Estrella

Name: Estrella
Variety: Merlot
Region: Napa Valley
Country: United States
Price: 5.95 (USD)
Recommended?: Yes


Official Review:  " This ruby colored Merlot has raspberry jam aromas with a subtle hint of spice. Layers of vanilla, plum and fig are revealed that linger ever so slightly on the palate."

My Review:  The official review says it all.  My untrained pallet could even start to detect the after taste of a vanilla plum.  I imagined paring this wine with a rare steak and a side of buttery asparagus.  I believe for this price, it is a great wine.  There was a high level of tannins that came on strong at the end, but a 6-10.

Doural

Name: Doural
Variety: Blended Red
Country: Portugal
Price: 8.95 (USD)
Recommended?:  Sure, why not?

Official Review:  "The nose is vibrant and fruity. The palate offers notes of spice, cherry , and dark berry supported by good structure. Pairs well with red or game meat, cheeses and fish."

My Review:  This was one of the few blended red wines that I didn't want to throw out.  I found it to be very simple.  However simple things aren't always bad as you may find out with this wine.  A 7-10.

Oxford Landing

Name: Oxford Landing Estates
Variety: Viognier
Price: 7.95 (USD)
Country: Australia
Recommended?: OH YEAH!!!!!

Official Review:  " Bright and lively, this white is appealing for its lychee and sweet spice character, which comes together smoothly against a silky texture."

Personal Review:  I thoroughly enjoyed this wine.  I found the flavors to run together perfectly from section to section.  I tasted a little pear, which my followers know I am not a fan, but was still able to battle through.  I would recommend this wine to anybody looking for a spicy white.  An 8-10.

Tierra De Luna

Name: Tierra De Luna
Variety: Chardonnay
Region: Mendoza
Country: Argentina
Vintage: 2009
Price: 7.95 (USD)
Recommended?: NOPE!

Official Review:  "Fresh and crisp, with floral aromas and flavors of quince and pear, this wine is a versatile companion to informal meals, and is excellent as an aperitif."

My Review:  I found this wine to have a strong taste of pears, and the only pear that I enjoy is an apple.  Which isn't a pear at all.  I did not enjoy this wine, and found its heat and lack of dimension to be upsetting. A 3-10.

Sparkling Simonet

The Sparkling Simonet

   Official Review:  This Simonet, Blac De Blancs, which can be found for only $7.95 is from France.  "On the nose, there is some bread-yeast and some toast"  It was difficult to pick the toast up on the nose, but after a swig or two it started to become apparent.  This sparkling wine is said to be great with mimosas or for your everyday bubbly use.
    I am not a huge fan of these sparkling wines, but enjoyed this one very well.  There was very little heat, but a bit too much of tartaric acid for my preference.    I would personally score this bubbly a 6 out of 10.


Name: Simonet
Region: Elabore
Country: France
Price: 7.95 (USD)
Vintage: N/A
Recommended?: Ehhhh.....Maybe