Book: Olive Kitteridge by Elizabeth Strout
1. Luna Freakout White Wine 2007 - $14.99 winemaker's notes: A blend of 35% Chardonnay, 33% Pinot Grigio, 25% Sauvignon Blanc and 7% Ribolla Gialla.
2. Qupe Bien Nacido Cuvee Chardonnay-Viognier Blend - $ 18.99The 2007 Freakout is a light golden color, with an enticing nose of ripe pear and hints of lemon. On the palate, the mouthwatering acidity of lemon zest mingles with baked bread and coconut milk, accented by a good dose of minerality. The finish is a delicious blend of pears and vanilla.
This is a very showy Bien Nacido Cuvee. The Viognier from the warmer Santa Ynez Valley vineyards, especially the Vogelzang, give this an even more lifted Viognier aroma. Peaches, honey, with hints of tropical fruits and citrus, balanced by the structure and great acidity of the Chardonnay. There is an impression of sweetness from the ripe Viognier but the wine is completely dry. We find it goes especially well with Hawaiian Regional Cuisine, Indian food or any other dish thats full flavored and incorporates a bit of sweet and spice. This wine is not meant for the cellar, drink now and over the next two years.
3. CMS by Hedges - $14.9977% Sauvignon Blanc, 21% Chardonnay & 2% Marsanne.
A seamless combination of pear, pineapple, gooseberry, banana and wet straw on the nose, following through on the palate. Crisp acidity is balanced by sweetness of ripe fruit & a nicely viscous mouth feel. Grapes were sourced from four Columbia Valley vineyards: Bacchus, Dionysus, Destiny Ridge & Arete.
4. Conundrum - $19.99Gorgeous aromas of apricot, honeysuckle, and vanilla and lime zest enhance a deeply-flavored palate of tropical fruit, peach, pear and honeydew melon flavors. The complexity of this wine is brought into balance with a rich, round, soft texture; fresh, supportive acidity; and a stunning, satisfying finish.
We also had a pre-tasting wine that we enjoyed while we toured Lisa's Beautiful yard, met her beautiful horses, pony, dogs and a goat!! It was:
Winemaker's notes:
The 2008 Ménage à Trois white is a trip to the islands without the worry of sunburn or bugs. It's undeniably fruity and unabashedly easy. It's meant to be quaffed, not analyzed. The White blend brings together citrus and tropical fruit flavors with crisp acidity. Dare we say it's refreshing? With food or without, alone or with two companions, this is one of the most exhilarating experiences imaginable.
