2011 Broadbent Vinho Verde Portugal

Dinner this evening was chicken with fresh peppers over white rice and after tasting tonight's wine, I figured it to be an excellent pairing. Might be winter but this crisp little devil was just the ticket. Vinho Verde means "green wine" or a better translation young wine. Many of the producers are small with the wines coming from the Minho Region of Portugal.

Green apple and peach are very dominant on the nose. Cantaloupe and honeydew melon with a touch of lemon zest.

Loads of citrus and fresh cantaloupe on the mouth with crisp melon. Lemon zest and minerality on the finish. When the wine warmed peach and green apple entered the scene.

Inexpensive and nicely done. Conversation sippers or simply pair with food, introduce yourself to the wines of Portugal!

Cheers
Dan

Goodbye 2012 and Hello 2013

Must say its been an interesting year. Wonderful wine tastings from California, Oregon, Argentina, Portugal, Chile and France just to name a few. I have so many special relationships with winemakers and wineries but most importantly I have a great bunch of followers who are in the true sense friends. One who only lives just 2 hours to the west will embark on her journey to Napa, a place where she belongs. Another on the east coast who might just be crazier than I (Yes D you may call me Miles but you are definately Jack) and many more in wine country (even Chef Robin in Chicago). Wine friends are the best friends hands down.

2012 also allowed me to "Follow My Passion" and become a partner in a boutique winery. So excited to take this journey in 2013 and beyond......... My wife and I are very very happy! Remember I always said I would be a part of a wine business. Never give up your dream.

To all the wineries, winemakers, pr professionals and social media specialists, many many thanks for the wonderful samples you sent this past year. You introduced me to some tasty juice and bring a smile to my face with your support and comments.

Dad I hope you're watching from above. Were doing just fine.

To each of you Happy New Year and may 2013 bring you good health, happiness and a whole bunch of great wine.

Cheers My Friends
Dan

JM Fonseca Twin Vines 2010 Vinho Verde White Wine

Portugal is fast becoming a wine country I'm loving. Vinho Verde Wines are released young typically 3-6 months after harvest and known for being one of the best wine values on the market today. Versatile, crisp, clean and food friendly wines everyone will enjoy.

2010 Twin Vines is a refreshing white wine which takes you to the tropics. Lemon-Lime citrus, honeydew melon and ripe tangering tickle the nose. Simple yet so pleasing.

I sipped this baby relaxing by the fireplace after opening gifts christmas eve. Fresh melon, with hints of juicy tangerine and pink grapefruit. Lime citrus with a nice touch of minerality on the finish. Nice balance of acidity too. Someone grab me a nice fruit salad!

Treat yourself today and experience the delicious wines of Vinho Verde!

Cheers
Dan

2010 Stepping Stone Pinot Noir Willamette Valley Oregon

Oh the joy of drinking Pinot Noir. Tonight I toasted my love of Oregon Wine with this elegant bottle of passion by Craig Camp. The wine is born in the Willamette Valley which happens to be Oregon's leading wine region. Imagine over 200 wineries producing world class Pinot in a climate which is darn near perfect for grape growing. Popular among wine tourists, a visitor to the region will have the opportunity to taste exceptional food paired with exceptional wine, stay at one of the many bed and breakfasts the area has to offer or take in the beauty of the countryside. Oh yes and taste alot of wine from Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Cabernet, Merlot, Sauv Blanc, Syrah, Pinot Noir and a few others.

What you will notice when tonight's wine is poured is the bouquet of fresh tart cherry with hints of cinnamon spice. Raspberry, ripe cranberry, subtle hint of clove and a touch of earthiness. Neat little nose pleaser.

Charming $30 Pinot and worth every penny. Cranberry, cranberry and more cranberry with cherry, strawberry and raspberry. Fruit really shows the personality of the vineyards. I get a little of the cinnamon spice and clove on the end. Delicious young and I wonder what Craig thinks some age will do to the wine. It's a winner either way! Cool label "Color of Life" by artist Janet Ekholm.

Discover both Cornerstone Wines and the Stepping Stone Wines lineup offered from Cornerstone Cellars CA/OR. Three years ago, I had the opportunity to visit the tasting room in Yountville Napa Valley and can't wait for the day to visit Gaston Oregon's room. I have been drinking their wines ever since. Everyday or special occasions, serving Cornerstone Wines will make you a popular host.

Cheers
Dan

Tre Sensi Wine Glass Bormioli Rocco

I usually taste and review wines on this blog so a wine glass is a first for me. I have used the glass on both white and red wine, multiple varietals and really impressed. Designed in a partnership with The Italian Sommelier Association, it was created to bring out the very best aroma and taste in wine..... enhancing your experience.

With the help of both designers and sommeliers, Tre Sensi provides the wine with the opportunity for perfect oxygenation by its bowl design. I notice as well the aromas flow nicely to the rim and enhance the fruit as it fills your nose. Love the sleek design and how easy the glass is to handle. A set of these would impress your dinner guests.

Enhance your tasting experience and purchase your Tre Sensi today! Cheers Bormioli Rocco!!!!

Cheers
Dan