Saturday, November 3, 2007

NV Kynsi Merah


Kynsi

NV Merrah

62% Merlot
38% Syrah

"Merrah San Luis Obispo County 65% Merlot and 35% Syrah. 400 cases made. Aromas of dark chocolate covered black cherries and cinnamon spiced red plums come to mind with a touch of vanilla and violets. Dark berries and toasty oak blend with integrated tannins and complex finish."

I purchased this while on a girls only trip with my girlfriend from High School. We had a great time going around to various wineries in the Paseo Robles district and spending some quality time together.

The description comes from their current version of the wine, however, this bottle was still very fruity, cherries and plums, with a touch of black pepper to it. The tannins have mellowed and the wine is very drinkable now. I would like it with some baked chicken and maybe some really smooth cheese.

Friday, November 2, 2007

Bernardus 1997 Marinus Carmel Valley Red Wine

Bernardus

Carmel Valley

Purchased 01/05/02 $46.00
Opened 11/02/07

"...Bordeaux-style wine is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc and Petit Verdot grapes..."

This wine was good when we purchased it in 2002, needing just a bit more time to smooth out and take care of the alcohol heat. Well, now it's smooth. It's past it's prime, but the flavor is mostly still there. The wine has quite a bit of sediment to it, including sulfate crystals that will form over time. I noticed a slightly sour odor to the wine when it was first opened, and then several crystals in my glass. When I poured the next glass through a coffee filter, the sour smell was gone. I don't know if the crystals impact that odor or not, but I'll be sure to filter the next time I pour.

We purchased two bottles in 2002, the second will not get a review, but just a note that it's been opened and consumed.

I need to keep on this project of opening and drinking a bottle of wine a week so that I can clear some space in my wine racks.