Tasting Wine, March Style

From the past week...

Gilgal 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon:
From Galilee, a lesser known place for wine, this red's restraint reminds me of Old World styles, though it lacks the obvious terroir. the mineral and earth tones that I would expect out of a Bordeaux. Notes of cocoa (not chocolate) lingered on my palette and this is a solid wine priced in the upper teens.

Chateau de Valmer 2010 Vouvray:
I had a tough time placing the fruit flavors in this, but they are quite pronounced, as well as the slight sweetness that is common in wines from the region. Though, sweetness levels varies in the wines, not all Vouvrays are off-dry. The Chateau de Valmer is best paired with a meal that has some exotic flair like a mildly spicy Oriental dsh or fish in a ginger-peach sauce. It should also go nicely with a cheese like Brie.

Las Colinas del Ebro 2010 Garnacha Blanca:
This $13 white from Spain stands out as an excellent value particularly if you like some zingy acidity and classic Old World mineral notes. The Las Colinas del Ebro has structure and body, so it can go with a range of dishes that are traditionally paired with white wine. Because of its food versatility, it's a good wine to have "stocked".

Normally I write about wines that we have with our meals in the week, though it seemed appropriate to mention a new vintage that we tried at The Wine Chap.



Las Colinas del Ebro 2011

Las Colinas del Ebro 2011 Garnacha Blanca:
Not quite as zippy or minerally as the 2010 vintage, the 2011 is softer, but still offers a lot of value for the dollar. I can see drinking this wine from time to time.