Wine 102

J'ai fini! I passed the test with flying colors and now have my diploma as a "Certified Wine Merchant." This basically states that I am knowledgable in the fundamentals of wine, wine evaluation, wine description, wine tasting as well as wine and food pairings. I learned an incredible amount of information and sharply refined my palate and sense of discernment. I also came away with some great suggestions of wines to try again, some of my favorites being:

1. J. Lohr, Monterey County, Valdiguie "Wildflower" 2009

Light body, low tannins

Aromas of boysenberry, cherry and cranberry

Excellent food wine

Approximately $10

2. J. J. Prum, Kabinett Riesling 2008

Sweetness intensifies with food

Elegantly floral and herbal aromas

Also a great food wine

Approximately $30

3. Saintsbury, Carneros Pinot Noir 2007

Paired well with hot plates like Pork and Flank Steak

Very pretty nose, nicely balanced with a medium body

Approximately $25

4. Domaine Latour Meursault "Chateau de Blagny" 2002

This is an example of why I am so partial to Burgundy wines

Delicate, elegant bouquet of tropical fruits & baked desserts

Medium/Full body with a nice balance

A very pleasant wine to drink

Approximately $45

5. E. Guigal Condrieu 2003

Very powerful aromas of baked peach, pear, honeysuckle and mineral

Medium and smooth body with soft tannins, almost buttery texture

Would go very well with spicy foods

Approximately $37

6. Villa Maria Private Bin Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, NZ

Surprising aromas of kiwi, grapefruit, artichoke and jalapenos

Medium full body

Taste complemented the aroma

Approximately $12

I hope you're able to try one of these sometime, the prices aren't too bad either, all things considered. What are some of your favorite wines & why??