Tasting- Paulo Laureano Classico Alentejano Tinto

Name: Paulo Laureano Classico Alentejano Tinto
Variety: Aragonas
Region: Alentejo
Country: Portugal
Year: 2010
Price: $9.95

Wine Critic Review: "Intense ruby color. Clearly favors the component of primary aromas where notes of plum confit stress, blackberries, spice, and ripe red betters all in balance and attractive. Soft, to remember the hot plains, show a nice fresh, soft, and silky tannins and an elegant long finish." (Kevin, Dionysis, Vintage Cellar)

My review: For starters, the wine gave off a very earthy smell. I would classify this wine as a medium-full bodied wine. I could really taste all the fruits present, especially the blackberries and it gave off some heat for an aftertaste. Overall, I thought it was very strong tasting and I thought it would taste better if I had paired it with food.

This wine was not tried with food.

Tasting- Beauvert Cotes du Rhone

Name: Beauvert Cotes du Rhone
Variety: 70% Granache, 30% Shiraz
Region: Rhone
Country: France
Year: 2009
Price: $11.95

Wine Critic Review: "A beautiful ruby red wine. Very fragrant, with aromas of red fruit (currant, strawberry, and cherry) with hints of black pepper and cinnamon. Medium-bodied and silky in the mouth with mature, round tannins. Enjoy with meats, grilled vegetables, or cheeses." (Kevin, Dionysis, Vintage Cellar)

My Review: In this wine I could definitely taste the presence of berries. In addition, I could sense some heat on my tongue and left me with a bite. I thought that this wine had a vast amount of cinnamon in it which I did not care for too much. Very light bodied and gave off an earthy taste as well.

This wine was not tried with food.

Tasting- Doural Tinto

Name: Doural Tinto
Variety: Blend of 8 grapes
Region: Upper Douro
Country: Portugal
Year: 2009
Price: $8.95

Wine Critic Review: "This Portuguese tinto blend exhibits a deep red color with violet hues. The nose is vibrant and fruity. The palate offers notes of spice, cherry, and dark berry supported by good structure. This wine pairs well with red or game meat, cheeses, and fish. This wine is complex for the price and the best value in Portugal." (Kevin, Dionysis, Vintage Cellar)

My Review: The moment I smelled the wine, I knew that this was my favorite wine out of the tasting. I could really depict the cherries and berries in the wine. It was smooth and oaky on the tongue and I really enjoyed the aftertaste which consisted of some heat/spiciness. I thought for the price this wine was very complex as opposed to other red wines that I have purchased at this price.

This wine was not tried with food.

Tasting- Nykteri Santorini Yannis

Name: Nykteri Santorini Yannis

Variety: Blend of Alforcheiro, Touriga Nacional, and Tinta Roriz

Region: Santorini Island

Country: Greece

Year: 2010

Price: $13.95

Wine Critic Review: "Comprised of three indigenous grapes from volcanic soil. Has an oaky taste and good with fish and capers. The wine is matured for a minimum of 3 months in barrels. When the wine and barrel combine, it forms a special finesse. Dominated by the aromas of jasmine, citrus fruits, flowers and pears, all these enhanced with a gentle vanilla sense. A strong body with warm personality and a long lasting taste. Serve with grilled anything and local Geek dishes such as tomato meatballs and fava dip." (Kevin, Dionysis, Vintage Cellar)

My Review: My first impression of the wine when I smelled and tasted it was that it very dry. Along with the wine gave off a tart feeling on my tongue. I could definitely detect oak in the wine and it makes sense since it is aged in the barrels for awhile. There was nothing special to me about the smell of the wine, it reminded me of a usual white wine. I was hoping the wine might have a more citrus taste to it and I was disappointed when that was not present. Not one of my favorite white wines that I have tasted.

This wine was tried without food.

Tasting- Casa Bianca Spumante Rosato

Name: Casa Bianca Spumante Bianca
Variety: 100% Pinot Nior
Region: Asoli
Country: Italy
Year: Non-vintage
Price: $11.95

Wine Critic Review: "Prosecco is well known in Italy. This is used as a festive aperitif, however, mild dry Prosecco Spumante can be paired with appetizers and entrees. Prosecco is a common term and can be bought in several forms. The best have their own appellation, as Casa Bianca. The vineyards of Montello and the hills of Asoli are located in nothern Italy. The rosato spumante is made from white grape pinot nero prosecco and red. Together these grapes form a pale pink color and has a more powerful flavor than the white variety. Spicy rosato spumante with a fine, persistent mousse, juicy fresh red fruit in the aroma and a rich, smooth, and lasting flavor." (Kevin, Dinoysus, Vintage Cellar)

My Review: My initial reaction to the wine was that I could smell the fruit and it made me think it was going to be a very fruity sparking wine.  When I first sipped, I was pleasantly surprised because I thought I was not going to like the wine. It was dry and crisp with each sip with hints of fruit present. The carbonation was a nice touch to the wine as well and made the aftertaste memorable.

This wine was tried without food.