First up: a 2008 Gewurztraminer from Chateau Ste Michelle in Washington state's Columbia Valley. It has been said the Gewurz grape makes wine to compliment the spiciest of foods and this one is no exception. A delightful nose of fruits leads into flavors mimicking the nose, with floral notes, citrus and pleasant spices. The finish was cool and crisp, blending well with the fajitas we had that evening. This particular wine is semi-dry, giving only a hint of sweetness, adding to the whole experience rather than overpowering it as in some wines. I would say, after finishing this bottle, that I will compare other Gewurztraminer wines to this one until I find its equal. I haven't had many of this variety, but this makes me hopeful for the future. Ste Michelle is a solid winery to choose from and I would recommend it to any wine lover...
And now, from the Columbia Crest Grand Estates is a 2007 Riesling, also from Washington's Columbia Valley. I am starting to get the impression that this is an excellent area for wine selection. Everybody knows that I dig the Rieslings (as do many in my circles...) so it is no surprise I enjoy this one too. I would categorize this as a sipping wine, a wine to be enjoyed when the mood strikes you, and a compliment to most meals. Like the Gewurz prior, it is cool and crisp and tastes of subtle fruits and tang. It finishes with body, but no overpoweringly so, allowing a satisfyingly slow consumption. The nose, like most Rieslings, it bright and vibrant, which leads into the tasting. As with all solid Rieslings, get this one and share it. You won't be sorry (by the by, I couldn't find a picture for the 2007 variety so you are stuck with the 2005...)...
There was a third wine this month, purchased on a whim based on price, age, and difference to what I would normally pick. The vineyard was Talus(?) and it was a 2003 Chardonnay. Apparently, chardonnay only last 2-6 years in the bottle. It tasted like carmelized green beans. Blech. For the month of May, Tara brought me a Muscat and a Merlot directly from California. Can't wait to try them, and as always, it's always a fine time for wine...
