Wine Tasting: Martini & Rossi Rosata Vermouth

Name: Martini & Rossi Rosata Vermouth

Variety: Vermouth

Country: Italy

Region: N/A

Year: N/A

Price: $7.95

Review: Rosato falls somewhere between the red and white spectrum — indeed it’s a blend of red and white wines, plus a lot of spice. The pink color belies its intense flavor: Roses, brier thickets, and the essence of the woods. All brought together with an aromatic, if a little strange, blend of red and white wines.

My Review: I was not a fan of this Vermouth.  It didn't have a pleasing taste, especially after taste.  One of the first wines I tried for this course was a port, and I liked it a lot.  I was hoping this one would be similar, but it was too spicy and not my favorite.

Wine Tasting: Rojo Garnacha Gran Rojo 2011

Name: Rojo Garnacha Gran Rojo 2011

Variety: Garnacha

Country: Spain

Region: La Tierra de Castilla

Year: 2011

Price: $9.95

Review: Red and purple violet aromas are underscored by bits of leather on the nose of this Garnacha. The palate is smooth and even-keeled with red and black fruit flavors in abundance. Blackberry and red raspberry are of note. Spices such as black pepper and a tiny hint of cocoa emerge on the finish, along with a touch of graphite. 

My Review: This was a very good red wine.  It's a very smooth wine with good spice and earthy flavors.  This is also the first wine I've actually detected a cocoa flavor.  This is a very solid Garnacha. 

Wine Tasting: Juliet Primo Amore

Name: Juliet Primo Amore

Variety: Garganega/Moscato

Country: Italy

Region: Verona

Year: N/A

Price: $5.95

Review: Has an enchanting floral perfume as alluring as a bouquet of spring flowers. One taste of this lovely wine and you’ll be enamored of the intense crushed grape and white peach flavors that dance across your palate in perfect harmony with the delicate bubbles, crisp acidity and whispery sweetness.

My Review: This was by far one of my favorites.  This is the first Garganega I've had and it didn't disappoint.  It was a very crisp, sweet wine.  The sweetness wasn't overwhelming as it sometimes can be.

Wine Tasting: Fetzer Zinfandel Valley Oaks 2010

Name: Fetzer Zinfandel Valley Oaks

Variety: Zinfandel

Country: U.S.

Region: California

Year: 2010

Price: $7.95

Review: On the nose there's black pepper, soap, raisin & dried berries ~ The palate is medium bodied with soft tannins & moderate acidity with flavors of cocoa powder, dried cherries, strawberry & a bit of tart wooden notes ~ Very simple & unremarkable

My Review: This Zinfandel was not one of my favorites.  It had a peppery/red berry aroma, was well-balanced, but just didn't do it for me.  Perhaps I'll try it with a meal because I am normally a fan of Zinfandel.

Wine Tasting: Molly Dooker The Violinist Verdelho 2010

Name: Molly Dooker The Violinist Verdelho

Variety: Verdelho

Country: Australia

Region: McLaren Vale

Year: 2010

Price: $11.95

Review: This gorgeous Verdelho, our only white wine, has a lovely, creamy texture, great acidity and long, persistent flavors of honeysuckle, pineapple and citrus. It's all the things we love about white wine. We hope you'll love it too.

My Review: This was a very refreshing, crisp white wine.  It wasn't too sweet and was very well-balanced.  I definitely picked up on the honeysuckle flavor and also detected a floral nose.