Jillian's Wine Blog

Sunday, April 7, 2019

Wine Critic Review: "At first sip, this mouthwatering Riesling charms with aromas of citrus blossom, nectarine, and Meyer lemon. Enticing flavors of pear, pineapple, and passionfruit play across the palate. Light bodied with crisp acidity, it is balanced by the perfect amount of sweetness." (https://www.totalwine.com/wine/dessert-fortified-wine/honey-wine/hive-honey-riesling/p/215626750)
My Review: This wine really lived up to its name. It had a sugary scent with notes of light white florals and honeysuckle. It also had lingering notes of bright white citrus, but not in a sour way. It was pleasingly sweet without being too syrupy.
I enjoyed this wine alongside pasta with garlic and butter chicken, spinach, and parmesan cheese. The lightly sweet flavors in the wine paired well with the aromatic flavors of butter and garlic in the chicken. It was a nice meal to enjoy outside on my porch on a warm spring evening.

Wine Critic Review: "A deliciously refreshing Sauvignon Blanc offering bright citrus and tropical fruit, with a crisp, juicy finish. Perfect as an aperitif or paired with grilled fish or pasta." (https://www.totalwine.com/wine/white-wine/sauvignon-blanc/dark-horse-sauvignon-blanc/p/143588750)
My Review: This wine was really lovely, especially for the price point. It had a fresh scent which was reminiscent of fresh green grass. The wine had notes of fresh, white citrus and had a tart acidic finish. It was crisp but balanced with cool sweetness.
I did not have this wine with any food.

Wine Critic Review: "This handcrafted Napa Cabernet is a powerhouse in flavor and texture. Featuring luscious, ripe blackberry flavors with undertones of dark chocolate and toasted oak. The initial surge of raspberry is stunning but almost outdone by the regal tannic finish.." (from the label at Total Wine and Beverage)
My Review: This was the first $70 bottle of wine I've sampled and I could definitely taste why it is listed at this price point. This wine was beautifully balanced. The red fruity flavors of raspberry and cherry were balanced with a subtle, spicy oak finish that was awesome even without any food to compliment it. The employee that opened it for us told us it was recommended to wait 20 minutes before drinking to let the wine breathe. It was great even without waiting.
I did not have this wine with any food.

Wine Critic Review: "A blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Malbec, this delivers beautiful fruit with berry and lemon rind character and hints of toasted oak. Lovely flavorful finish. Delicious." (from the label at Total Wine and Beverage)
My Review: I liked this wine the least out of the five I tried. It was very dry and oaky to the point of astringency. Any fruit flavors that were present were mostly overshadowed by the intense mouth-puckering tannins in the wine. It may have been better paired with food.
I did not have this wine with any food.

Wine Critic Review: "Cherry, plum, and black currant combine with notes of chocolate and cassis to create a rich mouthfeel leading into a long, lingering finish. Pairs spectacularly with grilled lamb chops and medium to strong cheeses." (from the label at Total Wine and Beverage)
My Review: This wine was very nice. It was very fruit forward as the employee at Total Wine informed me Cabernet Sauvignon's from Paso Robles usually are. I picked up notes of black current balanced with a spicy finish of cloves and black pepper. The spicy flavors balanced out the fruity sweetness quite well.
I did not have this wine with any food.

Wine Critic Review: "A fresh, medium-bodied Rose with lovely flavors of strawberry, citrus, and watermelon on the palate. Enjoy with shellfish or dry cheeses. The perfect pairing for your next dinner party." (from the label at Total Wine and Beverage)
My Review: This wine was a great Rose. It was sweet without being overly syrupy. It tasted light and crisp on the palate with fruity notes of fresh strawberry and watermelon. I can imagine this being a great addition to a summer picnic.
I did not have this wine with any food.

Wine Critic Review: "This full-bodied, creamy, and buttery Chardonnay from Carneros has delicious flavors and aromas of baked apple, fresh buttery croissants, vanilla spice, and oak. A long finish filled subtle notes of nutmeg and persimmon make this lip-smacking good." (from the label at Total Wine and Beverage)
My Review: This wine was one of the best Chardonnay's I have tried. It was very balanced between the oaky, buttery nature of the California Chardonnay and lighter flavors of crisp apple.
I did not have this wine with any food.