For this first dispatch we've got a heavy weighting on reds and Syrah in particular - because it's comfort food season - and Syrah is about as comforting as wine gets. There's also a $6 winner in this line up - SIX BUCKS, people!

2011 Sawtooth Syrah Idaho $16
Normally when a wine comes from outside traditional winegrowing regions, judgement is usually couched in a geographic condition, like, "It's pretty good for an Ohio wine." So, when a neighbor brought this Idaho wine over to have with dinner, I was expecting to say the same. Wrong! This is an outstanding, balanced Syrah that straddles the fruit/savory line with class. Supple in texture and restrained at 13.5%, this was (by far) the best of three Syrahs on the table that night - and the least expensive. Thanks, Paul!
2009 Columbia Crest Syrah Columbia Valley $14
Sensational drinking experience for not a lot of money. Elegant, plump, and hitting on many pleasure points. Bravo.
NV Rene Barbier Mediterranean Red $6
You've heard the old adage, 'Don't judge a book by its cover.' Skewing
decidedly more Italian in style than Spanish, this bright red
surprises with pretty aromatics, spice on the palate, and an overall high
enjoyment index. Balanced and clean, this will be making repeat
appearances on our dinner table. Oh, did you notice the price? As The
Wine Curmudgeon said of this wine, "...[I am] as surprised as you are."
2009 Hence Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon Walla Walla $20

2011 Firestone Chardonnay Santa Ynez Valley $13

Love the round-up format!
ReplyDelete