Tuesday, June 22, 2010

2006 T-Vine Cellars "T" Red Blend

This fantastic Napa Valley red blend was just recently released from restaurant only hold and is now available to retail customers. I just tried it the other day and I was surprised by the depth and complexity of this low production wine. This blend is an unique combination of Cabernet Sauvignon from the Frediani vineyard and Primativo (the Italian name for Zinfandel) from the Nicholini Vineyard. Great ruby purple color with aromas of lilac, mint and red berries that leap out of the glass. The palate was came off as bold and fruity in the beginning but really starts to mellow in the mid palate where you pick up floral notes and a touch of spice that really helps balance out all of the heavy fruit. The finish has velvety tannins and a touch of plum.

Price: $59.99 reg. price Heritage In Store Special $29.99

Rating: 93 points!

Saturday, June 12, 2010

Deschutes "Hop in the Dark" Cascadian Dark Ale

We just received the new release of the Bond Street Series from Deschutes Brewery last week, and you know I had to take one home and try it the second I laid my eyes upon this tasty treat. This beer is great combination of roasted malts and intense hops. Pours an extremely dark chocolate brown with a slight bit a maroon showing up on the edges with a thin light tan head. The aromas scream IPA with intense citrus notes like grapefruit and fresh sliced oranges. You do pick up slight notes of roasted malts on the nose but it is tough to get through all the citrus. At first sip I really noticed the hops but as time progressed and the beer warmed the sweet and toasty flavors grain began to come through and actually becomes extremely well balanced. Overall this is a great beer for IPA lovers or anybody that wants to try something new.

Rating: 91 points!

Price: $4.99 /22oz. Bomber