The Bridge 2010 Cabernet Syrah: Review

Vinifera Wine Company

Paso Robles

Blend: 55% Cab Sauvignon; 45% Syrah

14.9% abv

Photo: Bixby Creek Bridge, Big Sur, California

Appearance: crimson

Aroma: berries, spice

Flavors: dark berries, peppery spice, earth

Mouthfeel: thin on delivery; there is a slight bitter note that hits the mid-palate, lack depth, short aftertaste

To the Point: typical under $10 bottle; lacks character (distinct flavors) and depth; okay to drink but, I don’t like to spend my money on “okay.”  I would rather spend 75 on “wow” that is damn good wine.   

Cave Spring 2008 Riesling Icewine: Review

Cave Spring Icewine

Cave Spring Cellars

Jordan, Ontario, Canada

Cavespring.ca

10% abv

100% Riesling

Appearance: golden crystal with nice legs on the glass

Aroma: light bouquet, sweet pear

Flavors: honey dipped white summer fruit – apple and pear; golden raisin; very light lemon twist on the finish

Mouthfeel: silky smooth, nice icewine syrupy feel coats the palate and lingers on the palate with a touch of lemon twist – the kind you just rub on the rim of a glass.

To the Point: a must buy for icewine drinkers.  This is a sipper – just like all icewines.  One or two ounces and that is it – the sugar content is way too high to drink more – believe me.   

Terra Andina Altos 2007: Review

60% Carmenere – 40% Carignan

14% abv

Chile

Appearance: deep and dark black-purple

Aroma: big black berry with a nice touch of spice

Flavors and Mouthfeel: black currant, black plum skin, spice box with a touch of brown spice in the mix, deep notes, semi-complex, thick texture coats the tongue,

To the Point: a very tasty red wine with some good body weight; I would buy this again.  One thing I did learn is this wine needs to be finished the day you open it … I had one full glass pour left on the second day and it had a slight inky note and a very thick texture.  I even used the good stopper and kept the bottle in the cool basement overnight.