If this wine were sold for less than $32, I probably would like it. In Virginia, perhaps the selection of wines is more limited and a wine like this makes sense. Produced by Michael Shaps, one of the earlier entries into the Virginia wine industry, this is a wine that starts sweet, rolls nicely over the tongue and has a slightly tart, medium finish. A very good example of Viognier, and perhaps the best example of Virginia Viognier that we have had so far, this is certainly a very credible wine - just not my favorite. I rate it 88.
This 2008 Maycas del Limari Chardonnay from Chile has a balance of complexity, minerality and fruit to make an interesting white wine worth lingering over. Generally a light texture, the flavors of pineapple, vanilla and butter combine well. Sells for around $18. I rate is 91 and recommend it for a seafood or chicken dinner.
Sivas-Sonoma 2010 Sauvignon Blanc. The nose on this Sauvignon Blanc made me feel as if I was rolling in a field of fresh-cut grass. Its flavor is a complex blend of green pepper and sour apple. And it has a medium finish that leaves the apple flavor on the tongue. Sivas-Sonoma is the Sebastiani family’s re-entry into the wine business. I rate is 86. Sells for about $14.
Jefferson Vineyards winemaker Andy Reagan says this has a “kitchen sink” blend to make this $19 pinot gris a summery white table wine. Has a touch of effervescence and noticeable minerality, with a very short finish making this one suitable for stand-up drinking on a hot day (like today!) I rate is 89.
Crisp, Italian white wine with really smooth texture and soft, lingering finish. Available around the country for around $20-$25 or $17 at http://Tabarrini.us. I rate is 90.
This Barboursville Virginia (http://www.barboursvillewine.com) Italian style 2009 Viognier is soft and refreshing, with a nice blend of tropical fruits and the more expected lemon-lime citrus flavor. The most elegant wine of our tasting so far. Not bad for around $20. I rate it 89.
“In Virginia, viognier is the best white grape that we have,” says winemaker Daniel Tessaro.
Winery owner Rachel Martin says that Boxwood makes wines in the traditional Bordeaux style, with a team that includes a winemaking consultant whose other clients include Rubicon. This rose, a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, is fermented fully in steel tanks. It has an herbal nose and some butter and pepper on the palate. Very gentle finish. A very good wine for $14 per bottle.
Chateau Morrisette 2010 Dry Rose Chambourcin - very light, refreshing rose with a hint of strawberry and a short finish. Tastes good served chilled. Sells for about $14 per bottle in Virginia, District of Columbia, Maryland, Tennessee, North Carolina and West Virginia. Good summer wine for the price. I rate is 87.
