Merlot/Malbec - 2014; Casa Magoni; Baja California, Mexico

This Merlot(60%)/Malbec(40%) blend from Baja has a nice soft and rich texture for the bold red wine drinker.  The black cherry notes meld with a touch of pepper and chocolate.  On the palate there is the initial softness followed by a pleasant finish.  This bottle needs some time to breath once opened, but after an hour you'll have a good long evening to taste and pair with different foods.  Take this treat from Mexico and enjoy with steak or strawberries and chocolate. This wine will entice you to enjoy life well. Salud!

www.casamagoni.com

Chardonnay – 2011; Hye Meadow Winery; Hye, Texas

Sometimes, the wine cellar throws a few surprises.  This original white wine from Hye Meadow is one of them. The wine is made with 90% Chardonnay and 10% Riesling, sourced from the Columbian Valley.  What may not have initially been intended to keep this long has held up very well.  The color has only moderately intensified over the years. The aromas are still quite nice and you get notes of tart green apple, subtle yeast and butter on the palate. The “crispness” has not diminished one bit! Take away the vintage, and you’d think it was last year’s Chardonnay just aged a tad bit longer.  It’s an incredibly great white for a hot summer day that is very refreshing and will pair nicely with many dishes. We’re always pleased when one of these originals turns out well and even more tickled when they have aged without any significant compromise.  Thanks to the grapes, the winemaker, the cellar, and some good wine luck, we were able to sip and really enjoy this wine recently.  Until the next one, cheers!

www.hyemeadow.com

EME Graciano - 2010; Bodegas Casado Morales; Rioja Alavesa, Spain

100% Graciano from Rioja?  Yes, they do exist!  This opaque ruby colored wine is one of those delightful ones to savor.  The nutty aromas and berries are just the tip of the sensory tease for this beauty.  You may notice hints of plums and a bit of chocolate notes too.  That's why you enjoy breathing in a good wine like this before taking the first sip.  After all, you don't want to miss any of the experience this wine has to offer, do you?  On the first sip you experience flavors of plums, cherries, and a bit of orange.  Nice, isn't it?  They'll be followed by some spice, pepper and some good wholesome earthiness! The very lovely tannins lead to a super lingering finish.  Yes, have another sip and enjoy all over again.  It's dry, yet fruity for this medium bodied Graciano.  The acids demand nothing less than a good fatty meal to compliment your evening experience.  Enjoy this savory and rich wine.  It's a fine example of the best flavors from Rioja.  Salud!

www.casadomorales.es