Tasting- Concannon Shiraz

Name: Concannon Shiraz
Variety: Shiraz
Region: Rhone
Country: USA
Year: 2008
Price: $7.95
Shop review:

This is an extremely rich, full-bodied wine with a dark fruit core. Aromas of blackberry, blueberry, cassis and dark cherry are followed by more berry fruits and chocolate and mocha on the palate.

My review: Smells like strawberry jam. Off-dry and smoky finish, kind of reminded me of a charred steak. Not my ideal wine.

Tasted with food or not: None.

Tasting- Chandon Sweet Cuvee

Name: Chandon Sweet Cuvee
Variety: Champagne
Region: Napa
Country: USA
Year: NV
Price: $9.95
Shop review:

This wine is an innovative sparkling wine style revealing vibrant stone fruit and floral aromas with rich, luscious mouthfeel. This wine enlivens the senses and sparks spontaneous moments, complementing your passion for a good life.

My review: Very cidery nose and distinct floral scent. Very tart and sparking finish, much like a champagne. Could be a proper dessert wine.

Tasted with food or not: None.

Tasting- Black ridge white Zinfandel

Name: Black Ridge White Zinfandel
Variety: Zinfandel
Region: Puglia, Dalmatia
Country: USA
Year: NV
Price: $9.95
Shop review:

This fruit forward White Zinfandel displays fresh aromas and crisp flavors of strawberry, raspberry, and cherry. It is incredibly food friendly and will pair well with burgers, sandwiches, fruit salad, and more.

My review: Strong cherry nose, you can almost taste it. Taste like a raspberry smoothie almost, very good!

Tasted with food or not: None.

Tasting- Wilson Daniels Sauvignon Blanc

Name: Wilson Daniels Sauvignon Blanc
Variety: Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Bordeaux
Country: France
Year: 2010
Price: $7.95
Shop review:

Orange blossom and citrus permeate the aromas. Alluring flavors of orange and grapefruit dominate the palate. Bright acidity balances the plush mouthfeel, resulting in a clean finish.

My review: Orange nose with a hint of pears. Mildly sweet on the finish and good for a light dish like a fish.

Tasted with food or not: None.

Tasting- Caprice de Bastor- Lamontagne

Name: Caprice de Bastor- Lamontagne
Variety: 60% Semillon, 36% Sauvignon Blanc, 4% Muscadelle
Region: Bordeaux
Country: France
Year: 2004
Price: $7.95
Shop review:

Very clean, with lemon, mineral and honey aromas that follow through to a medium body. Shows vanilla, apple and melon flavors, with a medium finish. Lightly sweet.

My review: Almost no distinct scent. Very sweet almost syrupy taste. Not a dessert wine technically but could pass as one with the proper dish like a cheesecake or key lime pie.

Tasted with food or not: None.

Tasting- Torre Castillo Alegre

Name: Torre Castillo Alegre
Variety: Monastrell
Region: Rhone
Country: Spain
Year: 2010
Price: $9.95
Shop review:

4 months in new American oak barrels

Bright ruby-red. Dried cherry, pipe tobacco and rose aromas, with a hint of woodsmoke. Sweet and fleshy on the palate with blackberry and cherry flavors complimented by licorice and a suggestion of dried herbs. The cherry and smoke notes repeat on the finish.

My review: Cherry nose with a hint of black berries. Another warm wine. Oaky finish and has a bite to it. Finish lasts for quite a while.

Tasted with food or not: None.

Tasting- Wilson Daniels Merlot

Name: Wilson Daniels Merlot
Variety: Merlot
Region: Mendoza
Country: California, USA
Year: 2010
Price: $7.95
Shop review:

Made predominantly from Paso Robles grapes, the wine is full-bodied and silky yet robust, with aromas of black cherry and plum and a palate of blackberry, raspberry and blueberry jam laced with vanilla and toast.

My review: Distinct berry scent, clearly a blend of berries. Small hint of vanilla or cream in the nose. Very hot wine, the finish is dry and tart. Could go well with a red meat.

Tasted with food or not: None.