Some History
Before we get to today's review(s) I'd like to share a bit of my wine history.
I've been drinking wine for around 20 years and paying attention for the last 10 or so. I started collecting semi-seriously around that time as well. My first trip to Napa was in 1979, France 1976. I didn't get to do much drinking on those first trips (I'm not THAT old) but it gave me a curiosity about wine-growing regions and the culture that surrounds them.
In spite of the time invested I'm by no means an expert oenophile. I can tell the difference between regions and varietals, identify tannic vs. fruity flavors and so on. Really my justification for writing this blog is to share tips and write about something I love (and I get to feel good about buying Riedel crystal).
Onward! This week I hope to try a white Alsatian Riesling and on the weekend break out the Champagne. For tonight though it's a Cabernet from the Redwood Valley; Lolonis 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon.
I've never had a Cab from the Redwood Valley or a wine from Lolonis. I'm expecting something similar to the Alexander Valley Cabs (some of which are excellent). Because I don't know the area well I can't say up front if 2002 was a particulary good year. That's what makes this all so fun! The wine has a very nice aroma (mild fruit with oak) and good color; a little too reddish for my taste but fine. Tasting reveals that this wine requires some breathing room. Right out of the bottle it's very tannic with some spiciness - not very balanced - and doesn't have much body. I'll set this aside to breath for a while and add a reminder to myself to talk about decanting next post.
Sante!
I've been drinking wine for around 20 years and paying attention for the last 10 or so. I started collecting semi-seriously around that time as well. My first trip to Napa was in 1979, France 1976. I didn't get to do much drinking on those first trips (I'm not THAT old) but it gave me a curiosity about wine-growing regions and the culture that surrounds them.
In spite of the time invested I'm by no means an expert oenophile. I can tell the difference between regions and varietals, identify tannic vs. fruity flavors and so on. Really my justification for writing this blog is to share tips and write about something I love (and I get to feel good about buying Riedel crystal).
Onward! This week I hope to try a white Alsatian Riesling and on the weekend break out the Champagne. For tonight though it's a Cabernet from the Redwood Valley; Lolonis 2002 Cabernet Sauvignon.
I've never had a Cab from the Redwood Valley or a wine from Lolonis. I'm expecting something similar to the Alexander Valley Cabs (some of which are excellent). Because I don't know the area well I can't say up front if 2002 was a particulary good year. That's what makes this all so fun! The wine has a very nice aroma (mild fruit with oak) and good color; a little too reddish for my taste but fine. Tasting reveals that this wine requires some breathing room. Right out of the bottle it's very tannic with some spiciness - not very balanced - and doesn't have much body. I'll set this aside to breath for a while and add a reminder to myself to talk about decanting next post.
Sante!
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