Fork and Cork

Figure 1:  My friends and I at Fork and Cork on Saturday, May 3rd.  I am the second female on the left side.


Ramulose Ridge Vineyards:

Name:  Chardonel
Variety:  Chardonnay & Seyval Blanc
Region:  Moneta, Virginia
Year:  2012
Price:  $14
Winery Review:  a hybrid variety of Chardonnay and Seyval Blanc.
My Review:  This wine was a light yellow color in the wine glass.  It smelled fruity of pears and white grapes.  This was a nice light and crisp wine on the palate.  It had some apple and pear flavors and did not have the oaky and butter flavors of many Chardonnays.

Name:  Sweetwater
Variety:  Traminette
Region:  Moneta, Virginia
Year:  2012
Price:  $12
Winery Review:  our luscious Traminettte perfectly sweetened.
My Review:  This cloudy yellow wine was very interesting.  This wine smelled like ocean water with salt and lemon scents.  It had a more muted bath water flavor.  It had a full-body on the palate.  This wine was not my favorite.  It was very sweet but the flavors seemed off.  It may have been because this wine was served a little warmer than it should have been.

Name:  Cabernet Franc
Variety:  Cabernet Franc
Region:  Moneta, Virginia
Year:  2012
Price:  $18
Winery Review:  blackberry flavors will overwhelm your pallet with a hint of oak.
My Review:  This deep red wine smelled like oak on the nose.  It was a full-bodied, dry Cabernet Franc.  It had distinct pepper and blackberry notes.  This wine seemed very similar to a Cabernet Sauvignon with its rich oak and berry flavors.  This wine was a little too tannic for my tastes.

Fincastle Vineyard and Winery

Name:  Cabernet Sauvignon
Variety:  Cabernet Sauvignon
Region:  Fincastle, Virginia
Year:  2012
Price:  $14
Winery Review:  Our Cabernet Sauvignon is a full bodied dry red aged 2 years in American oak, with cherry and black currant notes.
My Review:  In the wine glass this wine was a dark red color.  It smelled of oak and minerals.  On the palate this was a medium-bodied, dry wine.  This Cabernet Sauvignon tasted like oak, blackberries, currant, and a acidic finish.  This was a decent Cabernet Sauvignon.


Name:  Rose
Variety:  Chambourcin & Vidal Blanc
Region:  Fincastle, Virginia
Year:  2012
Price:  $13
Winery Review:  Refreshing, semi-sweet blend of Chambourcin and Vidal Blanc crafted for well-balanced acidity with cherry and strawberry notes.
My Review:  This wine was a deep pink color in the wine glass.  It had distinct strawberry smells.  On the palate this wine was light and mouth-watering.  The main taste I received from this wine was that of strawberries.  This wine was good but a little too sweet to drink more than one glass at a time.

Name:  Hybrid Vigor
Variety:  Chardonnel, Vidal Blanc, and Traminette
Region:  Fincastle, Virginia
Year:  2012
Price:  $13
Winery Review:  A semi-sweet white wine with a citrus finish blended from French-American hybrids Chardonnel, Vidal Blanc & Traminette. You will notice bold tropical fruit flavors of pineapple and mango.
My Review:  This blend was a light yellow in the wine glass.  It had very floral and citrus smells.  On the palate this wine was very light and crisp.  This wine had flavors of peach and mango.  This was an extremely pleasant wine.  It was not too sweet and perfect for the warm afternoon.  My friends and I bought a bottle and sipped on it throughout the day.

My roommate and I drinking our bottle of Fincastle's Hybrid Vigor.  I am on the right.

Notaviva Vineyards

Name:  Gitano Blackberry
Variety:  83% Chambourcin, 17% Blackberry Wine, 5% Residual Sugar
Region:  Loudoun County, Virginia
Year:  2011
Price:  $19
Winery Review:  Exotic and sweet, our "Gitano" Chambourcin after dinner wine pays homage to the music of the nomadic Romani people. Let the distinct sounds of the phrygian dominant mode fill your ears as the scents of wildflowers, spice and black cherries leap from the glass. Best paired with starry nights, bonfires and fast Gypsy music.
My Review:  This wine had a purple tint in the wine glass.  It smelled very sweet of blackberries and cherries.  It was a fuller, sweet wine on the palate.  This wine tasted mostly of blackberries and was very sweet.  This was meant to be more of a dessert wine.


Food and Wine Pairing

Name:  Celtico Chambourcin
Variety:  100% Chambourcin
Region:  Loudoun County, Virginia
Year:  2011
Price:  $17
Winery Review:  The bad boy of the family, our Celtico Chambourcin is looking for a good time at a Gaelic football game. With your sister. Slainte Mhath! Best paired with Celtic rock.  Goes well with anything on the grill, our personal favorite is brats over real mesquite charcoal.
My Review:  This wine was a deep red color in the wine glass.  This wine had a mineral and wood smell.  It tasted of black cherries with a mineral finish.  This was a drier wine with a heavier mouth-feel.

Food:  Bull and Bones BBQ Sandwiches
The Celtico wine was originally very dry with mineral flavors.  However, the Barbecue sauce in the pulled pork sandwiches brought out a sweetness to the wine that was not there before.  The pulled pork had a peppery flavor that brought out some of the pepper and wood notes in the wine. Overall, this wine was meant to be consumed with a red meat but the pulled pork was a cheaper alternative that worked out nicely.

Favorite Wine

Name:  Verano White Wine
Variety:  50% Sauvignon Blanc, 50% Traminette - fermented in French Oak barrels - 1% residual sugar 
Region:  Loudoun County, Virginia
Year:  2011
Price:  $22
Winery Review:  Summer - the season of warm lazy days, outdoor evening concerts, midnight cares and stargazing with that special someone. Pour yourself a glass of sunshine, our delicately sweet Vidal Blanc. Fermented in French oak for a silky mouthfeel, the lightly floral bouquet is reminiscent of a secluded Virginia meadow. Best paired with romantic orchestral film scores and beautiful summer sunsets.
My Review:  This wine was perfect for the Fork and Cork event.  It was a light yellow color in the wine glass.  It had floral smells and tasted of citrus and apple.  It was a sweet, light wine on the palate.  It was a great wine to walk around with on a warm spring day.  The weather definitely impacted my preferences for the day.  I much preferred the light, cool white wines of the day because they paired better with the afternoon.

Tasting - Rosemount Moscato

Name:  Rosemount Moscato
Variety:  Muscat
Region:  South Eastern
Country:  Australia
Year:  2012
Price:  $3.95

Winery Review:  Clear, medium-lemon yellow in appearance; lovely citrus and honeysuckle aromas with lemon, honeysuckle, apple and ripe yellow plum flavours.  Serve chilled with angel food cake or fresh fruit and mild cheeses.

My Review:  In the wine glass this wine was bright yellow.  It smelled very floral and citrusy.  On the palate this was a very light and crisp wine.  This Moscato tasted like lemons and honey.  This would be a great beverage in the summer time.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Ironstone Old Vine Zinfandel

Name:  Ironstone Old Vine Zinfandel
Variety:  Zinfandel
Region:  Lodi
Country:  USA
Year:  2011
Price:  $7.95

Winery Review:  Grown in vineyards that are over 45 years old, this medium-bodied Zin has exceptional varietal character with lovely aromas of dark fruit and blackberry. Subtle pepper spice mingles with richly concentrated fruit flavors of blackberry, ripe plums and fresh red raspberries. Barrel aging created its smooth, silky finish and unprecedented depth.  A wonderful wine pairing for variety of dishes. Any type of meat - whether its pork, beef or game - is ideal with this wine. Cioppino is another amazing complement or try it with tomato-based pastas, hearty stews or a plate of strong, aged cheeses.

My Review:  In the wine glass this wine was a red and purple color.  It hit me with very dark fruity smells.  On the palate this wine had a heavier mouth-feel. It had fruity flavors of blackberries and grapes.  This was a decent wine.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Librandi Ciro Rosso Classico

Name:  Librandi Ciro Rosso Classico
Variety:  Gaglioppo
Region:  Calabria
Country:  Italy
Price:  $3.95

Winery Review:  Don’t let the pale garnet color fool you:  this is a substantial wine.  Aromas of red fruits and spice complement undertones of cranberries, wild berries, and plums.  On the palate, ripe tannins and good body make for an incredibly rich, yet easygoing red wine.  Pair this wine with sausage, spicy curry sauces, hot soppressata, and tandoori chicken.

My Review:  This wine was a deep red color in the wine glass.  It smells like raspberries and spices. On the palate this wine was mouth-filling and medium-bodied. This wine had definite spice flavors and the tannins were highly noticeable.  This wine was a little too acidic for my tastes.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Angove Viognier

Name:  Angove Nine Vines
Variety:  Viognier
Region:  South
Country:  Australia
Price:  $5.95

Winery Review:  Bright light straw in colour with some green hues, this wine has a lush ripe tropical fruit aroma. This is a fuller bodied white which fills the mouth with heady flavours of apricot, peach and citrus.  Angove Nine Vines Viognier is perfect for today's relaxed life-style and is the ideal accompaniment to grilled prawns with chilli and garlic or roast pork.

My Review:  In the wine glass this wine was a dull yellow color.  This wine smells like sweet honeysuckle.  On the palate this wine was light with good texture.  It had distinct flavors of peach and honey.  This was a decent wine that might pair well with grilled or roasted chicken.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Yealands Sauvignon Blanc

Name:  Yealands Seaview Vineyard
Variety:  100% Sauvignon Blanc
Region:  Marlborough
Country: New Zealand
Year:  2008
Price:  $7.95

Winery Review:  This aromatic wine shows lifted flavours of blackcurrant with underlying notes of wet stone and thyme. The palate is elegant yet full with sufficient weight and texture, balanced by a flinty minerality. This wine is a fantastic match with foods such as cheese salad, poultry dishes and a wide range of seafood dishes including freshly shucked natural oysters, prawns, green lip mussels and creamy scallops.

My Review:  In the glass this wine was a yellow color.  It smelled of grass and citrus.  On the palate this wine was very light and crisp with a good texture.  This Sauvignon Blanc had tastes of pear and grapefruit, with mineral flavors on the finish.  I thought this was a very light enjoyable wine.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Heinz Eifel Shine Riesling

Name:  Heinz Eifel Shine
Variety:  Riesling
Region:  Rhine
Country:  Germany
Year:  2012
Price:  $9.95

Winery Review:  This drier-styled Riesling is bright,
fruity and floral with crisp acidity and
clean flavors of apple, pear and peach
that compliment its stony minerality
and earthy complexity. It serves well as
an aperitif and matches a wide variety
of foods, like lighter salad dishes,
shellfish, cream sauces and also
anything with a touch of spice.

My Review:  In the wine glass this Riesling was yellow.  It had a strong smell of lemon and grass.  On the palate it was very light and refreshing.  It tasted of lemons and pears. I enjoyed this Riesling, especially because it wasn't extremely sweet.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Atlas Cumbres Cabernet Sauvignon

Name:  Atlas Cumbres
Variety:  Cabernet Sauvignon
Region:  Mendoza
Country:  Argentina
Year:  2010
Price:  $6.95

Winery Review:  Intense red color with violet highlights,
with clean, fresh and complex aromas
of berries, plums, figs and pepper.
Strong personality is in perfect balance
with a medium body and pleasant
tannins. Ideal for: red meats, cheeses
and strong sauces.

 My Review:  In the wine glass this wine was a red/brown color.  It had a very strong smell of oak.  On the palate this wine was very dry and acidic with a medium mouth-feel.  This wine had flavors of oak and leather.  A good Cabernet to eat with red meat.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Georges DuBoeuf Beaujolais Nouveau

Name:  Georges Duboeuf Beaujolais Nouveau
Variety: Gamay
Country:  France
Year:  2013
Price:  $3.95

Winery Review:  Balanced and lightly creamy, offering
pretty flavors of plum sauce and
raspberry coulis threaded with hints of
ground spice. Elegant, with a floral
finish. Drink now.

My Review:  In the wine glass this wine is a lighter red color.  It smells like flowers and raspberries.  On the palate it was dry but light on the mouth-feel.  It tasted of cherries and was creamy in texture.  This was a decent red wine that is extremely cheap.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Bricco dei Tati Rose

Name:  Bricco dei Tati Rose
Variety:  100% Barbera
Region:  Piedmont
Country:  Italy
Year:  2012
Price:  $7.95

Winery Review:  Fresh with aromas of strawberries,
cherries and rose petals. This is ideal
with shellfish, salads, chicken, and with
appetizers.

My Review:  In the wine glass this Rose is a bright pink color. This wine smells of fresh strawberries and flowers.  On the palate this wine is very light, sweet, and mouth-watering.  This Rose was more of a one dimensional wine because I was only getting strawberries in the flavor.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Frascati Volpetti

Name:  Frascati Volpetti
Variety:  50% Malvasia, 40% Trebbiano, 10% Greco
Region:  Frascati
Country:  Italy
Year:  2012
Price:  $7.95

Winery Review:  Straw yellow in color with a soft,
delicate perfume, fruitful flavor, dry
and harmonious taste. Perfect with
appetizers, soups, fish.

My Review:  In the wine glass this wine is a light yellow color.  It smells of citrus and lemons and was light and acidic on the palate.  This wine tastes like honey and lemon and would be a great choice for a summer wine.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Toso Moscato

Name:  Toso Moscato
Variety:  Moscato
Region:  Piedmont
Country:  Italy
Year:  2008
Price:  $9.95

Winery Review:  This Moscato is reminiscent of honeysuckle and rose petal. The quality is equivalent to a top level Asti Spumante DOCG.
Sweet sparkling wine obtained from a careful selection of the Moscato grapes. It has a pale straw yellow color with fine foam and bubbles. Tropical fruit flavors, refreshing.
Excellent to match desserts, fruit and dried pastries
My Review:  In the wine glass, this wine is a sparkling yellow in color.  It smells of sweet white grapes and flowers.  This Moscato was very nice.  It was sweet but not too sweet and very light on the palate.  It tasted of raspberries and white grapes.  This would be a great appetizer or dessert wine.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - James Goddard Shiraz

Name:  James Goddard Shiraz
Variety:  Shiraz
Region:  Barossa Valley
Country:  Australia
Year:  2011
Price:  $18

Winery Review:  Ripe and rich, this is dense with flavor but transparent in texture. A Shiraz of power and elegance as it plays out its cherry, black tea and spice flavors. Approachable now, but this has miles to go as it develops. Drink now through 2020.

My Review:  In the wine glass, this wine is a deep violet with a brown tint.  On the nose it smells of wood and plums.  This is a drier wine but it isn't too dry and it has a medium mouth-feel.  This Shiraz tastes of chocolate and plums. This was a good Shiraz.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - El Sierro

Name:  El Sierro
Variety:  Cabernet - Tempranillo
Region:  Valencia
Country:  Spain
Year:  2011
Price:  $7.95

Winery Review:  Dark ruby in color with rich aromas of red fruit and light spices. It is a real knock-out with delicious flavors of dark cherries, blackberries and vanilla all perfectly integrated. The Tempranillo provides wonderful spice and fruit, while the Cabernet Sauvignon gives structure and depth with the beautiful use of oak.

My Review:  In the wine glass, this wine is a violet color.  The wine smells like oak and vanilla.  This wine was dry with and medium mouth-feel and acidic finish.  This wine had prominent flavors of oak and blackberry.  This was a decent blended wine.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Atlas Cumbres Torrontes

Name:  Atlas Cumbres Torrontes
Variety:  100% Torrontes
Region:  Salta
Country:  Argentina
Year:  2010
Price:  $5.95

Winery Review:  Yellow colour with greenish nuances. Very intense aroma of fresh grapes, flower perfume and mature peaches. Fresh in the mouth. Light and easy to drink. Ideal with seafood, Thai and Chinese food.

My Review:  In the wine glass, this wine was a bright golden color.  On the nose it was very floral with smells of honeysuckle.  On the palate it is light and slightly acidic.  This Torrontes had tastes of peaches and honey.  This wine was only semi-sweet and delicious.


I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Avery Quinn Chardonnay

Name:  Avery Quinn Chardonnay
Variety:  Chardonnay
Region:  Napa
Country:  California
Year:  2011
Price:  $6.95

Winery Review:  The 2011 vintage marks a return to form for this great value Chardonnay.  The aromas feature creamy, mellow, golden apple, pineapple, fresh butter and a touch of vanilla.  Then rich, ripe, flavors of yellow pear, pineapple, fresh apple, cream and buttered toast swell up and fill your mouth before a juicy, apple and caramel inflected finish makes your mouth water (and smile!).

My Review:  In the wine glass, this wine was a golden yellow color.  On the nose it has a very buttery and pear smell.  On the palate it was very light and flavorful.  This wine tasted of butter and caramel.  I enjoyed this Chardonnay.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Bellafina Pink Moscato

Name:  Bellafina Pink Moscato
Variety:  Moscato and Rabosos
Region:  Veneto growing region
Country:  Italy
Price:  $9.95

Winery Review:  A blend of Moscato and Rabosos grapes it has a pale rose color, notes of red berries (strawberry and raspberry), with the characteristic and fragrant bouquet and palate that is typical of the Moscato grape.

My Review:  In the wine glass this Moscato is dark pink in color.  It smells like flowers and white grapes.  On the palate this wine was mouth-watering and extremely sweet.  It tasted of honeysuckle.  This would be a good wine choice for an appetizer or a dessert because it is so sweet.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Weinert Carrascal

Name:  Weinert Carrascal
Variety:  40% Malbec, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Merlot
Region:  Mendoza
Country:  Argentina
Year:  2008
Price:  $13.95

Winery Review:  Aged for two years in cask, the 2008 Carrascal is a blend of 40% Malbec, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon and 25% Merlot. It has a rustic blackberry, scorched earth and leather-scented bouquet with touches of pressed flowers. The palate is well-balanced with crisp tannins, expressive black tarry fruit and a Bordeaux-like finish. Drink now-2016.

My Review:  This wine is a dark reddish-brown color in the wine glass.  It has heavy oak smells.  On the palate it is very dry and acidic with a heavy mouth-feel.  This wine had very interesting flavors of wood and leather.  This is definitely a wine that needs to be paired with food.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Santa Julia Malbec

Name:  Santa Julia Malbec
Variety:  100% Malbec
Region:  Mendoza
Country:  Argentina
Year:  2012
Price:  $8.95

Winery Review:  The nose is full of mellow raspberry and cherry, while the palate is fleshy and round, with blackberry and a touch of raisin. Plump, not edgy, and ready to drink, with coffee and mocha notes on the finish.

My Review:  In the wine glass this Malbec is a dark red color.  On the nose, this wine smells like raspberries.  On the palate this was was acidic and  semi-dry with a medium mouth-feel.  This wine had oak and prune flavors and was one of the better Malbecs I have tried.

I did not try this wine with food.

Tasting - Gougenheim Torrontes

Name:  Gougenheim Torrontes
Variety:  Torrontes
Region:  Mendoza
Country:  Argentina
Year:  2012
Price:  $9.95

Winery Review:  The 2012 Torrontes comes from Chilecito in La Rioja. It has a light floral nose with touches of lemon peel and nectarine. The palate is crisp and taut, showing far more vivacity and fruit that the nose implied, finishing with a flourish of apricot and white peach. Drink now.
 
My Review:  In the wine glass this wine is yellow.  The Torrontes smells very clean like lemons.  On the palate this wine was very crisp and light and tasted like lemons.  This fruity wine was very good.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Santa Julia Pinot Grigio

Name:  Santa Julia Pinot Grigio
Variety:  100% Pinot Grigio
Region:  Mendoza
Country:  Argentina
Year:  2012
Price:  $8.95

Winery Review:  Light and clean, which compared to other Argentine Pinot Grigios is not something to dismiss. Feels solid and punchy, with orange and mango flavors. Has nice overall clarity and balance, with a citrusy finish.

My Review:  In the wine glass this wine was a light yellow color.  On this nose this wine smelled like flowers and oranges.  It was very crisp and light on the palate.  This Pinot Grigio tasted very fruity.  I was able to catch hints of pear, honey, and citrus flavors.  There was a slightly acidic finish.  This was a very pleasant Pinot Grigio.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Korbel

Name:  Korbel
Variety:  Cuvee
Region:  California
Country:  USA
Price: $10.99

Winery Review:  Korbel Brut is the ultimate blended wine.  We blend multiple varieties from multiple appellations and even multiple years.  The goal is to make a champagne that consistently delivers a lot of quality for the price.  Korbel Brut is crisp and refreshing, with a light citrus and fresh pear-like note in the finish. 

My Review:  This Brut was a golden yellow color in the Champagne glass.  The aroma was hard to distinguish past the carbonation.  On the palate this carbonated beverage is light and refreshing.  It had notes of apricot and pear.  I ended up combining this wine with orange juice and made a mimosa.  The orange flavors took over at that point, but made the wine a more delicious beverage.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Chateau Bonnet

Name:  Chateau Bonnet  Bordeaux
Variety: 50% Merlot, 50% Cabernet Sauvignon
Region:  Bordeaux
Country:  France
Year:  2008
Price: $14.99

Winery Review:  Red Bordeaux wine. Cabernet sauvignon (50%) and merlot (50%). Andre Lurton's family has presided over the prime vineyards of Chateau Bonnet for over a hundred years. Harnessing this heritage and tradition, and adopting modern winemaking techniques, Andre has crafted this rich, juicy red from classic Bordeaux varieties. Alc. 13% by vol. Product of France.

My Review:  In the wine glass this wine was very dark with hues of purple.  It smelled of strawberries and black fruits.  On the palate this wine was dry with a medium mouth-feel.  The merlot portion of the wine gave it a little extra sweetness, that made the wine very enjoyable.  This Bordeaux tasted of oak and berries.  I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this wine.  It is definitely a wine to be drank with food.

I drank this wine with a Korean dish that included beef and rice.  The vegetable flavors that were mixed in the dish were more prominent with this wine.

Tasting - The Path

Name:  The Path
Variety:  78% Pinot Noir, 10% Sangiovese, 9% Grenache, 3% Symphony
Region:  California
Country:  USA
Year:  2011
Price:  $4.99

Winery Review:  The Path 2011 Pinot Noir exhibits powerful aromas of strawberry, dried plum and clove. There is a wonderful note of vanilla from the ten months of 100% French oak aging. Juicy, penetrating sweetened cranberry and red cherry preserve flavors are framed by a touch of toasted marshmallow. Moderate acidity carries through the entire palate, forming a nice structure with well-integrated tannins. This wine finishes with endless, palate-saturating fruit, making it an instant crowd-pleaser. Pair with butternut squash soup on a cold night or a mushroom and arugula pesto pizza for lighter fare.

My Review:  In the wine glass this wine was a light red color.  It had the fruity smells of black cherries and blackberries.  This was a pretty light red wine on the palate, and only semi-dry.  This wine has mineral and wood flavors.  The tannins were very noticeable and sharp.  I was hoping for a smoother Pinot Noir.  This wine would pair very well with a beef dish.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Chaeau Roc Du Pradat

Name:  Chateau Roc Du Pradat
Variety:  Bordeaux (Sauvignon Blanc, Semillon, and Muscadelle)
Region:  Bordeaux
Country:  France
Year:  2012
Price:  $9.00

Winery Review:   Sauvigon Blanc provides a concentrated bouquet and crispness on the palate. Sémillon gives a delicately scented wine that is very full and round. Muscadelle makes wine that is low in acidity quite round and aromatic. Small quantities of Colombard and Ugni Blanc are sometimes added.

My Review:  The color of this wine was a very light yellow that was almost clear.  It had faint smells of apricot and oak, but no strong smells.  On the palate it was very light and crisp.  It had a slight acidity on the finish.  This wine was semi-sweet and had a nice grapefruit flavor.  Definitely a pleasant wine.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Chateau Morrisette

Name:  Our Dog Blue
Variety:  Riesling-Traminette Blend
Region:  Virginia
Country:  USA
Price:  $10.99

Winery Review:  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. 

My Review:  In the wine glass this wine is a very light yellow.  This blend had a very floral aroma and smelled specifically of honeysuckle. It is very light and crisp on the palate.  This table wine was a little sweeter than I would have liked for a semi-sweet wine.  However, it was still a good wine for the price and seemed like it would pair well with a nice tomato and pasta dish.

I drank this wine with a blue-cheese salad and the sweetness brought out the spices in the dressing.

Tasting - EcoLove Riesling

Name:  Eco Love
Variety:  Riesling
Region:  South Island
Country:  New Zealand
Year:  2009
Price:  $17

Winery Review:  This Riesling's flavors span citrus, root ginger, white peach, spices and floral. eco.love Riesling is made in balance of an off-dry style. A complex fruit-driven style. Special parcels of fruit were selected from the Nelson region of New Zealand, famous for its success with aromatic grape varietals. These were then carefully blended with Marlborough wines. A marriage made in heaven.

My Review:  In the wine glass this wine was a light yellow.  It smelled of lemon zest and grass.  On the palate this wine was very light and smooth.  This wine tasted sweet like white table grapes, lemon, and grass.  This Riesling has some interesting flavors and was not the best Riesling I have tried.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Toschi

Name:  Toschi
Variety:  Cabernet Sauvignon
Region:  California
Country:  USA
Year:  2011
Price:  $8.95

Winery Review:  
This wine has rich cherry, plum and stone fruit flavors and aromas. It is full bodied with mellow tannins making it an ideal pairing for a wide range of foods.  

My Review:  This wine was opened two days before consumption.  In the wine glass this wine was a dark red.  This wine smelled of wood and pine with a hint of cherry.  On the palate this wine is only semi-dry and acidic.  This Cabernet Sauvignon tasted of prunes and dry wood.  This was a very drinkable and smooth Cabernet.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Rubus

Name:  Rubus
Variety:  Cabernet Sauvignon
Region:  Napa Valley
Country:  California
Year:  2012
Price: $23.95

Winery Review:  Its long finish displays full mature flavors of blackberry, currant and chocolate with just a hint of toasty oak and black cherry. The tannins are refined and polished, allowing the fruit to be the focus. Serve this Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon with a variety of bold preparations ranging from Osso Bucco to grilled red meats and cheeses

My Review:  In the wine glass this wine is dark red in color.  On the nose this wine smells like oak.  On the palate this wine has a medium mouth-feel and leaves the tongue feeling dry.  This wine has flavors of black grapes, oak, and granite.  This wine was a little too dry for my tastes, but would probably add some nice flavors to a steak.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Maipe

Name:  Maipe Malbec Reserve
Variety:  Malbec
Region:  Mendoza
Country:  Argentina
Year:  2012
Price:  $20

Winery Review:  Wine & Spirits - Mendoza, Argentina- "...a well made take on a modern style, with liqueur-like red and black fruit that speaks to the ripeness of the grapes. Underneath, there's a tannic base that carries the weight without a problem and acidity that lifts it all, leaving a sense of freshness."

My Review:  In the wine glass this wine was a dark red color.  On the nose this wine smelled woody with some minerals blended in.  This wine had a chocolate flavor mixed with some dark berries.  It finished with a mineral flavor.  For a red of this caliber, it was not very heavy on the palate and only tasted semi-dry.  This was a decent Malbec

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Wine Men of Gotham

Name:  Wine Men of Gotham
Variety:  Chardonnay/Semillon
Region:  Southern
Country:  Australia
Year:  2008
Price:  $5.95

Winery Review:  "Gotham’s 2008 Wine Men of Gotham Chardonnay Semillon is a blend of 80% Chardonnay and 20% Semillon. It gives a moderate intensity of melon, guava, apricot and butterscotch aromas. The medium bodied palate provides attractive acidity along with plenty

of tropical fruit flavors and a medium-long finish." 

My Review:  In the glass this wine was a light yellow color.  It had a very zesty smell of lemon with after-tones of butterscotch.  It felt pretty light on the palate.  This wine tasted of lemon and citrus but with a buttery finish.  This blended Chardonnay was a very smooth, medium-dry wine with no burn of alcohol.  Definitely a nice bottle for the price.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Shine

Name:  Heinz Eifel Dornfelder Sweet Red
Variety:  100% Dornfelder
Region:  Rheinhessen
Country:  Germany
Year:  2011
Price: $12

Winery Review:  The reflection of the sun’s rays off the Rhein river help to ripen these hearty red grapes, thus producing a full bodied wine with flavors of dark red fruits with a well balanced sweetness. Enjoy slightly chilled on its own or with cheeses, salads pasta and fish.

My Review:  In the wine glass this wine is a dark red.  On the palate it has a more medium, denser feel to it.  It smells of dark red berries like blackberry.  It has a lower alcohol percentage which did not give this red much of a kick.  It tasted of cherries with a mineral finish.  I highly enjoyed this red wine.  It was sweet, but not too sweet and very drinkable.  

I drank this wine after eating food.  

Tasting - CK Mondavi Moscato

Name:  CK Mondavi Moscato
Variety:  Moscato
Region:  California
Country:  USA
Year:  2011
Price:  $7.79

Winery Review:  Our Moscato has a foral, fruity nose and ends with a sensation of lemon zest on its finish. A perfect before dinner wine and to pair with Eastern cuisine, Asian fare or other spicy dishes. - Winery

My Review:  In the glass this wine was a light yellow color.  It smelled like fresh cut grass and lemon.  On the palate it was very sweet and light.  It was difficult to tell that there was alcohol in this wine because it went down so smooth.  It tasted like tart green apples.  This wine is very drinkable with or without food.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Rapidan River Raspberry

Name:  Rapidan River Raspberry
Variety:  Riesling, Merlot, and Raspberry juice.
Region:  Virginia
Country:  USA
Year:  2012
Price:  $12.99

Winery Review:  This sweet Rose wine is composed of Riesling and a touch of Merlot blended with Natural Raspberry Juice.
The Riesling and Merlot were fermented separately and blended together during the spring following harvest.  This wine was naturally sweetened and then blended with the Raspberry Juice just prior to bottling.

My Review:  This wine was very pink in the glass.  It was very light and fruity on the palate.  To me this wine smelled more of strawberries than of raspberries.  It tasted of strawberries and raspberries as well.  It was very sweet, probably too sweet for my tastes.

Tasting - Jean-Louis Rose Brut

Name:  Jean Louis Rose Brut
Variety:  Champagne or Cuvee
Region:  Champagne
Country:  France
Year: 2012
Price:  $8.99

Winery Review:  Appealing and seductive, resulting from the balance between freshness 
and fruit, with a long, crisp and refreshing finish.

My Review:  In the wine glass this wine was dark pink.  On the palate it tastes very light and low in alcohol.  The cuvee had been opened for a couple of days so it was not as carbonated as I would have liked.  It smelled of dark red berries, pears, with a lingering smell of rotten eggs.  Upon tasting this wine I began to wonder if the wine had gone bad because it tasted of spoiled fish and grass.  The wine description said this wine was for 2010-2012, so I do not think I tasted this wine in its prime.  Therefore, I did not appreciate this champagne.  

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Paul Masson White Zinfandel

Name:  Paul Masson
Variety:  Zinfandel
Region:  California
Country:  USA 
Price:  $7.49

Winery Review:  Clean, lightly floral aroma with hints of berries and melon. The flavor is medium-sweet with fruity flavors, finishing crisp and clean. Try with light seafood and chicken dishes.

My Review:  In the wine glass this wine was a light pink with hints of yellow.  On the palate, this wine was very light and crisp.  It had a juicy smells of strawberry star-bursts and flowers.  This wine was very sweet but not overwhelmingly so.  The alcohol was blended in well and it was hard to tell if there was alcohol present.  This white zinfandel tastes of lemon and green apples.  Overall, this was sweet and pleasant.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Loredona

Name:  Loredona
Variety:  Riesling
Region:  Monterey
Country:  California
Year:  2011
Price:  $7.95

Winery Review:  If you like your Rieslings on the sweet side, this pretty wine is for you. It’s brisk in Central Coast acidity, with citrus, peach, honeysuckle and spice flavors that finish clean and long.

 

My Review:  In the wine glass this wine was a golden yellow color.  It smells very sweet like white grape juice.  On the palate it is slightly carbonated but light and refreshing.  It has very sweet flavors of honey and has a long finish with a lingering taste of sweetness.  This would be a good wine for someone who likes very sweet wine.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Maipe

Name:  Maipe
Variety:  Malbec
Region:  Mendoza
Country:  Argentina
Price:  $8.95

Winery Review:  Deep purple color with violet tints, complex plum, fig, strawberry, spices and floral aromas; rounded and velvety tannins, excellent length with a distinguished character. Excellent when paired with game, roasted red meats, pasta or pizza.

 

My Review:  This wine was a dark red-purple color in the wine glass.  On the nose it smells like cherries.  The palate was very light but acidic.  It tasted sugary yet not sweet and had hints of cherry flavors.  The finish was a little hotter than I would have liked.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Villa d' Rosso Toscano

Name:  Villa d' Rosso Toscano
Variety:  100% sangiovese
Region:  Montepulciano
Country:  Italy
Year:  2012
Price:  $6.95

Winery Review:   100% sangiovese grapes and is a wonderful rendition of a velvety Tuscan red.

 

My Review:  In the wine glass this wine was a dark red color.  It smelled artificial, almost like a bouncy ball.  On the palate this wine had a medium mouthfeel and was very dry.  The flavors were very interesting and hard to distinguish but it had a plastic/rubber taste to the wine.  I could not overcome those flavors so I only noticed one level to the wine.  Not a great wine by itself, but if it was paired alongside red meat it would probably taste much better.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Arnold Palmer Chardonnay

Name:  Arnold Palmer
Variety:  Chardonnay
Region:  Santa Barbara
Country:  California
Year:  2011
Price:  $7.95

Winery Review:  A vibrant Chardonnay from vineyards in cooler climates of California. Chardonnay is well known for its characteristic fresh apple fruit aromas and rounded, rich flavors. Weather during the 2011 harvest provided ideal growing conditions for lush, yet perfectly balanced fruit.

 

My Review:  In the wine glass this wine was a golden yellow color.  On the nose it smelled like butter and oak.  On the palate this was a very light and creamy wine.  It was slightly acidic but had flavors of wood.  This wine was very creamy and finished very smooth.  Great Chardonnay for the price.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - El Sierro Macabeo/Chard

Name:  El Sierro Macabeo/Chard
Variety:  Chardonnay - Viura
Region: Valencia
Country:  Spain
Year:  2011
Price:  $6.95

Winery Review:  In the glass, there is a bright and shiny white wine with an incredibly welcoming, fresh appetizing aroma reminiscent of ripe tropical fruits. The flavor is rich, balanced and extremely comfortable. The near-perfect all-purpose white wine. As an additional benefit, and good evidence that El Sierro reflect the new Spain, the bottle is sealed with the technical viewed perfect screw cap that at once eliminates any risk of cork flavor and keeps the fruit and the wine fresher for longer time.

 

My Review:  In the glass this wine was a light yellow color.  The aroma was one of apples and pears.  On the palate this wine was very light and acidic.  This wine had a very unique flavor.  At the beginning the wine tastes of sweet apple, but left me with a rubbery finish.  The finish however, was very smooth.  This was definitely a decent wine for the price.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - First Light Moscato

Name:  First Light Moscato
Variety:  100% Moscato
Region:  Barossa Valley Country
Country:  Australia
Year:  2012
Price:  $7.95

Winery Review:  Ripe lychee, tropical fruits and musk on the nose as you near the glass. Lovely grape and stone fruits and on the palate is highlighted with the subtle sweetness and spritz that makes this such a fun drink. Low in alcohol and nicely balanced acidity ensure you will want more than one glass of this easy drinking wine.

My Review:  In the wine glass this wine is a light yellow color.  The aroma is very floral and smells like sweet white grapes.  On the palate this was a very light wine that was slightly carbonated.  It tastes very sweet and citrusy.  With this wine it is very difficult to tell that there is alcohol in it.  

I did not drink this wine with food.  

Tasting - CalNaturale Cabernet Sauvignon

Name:  CalNaturale Cabernet Sauvignon
Variety:  95% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Viognier
Region:  Paso Robles
Country:  California
Year:  2009
Price:  $10.95 1 Liter

Winery Review:  95 % Cabernet Sauvignon with 5% Viognier this certified organic winery produces outstanding quality at reasonable prices offering classic Cabernet flavors of fresh herb, olive, cedar and cassis. Focused and intense, with a charming rustic side and broad tannins that firm up on the finish.

My Review:  This wine comes out of a box and is a darker red/brown color in the wine glass.  On the nose this wine smells very oaky.  On the palate this was a very dry wine with a heavy mouthfeel.  This wine has a lot of acidity with mineral and herb flavors.  I have never been a big fan of Cabernet Sauvignon's and this one was no exception, not my favorite wine.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting- Georges Duboeuf Beajolais Nouveau

Name:  Georges Duboeuf Beajolais Nouveau
Region:  Beaujolais
Country:  France
Year:  2013
Price:  $7.95

Winery Review:  Wine Spectator
An aromatic red, with floral and white peach notes accenting the black raspberry and plum flavors. This is open-knit and fresh, offering light tannins on the finish.


My Review:  This young wine was red with a purple tint to it in the wine glass.  Strawberry-banana was very prominent on the nose.  On the palate this wine has a medium mouth-feel and tastes of cherry with a banana finish.  Even though this wine was young it was still quite good and very drinkable.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Beltrame Friulano

Name:  Beltrame Friulano
Variety:  100% Tocai Friulano
Region:  Friuli
Country:  Italy
Year:  2009
Price:  $9.95

Winery Review:   100% Tocai Friulano Straw-coloured yellow with a pale green tint express an intense, delicately aromatic and floral bouquet.The flavour is dry, soft, slightly fruity, with slightly bitter nuance in its almond aftertaste, and suggestion of peach.

My Review:  In the wine glass this wine has a nice golden color. It has some strong lemon smells on the nose.  On the palate this wine was dry but not too acidic.  To me, this wine has a pine sol flavor but goes down smoothly with a nutty finish.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Tasting - Mas Llunes Maragda

Name:  Mas Llunes Maragda
Variety:  Grenache
Region:  Emporada
Country:  Spain
Year:  2010
Price:  $9.95

Winery Review: This Grenache Blanc is exquisitely sculpted with sharp acids and pinpointed minerals, and offers orange, melon and vanilla-honey flavors. A delight to drink, at a great price. 

My Review:  In the wine glass this wine had a clear color.  The aroma was one that was very floral.  On the palate this was a very dry wine with high acidity.  The wine was very zesty and tasted of oranges.  The finish on this wine was very smooth.

I did not drink this wine with food.

Dinner - River City Grill (Beliveau Estates Wine)

River City Grill is a restaurant located in Radford, Virginia.  Every so often, they put on a wine dinner.  At this particular wine dinner they had an employee from the Beliveau Estates Winery come and bring their wines, while River City Grill made the foods to pair with the wines that were brought.  There was no theme on a particular regions of the world since the foods were being paired with the Winery's wines.  

This restaurant is located in downtown Radford, Virginia.  Inside it is a very open space where they had long tables set out for people who were going to enjoy the wine dinner.  This meant that me and my roommates sat next to people we did not know.  This made for a fantastic evening, since after the first few glasses of wine everyone began to open up.  My roommates and I were by far the youngest group that made it out to the dinner, and the staff who worked there were thrilled to be serving to a younger generation.  

The staff began the event by passing out glasses of Spanish Cava. The spanish cava was just a simple Champagne, but since it isn't from Champagne, France it can't be called that.  The cava was a great way to start the evening.  It was light and fruity with a yellow tint in the glass.  It was very sweet and had an herb taste on the finish.  The cava was served before any of the food  

The Spanish Cava was followed by Beliveau'a Afternoon Delight.  Winery Review:   A lightly oaked, dry Vidal Blanc with overtones of grapefruit and vanilla. Serving un-chilled presents a well rounded, full palate and a lingering finish. Afternoon Delight is well suited for pairing with seasoned pork, roasted poultry, heavy seafood such as salmon or mussels, peppermint, venison, lamb, and saged sausage. This wine really pulls out any Summer herbs, especially rosemary! Chilled it is a bright yet complex and crisp, refreshing white. Afternoon Delight is great with strong cheeses chilled or unchilled. The wine costs $18.

My Review:  The wine has a very floral aroma and was light on the palate.  It was paired with a spinach salad with strawberries and a raspberry vinaigrette dressing.  Without the food the wine has a rubbery finish; however, paired with the salad there was a tart taste to the wine.  The raspberry vinaigrette dressing brought out the fruity flavors of the wine.  It was a dry wine, but when paired with the salad it did not taste like a dry wine.  This wine has a 12.5% alcohol percentage, but it went down smooth.  Very good pairing to begin with.

Course number two began with a white wine called Reflection.  This wine was paired with a seafood lasagna that contained shrimp and crab with an Alfredo sauce. 

Winery Review:   This wine is 100% Traminette. Unlike our 2011 vintage, this wine did not go through a sur lies ferment so we have a dry yet fruity wine that is more similar to an eastern European Gewurtz. Reflection pairs very well with Thai and other Asian cuisine as well as fall baking spices.  Has an alcohol percentage of 12.7 and costs $17.

My Review:  On the nose this wine smelt extremely floral with a rose petal aroma.  In the wine glass the wine appeared clear in color.  On the palate it had a sweeter taste than the Afternoon Delight that came before.  Had a distinct taste of leche fruit.  The wine itself was not my favorite, but with the seafood lasagna I found that it brought out a nutty flavor to the wine.  There was a spiciness to the finish of the wine with the lasagna.  The meal was delicious, but I preferred the Afternoon Delight to this Traminette. 

Course number 3 began with a red wine called Warm Glow.  This wine was paired with chicken and bacon wrapped in a crescent pastry covered with a hollandaise sauce.  Winery Review:  What a generous wine this is! Like our first Warm Glow, this semi-sweet Chambourcin is rich in aromas with many red and black fruit flavors. However, this year's version is a little darker, smoldering with cherry-vanilla pipe tobacco and smoke then giving way to warm fruit preserves and just a touch of chocolate. This wine will make you think it has been oaked in old whiskey barrels, but it hasn't been oaked for even a single second!  This is 12.5% alcohol and costs $20.

My Review:  In the wine glass, this wine was a dark red color.  The smell was very sweet and acidic with a prominent cherry smell.  This wine is definitely my favorite so far.  Without a bite of food it tastes of cherries and strawberries.  For a red wine it is pretty light to medium on the palate.  This sweet red paired with the spicy chicken and bacon exceptionally.  The hollandaise sauce really brought out the flavors of the light-bodied sweet red wine.  The meal itself was pretty heavy, so pairing it with a lighter red was perfect.  On the finish this wine had an oaky flavor.   

Course number 4 was a Cabernet Sauvignon called Silhouette that was paired with muscles. 

Winery Review:   A wonderful fruit-forward wine carrying fragrant aromas with hints of caramel, coffee, and smoke. This wine has a nice crispness to it and the oak characters carry over into the palate. It pairs beautifully with light meats such as chicken teriyaki or a gently seasoned pork loin. Strong enough to hold it's own, but delicate enough to not overpower your meal. Silhouette is also wonderful all by itself!  This wine is 12% alcohol and costs $12.

My Review:  In the wine glass this was a very dark red wine.  It has a very prominent oaky/woody smell to it.  On the palate, it is definitely the driest wine of the night.  It is medium bodied, but doesn't leave the mouth as dry as some other Cabernet Sauvignon's I've had in the past.  With the muscles this wine had a very long finish with some nice earthy/mineral flavors.  It was a nice pairing and did not overwhelm my palate.  

Course number 5 was a Red Zinfandel called Portal that was paired with a crusted pork tenderloin with yams.  

Winery Review:  A Zinfandel with body! Portal is a bigger, bolder, more heavily-oaked Zinfandel than our first two. Notes of dark red berries, vanilla, tobacco, leather, and spice can be found in the aromatics while flavors of cracked pepper, licorice, minerality, red fruit, and clove linger and develop on the palate. It pairs best with beef, zesty red sauces, blue cheese, mushrooms, tuna steak, and lamb. A Bronze medalist!  This wine is 15% alcohol and costs $24.

My Review:  This red wine has a sweet maple tree smell to it.  On the palate this was a lighter red wine and much sweeter than the Cabernet Sauvignon, but not as sweet as many White Zinfandel's I've had.  It had some woody, Blackberry flavors.  With the spicy pork, the wine took on a more spicy wood taste.  The yams worked well with the spicy pork to bring out some of the sweetness of the wine.  The finish was hot and short.  The high alcohol percentage was not perfectly masked.  

This is a picture of my roommates and I at River City Grill (I am on the right side). 

 Overall, this wine dinner was an incredible experience.  Not only did I get to try some great food and wine pairings, but I also met some very astute wine drinkers.  C.J. was the name of one of the men and he informed me the importance of the legs in the wine glass.  He was also a huge fan of Cabernet Sauvignon's which are not my favorite because of the dryness of the wine.  Maybe in a couple of years that will be my wine of choice.  The food and wine were both fantastic and it was quite an adventure.  I would definitely enjoy doing another wine dinner again.  The only problem was the expense.  The wine dinner as a whole was 40 dollars, but they served full glasses of wine.  Leaving the dinner my roommates and I were definitely feeling the effects of the alcohol.  I would recommend this wine dinner to anyone willing to put in the money for the experience. I definitely learned some things about what foods to pair with certain wines.