United States
Chateau Ste Michelle Chardonnay 2002
Columbia Valley, Washington $19.95 (232439) Vintages Essential
A marvelously complex Chardonnay from a very reputable producer (that
happens to be housed in one of Washingtons most attractive wineries).
Its a little restrained on the nose, as we say when we cant smell too
much, butboy, oh boy!does it deliver on the palate! Theres beautiful
rich tropical fruit, to start with, but then come notes of rich
caramel, butterscotch, marmalade, sweet spice and vanilla. With a full,
smooth texture, its like a glass of sweet, tropical fruit thats
served with caramel cream. Butand this is crucialall this richness is
perfectly balanced with acidity. Dee-licious! And a great partner for
spicy Thai cuisine. (RP)
Columbia Crest Grand Estates Merlot 2001
Columbia Valley, Washington $19.95 (263418) Vintages Essential
Washington is widely recognized as producing stunning, value-priced
reds, and this is the sort of wine that makes the point in spades. Its
85% Merlot, with 10% Cabernet Franc and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon, drawn
from two vineyards. Its a great mouthful, full bodied, rich and spicy,
with predominant dark cherry and plum flavours accented by sweet spices
and pepper. The texture is generous and the finish is long and spicy.
It calls for full-flavoured red meat dishes. (RP)
Rancho Zabaco Dancing Bull Zinfandel 2002
California $15.95 (655423) Released March 5 and soon to be permanent
With generous dark and red fruit accented by spice and pepper
notes, this is a very attractive Zin that will go well with a range of
food from well-seasoned hamburgers to hearty pasta and grilled pepper
steak. The fruit flavours are vibrant, the acid-fruit balance is good
and food-friendly, and the tannins are light. Well worth the price.
(RP)
Sterling Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2001
Napa Valley, California $29.95 Vintages Essential
Theres a beautiful core of fruit purity in this wine, which
provides a platform for a complex interplay of textures and flavours.
Look for notes of pepper, sweet spices, dark chocolate, mint, and
leather, with a smooth texture and a pleasant tannic burr. Its very
classic and very classy, and a great partner for well-seasoned red meat
dishes. Try it with a beef stew thats rich in root vegetables, garlic
and sweet herbs. (RP)