Wine-o: Marcus James Chardonnay

Marcus James Chardonnay, Eastern ARGENTINA
Alcohol 13.5%
Price: ~$11

Our move has been successful!  The art is up, and I am cleaning now because the dogs continue to shed, not for sanitization or moving reasons!  As the job search rages, I've converted momentarily to mondo sized wines, you know, the 1.5L steals that you can find for parties and whatnot.

If you know my current taste in white wine, you will know that I like buttery, full, Chardonnays, like Lucky Star's Chardonnay.  This is not buttery.  It is full, and the label says it all: "crisp fruity style with hints of apples and other orchard fruits..."  I really enjoy it.  It seems almost like a Sauvignon Blanc, but is drier as one would expect of a Chardonnay.  

All in all, it's great, it's large, and it's original looking. It goes well with appetizers such as tortilla chips with salsa or hummus, as well as roasted chicken.

Freya's Score: 70

Mona's Value: 6.4

Wine-o: Lesson from Dan; 5 Red Wines

While visiting with Dan, a local wine expert at the Macadoodle's wine tasting bar, I learned a lot.  I asked Dan what 5 wines he would keep on hand in the house to serve at a dinner party or to a houseguest.  Here's the results:

Santa Cristina Sangiovese, ITALIAN

Cline Cool Climate Syrah, California

Plungerhead Zinfandel, Lodi, CA

Louis Martini Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma, CA

Crios Malbec, Mendoza, ARGENTINA


Look for the Plungerhead Zinfandel and Louis Martinit Cabernet Sauvignon review coming soon!

Wine-o: Trapiche Malbec

Trapiche Varietals Malbec, 2009 Mendoza, Argentina

Malbecs are always a favorite in our house.  They pair very well with steak, and as venison is often on the table, Malbec is always on the wine rack.  This vineyard was recommended to me be a salesman in the Macadoodle's store and I find it a very nice table wine.  (This is how the Argentina wine found its way into my California case)

During tasting it was described to me as a bit flat.  However, as the wine aired the fruity flavors came out more.  I found the wine very flavorful and round.  Be careful as it (like most Malbecs) will turn your lips a little purple if you over indulge! 

From the vineyard (via Snooth.com) : 

Argentina’s flagship red varietal, made with grapes selected from vineyards in the High Area of the Mendoza River and the East Region of Mendoza Province. All fruit is hand harvested and transported in small plastic crates to avoid damage. With plum and cherry aromas, the wine has round and supple flavors in the mouth, with truffle and vanilla notes.

Freyas Score: 7 While a little flabby it pairs wonderfully with steak and is great for the price

Cost: ~$11 Southern Missouri, bought from the Macadoodle's location in Pineville, MO.  This is a great deal if you purchase it with the fantastic Macadoodle's case of wine deal.  10% off all bottles of wine not already on sale!