With high hopes for the Dirty Birds making it deep into the post-season, I had a potluck party for what was going to be the big game and decided to open a bunch of bottles (hopefully in victory!) Among these bottles were a few importer samples that were sent before the holidays. Possessing what sometimes must appear to be a jaded palate, I wanted my guests to taste these blind and get their opinions.
2008 Tamari Torrontés Rerserva *
(Argentina, Mendoza) Approx Retail $13.99. Unsure of ATL availability. Imported by Terlato Wines International
Pale, yellow. A burst of concentrated orange blossom, as if it were growing through the roof of a West Bengal sweet shop. Flowers, Citrus, Spice, Rose. Medium bodied, a little viscous, more flowers, and apricot on the palate. A touch of residual sugar, but not sweet. Good food friendly acidity, a medium length, almost apple-cider like finish.
An easy crowd-pleaser. After revealing the approx. price, thumbs up almost all around. This Torrontés paired really well with some charcuterie that I picked up from Star P.
-Other notes. Heavier bodied than other Torrontés I've had. Only negative comment in the room was that the floral nose was too concentrated.
Verdict-
Room & Me: Pretty Dirty (most would buy)
2007 Tamari Malbec Reserva *
Argentina, Mendoza) Approx Retail $13.99. Unsure of ATL availability. Imported by Terlato Wines International
A purple wine with a cherry colored rim. An intense nose of blackberry, plum, and a little vanilla. Something about most Malbec always smells "Furry" to me- like the smell has its own texture. Full bodied, with a velvety palate, medium sticky tannins, fairly acidic, and a long semi-chalky finish.
Most of the room approved. This is a big, young wine. It is tightly wound- and it became more appreciated after being opened for an hour or so. This isn't quite my style, but Smylie, a lover of Malbec and new world juice, gave a nod of approval. Again, at about $14, it is priced well.
Verdict-
Room: Fairly Dirty.
*Imorter Samples
2007 Nigl Güner Veltliner Piri
(Austria, Niederösterreich, Kremstal) Approx. $35 Thierry Theise Selection Available locally at Wine Gallery and Market.
Pale yellow. Crisp pear, ROCK (like sniffin' on ol' Stone Mountain during the laser show!), cream- An amazing nose. Fruit and steel on the palate. Great acids, a long citrus finish.
Paired great with Rowdy's prosciutto with homeade apple/mustard marmalade, spinach leaf, with a touch of lemon vinaigrette.... YO!
Verdict-
DURRTY (not cheap, but excellent G_G_G_Grooooner!)
We had a few other bottles, and I probably don't have time to write everything up-
But a few other suggestions (without full notes)
2004 Domaine de La Cadette Bougogne Blanc
(France, Burgundy) Chardonnay. Approximately $10 (not sure if this was a closeout) at Ansley Wine Merchants! Kermit Lynch Import
One of the best bottles of $10 white wine I've EVER had. Good, Cheap Burgundy! If you are a fanatic riding the ABC bus (Anything But Chardonnay) and you don't like this one... I'll sick the dogs on you!
N.V. J. Lassalle Brut Chigny-les-Roses 1er Cru Champagne
(France, Champagne, Montagne des Reims) Under $40 at Ansley Wine Merchants. Kermit Lynch Import
It is hard to find really good Champagne for under $40. There is a lot of stuff that is drinkable, but this is goood. ELEGANT BALANCE!
(Don't let the name fool you- this is not a rosé Champagne)
