Wine tasting preview Saturday July 25

Got a late start last weekend. Thought we would make a quick stop at the Annual Chili Cookoff at Otto Preserve beforehand, but by the time we had walked the dogs, visited, and tasted all 17 chili recipes, it was 2pm before we opened the door.  DOH! Apologies to any early arrivals! All the chilis were very tasty; it was a stunningly beautiful day, and there was a great turnout, must have been half the island out there!

This was our first all-Italian tasting, with the new arrivals that had been on order since early spring. The verdicchio and nero d’avola-syrah blend were the stars, the montepulciano and the “rosecco” also drew appreciative “yums.” The Erio “super-Tuscan” was a bit disappointing from how I remembered it, so it might need some more bottle time before we pour it again.

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This weekend we can look forward to these gems:

Argiolas Costamolino Vermentino 2006 (Italy-Sardinia)–Supple aromas of citrus, pineapple, tropical fruits and honey are wonderfully supported by a zesty acidity. Delicate and pleasantly refreshing on the palate…(I love this wine!) $18

Viñas de Vila Tinto Fundación (Argentina): A blend of 50% Bonarda and 25% each Malbec and Cabernet Sauvignon, it is cropped at 4 1/2 tons per acre and aged in a combination of cuves with innerstaves and 2 – 5 year old barrels. It is rich for the price and surprisingly polished…$10

Mt. Baker Malbec (Washington): A well balanced, well-crafted, fruit-forward wine that is a wonderful accompaniment to hearty summer fare and a nice comparison with the next wine…$20

Catena Malbec   (Argentina): On the nose is the sweet scent of black cherry, currant and cocoa, medium to full bodied, with flavors of dark berries, cranberries, chocolate and caramel. The tannins are smooth and well submerged and help offset the bold acidity. The finish is smooth and lingering…$21

Wine Tasting

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