Saturday Tasting Line-up

“WINE WARS” WINNERS – Tasting Saturday 1-4PM

On June 16th we introduced “Wine Wars” a new tasting program that will introduce/compare wines from different global regions that have been, in the past, outside of our “comfort zone.” Our inaugural tasting featured both the wines of South Africa & France which we tasted 4 (x2) different varieties including; Chablis, Burgundy, Rhone and dessert wines. With a full panel of Carpe Vino Wine Club members, the decision as to which region WAS BEST…turned out to be an even split. So…we thought, why not share some of the best wines of that tasting with you! OH and to keep in the spirit of the WINE WARS…no prices will be revealed but lets just say they range in retail pricing from $24.95/bottle to $47.95/bottle!

2015 De Morgenzon Chenin Blanc (South Africa)

When you think of South Africa, you have to think of Chenin Blanc and no one doesn’t much better on the Cape then De Morgenzon. This was one of our first wines tasted for Wine Wars and quickly became our favorite. We breezed through the 5 cases of the 2014 vintage and had to move up to the 2015 for WINE WARS. We took 10 cases which was more than anyone else in the region and only 36 bottles are left! A must try!

This stunning Chenin Blanc is produced from estate vines planted in decomposed granite soils in 1972. These older vines are well established and produce small yields of intensely concentrated wine. The aromatics jump from the glass and invite you in with notes of white flowers, stone fruit and hints of toastiness. The palate is rich but never heavy, with vibrant flavors of orange zest, honey, spicy ginger and caramel!

2012 Domaines De Baumard Savennieres (France)

Definitely the polar opposite stylistically speaking when compared to the De Morgenzon above. Light and crisp, yet delightifully refreshing this is going to be perfect to start with when you come in from those 100 degree temps tomorrow!

This is a racy example of chenin blanc hailing from the tiny region of Savennières along the northern bank of the Loire river in France. The region is less than 200 acres, all of it is planted to Chenin Blanc in the unique soils composed of schistous volcanic debris mixed with sandstone and granite. It is crisp and dry with intense minerality and notes of honey, yellow apples and lemon. A naturally high level of acidity makes this one of few white wines that can age and improve over decades of cellaring.

2014 Hamilton Russell Pinot Noir (South Africa)

All HR produces is Chardonnay and Pinot Noir and they know how to make it right! Consistency is key here and it is reflected year-after-year with scores in the mid-90’s from both Parker and Spectator. This is a fantastic Pinot Noir for the price!

One of the most southerly sites in South Africa, the Hamilton-Russell Estate’s close proximity to the ocean provides the necessary cooling required to produce world class pinot noir. Low yields, precise clonal selection, meticulous farming and winemaking make them one of the top pinot noir producers in the world. Raspberry, cherry, and cinnamon fill the glass. Toasty notes and minerality round out the elegant and refined finish. 92 points Wine Spectator

2011 Fairview “The Beacon” Shiraz (South Africa)

This was the hit of the tasting and originally we had purchased the last 36 bottles in all of California…there are only 12 bottles left.

The Paarl is one of South Africa’s most well known growing regions. The thick skinned Shiraz tends to produce wines of full-bodied opulence and stunning depth. Poor soils around the base of the Paarl and Simonsberg mountains contribute to the small berries and concentrated flavors found in the wine. Loaded with notes of plums, blackberries, chocolate cake and iron with a hint of licorice.

We are currently discussing options for the next WINE WARS which will be held in August. These events are limited to 24 Wine Club Members! Hope we will catch you there and if not…this weekend for sure!