Local Wine Events

Event Details

Wine OR Wine & Food

Saturday November 8, 2008 … NapaCabs.com

∑ Chilean and Argentinean wines represent some of the world’s best values to quality ratio in wine.

∑ Contributing factors to high ratio of value to price are; Grape growing conditions are ideal in both

countries due to physical location, few vine diseases and pests, the cost of vineyard land and labor

and domestic and foreign investment into modernized production.

∑ The most rapidly growing segment of both Chile and Argentina’s wine industry is export with

United States being the leading market.

∑ Important varietals of Chile are; Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenere and

Merlot

∑ Important varietals of Argentina are; Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Torrontes, Tempranilla, Cabernet

Sauvignon, Malbec and Merlot

Argentina … Crios De Susana Balbo 2008 Torrontes Salta $12.95

Tasting Notes - Enticing aromas that are strikingly similar to Viognier, with hints of peach pit, white pear, flowers, and orange citrus fruit. On the palate, it has a beautiful structure and acidity along with enticing fruit flavors that keep you coming back for another sip and plenty of body for a wine that shows such delicate aromas and flavors. Fruity, floral and yet still quite dry, this wine has to be tasted to be believed. (13.5%)

Chile … Casa Lapostolle 2006 Chardonnay Casablanca Valley Atalayas Vineyard $15.95

WS 90pts. - Tasting Notes - Elegant and aromatic nose with an impressive array of minerality, fruit and subtle oak. The Casablanca terroir expresses unique complexity with hints of flint and minerality in a unique combination with citrus, honey, and sweet spices. On the palate, the wine has a subtle elegance and a surprising freshness at the attack that develops into a round and juicy mid palate. The finish is long and intense. (14.9%)

Argentina … Kaiken 2006 Malbec Mendoza Ultra $17.95

WA 91pts. - Winemaker Notes - Handsome ruby red colour. Outstanding and concentrated fruit, with beautiful aromas of red berries, black cherry and hints of tobaccos. A full-bodied wine. Round and velvety in mid-palate, with soft tannins. An added touch of vanilla and toast, followed by a long and smooth finish. Very, very elegant. (14.5%)

Chile … Montes Alpha 2006 Syrah Colchagua Valley $18.95

WA 91Pts - Tasting Notes - The 2006 Alpha Syrah Apalta Vineyard is purple colored with an enticing nose of game, espresso, earth, and blueberry. This leads to an elegantly styled Syrah with spicy blue and black fruit flavors, good depth, and a fruit-filled finish. Enjoy it over the next 4-6 years. (14.5%)

Chile … Concha Y Toro 2005 Cabernet Sauvignon Chile Puente Alto Marques $17.95

WS 91pts. - Tasting Notes - The grapes for this Cabernet Sauvignon come from the Puente Alto Vineyard in the Maipo Valley, Chile's most celebrated wine region. In the glass, the wine is a bright deep red. On the nose, nuances of cherry, chocolate, black tar and smoke. On the palate, it has a smooth, almost silky texture with a long finish. Concentrated and full bodied. The wine complements steaks, roasts, pasta dishes with robust sauces, and strong cheeses. (14.0%)

Argentina … Tikal 2006 Patriota Mendoza Red Wine $22.95

Blend of 60% Bonarda and 40% Malbec

WA 92pts. - Winemaker Notes - Aromas of bright berry/cherry fruit and electric-purple color. Like swallowing a whole bowl of mixed ripe berries at once. Big body yet very balanced, with luscious layers of raspberry, cherry, and cocoa flavors. Just a hint of baking spice at the end brings it all together. Pairs well with grilled meats such as beef and pork, smoked ham, and even pizza with meat toppings. Incredibly fun to drink! (13.9%)