Wine Notes #10: Walla Walla

Owen Roe Sharecropper's 2004 Cabernet Sauvignon: So yes, the label reads Pinot Noir, but this review really is of the Cab. For some reason a Cab label could not be found . . .

Owen Roe produces the wine from Washington vineyard grapes. The company uses a co-operative growing arrangement under which the grapes are provided to the winery, which handles bottling and distribution. I imagine that this arrangement helps to keep costs down as less financing would be involved-the winery then splits the proceeds with the growers once the bottles are sold.

The result is a delicious Cabernet at a reasonable cost (a smidgeon over $20, depending upon the retailer). The wine is full, and ready to drink young. Lots of sumptuous fruit, and a good nose.
Owen Roe

Wine Notes #8: From Chile with pride

Today's selection is the 2004 Montes Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon (yes the label is for 2003). Montes is located central Chile. The 2003 vintage received 90 pts., so the $15 being asked at Costco for the 2004 seemed quite reasonable. The finish had far too much excessive alcohol initially, courtesy of the 14% ABV, although this problem diminished quickly.
The wine succeeds in being inoffensive in almost all regards, although this leaves it without many distinguishing features. Some complexity and an unexpectedly long finish were present.
Vina Montes

Wine Notes #6: Back to Napa

Tonight's selection: 2001 Freemark Abbey Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon

Possessed of a nice, dark, and very pleasing color. Looks positively gorgeous in the glass. This is a very fruity Cabernet. Medium finish that lingers on the palate nicely. Mostly cherry flavors, the oak is present but kept to a minimum. Thank you Liquorama for stocking this one.
Freemark Abbey

Wine Notes #5: Triple Review

So, yes it has been some time. But, to make up for it, there shall be three wine reviews. In tonight's review: 2004 Archery Summit Premier Cuvee, 2004 Benton Lane Estate, 2003 Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Artemis Cabernet Savignon.


2004 Archery Summit Premier Cuvee
The problem here is that the alcohol (13.9%) has a way of overpowering the balance of the cuvee. Once one sees past the alcohol and the accompanying hot finish, the wine stands in good stead. Should get a bit better with age.




2004 Benton Lane Estate Pinot Noir
This got a 90 from Wine Spectator, and I have to wonder why. It is similar to the 2003, which was excellent for the price range, but the 2004 has excessive sugar. Kind of like drinking liquid Pepsi? I'm sure this appeals to some part of the population, but it doesn't make for good Pinot. Stick to the 2003 and wait for next year. I will be sampling this again to make sure that bottle variation didn't destroy this sample.


2003 Stag's Leap Wine Cellars Artemis Cabernet Sauvignon
Although some perceive this as more of a weakeness for the SLWC brand than an asset, it is quite wonderful and comes at a very nice price break for quality Cab. Subtle and wonderful.