Curious Synonyms: Welschriesling, Riesling Italico, Vojvodina, Borba. Nerd Alert: Out of the total availability of this grape, 59% of it comes from Austria and Croatia is third with 15% out of a total of around 7 other countries. The origin is debated but it is Croatia’s most planted grape variety. Easy to grow, prefers dry…
A Martin Codax Wine Tasting
I remember a story from a famous music group from the 1970’s called Blondie. For the longest time people assumed that was the name of the singer, Debbie Harry. I guess it’s a sociological assumption since most bands name with what sounds like a persons name tend to be that of the singer. Well the…
158 – Valdiguie – 342 Grapes Left
Curious Synonyms: Napa Gamay, Gamay 15, Gros Auxerrois, Brocal. Nerd Alert: Red grape primarily grown in the Languedoc-Roussillon region of southern France but it is also grown in California. Until 1980 it was called Napa Gamay until DNA testing validated it was a different grape. It’s a high yeilding, low alcohol with fruity flavors but…
#157 – Cesanese – 343 Grapes Left
It had a thin mantle of mixed red and black fruit but nothing as main character. It wad a light wine with tamed tannins and…
A Donald Patz Wine Group Tasting
Donald Patz is a household name. He’s been involved with California wines since the late 80’s and was one of the founders of famed brand Patz & Hall. After selling his part in the business he decided to start various independent projects which he shared with us recently.
#156 Maturana Blanca – 344 grapes left
we start looking at a very beautiful golden color. One would think it was an older wine. I will say this, typical of great riojas, this wine needed time to open up.
#106 Petit Manseng – 394 grapes left
Classic straw yellow color, it had a crushing acidity and citrus notes along with a nice minerality.
#105 Brachetto – 395 grapes left
The wine started with a little frizzante that dissipates rather quickly. The color is on the lighter side of red and the aromas are truly sweet.
#104 Prunelart – 396 grapes left
This wine had a beautiful violet color and on nose as well. Even on palate. I got reminded of Chowards, a violet flavored gum .
#103 Garganega – 397 grapes left
The tangyness of pineapple for my palate was enjoyable, although there were more subtle stone fruits present, it took control of my palate.