Ravenswood Vintners Blend Shiraz 2005, SouthEastern Australia

Posted on April 24, 2012 by Kellie Stargaard

This past weekend my husband and I took the plunge, we adopted a dog. When we set out to the shelter we intended to adopt a male cat as a companion to our cat, Daisy. When we saw Rooster, an Australian Cattle Dog, it was love at first sniff. We quickly rushed out and bought the requisite dog bowls, food, treats, toys, etc. I worried he and our cat would not hit it off and I was right. As soon as Daisy saw Rooster enter her domain she headed for our bedroom and has not been seen in the main part of the house since.

Being a herding dog, I think Rooster feels he needs to round her up and she understandably wants nothing to with being herded. In honor of Rooster’s arrival (we think he got his name from the way he kicks back after um, using the facilities) I decided an Australian wine was appropriate. This Australian wine may surprise you though. Why you ask? Because it’s an Aussie import of Ravenswood Vintners Blend Shiraz 2005, best known for their Sonoma Zinfandels.

Aromas of spice, wood and leather lead to bold blackberry, chocolate with a lingering earthy finish. True to their motto, No Wimpy Wines, this wine can stand with the best of them. I find all Ravenswood wines to be consistent and well balanced wines. When I saw the label with the kangaroos in lieu of the iconic ravens, I couldn’t resist. The price tag of $8.99 didn’t hurt either.

Appellation – SouthEastern Australia
Variety – 100%Shiraz
Vintage – 2005
Alcohol – 13.5%
SRP – $8.99
I’ve posted many times on Ravenswood, I won’t bore you with going over the same history. Instead I’d like to share with you my story about Ravenswood winery. In 2010 I had the fortune of being one of ten people in theUSto spend three days touring the Ravenswood Single Designate Vineyards. This included dining with Joel Peterson at his home as well as meals prepared on site at the Ravenswood tasting room inSonomaand at the home of the Teldeschi family, one of the Single Designate growers for Ravenswood.

That was one of the most memorable meals I’ve had in my life. Not just because the food was phenomenal (and it was), but because of the warm fuzzy feelings I had sitting around a large family table with twenty people or more. As we sat at the table enjoying each others company and stories, I truly felt I was part of something really special among this extended Ravenswood family. The ride there wasn’t too bad either, courtesy of a helicopter lifting off at the Pickberry Vineyards and setting down at the Teldeschi homestead.

On that 2010 trip I was inducted into the Order of the Ravens by none other than the Godfather of Zinfandel, Joel Peterson. I don’t know if it’s this “connection” or because of all the wonderful people and experiences I had but I have a special place in my wine cellar for all Ravenswood wines.

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Moulin-à-Vent, Château des Jacques 2010

Posted on April 12, 2012 by Kellie Stargaard

Spring sprang early here NE Georgia. The Bradford Pears and Yoshino Cherry trees were the first to bloom in early March. The Dogwoods have already lost most of their flowers now falling to the ground like snowflakes. The azaleas also bloomed early and their spent flowers now lay wilted or dried on the bush waiting to show their colors once again next spring. One of the biggest indicators that spring has arrived is a not so thin yellow film coating everything I own, including this laptop screen. We’re experiencing a brief cold snap but I know warmer weather is just around the corner and will cling to us until sometime in September. One recent wine sample, Moulin-à-Vent, Château des Jacques 2010 fit this spring time bill.

Aromas of strawberry, rose and a hint of leather. Flavors of ripe red berries are delicate with an acidic finish. Perfect wine for sitting on the porch on those warm spring evenings. SRP $21.99

Varietal – 100% Gamay
Alcohol 10.5-13.5%
Can be cellared – 6 to 10 years

Moulin-à-Vent the most famous of the ten crus located in the northern half of theBeaujolaisdistrict comprising of a total of 15,750 acres surrounding the Beaujolais-Villages appellation. Differences in the soil allow for the individuality of each cru to shine through. Moulin-à-Vent is located south of Chénas and north of Fleurie. Originally known as Romanèche-Thorins, the appellation name was changed in 1936 to Moulin-à-Vent for the last remaining windmill in theBeaujolais, built in the mid-17th century.

The estate, Château des Jacques, located in Moulin-à-Vent was acquired by Maison Louis Jadot in 1996. The estate boasts 67 acres of vineyards, 48 of which are devoted to the Gamay varietal. The grapes are harvested by hand and fermented separately until prior to bottling. The estate uses a traditional Pinot Noir vinification process destemming 60-80% of the clusters then chilling the must for 2-5 days. Fermentation takes place over approximately 20 days with indigenous yeasts and then aged in oak for 12 months.

Since it is spring time we did place our order for our first batch of Easter Egg chickens and delivery of the day old chicks is scheduled for late April. The chicken coop has been built to resemble a house and will soon be complete with a tiny front porch. The feeder, waterer and heat lamp are ready and waiting for the peeps. Now if I can just get these cats to stop hanging out a little too close for my comfort to the coop. There will be a three foot fence in place but I don’t think that’s going to keep a curious or hungry cat out. We may just have to put an electric fence in place in hopes of keeping our chickens safe. Stay tuned for peep updates!

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Fish EyeShiraz

Posted on April 12, 2012 by Kellie Stargaard

Many wine drinkers have cut their teeth on Boone’s Farm. I’m almost reluctant to use the word wine with this brand but that is what’s listed on the label. My preference was WildIsland. Eventually as we mature our tastes do as well and we work our way up the wine ladder. Some of you may have been fortunate enough to start your wine experience on a higher ladder rung and I do envy you but I’m willing to bet the majority of you reading this wine blog started off in the well under $10 range. What I’m trying to say is we all have to start somewhere. I like to call these “wines with training wheels”. They’re not bad wines, just not as complex and usually a little on the sweet side. Fortunately there are many more entry level wines than there were when I was young and my latest sample, Fish EyeShiraz is a fine example.

Notes of black berry and dark fruits on the nose. Flavors of black berry jam and a hint of spice are nice but the wine is very one dimensional. Perfect if you’re not looking for a wine you have to think about or dissect.
Varietal –Shiraz
Appellation – SouthEastern Australia
Acid – 0.75g/100mL
pH – 3.40
Alcohol – 13%
SRP – $8-$10

All Fisheye wines are produced in the small Aussie town ofGriffithlocated in the state ofNew South Wales. Wondering where they got the name Fish Eye? The Aussie’s say when a fisherman has a good catch, he’s got the “Fish Eye”, knowing where the fish are located and how to gain their attention.

I know this is another short post, next week I should be back to my normal posts. In-laws are here and keeping us busy. For more info on Fisheye Shiraz, click here.
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Georges Duboeuf Fleurie – Flower Label – Beaujolais 2010

Posted on April 12, 2012 by Kellie Stargaard

Georges Duboeuf Fleurie – Flower Label – Beaujolais 2010 Seriously, what was I thinking?Georges Duboeuf Fleurie Flower Label Why didn’t I wait a month before beginning the next two writing courses? I don’t know how adults returning back to school, taking a full course load, working, managing a home and family do it. This week alone may do me in. I just have to breathe; this is the only week all four classes will overlap. Wonder why they don’t just wait until the first set of courses are finished to begin the next set? As far as I’m concerned it’s the University’s poor planning! Last night I was so tired I could barely lift my wine glass, but I did manage to sample a little wine, Georges Duboeuf Fleurei.

The first whiff was pure heaven, full of heady red roses, cherry and bark. Flavors are delicate and floral, this is a wine I would describe as “pretty”. I found the wine to be dry not in the cheeks where I tend to pick up dryness but more on my tongue. It wasn’t a turn off though because I find a lot of Beaujolais a little too meek and mild. Made from 100% Gamay and priced around $18, it was a nice departure from the typical Beaujolais.

After 40 years of honing his Beaujolais winemaking craft, Georges Duboeuf, is regarded as the reigning King of Beaujolais. This information I retrieved from the Georges Duboeuf winery website. “Born in 1933 in Pouilly-Fuissé, the son of a winegrower, Georges began selling his family’s wines from the back of his bicycle to now-legendary local chefs such as Paul Bocuse and Paul Blanc. In 1964, Georges realized his dream and founded his own company: Les Vins Georges Duboeuf.” Developing strong relationships with the regions top growers allows Georges to be involved in all facets of his winery. Annual sales now top 30 million bottles making Georges Duboeuf one France’s best known wine brands.

I know this blog post is really short and I do apologize. I started this post last week and still have some courses to go through along with assignments before my in-laws arrive tomorrow from Denmark. In between the course work there’s the usual crunch of getting your home ready for house guests. Laundry, dusting, de-pollinating the floors and of course ensuring the we’re well stocked with wine! If you would like to send samples for my review, please contact me at kstargaard@yahoo.com.

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Welcome to the new home of my Wine Chicks Guide blog.

Posted on March 22, 2012 by Kellie Stargaard

For archived posts please go to http://winechicksguidetoeverydaywines.blogspot.com/.

I will be adding more content to this site for cheese lovers and foodies too.

Hope you enjoy the new site.

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Waterstone Study in Blue, Napa Valley Red Blend 2007

Posted on March 22, 2012 by Kellie Stargaard

Ever feel like you’ve bitten off a little more than you can chew? This week I’m designing a Waterstone Study in Bluenew website, finishing two Adult Ed courses, beginning two more, trying to get a jump on the next three blogs and getting ready for my in-laws visit beginning next week. I’m starting to feel just a tiny bit stressed, ok I’m feeling a little more than just a tiny bit, I may just get to full blown panic mode in the next four days. It’s enough to make anyone turn to drink! My choice of course would be wine and I would turn to Waterstone Study in Blue, Napa Valley Red Blend 2007.

Blueberry jam, oak and tobacco on the nose. Flavors of black pepper, blackberry and plum combine with well structured tannins and fine acidity. This is a wine that will lift your spirits after a stressful day at the office or in my case the homestead. Priced at $45 it is what I would consider a special occasion wine. But like I say a special occasion can be anything you want; it’s Friday, the in-laws are here, the in-laws are leaving, you get the picture.

Varietal – 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 25% Syrah, 10% Merlot
Appellation – Napa Valley
Alcohol – 14.8%
TA -0.61 g/100ml
pH – 3.75
Oak Aging – 24 months
Oak Cooperage – French oak, 80% new
Production – 1,050 cases
SRP – $45

Waterstone Winery formed in 2000 as collaboration between veteran winemaker Philip Zorn and longtime wine executive Brent Shortridge. The goal was to produce luxury wines at affordable prices (obviously their wallets are a little deeper than mine). Wanting to focus on the winemaking versus the vineyards, the pair does not own the vineyards or the equipment used to make the wine. They lean on committed relationships with growers, since it’s not the winemaker that makes the wine good, it’s the quality grapes that are key to any winery’s success.

I do apologize for the short blog this week and the next two will be short as well. As I explained above the next three weeks are a bit hectic. But stay tuned, my husband is working on our chicken coop and we should have peeps a little after Easter!

If you would like to send samples for my review, please contact me at kstargaard@yahoo.com.

2012© Kellie Stargaard.  All Rights Reserved.
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González Byass Family of Wine Altonzano, Beronia and Finca,Rioja,Spain

Posted on March 18, 2012 by Kellie Stargaard

Spring has sprung in the NE Georgia Mountains. Daffodils have been pushing up since February and more pop up each week. The trees are flowering and some are turning green. Soon I’ll be lightening up my wine choices but before I do, I have several Spanish wines that would work well in just about any climate. Altozano Tempranillo & Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Beronia Tempranillo 2008 and Finca Constancia 2007. All wines are part of the González Byass Family of Wine portfolio. Warning, website has music you can mute in the lower right corner.

Altozano Tempranillo & Cabernet Sauvignon 2009

Spice and red fruit aromas. Flavors full of black pepper, plum, cola and a hint of nutmeg with a long spicy finish. I find many Tempranillos a bit too dry for me but the addition of the Cabernet really polished the wine.

Varietal – 50% Tempranillo, 50% Cabernet Sauvignon

pH – 3.8

TA – 4.27 g/l

Alcohol – 14%

Sugars – 1.8 g/l

SRP –  $10

Produced at Finca Constancia, Otero where the array of soils provides various nuances in each varietal resulting in complex and rich tasting wines.

 

Beronia Tempranillo 2008

Robust earthy aromas. Fruity and slightly sweet cherry and strawberry licorice flavors followed by a spicy finish. A very light and refreshing Tempranillo.

Varietal – 100% Tempranillo

pH – 3.65

TA – 5.2 g/l

Alcohol – 13.5%

Sugars – 1.8 g/l

SRP – $15

Located in Ollauri, in the Rioja Alta, the name is taken from the Berones, who inhabited the area in the third century BC. The unique soil composition provides for quality and award worthy wines.

 

Finca Constancia 2007

Spice and dark fruit aromas. Abundance of currant and rich ripe red fruit flavors. This was probably my favorite of the three. Rich, complex and smooth it washes over the palate like velvet.

Varietal – 42% Syrah, 41% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Petit Verdo, 6% Tempranillo, 3% Graciano, 1% Cabernet Franc

pH – 3.65

TA – 5.2 g/l

Alcohol – 13.5%

Sugars – 1.8 g/l

SRP – $20

Located in Otero,Toledothe soil ranges from moderately acidic to high alkaline and a range of chalkiness allowing for a unique blend of varietals.

 

The González Byass Company began as collaboration between Manual María González Ángel and Robert Blake Byass. Lured to theJerezregion by the thriving Sherry industry, Manual purchased a small winery in 1835. By 1885 Manual joined with Byass, his agent fromEnglandthus giving birth to the González Byass Company. Manual was also the first inJerezto have electricity, running water and worked on the first railway project inSpain.

This forward thinking continues with the family today. The family is committed to protecting the environment and the restoration of the historical town ofJerez. Many family members sit on local boards and many have held consul positions in European countries. This along with keeping up with innovative winemaking technology will ensure the The González Byass Company will continue to stand the test of time.

If you would like to send samples for my review, please contact me at kstargaard@yahoo.com.

2012© Kellie Stargaard.  All Rights Reserved.

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Wine and My Happy Place

Posted on March 18, 2012 by Kellie Stargaard

I feel like my brain is a pile of mush this week. I’ve had to spend all my time on one program at my paying gig this week. I feel as if I’ve been sort of side swiped as it’s hogging all my time. I need to go to my happy place and I need to go soon! Since it’s only 3:00 in the afternoon and that’s a little too early to start drinking wine alone, I’ll have to reminisce about a recent wine that took me to my happy place. Hmm, wow, seems there were quite a few. Maybe I’ll just give you a potpourri of wines that make me happy.

Zonin Rosé Brut Sparkling Wine

Ah, pink bubbly, my favorite. Apple and yeasty notes carried through the bubbles waft out of the glass. Flavors of dried cherries, apples and I swear I taste rose petals. Made from a blend of red and white grapes the red grapes are gently crushed. The grapes are allowed to lay on their skins for a short time giving the wine its pinkish hue. This is labeled as Brut but I found it to be a little on the sweet side. Best served chilled between 5° and 7°C (41°-45°F). Pairs well with hors d’oeuvres, risottos or as I enjoyed it, on its own. Alcohol – 11%. SRV – $11

Biltmore Estate Méthode Champenoise Pas de Deux–Sec

Crisp apple and white fruit aromas. Delicate floral, peach and pear flavors. The wine is semi-sweet and carries a slight yeastiness but is not unpleasing. The wine is 100%Muscatwith 12.5% alcohol. I paired this sample with Breakfast for Dinner. The saltiness of the bacon and the peach and pear flavors were a perfect match. SRP -$18.

Have I mentioned how much I enjoy sparkling wines? They’re fun, festive and my husband doesn’t care for them so I get them all to myself. How’s that for a happy place!

Bridlewood Estate Winery Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon 2009

I found this gem all on my own while visiting a near by wine and liquor store. Aromas of cassis, spice and black pepper. Full to medium bodied, bursting flavors of plum, raspberry, cherry and a vanilla finish. This was such a wonderful surprise and priced at just $10.99, I plan on making the trek back to the store to pick up more soon.

Hope Family Wines LibertySchool Chardonnay 2010

Full of peach and green apple aromas. Crisp and fresh white fruits and citrus burst through the flavors. Finish is a subtle oak that seems to melt on the palate. 94% Chardonnay and 6% Viognier, the fruits benefit from the warm sunny days and the cool nights of theCentralCoast. With an SRP of $11.99, it’s just one more thing to make me happy.

I feel better already. Letting the stress of the past few days roll off my shoulders and pool around my chair and dry into a fine dust to be blown away by the early spring winds. It’s days like these when I truly love living inNE Georgia. Just this morning I watched 8 deer feed on a few green sprigs popping up, just feet away from the house. As the fog lifted above the trees, the birds began singing their morning song and a few of them came to visit by landing on the front porch rail. I’m very fortunate to live in what I consider my dream vacation.

If you would like to send samples for my review, please contact me at kstargaard@yahoo.com.

2012© Kellie Stargaard.  All Rights Reserved.

http://winechicksguidetoeverydaywines.blogspot.com/

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