Zeppoli's Wine Tasting Feb.6, Red Wines

Name: Allamand
Variety: 100% Malbec
Region: Valle de Uco
Country: Argentina
Year: 2010
Price: $11.99

Winery Review: It is a 100% Malbec that comes from 15-20 year old vines planted in the Uco Valley region. Located at the foot of the Andes range, more than 3,150 ft above sea level, this region produces some of the most refined and elegant Malbecs from Argentina. Deep purple color, lots of violets in the nose, and natural great acidity, are the typical characteristics of this typical Uco Valley "appellation" Malbec.

My Review: This wine had a smooth mouth-feel. It was dry and had spicy, tart notes reminiscent of black olives. There was a little heat coming through. The legs were seductively long.

I had this wine with food.

Name: Crucero
Variety: N/A
Region: Colchagua Valley
Country: Chile
Year: 2010
Price: $7.99

Winery Review: Alcohol 13.5% "Herbal, powerful and varietally on the money, with common but well-executed aromas of earth, blackberry, and olives. The palate offers proper weight and intensity, while the flavors of black plum, raspberry and tea are just herbal enough to scream out 'Carmenere.' Tasty and consistent from nose to finish. - M.S."
-Wine Enthusiast (December 1st 2010), 88 points + Best Buy "Top 10 under 10"

My Review: The nose was herbal and had spicy flavors coming through. The taste was very dry and earthy with heavy black pepper.

I had this wine with food.

Name: Maipe
Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon
Region: Mendoza
Country:Argentina
Year: 2010
Price: $8.99

Winery Review: Alcohol 13.5% This Cabernet Sauvignon has an intense ruby red color with aromas and flavors of ripe blackcurrant, red pepper, mint, chocolate, and vanilla hints. The fruit and tannins are perfectly balanced to give a wine of excellent structure making it ideal for grilled meats, game, pasta, or pizza.

My Review: There were tobacco notes on the nose during the swirly swirly. This Cab Sauv was very full bodied and mature. It tasted earthy and of black cherry and berries with just a touch of dryness.

I had this wine with food.


Name: Gen 5
Variety: Cabernet Sauvignon
Region: Lodi
Country:California
Year: 2009
Price: $11.25

Winery Review: Alcohol 13.9% - We strive for a friendly Cabernet Sauvignon, with juicy red and black fruit flavors that is well-balanced and textured and soft on the palate.
Review: 92 points (2009), Wilfred Wong: "Taking Lodi into a whole new level, the finely-tuned '09 Gen Cabernet shows intricate and complex flavors; ripe for sure, yet classy and refined; long finish."

My Review: The nose smelled of rubbing alcohol and sterile notes. The taste was smoky and of mushrooms. There was good tannic structure

I had this wine with food.