Fork and Cork

1st and Main
Blacksburg, VA 24060

Fork and Cork website

April 28th 12pm - 6pm

Tasting? $20 in advance, $25 at the door

Just hanging out? $5 at the door only

This year I finally made it to Fork and Cork. I'm graduating so I thought it would be a great experience for an up and coming wine lover! As it turns out, it was a really fun. But I definitely have some tips to make it better.

1. Volunteer - If you are a college kid like me, you don't have $20 laying around to blow. So volunteer! You work about a 3 hour shift at the beginning or end of the event. You also get free entry, a sweet t-shirt and glass to taste with after your shift. My boyfriend and I volunteered at the same time. He was at ticketing and I was helping out at the Chef Showcase. There are plenty of things to sign up for, but plan ahead so you can get the shift you want. I liked working the earlier shift because I didn't want to think about sobering up before my shift starts.
2. "Early bird gets the wine" - If you get there early, the lines are much shorter for the tastings. By 3pm you were waiting in lines for minimum 20 minutes.
3. Sunscreen - Use it. I learned the hard way. Blacksburg weather changes all the time. That morning it was cloudy, rainy, and cold. By 1pm, it was hot and sunny.
4. Buy a bottle or two or three! - Go with friends and take turns buying bottles. The lines are much faster to just buy a bottle and then you can go relax somewhere.
5. Learn something - There are chefs doing demonstrations all day with wine, food, and all sorts of stuff. Also, before you get too silly, take advantage of talking with the people next to you in line about the wines they have tasted at the festival. This will save you lots of time (if they know what they're talking about.)

That's probably all I have for now. As you scroll down, you'll see what the rest of the day was like (starting with my volunteer shift.)

I'm having difficulty uploading the pictures at the moment.. patience is appreciated.

I signed up to volunteer for one of the Chef Showcase stations. This was pretty fun, the people were nice and I got to learn interesting things about cooking.

The Chef I helped was demonstrating how to use chemicals for cooking. It's not exactly like it sounds. Above are is a container of the ingredients he used for making the red wine sauce. From what I gathered, they help maintain consistency of the different sauces and foams that he made. Also, he made mayonnaise, balsamic vinaigrette, and a strawberry foam that was delicious.

The infamous John Boyer also came out to share his wine knowledge.

Hokie-Tron-Robot-Man-Thing

Yes, that is a giant cupcake.(part of the Chef Showcase)

This was the one place Camp and I waited for 20 minutes to get a tasting. Then we wised up and bought some bottles!

Pretty good crowd! Amazing weather.

Check out this sweet corker thing.

Super cool chick and her soon-to-be husband. I like this wine. It was a slightly oaked Chardonnay from Fincastle Winery. It was slightly dry, rich color, and not but $10! Good buy Britt.

We went back later to Fincastle Winery and picked up this Hybrid Vigor. This and the Chardonnay were probably the best wines I tasted at Fork and Cork. This one was around $12 too.

Camp has a bottle of Eclipse from Horton Vineyards. It was a white wine, $12 bucks. The people around me loved it! I thought it was okay. It was simple, good chilled, and really nice for the temperature outside. But it wasn't very complex at all. A step above Chateau Morrisette Sweet Mountain Laurel.

Horton Vineyard Sweet Concord from Virginia. Now this was wayyyy too sweet. It was not bad, but I guess I'm becoming a "wine snob" because it just tasted like sugar water to me. Definitely don't need to try again. It was also around $12.

Irish tap dancers?

The rest are other wines that we didn't get to try and I'm not that sad because I probably didn't need to at that point.

Chateau Morrisette

287 Winery Road SW
Floyd, VA 24091

Blue Ridge Parkway Milepost 171.5

540-593-2865

www.thedogs.com

Winery and Gift Shop Hours

Monday-Thursday 10am - 5pm
Friday - Saturday 10am - 6pm
Sunday 11am - 5pm

Tour Schedule

Monday - Thursday 11am, 1pm, 3pm
Friday - Saturday 11am, 1pm, 3pm, 5pm
Sunday 12pm, 2pm, 4pm

Restaurant Hours

December - March
Wednesday - Thursday 11am - 2 pm
Friday - Saturday 11am - 8pm
Sunday 11am - 3pm A la carte

April - November
Wednesday - Thursday 11am - 2 pm
Friday - Saturday 11am - 9pm
Sunday 11am - 3pm

Background

Château Morrisette is a wonderful place to spend an evening with friends or a significant other. They have a huge, impressive wine tasting room/gift shop in the main building. If you're up there, you have to go on a tour of the production facilities! It only takes about 30 minutes and they walk you through where they store the wine in barrels (smells amazing!) and steel containers and the bottling process. Throughout the year they also host special events and mystery theater dinners.

The tasting room/gift shop has a cool story. Here is an excerpt from the website about it: "Blue Ridge Timberwrights constructed a unique building from salvaged timber from the St. Marie River to create one of the largest salvaged timber frame buildings in North America: 32,365 square feet with 135,000 board feet of Douglas fir recycled"timbers.

I recently did a project on Château Morrisette and discovered a few fun facts from their website and others!

-- They now produce over 60,000 cases of wine per year.
-- Stainless steel tank capacity is approximately 130,000 gallons with an additional 50,000 gallon capacity in French and American oak.
-- They produces nineteen different wines and utilizes production from over 150 acres of vineyards either on site or from growers throughout the Commonwealth.
-- "Virginia is ranked 10th in commercial grape production and grape bearing acreage."
-- "The Virginia Commercial Grape Statistical Report shows 4,120 tons produced from 1,730 bearing acres."

Tastings

I rated these all out of 10. This was toward the beginning of the semester and I think my taste have changed a bit. So take this from the point of view of an new wine drinking enthusiast. Pictures to come!

Off-Dry
(1)
Name: 2010 Vidal Blanc
Grape: Vidal Blanc
Alcohol Content: 12%
How much? $9.99
Rating 5

Description
"Refreshing flavors of citrus and apples are augmented by grapefruit, melon, and floral aromas. Medium-bodied and smooth, this vintage features a lengthy, aromatic finish. Very food-freidnyl; pairs well with a wide variety of frilled or roasted poultry and seafood."

(2)
Name: Our Dog Blue
Grape: Riesling and Traminette
Alcohol Content: not listed
How much? $9.99
Rating 6

Description
"This popular white wine is a semi-sweet Riesling-Traminette blend, using Vidal Blanc for added depth. Aromas of melons, citrus fruits, apricots, and delicate flowers highlight the soft finish of this soothing wine. Serve chilled with fruits and cheeses, fish, or spicy foods."

(3)
Name: Blushing Dog
Grape: Vidal Blanc and Riesling with little Chambourcin
Alcohol Content: not listed
How much? $9.99
Rating 6

Description
"This refreshing, semi-sweet blush wine. Lush aromas of flowers and fruit are balanced by crispy avidity. Excellent on its own at a summer picnic."

Sweet

(4)
Name: Red Mountain Laurel
Grape: Native American grapes
Alcohol Content: probably 0% super sweet
How much? $9.99
Rating 8 - at the time, now I'd give it a 4. Still taste good, but just like grape juice. Nothing complex about it.

Description
"This is a distinctive dessert wine made from a blend of native American grape varieties. It exhibits flavors of fresh grapes and cherries that are complemented by a sweet, smooth finish. A nice accompaniment for chocolate desserts, delicious poured over pound cake, or served as an aperitif."

(5)
Name: 2009 Frosty Dog
Grape: not listed
Alcohol Content: 11.6%
How much? $18.99 for 375ml
Rating 10 - Very sweet but good dessert wine. A little expensive for what it is though.

Description
"Freezing resulted in a concentrated, aromatic juice, which when fermented became this sumptuous, complex dessert wine. Aromas of apples, citrus, and orange blossoms are accentuated by lively acidity. The lingering finish drips with honey, pear, and subtle mango flavors. This delightful wine is a great dessert by itself, and can also be served as an aperitif."

Fruit Wines

(6)
Name: Blackberry
Grape: not specified
Alcohol Content: 12%
How much? $10.99
Rating 9

Description
"Winemakers at Château Morrisette just couldn’t leave well enough alone. Not content with only grapes, they have crafted a delicious new fruit wine from summer’s bounty of sun-ripened blackberries. One of life’s simple pleasures here in our little part of paradise.

Sweet and smooth, our Blackberry Wine is packed with the vibrant fruitiness of succulent, sun drenched berries. Try it lightly chilled with most any grilled or spicy food. This all-natural wine may contain a harmless sediment."

(7)
Name: Blushing Dog
Grape: Vidal Blanc and Riesling with little Chambourcin
Alcohol Content: not listed
How much? $9.99
Rating 6

Description
"Refreshing, semi-sweet blush wine. Lush aromas of flowers and fruit are balanced by crispy avidity. Excellent on its own at a summer picnic.

Dry

(8)
Name: 2010 Chambourcin (Sham-boor-saN)
Grape: Chambourcin
Alcohol Content: 12.5%
How much? $15.99
Rating 6

Description
"Aromas of plums and berries lift from this dark violet wine, augmented by gentle notes of black tea. Tasting quickly fills the mouth with rich fruitiness, suggesting cherries and blueberries. Silky and soft, this medium to full bodied wine features a fruity and exceptionally long finish, revealing glimmers of black pepper. Chambourcin is an exceptionally smooth and food-friendly wine. Enjoy it with grilled meats, sausages, roasted poultry, and dishes with mushrooms. Try it with chocolate!"

(9)
Name: Independence
Grape: Tramineete, Vidal Blanc, and Riesling
Alcohol Content: not listed
How much? $11.99
Rating 5

Description
"A blend of Traminette and Riesling, this refreshing dry white wine is packed with lively fruit character. The smooth texture and entracing floral aromas complete this delicious tribute to Independence."

(10)
Name: 2009 Cabernet Franc
Grape: You guessed it - Cab Franc
Alcohol Content: 12.5%br /> How much? $15.99
Rating 6

Description
"Wild berry and cedar aromas illuminate the plum and black cherry flavors in this mid-weight, mouth-watering wine. The silky tannic structure is augmented by small amounts of Petit Verdot and Tannat, and slowly fades into a warm, lingering finish with emerging cocoa notes. Ideal with steaks, this wine also pairs well with lamb, game, mushroom dishes, and medium to sharp cheeses. Try it with dark chocolate!"

(11)
Name: 2007 Merlot
Grape: Merlot
Alcohol Content:13.2%
How much? $5.99
Rating 4

Description
"Reminiscent of Old World reds, this ruby red vintage fuses leather, black tea and tobacco box aromas with plum and berry flavors. Medium bodied, velvet-textured and slightly spicy, this wine pairs wonderfully with game meats, lamb, and mushroom dishes. This wine was blended with a small amount of Cabernet Franc for depth, and finished with a bit of Tannat for added structure. Great with food, this Merlot pairs well with roasted meats like turkey, duck, venison and lamb."

Wine Cocktails

Here are some simple Wine Cocktails I learned about during our visit.

Red Mountain Sour
-- Sugar the rim of glass
-- 4 oz. Red Mountain Laurel Wine
-- 2 oz. Whisky Sour Mix
Combine wine & sour. Mix with ice.

Blackberry Fizz
-- 3/4 cup Blackberry Wine
-- 3/4 cup Lemon-Lime Soda
-- 1 tsp. Grenadine for sweetness if desired
Fill glass half way with ice. Add wine, soda, and Grenadine. Stir. Garnish with a sprig of mint or slice of lemon or lime.

Very Berry Pump
-- 4 oz. Blackberry Wine
-- 2 oz. Cranberry juice
-- 1 oz. Maraschino Cherry juice
-- Splash of Soda Water
-- Cherries for garnish
Combine with ice.

Red Sangria
-- 1 - 750mL Bottle of Black Dog Red Wine
-- 1/4 cup sugar
-- 1 cup orange juice
-- 3 Tbsp. key lime juice
-- 1 orange, sliced
-- 1/3 lime, sliced
-- 1 cup Lemon- Lime Soda
-- Maraschino Cherries
-- (optional pineapple chunks, apple slices)
Combine wine and sugar in a pitcher; stirring to dissolve the sugar. Add orange juice, lime juice, orange slices, and any optional fruit. Let stand covered in refrigerator several hours or overnight. Just before serving, stir in lemon-lime soda. Serve in a 16 oz. glass filled with ice and garnish with maraschino cherry.

Tasting #84 Red

Name: 2010 Big House Red
Grape: ?
Color: red
Food: just tasting
Country/Region: California

Would you drink it again? I liked it and the bottle was cool looking. I wanted to keep an accurate account of the wines I have tasted this semester, but I forgot to take notes this one.

Tasting #83 White

Name: 2010 Blackstone
Grape: Sauvignon Blanc
Color: white
Smell: simple, grassy
Taste: light, smooth
Dryness/Sweetness: sweetish
Food: Camp and I made Sushi with avocado, cucumber, salmon, and cream cheese
Country/Region: Moneteray County

Alcohol Content: not sure
How much? >$8.00
Would you drink it again? At least one more time - I'm sure there are a lot of good Sauv Blancs, but this was a pleasant match with sushi.



My rating scale works as such:
1. Never Again
2. If someone else bought it
3. I'd keep it in mind
4. At least one more time
5. Going to get another bottle right NOW!

Tasting #82 White

Name: 2010 La Crema
Grape: Chardonnay
Color: rich, straw yellow
Smell: oaky
Taste: smooth, balanced
Dryness/Sweetness: medium dry
Food: just tasting
Country/Region: Sonoma Coast, CA

Alcohol Content:
How much? $20
Would you drink it again? Going to get another bottle - My boyfriends mom picked this one out and it was a great choice! I really enjoyed drinking it with her. It had a nice balance of oak.I believe she got it from Total Wine.
My rating scale works as such:
1. Never Again
2. If someone else bought it
3. I'd keep it in mind
4. At least one more time
5. Going to get another bottle right NOW!

Tasting #81 Red

Name: 2010 Lazzaro Banardo
Grape: not sure
Color: red
Food: just tasting
Country/Region: Argentina

How much? between $10-$15
Would you drink it again? Sure - This is another one that I wanted to post, but forgot to take thorough tasting notes on.

My rating scale works as such:
1. Never Again
2. If someone else bought it
3. I'd keep it in mind
4. At least one more time
5. Going to get another bottle right NOW!

Tasting #80 White

Name: 2010 Opera Prima
Grape: ?
Color: light white
Smell: floral
Taste: fruity, floral
Dryness/Sweetness: sweet
Food: just tasting
Country/Region: Spain

Alcohol Content: 10.5%
How much? $5.95
Would you drink it again? At least one more time - it was okay for this price range.

Other reviews:
From the Vintage Cellar:
"Flowery and sweet smelling, then round and fairly smooth in the mouth. The flavor package of tropical fruits galore is pleasant and shouldn't offend anyone. Finishes clean and easy. A mango boat of flavor."

My rating scale works as such:
1. Never Again
2. If someone else bought it
3. I'd keep it in mind
4. At least one more time
5. Going to get another bottle right NOW!

Tasting #79 Red

Name: 2008 Sendra 66
Grape: Tempranillo
Color: dark purple
Smell: blackberry, blueberry
Taste: spicy, blueberry
Dryness/Sweetness: very dry
Food: just tasting
Country/Region: Spain

Alcohol Content: 14%
How much? $8.95
Would you drink it again? At least one more time.

Other reviews:
From the Vintage Cellar:
"The 2008 Senda 66 spent 8 months in new French oak. Purple/black in color, it sports a fragrant nose of spice box, lavender, blueberry, and blackberry. Smooth-textured, layered, and remarkably rich on the palate for its humble price, the lengthy effort will drink nicely over the next 5-6 years."

My rating scale works as such:
1. Never Again
2. If someone else bought it
3. I'd keep it in mind
4. At least one more time
5. Going to get another bottle right NOW!

Tasting #78 Red

Name: 2009 Sierra Cruz
Grape: Carmenere
Color: dark red
Smell: woody, smoky
Taste: spicy, dark fruit like blackberry
Dryness/Sweetness: dry
Food: just tasting
Country/Region: Chile

Alcohol Content: 13%
How much? $6.95
Would you drink it again? At least one more time - I think I bought this to try with food.

Other reviews:
From the Vintage Cellar:
"As a member of the cabernet sauvignon family, carmenere (pronounced car-men-yare) originated in Bordeaux as one of the grapes permitted for use in the red blends of that storied region. Chilean winemakers have embraced it and several wineries in that country product it as a single varietal. The 2009 Sierra Cruz is a very pleasant, soft, medium bodied wine that has fresh cabernet-like aromas and flavors of spice, dark fruit and black pepper. It is a great value and also would be a nice match with marinated and grilled skirt or flank steak."

My rating scale works as such:
1. Never Again
2. If someone else bought it
3. I'd keep it in mind
4. At least one more time
5. Going to get another bottle right NOW!

Tasting #77 White

Name: Lost Vineyards
Grape: Chardonnay
Color: pale straw yellow
Smell: not a lot
Taste: fruity, pear
Dryness/Sweetness: sweet
Food: just tasting
Country/Region: Argentina

Alcohol Content: 12.5%
How much? $3.95
Would you drink it again? I'd keep it in mind - not really sure why, but it wasn't totally terrible.

Other reviews:
From the Vintage Cellar:
"Pale golden color. Perfumed peach, pineapple, and nougat aromas. Round and soft with a fruity-yet-dry medium body. Tangy apple skin and lemon zest notes lift the fruit nicely on the finish."

My rating scale works as such:
1. Never Again
2. If someone else bought it
3. I'd keep it in mind
4. At least one more time
5. Going to get another bottle right NOW!

Tasting #76 White

Name: Sierra Cruz
Grape: Sauvignon Blanc
Color: white
Smell: citrus, grassy
Taste: tangy
Dryness/Sweetness: sweet
Food: just tasting
Country/Region: Chile

Alcohol Content: 12%
How much? $6.95
Would you drink it again? At least one more time

Other reviews:
From the Vintage Cellar:
"This Chilean Sauvignon Blanc just oozes with bright citrus flavors and a nose of herbs and grass. Stylistically, it is a cross between the herbal, grassy wines so prevalent in Sonoma County and the riper, more fruit forward products of New Zealand. Match it with pasta sauce with arugula, pine nuts, mushrooms and Parmesan."

My rating scale works as such:
1. Never Again
2. If someone else bought it
3. I'd keep it in mind
4. At least one more time
5. Going to get another bottle right NOW!

Tasting #75 Red

Name: 2009 Lopez Pancha
Grape: Tempranillo
Color: red
Smell: green beans, vegetables
Taste: leathery
Dryness/Sweetness: semi dry
Food: just tasting
Country/Region: ?

Alcohol Content: 13%
How much? ?
Would you drink it again? If someone else bought it - this was not my thing


My rating scale works as such:
1. Never Again
2. If someone else bought it
3. I'd keep it in mind
4. At least one more time
5. Going to get another bottle right NOW!

Tasting #74 White

Name: 2010 Accuro Mendoza
Grape: ?
Color: white
Smell: sweet, pear, apple
Taste: tart
Dryness/Sweetness: slightly dry
Food: just tasting
Country/Region: Argentina

Alcohol Content: 13%
How much? $4.95 on closeout
Would you drink it again? I'd keep it in mind.

Other reviews:
This wine received 90 points from Robert Parker. I don't taste it.
My rating scale works as such:
1. Never Again
2. If someone else bought it
3. I'd keep it in mind
4. At least one more time
5. Going to get another bottle right NOW!

Attimo Winery

“Let our moments be your moments…”

4025 Childress Road
Christiansburg, VA 24073

(540) 382 – 7619

wine@attimowinery.com
www.attimowinery.com

M Th F S 11am to 6pm
Sun 1pm to 6pm

Description:
This winery is located very close to Virginia Tech in a near by town, Christiansburg, VA. The couple that owns the winery grew up in New Jersey and fell in love with the area while attending Virginia Tech. The winery is not in a traditional location and my first thought was that it is a local, neighborhood winery. It is literally located in the middle of a neighborhood.

I love their mission!

“Attimo is dedicated to celebrating the everyday moments of life. Attimo means “in the moment,” and we strive to provide an inviting and comforting place to enjoy the moments that you choose to spend with us.”

All of their wines are named after moments in life.

Overall, this was a positive experience. They have a different approach to tasting. You walk in to a living room type set up and chose where you want to sit. A server comes over and does a tasting for you and your party only. This is not your traditional wine bar tasting. I thought it was a really cool idea, but in reality it seems a little awkward. This is only my opinion, tell me what you think! I have to be honest with you all, I am disappointed that I didn’t get to keep the glass. But that is one of the only complaints I have.

The tasting starts at $5.00 and you can add on the reserve wine list for an extra $3.00. The glass itself is $2.00 and not included in the tasting.

Whites

(1)
Name: Masquerade
Grape: Chardonnay
Color: pale yellow
Smell: soft, light fruit
Taste: creamy, oaky (aged 7 months in oak)
Alcohol: 12.5%
Price: $19

Rating: 3 – It was good, but the price is pretty high for what it is.

Comments from Attimo: This creamy chardonnay is the same base wine as our Yesterday’s Song, with masked with significantly more oak. Dry, Smooth & buttery, but still fruity. Pairs well with cheese plates and creamy foods.

(2)
Name: Sonnet 98
Grape: Vidal Blanc
Color: white
Smell: floral, not overly peary
Taste: crisp, floral
Alcohol: 13%
Price: $17

Rating: 4

Comments from Attimo: This Vidal, with its soft undertones and vibrant floral bouquet brings to mind crisp spring mornings and the first spring flowers bursting forth to find the sun.

(3)
Name: I Do
Grape: Traminette/Petite Manseng Blend
Color: white
Smell: citrus
Taste: smooth, citrus
Alcohol: 13%
Price: $17

Rating: 5 - A good sweet, but not as much as Sweet Mountain Laurael for Chateau Morrisette.

Comments from Attimo: I do is a semi-sweet white wine with tropical fruit flavors on the nose, citrus notes on the palette, and a crisp, clean finish. This blend combines the best qualities of each grape to create something new.

Reds

(4)
Name: Deep Silence
Grape: Cabernet Franc
Color: red
Smell: pepper, smoky, dry
Taste: medium body, smoky, berry
Alcohol: 13.5%
Price: $18

Rating: 4 - This was a good "had a long day" kind of wine.

Comments from Attimo: This smooth Cabernet franc is calming with traditional flavors of pepper, blackberry, and currant. It can be paired with Mediterranean dishes and goes well with ham, pork and veal.

(5)
Name: AD 325
Grape: Chambourcin
Color: deep purple color
Smell: earthy
Taste: cherry, bold
Alcohol: 13.8%
Price: $16

Rating: 5 – Pretty good.

Comments from Attimo: This Chambourcin, brings together a rich, brilliantly colored wine with vibrant aromatics and slightly-sweet flavor. Chambourcin is best served with chocolate, as the flavors intermingle exceptionally well.

(6)
Name: Vertex
Grape: Cabernet Sauvignon
Color: red
Smell: black currant, rich, oaky
Taste: oak, smooth, dry (not as much as dry as Deep Silence)
Alcohol: 13%
Price: $20

Rating: 4 – The meaning of this name is crossroads.

Comments from Attimo: This bold and unassuming Cabernet Sauvignon with rich tannins and intense plum flavors, reaches a peak of spiciness.It can be paired with bold meats and rich pasta meals.

Dessert Wines

(7)
Name: Sweet Berry Sunset
Grape: Raspberry/Red Wine Blend
Color: brown color
Smell: raspberry
Taste: RASPBERRY (no mistake), good blend of all these things
Alcohol: 12.5%
Price: $13

Rating: 4 – This was really, really good. Very sweet, definitely a dessert wine.

Comments from Attimo: Our raspberries and blackberries are grown in the vineyard, and harvested at the peak of ripeness. This mixed berry wine provides a sweet and fruity blend with the red table wine.

(8)
Name: Sudden Downpour
Grape: Apple/White Wine Blend
Color: ?
Smell: slight bourbon sent
Taste: apple, sweet
Alcohol: 12.5%
Price: $13

Rating: 4 – This was mulled in bourbon chips

Comments from Attimo: This sweet apple wine, blended with white table wine embodies a quality of surprise, with warm vanilla notes drawn from the aged bourbon barrel.

(9)
Name: Seduction
Grape: Tinta Madera/Touriga Nacional/Souzao
Color: brownish
Smell: raisin
Taste: raisin, smooth, port like, very hot on the finish
Alcohol: 18%
Price: $26

Rating: 2 – Did not mean to try this by the glass. Way too hot on the finish and overall not my thing.

Comments from Attimo: This vintage Ruby dessert wine conjures up flavors of dark chocolate, raspberry, blackberry and a slight touch of nuttiness. Perfect for a cold winter night.

Awards

Yesterday's Song

Bronze: International Eastern Wine Competition

Bronze: Atlantic Seaboard Wine Competition

Gold: Virginia Wine Lover’s Classic 2011

Sonnet 98

Double Gold: International Eastern Wine Competition

Best in Class: International Eastern Wine Competition

Gold: Virginia Wine Lover’s Classic 2011

Silver: Wines of the South Competition

I Do

Silver: Wines of the South Competition

Deep Silence

Bronze: Wines of the South Competition

A.D. 325

Second: Red, Western Division, Virginia Wine Lover

Bronze: International Eastern Wine Competition

Gold: Virginia Wine Lover’s Classic 2011

Silver: Wines of the South Competition

Vertex

Bronze: Wines of the South Competition

Sweet Berry Sunset

Gold: Virginia Wine Lover’s Classic 2011

Sudden Downpour

Bronze: Wines of the South Competition

Tasting #65 Sangria

Name:Morada Sangria
Grape: I dunno, something red
Color: plum red
Smell: fruity
Taste: citrus, fruity, simple
Dryness/Sweetness: sweeeet
Food: just tasting
Country/Region: Spain

Alcohol Content: 7%
How much? $4.95 per Liter
Would you drink it again? I'd keep it in mind to mix with something for a college party. Better than a gin bucket.

Other reviews:
From the Vintage Cellar:
"A traditional Spanish drink made with red wine and citrus extracts. Garnet color and fresh on the palate. Serve well chilled, on its own or with lemonade and slices of fruit like peach, banana or apple."

My rating scale works as such:
1. Never Again
2. If someone else bought it
3. I'd keep it in mind
4. At least one more time
5. Going to get another bottle right NOW!

Tasting #64 Red

ADD PICTURE Name: Cortenova Primitivo 2010
Grape: Primitivo
Color: dark red
Smell: deep floral rose, reminds me of Valhalla but it’s not
Taste: dark luscious fruit
Dryness/Sweetness: dry
Food: just tasting
Country/Region: Italy

Alcohol Content: 13%
How much? $3.95 (closeout), $7.95 (on sale)
Would you drink it again? At least one more time – I bought it again to try

Other reviews:
From the Vintage Cellar:
“Dark, ruby-red color with violet highlights. Intense and fragrant bouquet with a rich array of red and black fruit aromas and flavors. Harmonious and velvety on the palate. Great balance and structure. Excellent with grilled or roasted meats, games and cheese."

My rating scale works as such:
1. Never Again
2. If someone else bought it
3. I'd keep it in mind
4. At least one more time
5. Going to get another bottle right NOW!

Tasting #63 Red

Name: Canyon Road 2010
Grape: Pinot Noir
Color: red
Smell: raspberry, cherry
Taste: raspberry, cherry, lack of spice
Dryness/Sweetness: dry
Food: just tasting
Country/Region: California

Alcohol Content: 13%
How much? $6.95
Would you drink it again? At least one more time

Extra thoughts? I bought a bottle and hope it tastes as good for the price as it did at the Vintage Cellar

Other reviews:
From the Vintage Cellar:
“This Pinot Noir expresses tantalizing flavors of ripe cherry and wild raspberry and finishes with brown, vanilla spices and smooth finish.”

My rating scale works as such:
1. Never Again
2. If someone else bought it
3. I'd keep it in mind
4. At least one more time
5. Going to get another bottle right NOW!

Tasting #62 White

Name: Oak Vineyards 2010
Grape: Chardonnay
Color: straw yellow
Smell: oak
Taste: very dry, bite, oak
Dryness/Sweetness: dry
Food: just tasting
Country/Region: California

Alcohol Content: 12.5%
How much? $5.95 (750ml) or $10.95 (1.5 L)
Would you drink it again? If someone else bough it and I was at a college party. Nuff Said

Other reviews:
From the Vintage Cellar: “This light straw-colored Oak Vineyards 2010 Chardonnay expresses smokey aromatics with nuances of apple and lemon zest that continue onto the palate where they flourish into citrus, orange blossom, and smoked oak flavors until meeting a crisp, medium finish.”

My rating scale works as such:
1. Never Again
2. If someone else bought it
3. I'd keep it in mind
4. At least one more time
5. Going to get another bottle right NOW!

Tasting #61 White

Name: Poysedorfer Saurussel Gruner Veltliner 2010
Grape: ?
Color: yellow
Smell: citrus, lemon
Taste: crisp, citrus, sour, tart
Dryness/Sweetness: mild dry
Food: just tasting
Country/Region: Austria

Alcohol Content: 11.5%
How much? $7.95
Would you drink it again? I’d keep it in mind – but probably not

Other reviews:
From the Vintage Cellar: "Crisp lime flavors, white pepper and lentils, followed by a mouthful of mineral notes and gooseberry. A long lingering finish. A great accompaniment to any Asian or fresh seafood dish."

My rating scale works as such:
1. Never Again
2. If someone else bought it
3. I'd keep it in mind
4. At least one more time
5. Going to get another bottle right NOW!

Tasting #60 Red

Tasting #59 White

Name: Four Bears
Grape: Sauvignon Blanc
Color: yellow
Smell: pineapple, mango (pretty distinct)
Taste: grapefruit, pineapple, mango, pretty fruity
Dryness/Sweetness: sweet
Food: just tasting
Country/Region: not sure… California?

Alcohol Content: 13.5%
How much? $12.95
Would you drink it again? I’d try it again.

Other reviews:
From the Vintage Cellar:
“Rich and complex with aromas of ruby grapefruit, citrus, and tropical fruit. On the palate, the combined flavors of fresh melon, fig and lime are balanced perfectly to form a crisp, mouthwatering texture and a lingering finish.”

My rating scale works as such:
1. Never Again
2. If someone else bought it
3. I'd keep it in mind
4. At least one more time
5. Going to get another bottle right NOW!

Tasting #58 Red

Name: 2009 Col Des Vents Corbieres
Grape: 50% Carignan, 35% Grenache, 15% Syrah
Color: red
Smell: berry, pepper
Taste: mild, smooth, berry
Dryness/Sweetness: slightly more dry, but pretty mild
Food: just tasting
Country/Region: Col Des Vents (France)

Alcohol Content: 14%
How much? $7.95
Would you drink it again? I’d keep it in mind.

Extra thoughts?
Here is the website if you would like more information on it. www.kysela.com.

Other reviews:
From the Vintage Cellar:
“Brambly berry, cherry and raspberry, spices, black pepper… all are present in the authentic French country wine.”

My rating scale works as such:
1. Never Again
2. If someone else bought it
3. I'd keep it in mind
4. At least one more time
5. Going to get another bottle right NOW!

Tasting #57 White

Name: 2010 San Elias
Grape: Carmenere
Color: yellow
Smell: oak, berry, fruity
Taste: oak, fruit, smooth
Dryness/Sweetness: sweet
Food: just tasting
Country/Region: Chile

Alcohol Content: <13.5%br /> How much? $5.95
Would you drink it again? At least one more time – For $6, definitely try it.

Extra thoughts? This was a merlot style grape. In the past, before this type of grape was discovered, it was incorrectly identified as merlot.

Other reviews:
From the Vintage Cellar:
“The grapes for this Carmenere are selected from vineyards in the Central Valley. Beautiful red fruit aromas. Supple and round in the mouth, the wine pairs well with full flavored cheeses and lamb.”

My rating scale works as such:
1. Never Again
2. If someone else bought it
3. I'd keep it in mind
4. At least one more time
5. Going to get another bottle right NOW!

Tasting #56 White

Name: 2009 Zonin
Grape: Pinot Grigio
Color: pale yellow
Smell: peach, fruity
Taste: peachy, sweet, simple
Dryness/Sweetness: fairly sweet
Food: just tasting
Country/Region: Italy

Alcohol Content: 12%
How much? $5.95 (normally $20)
Would you drink it again? I’d keep it in mind – This was a great value! The wine is normally $20 a bottle for a magnum (1.5L)

Other reviews:
From the Vintage Cellar:
“Pale straw-yellow color with brilliant reflections. Delicately fruity bouquet with outstanding finesse and marked hints of almond blossom and peaches. Elegant, soft and well structured fruit on the palate with remarkable freshness and a clean, persistent aftertaste.”

My rating scale works as such:
1. Never Again
2. If someone else bought it
3. I'd keep it in mind
4. At least one more time
5. Going to get another bottle right NOW!

Tasting #55 White

Name: 2010 Estrella
Grape: 100% Chardonnay
Color: straw yellow
Smell: pear, vanilla, banana
Taste: smooth, sweet, pear, vanilla, oak
Dryness/Sweetness: pretty sweet
Food: just tasting
Country/Region: Napa, California

Alcohol Content: 12.5%
How much? $5.95
Would you drink it again? At least one more time – This was really smooth.

Extra thoughts? For $6, a definite yes. The “oak monster” doesn’t attack you either, as Gary V would put it.

Other reviews:
From the Vintage Cellar:
“Intensely flavored and balanced with layers of vanilla, butter and pear, followed by apply, banana, and oak.”

My rating scale works as such:
1. Never Again
2. If someone else bought it
3. I'd keep it in mind
4. At least one more time
5. Going to get another bottle right NOW!

Tasting #54 White

Name: Peter Mertes Liebraumilch Rheinhessen Qualitatswien
Grape: this is not a secret blend
Color: yellow
Smell: sweet, simple
Taste: very sweet, smooth finish, delicate
Dryness/Sweetness: sweet
Food: just tasting
Country/Region: Germany (As you may have guessed by the title)

Alcohol Content: 9.5%
How much? $5.95
Would you drink it again? Going to get another bottle next time I want sweet white.

Extra thoughts?

I was told that “Leibfraumilch” means “lovely mothers milk” in English.

Other reviews:
From the Vintage Cellar:
“Leibraumilch is a soft, delicate wine of the Rheninhessen and Palatiante districts. The original wine was named after the Leibfraumilch monastery in Worms, where the monks were the first wine growers and produced an unusually pleasing wine. Wines of the Rheinhessen and Palatinate are noted for the aroma, well balanced harmony, and fragrance. Leirbraumilch, as all excellent white wines, is best served chilled. We suggest serving with cold entrees, as well as poultry, such as chicken or turkey, or even with a mild Cheddar, mellow and slightly nutty with a medium consistency.”

My rating scale works as such:
1. Never Again
2. If someone else bought it
3. I'd keep it in mind
4. At least one more time
5. Going to get another bottle right NOW!

Tasting #53 Red

Name: La Sera Red Malvasia
Grape: Malvasia
Color: red
Smell: sweet, fruity, blueberry yogurt
Taste: super sweet, the nose was bigger than the bite, not much flavor
Dryness/Sweetness: very sweet
Food: just tasting
Country/Region: Imported from Italy – Vienna, VA

Alcohol Content: 5.5%
How much? $13.95
Would you drink it again? Never again - $14 for sugar water, I’ll pass

Extra thoughts? Chateau Morrisette has some very sweet, simple wines. But this is like a watered down version of those.

Other reviews:
From the Vintage Cellar:
“A specialty of Italy’s piedmont region, Red Malvasia di Casorzo is fragrant and fruity , moderately sweet wine. It has strawberry and fresh grape flavors, with a zesty frizzante. It is low in alcohol and best served slightly chilled. Enjoy as an aperitif, matched with spicy barbeque or Oriental dishes. It is also excellent with rich chocolate cake or a fruity sorbet.”

My rating scale works as such:
1. Never Again
2. If someone else bought it
3. I'd keep it in mind
4. At least one more time
5. Going to get another bottle right NOW!

Tasting #52 Red

Name: La Sera Red Ambrosia
Grape: Is ambrosia a grape?
Color: light red
Smell: sweet, grape
Taste: tasteless, not much flavor at all
Dryness/Sweetness: sweet
Food: just tasting
Country/Region: Imported from Italy – Vienna, VA

Alcohol Content: 5.5%
How much? $13.95
Would you drink it again? Never Again – seriously $14 for water and sugar? Pass on this one

My rating scale works as such:
1. Never Again
2. If someone else bought it
3. I'd keep it in mind
4. At least one more time
5. Going to get another bottle right NOW!

Tasting #51 Red

Name: Pietra Santa
Grape: Sangiovese
Color: red
Smell: hot, sense of alcohol
Taste: dry, medium body, rich fruit
Dryness/Sweetness: dry
Food: just tasting
Country/Region: Cienegra Valley, California

Alcohol Content: 14.5%
How much? $15.95
Would you drink it again? I’d keep it in mind.

Other reviews:
From the Vintage Cellar:
“Produced exclusively from grapes grown on the estate and showcases winemaker Alessio carli’s talent with the rape. Growing up in Tuscany, Alessio watched his father make Chianti and later honed his skills at the renowned Badia a Coltbuono. Our Estate Sangiovese taste of cranberry and intense bing cherry with undertones of anise and a lingering finish. The depth and complexity of this wine has made it an annual best seller and the ultimate companion to great Italian cuisine. Typical of this varietal our Sangiovese wines have matured and we have been rewarded by increasingly rich fruit.

My rating scale works as such:
1. Never Again
2. If someone else bought it
3. I'd keep it in mind
4. At least one more time
5. Going to get another bottle right NOW!

Tasting #50 Red

Name: Pietra Santa Sacred Stone Red
Color: red
Smell: dry, cherry, smooth
Taste: simple spice, smooth, light body
Dryness/Sweetness: pretty dry
Food: just tasting
Country/Region: Cienegra Valley, California

Alcohol Content: 13.8%
How much? $9.95
Would you drink it again? At least one more time – I like the peppery flavor.

Other reviews:
From the Vintage Cellar:
“Proprietor’s Red Blend. This wine is ripe and juicy with expressive flavors of cherries and plums. It is dark and aromatic with crisp acidity, nice structure and a lush finish. Made to pair with a wide variety of foods, this red wine is a must for everyday enjoyment or teaming with your favorite grilled and outdoor cuisine.”

My rating scale works as such:
1. Never Again
2. If someone else bought it
3. I'd keep it in mind
4. At least one more time
5. Going to get another bottle right NOW!

Tasting #49 Hard Cider

Name: Foggy Ridge Hard Cider Pippin Gold
Fruit: Newtown Pippin
Color: light yellow
Smell: brandy, apple
Taste: sweet, Brandy, hot on the finish
Dryness/Sweetness: sweet
Food: just tasting
Country/Region: Dugspur, VA

Alcohol Content: 18%
How much? $25.95 (for 375ml)
Would you drink it again? I’d try it again – This was definitely for sipping.

Extra thoughts? The finish is a little hot which is accounted for by the 18% alcohol content. This cider was described as a similar to a brandy.

Other reviews:
From the website:
“Pippin Gold is a unique blend of 100% Newtown Pippin hard cider and apple brandy from Laird and Company, the country's oldest distiller. Pippin Gold is delicious as a dessert cider or sweet aperitif. Some have swooned over peaches soaked in Pippin Gold served with homemade pound cake.”

My rating scale works as such:
1. Never Again
2. If someone else bought it
3. I'd keep it in mind
4. At least one more time
5. Going to get another bottle right NOW!

Tasting #48 Hard Cider

Name: Foggy Ridge Hard Cider Pippin Black
Fruit: Newtown Pippin and Arkansas Black apples
Color: more rich golden color
Smell: butterscotch, candy, apply
Taste: brandy, butterscotch, sweet, still little hot on the finish
Dryness/Sweetness: sweet
Food: just tasting
Country/Region: Dugspur, VA

Alcohol Content: 18%
How much? $25.95 (for 375ml)
Would you drink it again? I’d try it again – This was definitely for sipping (like the above mentioned).

Extra thoughts? The finish is a little hot which is accounted for by the 18% alcohol content. This was aged in Hungarian Oak for a few months, which I think accounts for some of the brandy flavors.

Other reviews:
From the website:
“Newly released Pippin Black combines hard cider from Newtown Pippin and Arkansas Black apples with Virginia apple brandy. To gild the lily we age this blend on Hungarian Oak. Butterscotch and caramel notes combine with rich apple flavor, making this apple port ideal with blue cheese and walnuts.”

My rating scale works as such:
1. Never Again
2. If someone else bought it
3. I'd keep it in mind
4. At least one more time
5. Going to get another bottle right NOW!

Tasting #47 Hard Cider

Name: Foggy Ridge Hard Cider Serious Cider
Fruit: English Cider Apples
Color: light yellow
Smell: apple
Taste: crisp, tart, dry, carbonated
Dryness/Sweetness: mildy dry
Food: just tasting
Country/Region: Dugspur, VA

Alcohol Content: not sure
How much? $17.25
Would you drink it again? I’d try it again.

Extra thoughts? This particular hard cider was better than the First Fruit Cider above. It was more smooth than the previous one.

Other reviews:
From the website:
“Mixes traditional English cider apples like Tremlett’s bitter and Dabinett with tart American favorites like Ashmead’s Kernel and Roxbury Russey. This crisp light food friendly cider is a refreshing apertifi paired with cheesy nibbles.”

My rating scale works as such:
1. Never Again
2. If someone else bought it
3. I'd keep it in mind
4. At least one more time
5. Going to get another bottle right NOW!

Tasting #46 Hard Cider

Name: Foggy Ridge Hard Cider First Fruit
Fruit: Crab Apples
Color: light yellow
Smell: apple
Taste: crisp, dry, carbonated
Dryness/Sweetness: mildy dry
Food: just tasting
Country/Region: Dugspur, VA

Alcohol Content: not sure
How much? $17.25
Would you drink it again? I’d try it again – I haven’t had many hard ciders but this was tasty.

Extra thoughts? This particular hard cider was made with non edible apples (crab apples).

Other reviews:
From the bottle:
“Cider blends early season American heirloom apple to create a rich fruity cider with lively acidity to drink, like Thomas Jefferson, on its own or with a meal.”

My rating scale works as such:
1. Never Again
2. If someone else bought it
3. I'd keep it in mind
4. At least one more time
5. Going to get another bottle right NOW!