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WINE OF THE WEEK February 10, 2013

Rosenblum Cellars Vinter's Cuvee XXXIII Zinfandel California
 
Many reviewers of this wine call it a good introduction to Zinfandel. I take exception to the use of the word introduction. I find it a good Zinfandel, period, full-bodied, with robust and intense scents and flavors of blackberry and raspberry, and with more than just a hint of spice. A very satisfying mouthful. Food pairing: a hearty pasta sauce; barbecue dishes. Just this past summer, I visited Rosenblum Cellars in Alameda, California, and tasted several of its wines, one more pleasurable than the other. Cuvee, by the way, simply means a blend. Priced at $9.99/2 for $18.00, I feel that this is an exceptional buy. 

Ed, the Wine Guy, is available at Harney's 4:00 to 7:00 Wednesday through Saturday.

WINE OF THE WEEK, February 03, 2013

The Crossings 2011 Sauvignon Blanc Marlborough New Zealand
 
 
 
 
I recently visited a restaurant here on the Cape that spelled Sauvignon Blanc as Blank. (I don't think it was a typo.) The Crossings is anything but Blank. It is a lively mouthful, with an unique flavor of gooseberry: grapefruit, lemon, and lime; it is crisp and slightly pungent. This particular vintage: 2011 has been universally rated very high. France and Chile also extensively produce Sauvignon Blanc, each country with its distinctive scents and flavors, but I favor New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc. Taste the offerings of all three countries and compare. A recent pairing of a tossed green salad with crumbled feta and a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc was extraordinary. $14.99.
 
Ed, the Wine Guy, is available at Harney's from 4:00 to 7:00 Wednesday through Saturday. 
 

WINE OF THE WEEK January 31, 2013

Viu Manent Gran Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon Valle De Colchagua Chile
 
 
 
In general, I believe that Chile, after California, produces the most satisfying Cabernet Sauvignon. Viu Manent's Gran Reserva exhibits a traditional style: full-bodied, with scents and flavors that we expect from a good Cabernet. To the eyes, it is deep ruby red; to the nose, scents of black currant, fig, and date; to the mouth, flavors of plum, dark chocolate, and hints of coffee. But, give it room! Give it air! Let it breathe! It's a young Cabernet, and it needs - with the help of air - to expand and develop. I suggest opening the bottle, and then forgetting about it for at least an hour, preferably longer than that. It would be interesting, by way of comparison, to take a sip immediately after opening, and then compare that to a taste after an hour or so of breathing. How mellow it has become! How delicious! Suggested food pairings: beef stew, grilled steak, barbecue, chili. This Cabernet - as well as Viu Manent's Carmenere and Malbec - is on display in the marketplace at Dark Horse Beef and Deli Co., as well as in Harney's. All three varietals are $10.99, 2 for $20.00.
 
Ed, the Wine Guy.