Tasting - 2013 Coreto Tinto

Name: Coreto Tinto
Variety: Alicante Bouschet, Castellan, Pinot Noir, Tinta Roriz, Touriga Nacior
Region: Not given
Country: Portugal
Year: 2013
Price: $6.95

Winery review: "Great as an aperitif, is a perfect wine for the day-to-day. Excellent addition to dishes with meats, stews, roasts, barbecue, pasta, pizza, vegetarian dishes, Mexican food, Chinese, Thai and cheeses." - dfjvinhos.com

My review: I picked up the usual aromas of cherry, an eggplant smell was there with walnuts too.
On the palate this wine was smooth and tasted like a cherry poptart, with a chocolate, and raspberry flavor. The wine had no burn and a medium aftertaste.

This wine was tasted with no food.

Tasting - 2011 Bera Asti

Name: Bera Asti
Variety: Moscato Bianco
Region: Neviglie, Piemonte
Country: Italy
Year: 2011
Price: $9.95

Winery review: "Very elegant refined Moscato with delicate sweet flavours that range from aromatic osmanthus to sweet mangonsteen and longan. Fresh acidity and floral notes make this a wonderful, light, sparkling wine that is under-appreciated." - winesearcher.com

My review: An awesome fruit nose. Heavy tropical fruit aromas like mango, kiwi and lemon. On the palate flavors of kiwi, and tropical fruit blend. The wine was very sugary and sweet, light and no burn. Almost like a capri sun.

This wine was tasted with no food.

Tasting - 2012 Dom de la Condemine

Name: Dom de la Condemine Macon-Peronne
Variety: Chardonnay
Region: Burgundy
Country: France
Year: 2012
Price: $7.95

Winery review: "A light golden hue, floral aromas. Intense, clean and fresh on the palate. Citrus notes, bold acidity. Excellent match to seafood with butter or cream sauces or rich blue cheeses." - authenticws.com

My review: This Chardonnay gave off aromas of a buttery, sour granny smith apple aspect, with hints of sweaty socks, and slightly nutty. On the palate there is no burn which I liked, and there was a granny smith flavor, however the wine was very tart.

This wine was tasted without food.

Tasting - 2013 Tarima Monastrell

Name: Tarima Monastrell
Variety: Mourvedre
Region: Alicante
Country: Spain
Year: 2013
Price: $9.95

Winery review: "A glass-coating opaque-purple color, it displays notes of underbrush, brier, violets, blueberry, and black cherry. This is followed by a spicy, forward, nicely proportioned effort." - france44.com

My review: This wine was a spice attack with a heavy black pepper smell. Aromas of blueberry and cocoa were present. The flavor the wine packed was impressive starting off with a cherry liquor melting into a spicy plum flavor. The wine had a spicy aftertaste.

This wine was tasted without food.

Tasting - 2013 Tarima Blanco

Name: Tarima Blanco
Variety: 70% Mereseguera, 20% Viura, 10% Moscatel
Region: Alicante
Country: Spain
Year: 2013
Price: $8.95

Winery review: "Since first hitting the market in 2011, this blend of Merseguera, Viura and Moscatel has been improving. This vintage marks a high point. Aromas of apple and peach are followed by a textured palate, while flavors of apple and citrus are mild. The finish is bouncy, weighty and straightforward in flavor." - Michael Schachner 87 points

My review: Best nose of the tasting, aromas of pears, apples and citrus. A fruit basket blend, with hints of mango, and white chocolate raspberry cheesecake type of smell. On the plate the wine is slightly tart, with a more citrus flavor of pineapples and mangoes.

This wine was tasted without food.

Tasting - 2013 Breca Tovana

Name: Breca Tovana
Variety: Old Vine Garnacha
Region: Munebrega
Country: Spain
Year: 2013
Price: $8.95

Winery review: "Gnarled vines, grown without irrigation, are a mainstay of Spain’s winemaking tradition and produce small clusters of perfectly ripe Garnacha grapes. Aromas of blackberries, plums, and cherries fill the glass and develop into luscious flavors of black stone fruit. Long, supple tannins complete this extraordinary wine."- Vintage Cellar

My review: On the nose this wine had aromas of broccoli and plum, a decent vegetal nose. On the palate I picked up heavy plum, along with some earthy notes. The wine wasn't too bad. I would try this again with food.

This wine was tasted with no food.

Tasting - Rare Red

Name: Rare Red
Variety: Zinfandel, Petite Syrah, Petite Verdot, Merlot
Region: California
Country: USA
Year: Not given
Price: $9.95

Winery review: "Rare Red is a blend of four varietals from select California wine growing districts: Sangiovese - Merlot - Zinfandel and Primitivo. The attributes of the four varietals all contribute to the excellence of this robust blend. Merlot provides intense character and structure. Zinfandel and Primitivo add body, depth, color and raspberry-blackberry aromas. Sangiovese mitigates the other more tannic components with softness and bright fruit flavors. All constituents harmonize with each other and create increased synergistic complexity. This rare wine is medium bodied and fragrant with instantly appealing, fruit forward characteristics." - lawineco.com

My review: Aromas of cherry, and dark berries like blueberry and raspberry came to the nose. Hints of pencil shavings, and brown spice were also present. On the palate flavors of cherries and brown spice were present. A pretty good wine.

This wine was tasted with no food.

Tasting - 2013 Marques de Caceres

Name: Marques de Caceres
Variety: Verdejo
Region: Rueda
Country: Spain
Year: 2013
Price: $9.95

Winery review: "Vivid straw color. Fresh, clean and intense bouquet enlivened by notes of citrus fruit with a depth of pears and apples. Deliciously fresh and full in the mouth where racy, focused flavors deliver notes of minerals, lemon rind and green apples. Good length and a refreshing finish. Has all the character of the best from its appellation."- wine.com 

My review: The wine has a very good nose, I immediately picked up on a lemony, citrus and fruit basket blend. Additionally, notes of floral came through. On the palate this wine was like a fruit bomb, and I enjoyed it. This wine is a go.

This wine was tasted with no food.

Tasting - Dibon Cava

Name: Rare Red
Variety: 45% Macabeo, 25% Xarel-lo, 30% Parellada
Region: Catalonia
Country: Spain
Year: Not given
Price: $9.95

Winery review: "Light gold with plenty of bubbles, this wine has aromas of apples and pears with pleasant floral notes. Crisp and light-bodied on the palate, stone fruit flavors are accompanied by a mild minerality and balanced acidity. A delicious sparkler for a great price!" - naturalwine.com

My review: On the nose this wine brought a floral aspect, with some buttery popcorn notes. I also picked up on some pear, and a skittle aroma. This white wine has flavors of pear, and a skittle aspect. I was not too impressed with this wine, I would pass.

This wine was tasted with no food.

Tasting - 2012 Tres Ojos

Name: Tres Ojos Garnacha Calatyud
Variety: 85% Garnacha, 7% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7%, 1% Syrah
Region: Calatyud
Country: Spain
Year: 2012
Price: $6.95

Winery review: "The wine has a brick red color with a bouquet of red raspberries, spice and white pepper. The palate is incredibly concentrated and rich. The modern styles of Garnacha in Spain are continuously being perceived worldwide as wines of extraordinarily good quality. This wine is fruity, juicy and shows a great depth, ripe tannins, length but yet with wonderful elegance and lightness." - WA 87 points, kysela.com

My review: A very basic red wine on the nose with aromas of plum, cherry, black currant, although I must say there seemed to be mask covering most of the aromas. The wine had nice legs. On the palate the wine brought flavors of cherry, and dark chocolate. Not for me.

This wine was tasted on its own with no food.

Tasting - 2011 Torre Castillio

Name: Torre Castillo Cosecha Monastrell 
Variety: Monastrell
Region: Jumilla
Country: Spain
Year: 2011
Price: $7.95

Winery review: "Aged in American oak for four months. Bright ruby. Powerful, spicy aromas of dark berry preserves and lavender. Fleshy and round on the palate, offering spicy blackberry and blueberry flavors and gaining sweetness with air. Finishes smooth, long and slightly warm." - Vintage Cellar

My review: Heavy berries on the nose, darker berries like raspberry and blueberry. A little cedar made itself known, hints of chocolate also. Great nose and on the palate I was impressed with the complexity. Flavors of dark berries with some slight vegetal and black spice notes. This wine is a go.

Tasting - 2013 Chateau Suau

Name: Chateau Suau Bordeaux Rose
Variety: 100% Cabernet Sauvignon
Region: Bordeaux
Country: France
Year: 2013
Price: $7.95

Winery review: "Very aromatic wine, strawberry and raspberry nose. Fresh, fruity and well balanced on the palate. Served at 12°-14°C, it is excellent as an apetizer and pairs well with a range of dishes." - Paulsdc.com

My review: As the color of the wine suggests there was a cherry and watermelon aroma. This wine also brought a jolly rancher/fruity scent to the nose. Not much for the palate other than bright red cherries, some tartness was present as well. Not for me.

This wine was tasted with no food.

Tasting - 2013 Terre di Poggio

Name: Terre di Poggio Laude Pecorino
Variety: Pecorino
Region: Terre di Chieti
Country: Italy
Year: 2013
Price: $8.95

Winery review:  "Bright and savory, this floral scented Pecorino offers juicy tropical fruit and lemon drop sensations accented by notes of mint and thyme. The ripe fruit is balanced by brisk acidity that leaves the palate feeling cleansed and refreshed." - Vintage Cellar

My review: This white wine brought pear to the nose along with hints of pineapple juice, and hints of floral. On  the palate the wine packs a fruity, skittle taste. The wine is light and buttery as well. Decent wine, although I was not won over.

This wine was tasted with no food.

Tasting - Hahn Piesporter

Name: Hahn Piesporter Michelsberg Riesling
Variety: Riesling
Region: Piesport
Country: Germany
Year: Not given
Price: $9.95

Winery review: "This wine’s light, airy mouthfeel belies its sweetness and intensity of flavor. Honeyed pineapple aromas; similar flavors on the palate, adding gentle citrus notes toward the long, sweet finish." - Vintage Cellar

My review: On the nose this wine brought aromas such as floral, lemon and skittles. On the palate the wine had flavors of mango, fruity, and strawberry, A wet wine I would drink again because Riesling is my favorite.

This wine was tasted on its own with no food.

Tasting - 2013 Monti Degli Angeli

Name: Monti Degli Angeli
Variety: Sangiovese
Region: Puglia
Country: Italy
Year: 2013
Price: $7.95

Winery review: "Made from 100% Sangiovese, in Puglia, this wine has rich and dark aromas, with lots of black cherry and a hint of balsamic. In the mouth the wine is round and energetic, with cherry and black raspberry fruit complemented by hints of damp earth.  this wine is a great match for  pizza, grilled meats and hearty cheese! -TL" City Wine Merchant

My review: This wine brought aromas of plum and cherry to the nose, with hints of cedar box and other earthy notes. A pleasant beginning with flavors of dark berries and plum finishing with a slight tobacco taste. I would give this wine a go!

This wine was tasted on it's own with no food.

Tasting - 2014 Oracle

Name: Oracle
Variety: Pinotage
Region: Western Cape
Country: South Africa
Year: 2014
Price: $7.95

Winery review: "An unusual style of Pinotage with complex aromas of black pepper, smoke, tomato, and dark fruit. The palate is packed with ripe mixed berry flavors, making this unoaked red wine a real crowd-pleaser." - astorwines.com

My review: This wine was fantastic on the nose, a heavy, dark berry medley with raspberries and blueberries. A vegetable aroma came through with broccoli and tomato as well. On the palate this wine packed a berry punch with medium, not dark berry flavor. A wine I would have to give a go on.

This wine was tasted on it's own with no food.

Tasting - 2013 Bolla Moscato

Name: Bolla
Variety: Moscato
Region: Pavia
Country: Italy
Year: 2013
Price: $9.95

Winery review: "Lovely straw yellow in color. The bouquet is ample and very intense with a fragrance of sage and ripe fruit. It is soft and delicate on the palate with a persistent and lingering fruity garnish that hints of musk (where the grape name comes from)." ~ Winery notes

My review: The Italians outdid themselves with this wine. On the nose this wine brought a pear flavor with hints of light earthy notes. Instant favorite of the wine tasting after trying this refreshing and crisp wine. Flavors of pear and slight buttered popcorn, very easy to drink. This wine gets a go!

This wine was tasted on it's own with no food.

Tasting - 2013 Alvarez de Toledo

Name: Alvarez de Toledo
Variety: Godello
Region: Bierzo
Country: Spain
Year: 2013
Price: $7.95

Winery review: "This unoaked beauty delivers a lovely perfume of baking spices, melon, peaches, and mineral. Round, spicy, and pleasure-bent, this smooth-textured, impeccably balanced effort over-delivers in a very big way. Drink it over the next 3-4 years." The Wine Advocate -90 points

My review: Heavy melon came through on the nose with hints of floral and pear. The wine was very clear in color. On the palate this wine brought melon and a slight tropical fruit basket. A very good deal, the nose was nice but I will pass on this wine.

This wine was tasted on it's own with no food.

Tasting - Villa Jolanda

Name: Villa Jolanda
Variety: Pinot Gris, Chardonnay
Region: Piemonte
Country: Italy
Year: Not given
Price: $8.95

Winery review: "Brilliant straw color with emerald reflections. Fresh and floral bouquet with a hint of pears, apricots and bananas. Fresh and inviting with bright fruit and an easy drinking style with a pleasing hint of almonds in the aftertaste." - Vintage Cellar

My review: Slight gold in color this wine brought aromas of pear and a citrus blend. Hints of apricot came through to the nose as well. Light and airy on the palate with flavors like pear and butter. I enjoyed this wine although I would say pass on this one.

This wine was tasted on it's own with no food.

Tasting - 2013 Bodegas Atalaya Laya

Name: Bodegas Atalaya
Variety: Laya
Region: Almansa
Country: Spain
Year: 2013
Price: $8.95

Winery review: "Deep cherry in color. Elegant, fresh and complex nose that highlights ripe fruit and floral notes. Nice and fresh on the palate, well balanced with sweet byt still young tannins, a delicious mouthfilling sensation that lingers on the very long and smooth finish." - garyswine.com

My review: A heavy dark chocolate is loud and clear on the nose. Not dark, but medium berries like raspberry hits the nose along with pencil shavings. The flavors present are cherries, plum and raspberry mix. The "oak monster" showed himself in this wine. I will pass on this one.

This wine was tasted on it's own with no food.

Tasting - 2013 Villa Pozzi Moscato

Name: Villa Pozzi
Variety: Moscato
Region: Sicily
Country: Italy
Year: 2013
Price: $8.95

Winery review: "Fresh aromas of white and tropical fruits which leave a sweet but never obvious palate. The finish is very clean and pleasant, inviting another glass." - liquorworldma.com

My review: A tropical fruit basket on the nose, with fruits like pear working it's way in, and a sugary skittle smell. The wine is soft and velvety not dry. On the palate the skittles and pear flavors are present with the tropical fruit on the after taste. A wine that is for sure a buy.

Tasting - 2013 Paul Laureano Tinto Classico

Name: Paul Laureano
Variety: Tinto Classico - Trincadeira (40%), Aragonez (40%) and Alfrocheiro (20%)
Region: Alentejano
Country: Portugal
Year: 2013
Price: $8.95

Winery review: "Paulo Laureano’s Classico is a delicious blend of the native Portuguese varietals Trincadeira (40%), Aragonez (40%) and Alfrocheiro (20%). This is a full bodied red that reveals all that the terroir of Portugal has to offer. Light cigar tobacco and soft leather present beautifully on the nose. Dark, black fruits fill the mouth, but the wine flows smoothly over the palate, with a good bit of spice on the finish. Pair with spicy, cured meats and hard cheeses." - princetoncorkscrew.com

My review: A wine with good complexity. Aromas of deep, dark berries with a vegetable undertone. A woody and plum scent made an appearance on the nose. Red cherries is the first flavor to the palate followed by a dry plum, and finally a little oaky taste. A good wine I will give a definite go on.

Tasting - 2013 Mars and Venus Chardonnay

Name: Mars and Venus
Variety: Chardonnay
Region: La Mancha
Country: Spain
Year: 2013
Price: $5.95

Winery review: "A very nice value Chardonnay that comfortably over-delivers vs. its modest price tag. No oak here, just bushels of clean, crisp, Chardonnay apple and stone fruit with a hint of caramelized pineapple.  Juicy and clean, this is a mid-weight white that's just perfect for parties or weeknight sipping." - chainbridgecellars.com

My review: A wine that resembles water in the glass, clear liquid. Once the aromas hit my nose I picked up on some pear, and a kind of sour fruit basket. The flavors are a mix of heavy pear, and lemon. A wine that is tart to the palate. I would pass on this wine.

I tasted this wine on it's own with no food.

Tasting - 2013 Cortneova Pinot Grigio

Name: Cortenova
Variety: Pinot Grigio
Region: Veneto
Country: Italy
Year: 2013
Price: $6.95

Winery review: "Brilliant straw color with emerald reflections.
Fresh and floral bouquet with a hint of pears, apricots and bananas. Fresh and inviting with bright fruit and an easy drinking style with a pleasing hint of almonds in the aftertaste." -kysela.com

My review: The wine is a clear liquid, similar to water in a glass. The first scent that hits the nose is apples, followed by a lemony citrus aroma. Hints of apricot were present, and no petrol/alcohol smell was detected. Again, granny smith apples are the first flavor to hit the palate, the wine was very smooth like velvet. Slight apricot taste made it's appearance in this wine. A good buy I'd say.

Tasting - 2011 Breca

Name: Breca
Variety: 100% Garnacha
Region: Bodegas
Country: Spain
Year: 2011
Price: $15.99

Winery review: "This dense red shows a savory character, with tar, ink and licorice notes framing the core of plum and meat flavors. Features firm, well-integrated tannins and fresh acidity. Distinctive. Drink now through 2018. " -Wine Spectator - 90 points

My review: Blueberry and raspberry notes hit the nose with a tartness. I picked up on a very light earthiness and mild spice aroma. Plum and cherry flavors hit the mouth, slight blueberry. No burn while tasting, more berries with the aftertaste. A dry wine that I think is a good buy.

Tasting - 2013 Shaya

Name: Shaya
Variety: 100% Verdejo
Region: Rueda
Country: Spain
Year: 2013
Price: $13

Winery review: "There’s more to the 2013 Shaya, produced with Verdejo from older vines, part barrel-fermented and part aged in contact with the lees, which has more concentration, more persistence of fruit and complexity, more stuffing, with clean notes of freshly cut grass, apples and fennel, a medium to light-palate with good acidity and clear, delineated flavors." - Wine Advocate 89 points

My review: Once in the glass the wine is a very clear color with a gold tinge. The nose picked up on peaches, with a decent floral aroma. Peach flavor with a mango finish. The wine had a buttery kick with light and airy feel. I would pass on this wine.

Tasting - 2012 Cantena Malbec

Name: Cantena 

Variety: Malbec

Region: Mendoza

Country: Argentina

Year: 2012

Price: $19.99

Winery review: "An intense red, with concentrated flavors of dark plum, kirsch, dried beef and baker's chocolate that are flanked by notes of tobacco leaf and ginger. The powerful finish is filled with sanguine details. " Wine Spectator - 90 points

My review: Very rich in color this wine gives off a plum scent with a slight pencil shavings smell. The legs on this wine are intense. Plum flavor with a musty oak taste. This wine is quite good, I give it a go!

Tasting - 2012 Protocolo White

Name: Protocolo White
Variety: Airen 60% Macabeo 40%
Region: Manchuela
Country: Spain
Year: 2012
Price: $6.95

Winery review: "Very brilliant yellow color with greenish hues, clear. Aromas of fresh fruit, banana, apple and peach. The palate shows fresh fruity, silky notes with bright acidity, followed by a fruity, strong finish. Recommended pairings: Light salads, white fish and shellfish." - wine.com

My review: A very fruity smell with pears, watermelons and peaches hitting the nose. A fruit basket is the best description for the aroma. The wine is crisp and brings a red apple flavor with mangoes to the palate. A strong lingering after taste accompanied this wine. This wine passed the test with flying colors, it's a go.

I tasted this wine on it's own with no food

Tasting - 2014 Jam Jar

Name: Jam Jar
Variety: Moscato
Region: Western Cape
Country: South Africa
Year: 2014
Price: $8.95

Winery review: " Packed with juicy peach and apricot flavors, Jam Jar Moscato is fancy enough for a special occasion toast, yet sweet natured enough to enjoy every day." - Totalwine

My review: What's cooler than being cool... Jam Jar. The name jumps out at you as being being modern and popular. The sniff brought me into a tropical fruit forest with aromas of pineapple and red peach. Some hints of floral came through to the nose as well. The taste knocks you out with exotic flavors of kiwi and a ruby red type of fruit I couldn't put my palate on. There were flavors of pear additionally. This wine for the price is a definite, GO!

I tasted this wine on it's own with no food.

Tasting - 2013 Entrada Chardonnay

Name: Entrada Charndonnay
Variety: Chardonnay
Region: Nancuaga
Country: Chile
Year: 2013
Price: $5.95

Winery review: "Fruity and floral on the nose and rich but not heavy on the palate.  Wonderful tropical fruit flavors are balanced by just a touch of French oak to round out the finish." - Wilkinson Wine Cellar

My review: The glass was poured and I had to take a second look because I though my glass was empty, very clear color like water. My nose picked up ripe apples with a citrus blend. A very crisp and light wine on the palate with flavors of pear and melon. A nice white wine which I will pass on for now.

I tasted this wine on it's own with no food.

Tasting - 2012 Sangiovese Di Romagna Pirovano

Name: Pirovano Sangiovese
Variety: Sangiovese
Region: Romagna
Country: Italy
Year: 2012
Price: $7.95

Winery review: "Aromas of bright berry fruit and violets merge with zesty spice and intense juicy flavors of ripe raspberry, plum and black cherry in this medium-bodied, food-friendly wine.  Pairs perfectly with a variety of foods such as spicy pastas, red meats and poultry, as well as aged cheeses." - shopriteliquors

My review: The Italians have a penchant for style and that showed with the look of the bottle. The aromas present were raspberry, and a cherry jam. I picked up the petrol with this wine and there were a few earthy notes as well. An oak monster jumped out at me when tasting this wine, a maple flavor with brown spice and cherries. For the price this wine is a good buy, but I'm going to pass.

Tasting - 2013 La Fiera Montepuliciano D' Abruzo

Name: La Fiera Montepulciano D' Abruzo
Variety: Montepulciano
Region: Abruzzo
Country: Italy
Year: 2013
Price: $7.95

Winery review: "Ruby-red color with violet highlights. It has a pleasant, fruity profile loaded with fresh herb-inflected cherry flavors and soft tannins." - Madwine

My review: First time attempting the montepulciano variety, I smelled a sugary candy type aroma similar to black and red licorice. My nose was also hit aromas like plum, with hints of a cedar wood and matchbox scent. The taste of this wine brought flavors like cherry and cedar, nothing too pronounced with a medium after taste lasting about 15 seconds. I'm going to pass on this wine, although the price is makes this wine a good value.

I tasted this wine on it's own with no food.

Tasting - 2009 Takutai

Name: Takutai
Variety: Pinot Gris
Region: Nelson
Country: New Zealand
Year: 2009
Price: $6.95

Winery review: Fresh, bright Gala apple flavours dominate in this lively wine. Moderately sweet in style but balanced by fine tannins that add a little spice, and a touch of coarseness, to the finish. Great value at this price. - Tasting notes, 80 points

My review: Not much coming through to the nose, managed to pick up on a golden apple aroma with hints of lemon. Very light flavors with a weak floral aspect. I thought it was quite difficult to pick up on the profile of the wine. Almost like a glass of water. Stay clear of this wine.

This wine was tasted on it's own with no food.

Tasting - 2013 Crane Lake Pettite Sirah

Name: Crane Lake
Variety: Pettite Sirah
Region: California
Country: USA
Year: 2013
Price: $5.95

Winery review: "Deep purple color, fruity nose. Very good varietal character. Fruity, clean short finish. Great wine? No. A bargain at $4 a bottle? Hell, yes! This is very serviceable wine. Easy drinking, decent quality. Exceeds expectations. Highly recommend." -Cellartracker 85 points

My review: Big and bold spiciness came to the nose, black spice and a petrol aroma were present. Hints of cherry were thrown into the mix. A good complexity to the wine with black currant, cherry and plum flavors initially. Texture of the wine was smooth on the palate and there was a spicy back palate. I appreciated the depth the wine brought to the table.

This wine was tasted on it's own with no food.

Tasting - 2013 Crane Lake Riesling

Name: Crane Lake
Variety: Riesling
Region: California
Country: USA
Year: 2013
Price: $5.95

Winery review: "This is without a doubt the best value on the market. For roughly $5 Crane Lake gives you a light, slightly efervescent, apple and lightly citrus riesling. Great price point. Sacrifices little for the price as well. I have found, however, that it is not at all easy to find. I have only come across in the bargain bins in my town." - Snooth, sagatti

My review: A wine so clear to the sight, I mistakenly thought there was nothing in my glass at first. A great floral scent, apricots with a big lemon grass factor. I really liked how the wine hit the palate with crispness and a light buttery texture. I tasted fruits like melons and pears in this wine. A superb value for the price.

This wine was tasted on it's own with no food.

Tasting - 2010 Yellowtail Reserve

Name: Yellowtail
Variety: Merlot
Region: South Eastern
Country: Australia
Year: 2010
Price: $6.95

Winery review: "Vibrant colour; presumably bottled for the Australian market with its screwcap closure, and is a very pleasant merlot given its price; here it is cassis and cherry fruit, not sweetness, that drives the wine; tannins and oak are only just there, but that doesn't matter in the context of the drink now style. (28-Aug-2012) [James Halliday]" - 89 points

My review: At first smell my nose picked up a vegetable scent, like tomatoes and broccoli. Spice was the second most aroma, while there were hints of plum as well. Cherry flavors dominated, with an infusion of brown spice. A dry wine, I was not crazy on the smell. The taste carried the day for me.

This wine was tasted on it's own with no food.

Tasting - 2013 Mars & Venus Sauvignon Blanc

Name: Mars & Venus
Variety: Sauvignon Blanc
Region: La Mancha
Country: Spain
Year: 2013
Price: $5.95

Winery review: Mars and Venus Sauvignon Blanc is a light, crisp, white wine from Spain. This wine will go great with any seafood or poultry dishes. Truly an excellent value for such a refreshing, tasty wine. - Vintage Notes

My review: A clear color to the wine. I picked up on buttery, pear and melon aromas. A hint of floral forced it's way to the nose. A nice crisp wine with a robust pear and buttery flavor.

This wine was tasted on it's own with no food.

Tasting - 2013 Be Bright Pinot Grigio

Name: Be Bright
Variety: Pinot Grigio
Region: California
Country: USA
Year: 2013
Price: $7

Winery review: "Undoubtedly your wine glass is half full (if not more.) Full oflight and lovely whimsical wisdom complemented by the perfect touch of unforgettable charm." Winery Notes



My review: I wasn't exactly wowed with this wine. On the nose there are aromas of oranje peel and pear with a nice light floral smell. There was a little bite to this white wine, but red apple came through to the palate. Other flavors included pear and a citrus fruit blend. Not complaining because the price was rather cheap. I'd buy this one again if I'm sticking to a budget.

This wine was tasted on it's own with no food.

Tasting - 2012 Hazana Tradicion Rioja Vendimia

Name: Hazana Tradicion Rioja
Variety: 85% Tempranillo, 15% Graciano
Region: Rioja
Country: Spain
Year: 2012
Price: $12

Winery review: "Inky ruby. Lively, smoke-accented aromas of redcurrant and cherry, with a suave floral quality in the background. Zesty red fruit flavors are complemented by notes of blood orange, rose and musky herbs. Packs a flavorful punch and finishes brisk and spicy, leaving floral pastille notes behind. This wine, which delivers exceptional value, was made by Miguel Angel Rodriguez, winemaker at Vinicola Real, for importer Eric Solomon." Reviewed by: International Wine Cellar - 90pts

My review: Another Spanish wine coming at you, popped the cork on this one and I was transported into an orchard of cherry trees. My nose was picking up strawberry and  vanilla aromas with hints of leather. Flavors of deep strawberry and plum were present. A solid wine!

This wine was tasted on it's own with no food.

Tasting - 2012 Antucura Malbec

Name: Antucura Malbec
Variety: Malbec
Region: Mendoza
Country: Argentina
Year: 2012
Price: $16.99

Winery review: "A wonderful velvet texture with great purity. Dense bramble fruit with hints of violets. Good length and lovely juiciness, and with a firm, fine tannic structure." 95 points Decanter Tasting Panel

My review: I decanted this bad boy and wow did this wine taste amazing! The aromas were wonderful with smooth earthy notes like oak, and black currant. Other smells included a brown sugar and black spice mix with hints of plum. On the palate this wine is a great blend of cherry and plum notes with cedar wood and hints of pecan. A very well-balanced wine. Easily one of the best I've tasted thus war in my winery experience.

This wine was tasted on it's own with no food.

Tasting - 2010 Biagio Toscana

Name: Biagio Toscana
Variety: 85% Sangiovese, 15% Cabernet Savuignon
Region: Tuscany
Country: Italy
Year: 2010
Price: $10

Winery review: ":Intense ruby red color. Intense perfume of oak and fruit. Characteristic flavor of red berries and plums with persistent oak finish. Ideal to accompany roasts, chops and mature cheese. Serve at room temperature." - Wine maker notes

My review: This wine was aged in oak for 12 months and I picked up on the earthy notes, however I the aromas were much lighter than expected. A fall time leafy smell hit my nose, accompanied with a raspberry jam aroma with hints of peppercorn and plum. This medium body wine brought black cherry flavor to the palate. A tinge of acidity and peppercorn was present along with a hint of basil. I'm not a proponent of spicy wines, yet the spice wasn't overwhelming, overall I quite enjoyed this wine.

This wine was tasted on it's own with no food.

Tasting - 2011 Bodegas Zerran Monstant

Name: Bodegas Zerran Monstant
Variety: 50% Garnacha, 40% Mazuelo, 10% Syrah
Region: Monstant
County: Spain
Year: 2011
Price: $15.99

Winery review: "Even more so is the 2011 Zerran, which ratchets up the level of concentration and ripe fruit. It reveals abundant kirsch, lavender, black raspberry and dusty, loamy, earthy scents intermixed with notions of spring flowers and blackberries. There is not any oak evident in this dense effort. Its completeness and overall equilibrium are impressive... " 92 points Robert Parker

My review: The earthy aromas are surprisingly fresh, with a spring time oaky smell. Other aromas include black currant with deep cherry and red licorice scents. I'm really starting to favor the Spanish for their excellent wine crafting. A nice sugary cherry flavor hits the palate, like a cherry jolly rancher. Earthy notes in the mix with some oak barrel taste. The wine is complex yet light on the palate, a very smooth tasting wine. I'm definitely a fan of this wine.

This wine was tasted on it's own with no food.

Tasting - 2014 Riebeek Cellars

Name: Riebeek Cellar
Variety: Chenin Blanc
Region: Swartland
Country: South Africa
Year: 2014
Price: $6.95

Winery review: "Here's another great-value white from this popular and widely available label. With its crisp acidity and apple-pear flavors, chenin blanc plays well with a wide variety of foods - David McIntyre" - The Washington Post (October 22nd 2014), *1/2

My review: A pleasant citrus and orange peel with heavy lemon grass on the nose. Additionally, hints of floral came through to the nose. A creamy texture with lemon grass and apricot flavors. No burn at all with finish. A smooth and light wine. Very nice!

Tasting - 2014 San Elias

Name: San Elias
Variety: Carmenere
Region: Central Valley
Country: Chile
Year: 2014
Price: $5.95

Winery review: Beautiful red fruit aromas. Supple and round in the mouth. The wine pairs well with full flavored cheeses and lamb. - Winemaker notes

My review: I suppose you get what you pay for, this wine smelled off to me. There was a rotten type of smell probably attributed to the vegetable scents which I am new too. Kept my nose in there and did pick up hints of cherry and plum with some oak scents as well. The taste was not my favorite considering I'm not a big fan of vegetables, there was also a spicy and cherry flavor present. I'm going to stay away from this wine.

Tasting - 2013 Santa Luz Alba Sauvignon Blanc

Name: Santa Luz Alba Sauvignon Blanc
Variety: Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Valle Central
Country: Chile
Year: 2013
Price: $6.95

Winery review: A nose of pineapple, lemon and pear with tropical flavors are balanced by juicy acidity and soft oak notes. Fermentation and maceration lasting 20 days occurred in stainless steel tanks, after which the a portion of the wine matured in oak for one month. - Winemaker notes

My review: After diving in with the nose I picked up on the smell of a fruit basket. Hints of apples, pears, and lemon came through with some citrus scents as well. I really enjoyed this wine, I was surprised by the taste for the price. There was a watermelon and lemon flavor present. I wanted more of this stuff.

Tasting - 2010 Tineta Avanate

Name: Tineta Avante
Variety: Tempranillo
Region: Vinos de la Tierra
Country: Spain
Year: 2010
Price: $19.95

Winery review: "Even better is the 2010 Avante, which comes from a vineyard planted in 1960. This unfiltered, 2,000-case cuvee is also 100% Tinto Fino. It offers plenty of charcoal, graphite, black currant, licorice and forest floor notes in a rich, full-throttle format. Consume it over the next 5–7 years." Bob Parker - 92 points

My review: After uncorking this great bottle of wine I had a feeling this was a good one. The berry flavors are slightly subtle making you wonder what's in store for the palate. Blackberry and raspberry on the nose with beautiful aromas of oak and cedar, and hints of dark chocolate. High acidity, sweet blackberry and cherry notes with a great blend of chocolate and earth notes. A very good wine.

Tasting - 2013 Burgans Albarino

Name: Burgans Albarino 2013
Variety: Albarino
Region: Rias Baixas
Country: Spain
Year: 2013
Price: $15.99

Winery review: "Green-tinged yellow. Intense orchard and pit fruit aromas are complemented by ginger, white flowers and orange zest, along with a strong mineral overtone. Silky and expansive on the palate, offering sappy pear and peach flavors, a touch of honey and a refreshingly bitter note of pear skin. Anise and chamomile notes come up with air and linger on the long, gently sweet, mineral-driven finish. This wine has a relatively low 1.5 grams per liter of residual sugar." - International Wine Cellar -90 points

My review: Such a relief on the nose with unique fruit flavors like apple and apricot. Slight floral hints with subtle peach aromas. A buttery and creamy texture with a slight kick. The taste of apples and other great fruit flavors. Wow! No burn at all, almost like a kids' juice box.

Tasting - Vintage 2012 Bogle Vineyards Merlot

Name: Bogle Vineyards Merlot
Variety: 100% Merlot
Region: Clarksburg, California
Country: USA
Year: 2012
Price: $12

Winery review: "Supple and easygoing, with appealing flavors of black cherry, toasty oak and herb. Drink now through 2018." - Wine Spectator 88 points

My review: A straight forward purple color poured from the bottle. The aromas were quite pleasing with plum and cherry and a nice floral scent. Taste was harsh with the acidity and burn. I picked up a plum flavor with spicy notes. Not my favorite wine yet, however this wasn't a bad choice and I would try this again, decanted of course.

The wine was tasted on it's own with no food.

Tasting - Shotfire Barossa Shiraz 2012 Thorn-Clarke

Name: Shotfire Barossa Shiraz
Variety: 100% Shiraz
Region: Thorn-Clarke
Country: Australia
Year: 2012
Price: $ 17

Winery review: "This is a fantastic example of Barossa Shiraz. Rich cherry jam and sweet spice with a touch of vanillin oak on the nose and a smoothly textured, full flavoured palate with ripe grainy tannins. Great stuff!" - Dan Murphy 92 points

My review: A dark red color I dove right in and picked up cherry, plum and black currant on the nose with hints of black licorice. Phenomenal deep cherry and raspberry jam flavors with no bite and smooth texture. Medium body with nice legs. Winegasmic!

The wine was tasted on it's own with no food.

Tasting - Willm Alsace Gewurztraminer 2013 Reseve

Name: Willm Alsace
Variety: 100% Gewurztraminer
Region: Alsace
Country: France
Year: 2013
Price: $15

Winery review: "A lovely classic gewürztraminer with aromas of rose petals, lychee and baking spices. Yet this one is not over-the-top in its aromatics. Medium-bodied. Perfect for curried and spicy dishes. Great price." - Natalie Maclean 88 points

My review: A nice light gold color filled the glass and I was excited to try this wine. The aromas were superb with citrus, lemon zest, watermelon fruits. Wonderful light earthy notes like a bouquet of fresh flowers, I though I was in a florist shop for a moment. The wine had melon and orange flavors with light earthy notes. Crisp and refreshing with a slight burn. A good wine, I will come back to this one.

The wine was tasted on it's own with no food.