2007 McManis Petite Syrah

Stopped in to talk with my friend Traci at the First Ave Wine House in Cedar Rapids Iowa (link to the left and yes you should buy some wine from her) and darn the luck I walked out with a bottle of 2007 McManis Petite Syrah. Deep purple color, huge dark berry flavor, slight vanilla in the middle and (are you kidding me) a smooth chocolate sensation at the end. Always thought petite meant small but not this wine. Full body big fruit holy cow this is good. I have had other McManis wines and they all over deliver in my opinion for the price.

2007 Firesteed Pinot Noir from Oregon

Very nice wine for the $15.99 price. In the glass big cherry and red berry aroma ( to me both strawberry and raspberry). Smooth taste and while the wine boasts that its medium bodied I felt is was more on the light bodied with a soft finish. Enjoyable wine and a keeper.

2005 Louis Jadot Pinot Noir Bourgogne

Given a hint by a friend to open this wine and let set for 20 minutes. Right. I tried as soon as I opened and was overtaken by the earthly taste so yes I waited. Once able to breath this wine had a huge cherry aroma and was very silky smooth (hard to believe 20 minutes decantered made a big difference). Still earthy after 20 minutes I found my first french pinot enjoyable. Price appropriate at 15.99.

2007 Robert Mondavi Woodbridge Pinot Noir

Inexpensive everyday pinot noir should one choose. Smooth wine with cherries and red berries along with spice at the end. Swear I smell a hint of cola. I have had earlier releases of Mondavi Pinot and they remain consistent very good value wines.

2006 Ravenswood Cabernet Sauvignon

Nice wine this evening from Ravenswood. The 2006 Cabernet has a nice deep red color and medium bodied. Cherry and berry aroma with a hint of spice to give it a kick at the finish. Surprised this wine was only $16.00. I'll be picking up more.

Forest Glen Pinot Noir

A very nice wine for a minimal price. The 2006 Forest Glen Pinot Noir. At first smell the aroma of cherry is huge. On the palate flavors of cherry, black fruit and an excellent vanilla finish. This was being served as a house pinot at an upscale dinning extablishment. At the local wine shop it sells for less than 10.00. Keep this one on hand your friends will love it.