A Grenache Gris, an unoaked Chardonnay, a Syrah blend… Professor Wood brought some interesting new wines to class. But our students were tough on the new guys. Isn’t that always the way? I think we’ll give them another chance. When you try them, let us know your thoughts as well, won’t you?

NEW WINE REVIEWS

Le Cirque 2010 Grenache Gris Vin de Pays des
Côtes Catalanes, France
13.0% alcohol
Est. Price: $12.99
100% Grenache (a red grape) that has been taken off the skins quickly (aka “racked”) so it is basically a white made from red grapes.

Sources say… Medium- to full-bodied and very aromatic, with intense fruit, floral notes, green herb character and a a light spiciness on the nose. This wine represents great value and reflects the rugged, wind-swept terrior in which the grapes are grown. While excellent on its own, this wine pairs well with savory cheeses or seafood dishes.

Critics say… 90 pts., Wine Advocate

FSW students say… “B-”

Chamisal 2010 Chardonnay
Central Coast, California
13.5% alcohol
Est. Price:$16.99
Screw Cap

Sources say… Exploding with fresh, crisp fruit, the nose combines tropical pineapple, mango and banana with citrus notes of lemon, lime and grapefruit. The palate bursts with a medley of fruit, driven by the crisp Fuji apple character and underlying minerality of the estate.

Critics say… 90 pts., Wine Enthusiast

FSW students say… “B-”

Evening Land 2009 Pinot Noir
Willamette Valley, Oregon
13.4% alcohol
Est. Price: $19.99
Cork

Sources say… Moderately intense reddish-purple color in the glass. Dark fruits including plums are featured on the nose with aromatic hints of spice, balsam and sawdust. Well-endowed with caressing fruit which persists on the finish.

FSW students say… “C-”

Kiamie 2009 R’Own Blend
Paso Robles, California
15.0% alcohol
Est. Price: $19.99
Screw Cap
50% Syrah, 40% Grenache, 8% Zinfandel, 20% Viognier

Sources say… Our inaugural blend exhibits the ripe fruit qualities, intense flavors and velvety tannins which make this eclectic wine a favorite. Fine tannins and good acidity will keep this fresh and evolving in your cellar over the next few years.

Critics say… 89 pts., Wine Spectator

FSW students say… C+

Alexander Valley Vineyards Sin Zin 2009 Zinfandel
Alexander Valley, California
14.0% alcohol
Est. Price: $15.99

Sources say… This Sin Zin is consistently seductive, with its jammy fruit and spicy character. The cooler 2009 vintage means this iteration of Sin Zin is a bit more restrained than previous years, but it still has the voluptuous raspberry, pomegranate and cherry fruit and spicy black pepper notes that fans of this wine love.

Critics say… 91 pts., Wine Advocate

FSW students say… “B”