Wine Tasting Review
Welcome to our wine and travel blog, where our passion for exploring the finest wines across the globe knows no bounds. Our mission is to share insightful wine tips, uncover hidden gems, and guide our readers through the enchanting world of wines. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious novice, our blog is a treasure trove of discoveries, pairing advice, and the stories behind each bottle.
Lunaria Ramoro Pinot Grigio (2022) – Discovering Orange Wine from Abruzzo, Italy
Our journey begins with the Lunaria Ramoro Pinot Grigio (2022), a fascinating example of an orange wine from Terre di Chieti, Abruzzo. Orange wines, often misunderstood, are white wines made by fermenting the juice with the grape skins, a technique more commonly used in red wine production. This process imparts a distinctive copper hue and a complex flavor profile.
The Lunaria Ramoro offers aromas of tangerine, cantaloupe, and yellow stone fruit, with a palate that includes orange marmalade, mango, and candied orange peel. This wine exemplifies the rich winemaking heritage of Abruzzo, a region known for its diverse climatic conditions and varied terrain, contributing to the unique character of its wines.
Cheese Pairing:
Taleggio or Robiola – These Italian cheeses, with their creamy texture and mild, tangy flavors, complement the unique profile of this orange wine.
Les Carisannes Sauvignon Blanc (2022) – A French Elegance from Loire Valley
Next, we explore Les Carisannes Sauvignon Blanc (2022) by Hubert Brochard, a testament to the elegance of Loire Valley wines. The Loire Valley, known as the ‘Garden of France,’ is renowned for its exceptional Sauvignon Blanc, characterized by crisp acidity and vibrant fruit flavors.
This wine, with its herbal aromas and lemony palate, is a classic representation of the region. It pairs beautifully with a range of foods, especially goat cheese, a local specialty. The Loire Valley’s cool climate and diverse terroirs are reflected in this wine’s balanced and refreshing profile.
Cheese Pairing:
Goat Cheese (Chèvre) – The classic tanginess and creamy texture of goat cheese beautifully match the crisp and herbal notes of Sauvignon Blanc.
Domaine Bousquet Malbec (2021) – An Organic Expression from Mendoza, Argentina
The Domaine Bousquet Malbec (2021) from Mendoza, Argentina, showcases the region’s capability to produce outstanding organic wines. Mendoza is the heart of Argentina’s wine country, known for its high-altitude vineyards and Malbec grapes.
This wine, with its dark violet color and notes of blackberry and plum, is a classic example of Mendoza Malbec. The use of stainless steel tanks for fermentation preserves the grape’s natural characteristics, resulting in a wine that is both fruity and expressive, a hallmark of the region’s winemaking philosophy.
Cheese Pairing:
Aged Cheddar or Gouda – The rich, bold flavors of these aged cheeses can stand up to the intensity of a Malbec, creating a harmonious balance.
Seghesio Zinfandel (2022) – A Californian Classic from Sonoma County
The Seghesio Zinfandel (2022) from Sonoma County, California, is a testament to the region’s long-standing tradition of Zinfandel production. Sonoma County, with its diverse microclimates and soil types, is ideal for cultivating Zinfandel, a grape known for its robust and fruit-forward profile.
This wine, with its blend of Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, Alicante Bouschet, and Mixed Reds, offers a complex array of blackberry, plum, and cherry flavors, complemented by baking spice aromas. It’s a perfect example of Sonoma County’s ability to produce Zinfandels that are both powerful and elegant.
Cheese Pairing:
Aged Manchego or Smoked Gouda – The nutty and slightly sweet flavors of these cheeses pair well with the fruity and spicy notes of the Zinfandel.
Benoît Cantin Pinot Noir (2020) – A Burgundian Charm from Irancy, France
The Benoît Cantin Pinot Noir (2020) from Irancy, Burgundy, France, offers a unique expression of Pinot Noir from a lesser-known Burgundian appellation. Burgundy is revered for its Pinot Noir, and Irancy provides a distinct terroir characterized by Kimmeridgian limestone soil, similar to nearby Chablis.
This wine, with its notes of Morello cherries and raspberries, is a fine example of the elegance and finesse that Burgundy’s Pinot Noir is known for. The cool climate and south-facing vineyards of Irancy contribute to the wine’s delicate yet complex profile.
Cheese Pairing:
Brie or Camembert – The soft, creamy texture and subtle earthy flavors of these cheeses complement the elegance and red fruit notes of the Pinot Noir.
Bernard Magrez Château La Tour Carnet (2019) – A Historical Bordeaux Blend from Haut-Médoc, France
Our final highlight is the Bernard Magrez Château La Tour Carnet Grand Cru Classé en 1855 (2019) from Haut-Médoc, Bordeaux, France. Bordeaux is arguably the world’s most famous wine region, and Haut-Médoc is known for producing some of the most prestigious wines.
This blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon features notes of black cherries, dark chocolate, and star anise. The wine’s rich history, dating back to the One Hundred Years War, and its recognition in the 1855 classification of Grands Crus, speak to its quality and heritage. It’s a wine that embodies the depth and complexity of Bordeaux blends.
Cheese Pairing:
Aged Gruyère or Comté – The complexity and slightly nutty flavors of these aged cheeses pair wonderfully with the depth and structure of a Bordeaux blend.
Wine Tasting Summary
Our exploration of these six exceptional wines is more than just a tasting journey; it’s a voyage through history, culture, and the art of winemaking. Each bottle tells a story, each sip a discovery. New to the wine scene? Check out our article Beginner Guide to Wine Tasting for wine tips to remove the pretentiousness from the wine tasting process.
Join us as we continue to uncover the world’s most exquisite wines, sharing our experiences and insights with you, our fellow wine enthusiasts. Cheers to the journey ahead! 🍷🌍
