A dry, delicious white from Hungary that’s over 1,000 years old. A cross-bred, chillable Austrian red named for the doctor who devised it. A Sicilian beauty made from indigenous grapes grown on the slopes of a dormant volcano. And, finally, an oddball Australian blend that mixes Dolcetto with Cabernet (among others).
The hodgepodge of wines we’ll be tasting this Saturday are all a little funky and a little fresh – each in their own way. If the world of wine were an album, these are some of the deep tracks that are worth listening to – join us to hear what they have to say.
2009 Pannonhalmi Apatsagi ‘Tricollis Cuvee’ White – Hungary – $12
A blend of 40% Welschriesling, 40% Riesling, and 20% Tramini, made by Benedictine monks since 996, that’s right, over 1000 years! This is a dry, aromatic white wine with a nose of white flowers and ginger followed by ripe lychee. Medium-bodied with crisp underlying acidity, it’s a versatile wine that pairs well with everything from cheese and spicy Asian cuisine to white meats.
2009 Berger Zweigelt – Niederosterreich, Austria (1Ltr) – $14
The Zweigelt grape variety is a cross of Blaufrankisch and St. Laurent named after the good Dr. Zweigelt, its breeder. Berger is a practicing organic producer and their Zweigelt has a fresh raisin and prune nose, a touch of CO2, medium body and soft tannins. This juicy wine would be delicious served with a slight chill.
2008 Terre Nere Etna Rosso – Sicily, Italy – $21
Made from indigenous Sicilian varietals – Nerello Mascalese and Nerello Capuccio – grown in high altitude vineyards on the slopes of the Mount Etna. It’s a fascinating wine with bright red fruit flavors, crisp acidity, smoky and spicy notes as well as a hint of ash on the finish.
2008 Heartland Stickleback Red – South Australia – $12
Bending Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon with a little bit of Dolcetto sounds like trying to stick a clarinet onstage at a Stones concert. But, somehow, it works. This is a a delicious wine with complex flavors of dark berries, a hint of chocolate and just enough spice to keep things exciting. Fun, fresh, and ready to drink now.
15% off during the tasting!
