February 2009

So this is my first post.  I've just started drinking and enjoying wine for the first time.  Before this was just a way to get drunk, usually the cheapest way.   (Note:  I'm thinking like 10 years ago, not last year!  Haha!)

But I've grown up and decided to try anything and everything I can.    So I've started going into the wine section of the liquor store and pick anything that looks interesting, trying different countries, flavours, and price points.   

I'm still new so I don't know exactly what I'm looking for or what I like.  By not passing judgement I allow myself no limitations or any preferences over a certain kind or country.

Below is a list my first attempts.  At this point I'm deciding if I like or don't like...and trying to determine why....

Selection #1:

Argento Malbec Mendoza 2008

Front: Deep and dark in colour, this Malbec is rich and smooth with wonderful blackberry and black current flavours.

Back:  Argentina – A land of extremes,   Snow and burning sun.  City and wilderness.  Tradition and innovation.  Here you can predict nothing, but be prepared for everything.  Life’s touch, passionate, real.  Argento, The Real Argentina.

Wine has been made in Mendoza for centuries.  Today we know how to get the best results.  Our vines respond well to high altitudes, a cool climate and the natural source of mountain water straight from the Andes.

This superb Malbec is deep violet in colour and offers powerful aromas of blackstone fruit and notes of chocolate.  Blackberry and black current fruit flavours with a touch of sweet spice lead into a long, lingering finish with ripe, velvety tannins.

www.argentowine.com

2008
750ml
13.0% alc/vol
Product of Argentina

My Thoughts: This was my first.  And so far 4 selections later still my favourite.  I could taste the fruit and sweetness.   Maybe it's the chocolate??  I must also say the label was a seller, that back label??  Goosebumps??

Selection #2:

Los Arboles Malbec 2007

Labels in Spanish.

2007
750ml
13.2

% alc/vol
Product of Argentina

My Thoughts: Second wine and just like the first from Argentina.  I decided on this one for a silly reason because my brother was in the country for a couple weeks.  That's it, really!  Ha!  This was good but found it a lot more bitter than the last Malbec.

Selection #3:

Lindemans Bin 40 Merlot 2008

Front: Founded in 1843 by Dr Henry Lindeman, Lindemans has continued to consistently create award-winning wines.

Back: South Eastern Autralia.   The Bin wines are true to Dr. Lindeman’s philosophy of selecting the best grapes from premium wine regions.  LINDEMANS Bin 40 Merlot is a full-bodied, well balanced wine with juicy plum flavours and a smooth finish.  Best served at room temperature (14-18C).  Enjoy this wine now or for up to 3 years after release.

www.lindemans.com

2008
750ml
13.5% alc/vol
Product of Australia

My Thoughts: First Merlot and I really enjoyed this one.  Maybe it was higher alcohol volume! - kidding.   It was definitely one to sip and enjoy.   At this point I still enjoy the Malbec but a Merlot is coming to be a favorite...just have to try more.

Selection #4:

Vineland Cabernet Franc 2007

Front: 2007 Vintage.  Niagara Peninsula

1-888-VINELAND

2007
750ml
13.0% alc/vol
Product of Canada

My Thoughts: At first this wine was very bitter, but by the end of the bottle I enjoyed it.  However, I don't think a Cabernet Franc is one of my favorites...but I will try again.   Cabernet Franc is not something I saw anything else of - that why I chose this...and well it's Canadian!