://www.seguinot-bordet.com/en/ from Burgundy, France. I purchased this wine from our local Wall to Wall Wine Store for $27.99. Tasting notes: Acidic with balance. Green apple, citrus, pineapple, toasted oak, vanilla, butter, and salinity. 2. The 2020 Aviary Chardonnay https://www.folktalegroup.com/aviary-vineyardsfrom Napa Valley. We purchased it from Costco for $11.99. I found this wine for sale online mostly in the $14-$18 range. Tasting notes: oak, butter, vanilla, cream, banana, yogurt, pear, apple, and melon.3. The 2022 Kirkland Signature Sonoma County Chardonnay, a wine we purchased at Costco for $7.99. The Reverse Wine Snob https://www.reversewinesnob.com/ said it had, aromas of apples, citrus, and a touch of toasty oak. WineEnthusiast https://www.wineenthusiast.com/ gave it a 90. Tropical notes of pineapple and papaya, white nectarine. Some stone fruits and hints of florals, baking spice. Finishes with lemon zest and vanilla crème brulee.Next week we will be tasting Grenache. The three wines we will taste include:1. 2017 Granito del Cadalso from Madrid, Spain. I purchased this wine at ourlocal Wall to Wall Wine Store for $14.63.2. 2017 Idle Cellars Grenache from Sonoma County, a wine we purchased at the West Des Moines Wine Styles for $37.00.3. 2018 Centenaria Garnacha from Campo De Borja, Spain. We again purchased it from our local Wall to Wall Wine Store for $15.91.

Chianti is a classic Italian wine. It has come a long way from the basket wines found in the checkered tablecloth restaurants of the past century. Tonight, our two blind tasters will pair Chianti with some cheese. Join them as they taste these three wines. 1. 2021 Kirkland Riserva Classico ($8.99) from Costco https://costcowineblog.com/ 2. 2021 Gabbiano Calvaliera D'Ore https://www.castellogabbiano.it/ ($11.99) from our local Wall to Wall Wine Store 3. 2020 Peppoli Chianti Classico https://www.antinori.it/ ($24.99) from our local Wall to Wall Wine Store. Other Sangiovese based wines from Italy. Brunello di Montalcino Vino Nobile di Montepulciano Morellino di Scansano Carmignano Sagrantino di Montefalco Sangiovese di Romagna Tignanello (80% Sangiovese- 15% Cabernet Sauvignon – 5% Cabernet Franc) Bibi Graetz (100% from old vines) Nielluccio – Corsica (France)Next week we will be tasting Chardonnay. The three wines we will taste include: 1. 2022 Domaine Seguinot-Bordet Chablis from Burgundy, France. I purchased from our local Wall to Wall Wine Store for $27.99. 2. 2020 Aviary Chardonnay from Napa Valley. We purchased from Costco for $11.99. I found this wine for sale online mostly in the $14-$18 range. 3. 2022 Kirkland Signature Sonoma County Chardonnay, a wine we purchased at Costco for $7.99.

Riesling is a light, high-acid summer refresher and can be a great pairing with the right food. Some people avoid Riesling, believing it is only a sweet wine. While it can be made sweet, most Riesling is bone dry. Today we will taste these three Rieslings.1. 2023 Joseph Handler Riesling ($5.99) from Trader Joe's. This wine is off-dry, with notes of Green-apple, pear, and apple. 2. 2022 Poet's Leap https://longshadows.com Long Shadows Vintners Collection Riesling ($22.99) from our local Wall to Wall Wine Store. This wine is 100% barrel-fermented in a 360 gallon French oak cask. The wine remains on lees for four months after fermentation. Jasmine and slate aromatics, Gauva hints with citrus and stone fruit flavors. Bright acidity, good minerality. Long finish. It has 0.13 g/100 ml of residual sugar and is very acidic with a 2.97 ph. 3. 2021 Loosen Dr L https://drloosen.com ($9.49) from Costco. Crisp, fruity and refreshing. From steep hillsides with slate soils. Peach, citrus, mineral. It has 44.5 grams/liter residual sugar.Next week we will be tasting Chianti. Our three wines will include:2021 Kirkland Riserva Classico from Costco $8.99.2021 Gabbiano Calvaliera D'Ore from Wall to Wall Wine $11.99.2020 Peppoli Chianti Classico from Wall to Wall Wine $24.99.

Dennis and Denise are opting for a budget-friendly approach tonight, with each wine costing less than $10. We chose three refreshing summer wines that won't break the bank. We taste the 2023 Landkastel Riesling ($6.99) from Aldi, 2023 Kirkland Pinot Grigio ($4.99) from Costco, and the Espiral Vinho Verde ($4.99) from Trader Joe's. Listen to find out our favorite.

In this episode, Pinot Noir reigns supreme. The grape that made Burgundy famous and produces some of the most expensive wines in the world takes to the tasting ring. Which wine will wear the belt in the blind wine tasting? Unknown to us, tonight we tasted these three Pinots: 2022 Ken Wright Cellars Willamette Valley ($25.99) from our local wine store - Wall to Wall Wine; our second wine was a 2021 San Simeon Monterey Pinot Noir ($19.99) from Costco, and our final wine was the Kirkland Signature Russian River Valley Pinot Noir ($11.99) from Costco.Next week we will taste a 2023 Landkastel Riesling ($6.99) from Aldi; a 2023 Kirkland Pinot Grigio ($4.99) from Costco; and an Espiral Vinho Verde ($4.99) from Trader Joe's.

Tonight, Dennis and Denise get marooned on the island of New Zealand where Sauvignon Blanc is number one. We wade through information about Sauvignon Blanc, before casting off on a blind wine tasting journey. Join the pair as they taste a 2023 Kirkland Ti Point Sauvignon Blanc; a 2018 Craggy Range Te Muna; and a 2022 Justin from the Central Coast of California. Three very different wines. Dovee loves one!

In this episode of the Wine Appraiser Podcaster, Dennis and Denise blindly taste, learn about, and rate three affordable Cabernet Sauvignon wines. This could be the best wine to pair with a juicy steak. Tonight we taste a 2019 Santa Ema from the Maipo Valley, Chile. We next taste a 2015 Farnito from Tuscany, Italy. Our final wine was a 2018 Clay Shannon from Lake County, California. We had one clear winner in this episode, and one is a good buy for the price.

Nothing pairs any better with summer than a light and refreshing rose'. In this episode of the Wine Appraiser Podcast, Dennis and Denise blind taste three affordable rose' wines. Tonight we taste a 2023 Carayon La Rose from the Languedoc in the South of France; 2023 Malene by Chamisole Vineyards; and a 2022 Whispering Angle from Cotes de Provence. One of these wines we will buy again.

In this inaugural episode of the Wine Appraisal Podcast, Dennis the Wine Appraiser, discusses the reason behind the show. He talks of his passion to share affordable wine finds with listeners, and describes how he and his wife and wine-tasting partner Denise will blind taste and score three affordable wines each week.