Tasting- Cantina di Casteggio Provinicia di Pavi Moscato

Name: Cantina di Casteggio
Variety: Moscato
Region: Lombardy
Country: Italy
Year: Non-vintage
Price: $10

Winery Review: "This fun dessert wine has delicate aromas of citrus, tropical fruit and fragrant white flower. The bright foaming palate offers juicy yellow peach, candied nectarine zest and a hint of rose. It's sweet, but it also has enough fresh acidity to stop it from being cloying. Perfect for the afternoon, weekend, or any other time."

My Review: This could be my dream wine because it smells like pink roses and cake! But the dream stops there, this wine is "foamy". Maybe this is what the weird sparkling on my tongues is. Except after subsequent sips, I can conclude it is not in fact the same because there are more bubbles than just foam. Also, wow, holy sweetness! Honestly, on my anniversary I got pink roses. Take a bite out of those and it would be the same flavor. But don't forget to get the full taste by sniffing the aromas too!

Paired with food: No

Tasting- Oxford Landing Shiraz

Name: Oxford Landing
Variety: 100% Shiraz
Region: South
Country: Australia
Year: 2014
Price: $9.95

Winery Review: "For such a competitively priced offering, this delivers a lot of complexity. Dried herbs, anise, chocolate and coffee notes add nuance to the raspberry fruit. It's medium bodied and supple, with a lush, lingering finish. Drink now–2020."

My Review: I'm not sure what it is about this wine, but it is not great. Dark fruits with a fuller body, lots of tannins and very very dry. Maybe it would be better for this baby to stay down unda'.

Paired with food: No

Tasting- Indwe Pinotage

Name: Indwe
Variety: Pinotage
Region: Coastal
Country: South Africa
Year: 2015
Price: $12

Winery Review: "A disclaimer: I have never cared much for Pinotage, the indigenous South African grape variety, but this Pinotage from Indwe, named after the country's national bird, the blue crane, comes across like a light Pinot Noir. Subtle notes of cherries, spice and forest floor are followed by a round, light to medium-bodied, pure, seductive, well-crafted wine that should drink well for a year or so."

My Review: I was pretty excited for this week's tasting because I was under the impression it was "Pinot Noir" week. Apparently it's not but this wine will have to do. Very smooth medium bodied with a little bitterness on the aftertaste. Dark red fruits like cherry with some earthy undertones. Pretty good, but still no Pinot Noir.

Paired with food: No

Tasting- Aveleda Praia Vinho Verde

Name: Aveleda Praia
Variety: Blend of Arinto, Loureiro, Trajadura, and Azal
Region: Vinho Verde
Country: Portugal
Year: Non-vintage
Price: $8.95

Winery Review: "It's rare to find a Vinho Verde – the famously light and refreshing "green" white wine of Portugal – that isn't delightful, but this is one of the best of the breed. And there's no better time to quaff these wines than in the spring and summer. This version is lightly effervescent, with a lively acidity that wakes up the palate. It combines lime and peach flavors with a whiff of sea breeze. Somehow it manages to be both ethereal and penetrating."

My Review: Why do all these white wines always smell  like pears? I don't taste that at all. In fact, this wine is slightly bitter with an earthy taste. Not quite dirt, but it's no oreo mud pie either.

Paired with food: No

Tasting- Kennedy Point Sauvignon Blanc

Name: Kennedy Point
Variety: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Marlborough
Country: New Zealand
Year: 2014
Price: $22

Winery Review: "This 2014 Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand's Marlborough area offers outstanding value. Crisp and fresh with a hint of herbaceousness intermixed with notes of wet pebbles, melon and caramelized citrus, it is medium-bodied, surprisingly long and very well-crafted."

My Review: I get almost a lemony tang which is refreshing. Very light, very crisp, slightly dry, citrus fruits. Now I know you're wondering since this is a Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand, but I am happy to report there were no hints of cat pee!

Paired with food: No

Tasting- Clean Slate Riesling

Name: Clean Slate
Variety: Riesling
Region: Mosel
Country: Germany
Year: 2015
Price: $15

Winery Review: "The balanced taste profile of Clean Slate is created by carefully selecting grapes from vineyards throughout the Mosel. Grapes from the Lower Mosel provide mineral notes, while grapes from the Middle Mosel create a hint of spiciness and grapes from the Upper Mosel supply fresh, peach flavors. The result is clean, fresh flavor that is delicious with food and perfect to share with friends."

My Review: Doesn't smell sweet at all. Lights my tongue up. Not significantly sweet, just light and floral with a smooth aftertaste. Pleasant, but I just can't get over the initial sparkles even though i don't know what that means.

Paired with food: No

Tasting- Tabali Reserva Carmenere

Name: Tabali
Variety: Reserva Carmenere
Region: Cachapoal Valley
Country: France
Year: 2012
Price: $15

Winery Review: "Dark, statuesque wine with concentrated, potent aromas of black olive, herbs and mulled blackberry. Tastes like textbook Carmenère, but without any jammy overripeness. Flavor of racy spiced berry, olive and  black pepper are all good, and there's that patented herbal, roasted quality on the finish, but not too much."

My Review: Very warm berries, well balanced, better fruit flavors. I like it, but still not enough to buy it.

Paired with food: No

Tasting- Yellowtail Shiraz Grenache

Name: Yellowtail
Variety: Blend of Shiraz and Grenache
Region: Casella
Country: Australia
Year: 2015
Price: $14

Winery Review: "A classic blend of Shiraz and Grenache, with the raspberries, blackcurrant, lliquorice and spice characteristics of the Shiraz complementing the upfront cherry and cola flavors of the Grenache. The balanced wine offers earthy tones, strawberry aromas and vibrant acidity."

My Review: Smells like red plums. Slightly bitter but good fruit flavors. More earthy tones. Not sure how I feel about this one. I wish it had a little more body and fruit flavors present. Almost bought a bottle because it was so cheap for a magnum. But then decided it wasn't good enough.

Paired with food: No

Tasting- Closerie Saint Antoine

Name: Closerie Saint Antoine
Variety: Viognier
Region: Languedoc
Country: France
Year: 2015
Price: $13

Winery Review: "Light yellow color with green reflection. At first, this Viognier exhibits some citrus and pine aromas, after some time in the glass, it develops peach and mango. In the mouth, it is quite lovely with a great fruit forward approach. It is intense and balanced at the same time. The finish is long and offers an array of flavors, such as ripe peach and pear  with creamy, lemony nuances."

My Review: Smells like warm flowers. Much lighter and much better than the previous. Slight apple characteristics, slight acidity, and tannins.

Paired with food: No

Tasting- Tabali Reserva Sauvignon Blanc

Name: Tabali
Variety: Sauvignon Blanc
Region: Limari Valley
Country: Chile
Year: 2013
Price: $15

Winery Review: "The 2013 Sauvignon Blanc Reserva is un-oaked and without malolactic, from a selection from the Talinay vineyard and 20% from the Tabali vineyard. It has an herbaceous note of asparagus and peas, a chalky sensation, and a fresh palate with bitter and citric flavors. It’s a superb value."

My Review: Smells like pears. Taste is very light and crisp. Not great, and not much else to say.

Paired with food: Nope

Tasting- Ca'Bea Sangue di Guida

Name: Ca'Bea Sangue di Guida
Variety: Blend of Uva Rara, Barbera and Croatina
Region: Oltrepo Pavese
Country: Italy
Year: 2014
Price: $9.95

Winery Review: "Off-dry with a slight fizz, offering bright berry and mineral notes. Medium-bodied, with a clean, fresh palate and fruity finish. This is a rare, sweet red wine that is wonderful with desserts such as dry pastries, cookies and cakes."

My Review: Nope! Too many bubbles which makes me sad because the flavors are actually really good. Reminds me of grape juice except I hate grape juice. Sweeter, bold dark fruit flavors like plums and berries. Really wish there wasn't carbonation in this.

Paired with food: Nope, but if they take the carbonation out I'll give it another chance. Seriously considered buying it and then opening it and leaving it out to let it get flat. But not sure how the oxygen would have affected the flavors. Oh well.

Tasting- Alvarez de Toledo Mencia Roble

Name: Alvarez de Toledo
Variety: Mencia Roble
Region: Bierzo
Country: Spain
Year: 2009
Price: $14

Winery Review: "The 2009 Alvarez de Toledo was bottled just a week before the wine was presented but seems to be showing no symptoms of distress. Balsamic, leather, and black fruits are the principal notes struck by this suave effort that over-delivers in a big way. Like its older sibling, it can be enjoyed now but will have more to say in 2-3 years."

My Review: Smells slightly like florals. Tannins for sure with a much drier finish and bitter. Not getting a lot of fruit or floral flavors in the taste. Probably more earthy and vegetative flavors.

Paired with food: No, and if I wanted to drink my vegetables I would buy V8. But I don't buy V8, I buy wine, so I would like it to be a little less earthy and a little more fruity.

Tasting- Codirosso Chianti

Name: Codirosso Chianti
Variety: Blend of Sangiovese, Canaiolo and Colorino
Region: Tuscany
Country: Italy
Year: 2015
Price: $13

Winery Review: "A heck of a value in Chianti, this delicious blend of 90% Sangiovese, 7% Canaiolo and 3% Colorino offers up notes of licorice, new saddle leather, black cherry and berry fruit, loamy soil undertones and a touch of pepper and herbs. It is medium-bodied, savory and best drunk over the next several years."

My Review: Can I just say, I freaking love Chianti. Yum, delicious, reminds me of Italy. Though this particular one is slightly bitter it has red fruit characteristics which I love. Laughing because my boyfriend told me I wouldn't like this one, I proved him wrong fo-sho.

Paired with food: Not at the tasting, but it would be delicious with my Nonna's red sauce. Or my mom's. Or my dad's. I guess I could make some too,

Tasting- The Royal Old Vines Steen

Name: The Royal Old Vines Steen
Variety: Chenin Blanc
Region: Western Cape
Country: South Africa
Year: 2015
Price: $8.95

Winery Review: "The 2015 Chenin Blanc offers loads of melony fruit interspersed with hints of honeysuckle and peach. It is delicious, crisp, fresh, lively, and a dead ringer for a good Loire Valley Chenin Blanc. Drink it over the next year."

My Review: This sparkles on my tongue and I don't know what that means but I don't like when it happens! Not a sparkling wine, but perhaps because it is royal there is a little extra somethin-somethin there. On the finish, surprise surprise, we have cat pee to a slight extent with some acidity.

Paired with food: Nope, but it might go well with Fancy Feast, since cats are royal and all.

Tasting- Barao de Figueira

Name: Barao de Figueira Vinho Branco
Variety: Siria
Region: Beira
Country: Portugal
Year: 2014
Price: $12

Winery Review: "This wine is soft and rounded. It has lemon and light spiciness along with cool acidity. It is an easy wine that is ripe with apple and fresh lemon juice and ready to drink."

My Review: This wine smells like a ripe pear. Very light with floral tastes but not a lot of fruits. Vegetative feel with some acidity detectable on the finish.

Paired with food: Nope, and I didn't particularly care for this earthy floral taste, I really like my fruits.

Tasting- Crane Lake Riesling

Name: Crane Lake
Variety: Riesling
Region: California
Country: USA
Year: 2013
Price: $5.95

Winery Review: "Pale golden color. Ripe and dried peaches on the nose. Minerals and dried peach flavors. Nicely balanced, leaning towards lime acididty."

My Review: Smells like flowers. The sweetness is not overwhelming. Floral and fruity flavors which I cannot seem to specifically identify.

Paired with food: No, but this has probably been my favorite white dessert wine.

Tasting- Vinedos Real Rubio Roja Crianza

Name: Vinedos Real Rubio Roja Crianza
Variety: Blend of Tempranillo and Graciano
Region: Rioja
Country: Spain
Year: 2010
Price: $16

Winery Review: "Lightly baked berry aromas vie for attention with leather, spice and mild earth notes, and the result is disjointed. On the palate, this is tight as a drum initially, but more expansive as it unfolds. Cherry, plum, raspberry, vanilla and woodspice flavors finish pure, clean and easy. This is a fine yet manageable Rioja that’s not trying too hard. Drink through 2016."

My Review: The smell is enticing with floral and fruity notes. Berry flavors yet still light and delicious. Slightly tannic.

Paired with food: No, not this time.

Tasting- Barao de Figueira Tino Reserva

Name: Barao de Figueira Tino Reserva
Variety: Blend of Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz and Touriga Franca
Region: Beira
Country: Portugal
Year: 2013
Price: $12

Winery Review: "From vineyards at 2000 feet elevation, this is a rich and spicy wine that has a pure streak of fruit freshness and a firmly tannic core. It is perfumed from Touriga Nacional in the blend, with red berry and black plum flavors coming through strongly along, balanced by acidity. It will be better from 2017."

My Review: This wine is tannic for sure and I am actually not a fan of how dry my mouth was. Dark fruits for sure, probably black plum.

Paired with food: Not this time, but I'll have to try it when the 2017 bottle comes out.

Tasting- Garnacha de Fuego Old Vines Grenache

Name: Garnacha de Fuego
Variety: Grenache
Region: Aragon
Country: Spain
Year: 2014
Price: $10

Winery Review: "The Garnacha de Fuego Rose is a solid effort that has a light salmon color to go with notions of cherry blossom, orange peel and herbs de Provence. Medium-bodied, supple, fresh easy-drinking."

My Review: Smells kind of smokey, also slight hints of apple. The taste is slightly bitter with a slight tang on the finish.

Paired with food: No, and this wasn't exactly my favorite

Tasting- Villa Vitas Ribolla Gialla

Name: Villa Vitas
Variety: Ribolla Gialla
Region: Venezie
Country: Italy
Year: 2014
Price: $6.95

Winery Review: "The 2014 Ribolla Gialla shows more minerality, nice quince, white currant and citrus oil notes, a dry, refreshing mouthfeel and a fragrant bouquet."

My Review: Slightly sour on the tongue but in a citrus way, perhaps lemon. Very light and dry.

Paired with food: No, but this was pretty good so I would try it with food.

Tasting- Alvaro Domecq Aranda Cream Sherry

Name: Alvaro Domecq
Variety: Aranda Cream Sherry
Region: Jerez
Country: Spain
Year: Non-vintage
Price: $20

Winery Review: "Golden-brown in color, this has heady aromas of cola, nut, nutmeg, root beer and caramel. A pure, creamy palate of cinnamon apple, mocha, coffee and chocolate. It's quite smooth and balanced, and very long on the finish."

My Review: The brown color is throwing me off slightly. Smells like straight bourbon which I don't care for. The flavors remind me of soda without the carbonation and bourbon without the heat. Also has an unexpecting sweet component to it.

Paired with food: No, I disliked this highly. However, if you like bourbon this would probably go well with dark chocolate or rum balls.

Tasting- Layer Cake Garnacha

Name: Layer Cake
Variety: 100% Garnacha
Region: Calatayud
Country: Spain
Year: 2011
Price: $18

Winery Review: "The Layer Cake Garnacha from Calatayud, Spain is rich and powerful, yet clean and balanced. Layered with aromas of ultra ripe black fruit. On the palate, the wine shows intense dark fruit with a background of rich dark chocolate and fresh ground coffee with a long creamy finish."

My Review: Smells like strawberries and dark fruits. Very bitter especially on the finish. Flavors are black truits though I cannot identify any in particular.

Paired with food: No, but if it goes well with cake I'll definitely drink it!

Tasting- Fossi Rosso

Name: Fossi Rosso
Variety: Blend: Sangiovese, Merlot, Primitivo and Negroamaro
Region: Fiesole
Country: Italy
Year: Non-vintage
Price: $18 (Magnum)

Winery Review: "A blend of Sangiovese and Merlot with a touch of Primitivo and Negroamaro. It will remind those who have traveled to Italy of one of the local house wines they consumed while there.  Simple, juicy, and perfect for drinking with or without food, it’s packed with bright cherry, strawberry and cranberry fruit aromas and flavors."

My Review: Smells very good, the taste is very dry with tannins. Slightly bitter, and I do not get any fruity hints at all.

Paired with food: Not this time.

Tasting- Nugan Pie in the Sky Chardonnay

Name: Nugan Pie in the Sky
Variety: 100% Chardonnay
Region: South Eastern
Country: Australia
Year: 2013
Price: $15

Winery Review: "Aromas of poached peach, fig and pineapple with biscuity notes. Tropical, medium bodied style with peach and melon flavours complimented by zesty acids, savoury nuances and a crisp, dry finish. Perfect partner with many styles of modern cuisine including those with an Asian or Mediterranean twist."

My Review: The smell is seemingly familiar but I can't identify it. The taste is smokey and slightly bitter, especially on the finish

Paired with food: Not this time, but maybe it would go well with some pie?

Tasting- Invino Si Pinot Grigio

Name: Invino Si
Variety: 100% Pinot Grigio
Region: Lombardy
Country: Italy
Year: 2014
Price: $14

Winery Review: "Pavia, in the Lombardy region of northern Italy where viticulture dates back thousands of years is home to the Si Pinot Grigio vineyards. The wine is creamy on the palate with a crisp, dry character, fresh citrus and pear flavors and an elegant finish."

My Review: Very light, pleasant. Tree fruits like pear and hints of light citrus, very crisp and slightly dry.

Paired with food: No, but this is definitely my favorite white wine by far! The picture doesn't do it justice, but the bottle is beautiful. I actually bought this to bring as a hostess gift for my grandparents who are having me for spring break!

Tasting- Primes Ruby Port

Name: Primes Ruby Port
Variety: Port
Region: Oporto
Country: Portugal
Year: Non-vintage
Price: $18

Winery Review: "Ruby color; red fruit aromas; pleasantly sweet and balanced taste. As the wines used to produce Prime's Ruby Port age, they gain smoothness and elegance while retaining their fruitiness, intensity and youthful ruby color. They are then blended together for balance and consistency."

My Review: Smells a little bit like nail polish removal. Tasting it I'm confused. It's very warm and obviously fortified, but it's also slightly sweet. Except the flavors bounce on my tongue yet are not overpowering. Has some bitterness to it. Aftertaste lingers and reminds me of hard liquor.

Paired with food: No, and not a fan.

Tasting- Lindeman's Bin 80 Carbernet Merlot

Name: Lindeman's Bin 80
Variety: 50-50 Blend, Carbernet-Merlot
Region: Southeastern
Country: Australia
Year: 2015
Price: $18

Winery Review: "Medium red in color with ruby hues. On the nose aromas of dark red berries, blackcurrants and ripe plums; while the palate is  medium bodied, with dark red berries and a soft tannic finish."

My Review: First thing that comes to my mind when smelling this is smokey cheese, maybe even Gouda. Very dark, warm, smokey flavor. Slightly dry.

Paired with food: No, I liked this one but I don't think I could finish a magnum bottle. Challenge accepted because I bought it! No regrets, get the bottle.

Tasting- Domaine du Poujol Coteaux de Languedoc Grenache Cinsault

Name: Domaine du Poujol Coteaux de Languedoc
Variety: 50-50 Blend, Grenache Cinsault
Country: France
Year: 2011
Price: $13

Winery Review: "Minerally and berry notes make for a savory blend of flavors in this fine-grained red. Dried berry fruit dominates, with accents of white pepper and dill seed. Delivers lively acidity on the finish. Drink now through 2018."

My Review: Smells like red berries. Dry, light tannins, not sweet at all. It's actually kind of bitter to me. Hints of tree fruits and spices.

Paired with food: Not this time, but my boyfriend bought this bottle so hopefully he will want to make me dinner and pour me a glass of wine! :)

Tasting- Pazo de Monterrey Godello

Name: Pazo de Monterrey Godello
Variety: 100% Godello
Region: Monterrei
Country: Spain
Year: 2014
Price: $15

Winery Review: "Clean, minerally, slightly green in aromatics and oh so approachable and nice. For an under-$15 white, this Godello from Monterrei excels with layered flavors of apple, minerals and natural spice. The finish is long and hints at fresh herbs like thyme and tarragon. Potentially superb with garlic shrimp or calamari over fresh greens."

My Review: Smells like apple for sure! Not as dry, tropical fruits and definitely a crisp apple taste. Some citrus flavors in there as well, potentially lime. Smooth finish.

Paired with food: Not this time, but this wine was pretty good.

Tasting- Domaine de la Foret Rose de Mediterranee Greanche Cinsault

Name: Domaine de la Foret Rose de Mediterranee Greanche Cinsault
Variety: Blend 50-50 Greanche and Cinsault
Region: Provence
Country: France
Year: 2015
Price: $9

Winery Review: "In color, this is almost white. There is some attractive acidity and the soft wine will slip down easily with just a touch of red currant. The result is a lightly mineral wine that is refreshing and good for an apéritif."

My Review: Smells like tree fruits, specifically pear. Very light, tropical fruits of pear with a crisp hint of apple. Smooth finish.

Paired with food: Not this time, but it was pretty good.

Tasting- Coastal Vines White Zinfandel Magnum

Name: Coastal Vines White Zinfandel
Variety: 100% White Zinfandel
Region: California
Country: USA
Year: 2013
Price: $15

Winery Review: "Coastal Vines White Zinfandel is a light and fruity salmon-pink wine. Sweet, floral aromas of jasmine and roses burst into bright flavors of apricots, cantaloupe, and orange blossoms."

My Review: Smells sweet right off the bat and brings back my inexperienced wine drinking days. Lighter, definitely strawberry and raspberry. Very good, not overwhelmingly sweet. Very calm but sweet enough to satisfy.

Paired with food: No, not this time.

Tasting- Cortenova Montepulciano d'Abruzzo

Name: Cortenova Montepulciano d'Abruzzo
Variety: Blended
Region: Abruzzo
Country: Italy
Year: 2013
Price: $7.95

Winery Review: "Wild berry, chopped mint, sun baked earth and violet aromas meld together on this solid savory red. The juicy straightforward palate doles out ripe black cherry, crushed raspberry, anise and cinnamon alongside chewy tannins."

My Review: This wine is darker, jammier and dryer down the throat. Perhaps some plum and dark black cherry.

Paired with food: No, not this time.

Tasting- Rosemount Diamond Label Pinot Noir

Name: Rosemount Diamond Label Pinot Noir
Variety: 100% Pinot Noir
Region: Southeast
Country: Australia
Year: 2013
Price: $15

Winery Review: "On the nose fragrant red berry fruits; red cherries raspberries; supported by sweet earthy spice notes of cinnamon and nutmeg. The palate is bright and lively with  flavors of cherry and raspberry are supported by a soft creamy texture, providing a long and elegant finish."

My Review: Smells like berries. A jammier, lighter red with hints of cranberry or strawberry. Slight spice at the end. Very good.

Paired with food: No, but I would definitely pair it with food.

Tasting- Valminor Albarino

Name: Valminor Albarino
Variety: 100% Albarino
Region: Rias Baixas
Country: Spain
Year: 2015
Price: $19

Winery Review: "Gloriously aromatic with jasmine and flint notes; very scented. Full and fleshy palate, a mineral follow-through and intense, harmonious finish. A very lovely Albarino that is so pure."

My Review: Smells warm and floral. Citrus and tree fruit taste with pear. Very smooth.

Paired with food: No, but I would try this white with a pairing even though I prefer reds.

Tasting- Yellowtail Unoaked Chardonnay

Name: Yellowtail Unoaked Chardonnay
Variety: 100% Chardonnay
Country: New Zealand and Australia
Year: Non-vintage
Price:  $7

Winery Review: "Wow, who would ever call Yellow Tail understated? But here it is. Nice but light aromas of orange, grapefruit, apple, earth and flowers. Lemon, grapefruit, apples, and a little lime on the light palate. Good acidity, pleasant finish, and decent minerality."

My Review: Smells fruity. The taste was very crisp, lemon flavor with a hint of cat pee aftertaste though not repulsive. Very sharp on the tongue.

Paired with food: No

Tasting- Jam Jar Sweet White

Name: Jam Jar Sweet White
Variety: Moscato
Region: Western Cape
Country: South Africa
Year: 2015
Price: $15

Winery Review: "This charming, easy-drinking Moscato offers flavors of peach, apricot, lychee and orange blossom. A lively jolt of acidity keeps it fresh and fruity. Fancy enough for a special occasion toast, yet sweet-natured enough to enjoy every day."

My Review: This just smells like a bouquet of flowers, though not overwhelming. The first sip is to adjust the palate, especially with a sweet wine. It sparkles on the tongue slightly though is not a sparkling wine. Floral tastes yet fruity, and sweet but not overpowering. There is a potential lavender warmness.

Paired with food: No, but all the more reason to have dessert!

Tasting- Fox Creek Shiraz

Name: Fox Creek Shiraz
Variety: 100% Shiraz
Region: McLaren Vale
Country: Australia
Year: 2012
Price: $23

Winery Review: "Bright purple. Exotic, expansive aromas of black and blue fruit preserves, vanilla and cola, along with a peppery overtone and a hint of violet pastille. Broad, fleshy, appealingly sweet boysenberry and cherry liqueur flavors show excellent depth and a seamless texture. Finishes juicy and long, with building spiciness, an echo of blue fruit and round tannins."

My Review: This wine smells like dark red. The taste lingers on the tongue with dark black fruits. Plummy and heavier than the Italian Buongiorno Blend.

Paired with food: No, but this was my second favorite and I would definitely try it with food.

Tasting- Candoni Boungiorno Organic Primitivo, Syrah

Name: Candoni Buongiorno
Variety: Blended: Organic Primitivo and Syrah
Region: Puglia
Country: Italy
Year: Non-vintage
Price: $15

Winery Review: "Black ruby color. Mild, spicy, earthy aromas of spiced berries and plum with a supple, bright, dry-yet-fruity light-to-medium body and a tingling, brisk earth and cinnamon finish with dusty, coating tannins and moderate oak. A sturdy, earthy red for the table." 

My Review: This smells like Italy, I don't know how else to describe it; it brought memories back for me from when I visited two summers ago. A dry, crisp and refreshing wine with berries and red fruits.

Paired with food: No, and I liked this wine a lot. I regret not buying a bottle, so I'll have to go back and get it to pair with something.

Tasting- Maipe Torrontes

Name: Maipe
Variety: 100% Torrontes
Region: Salta
Country: Argentina
Year: 2016
Price: $13

Winery Review: Spring-like nose of fresh white peaches, pears, green apple, green melon and hints of jasmine and rose petals. On the palate, it has a beautiful structure and acidity along with fruit flavors and plenty of body. Well-balanced, this wine displays a pleasant freshness with citrus notes and a long finish.

My Review: The smell is inviting and warm with hints of peach. Tastes sparkling on the tongue though it is not a sparkling wine. Hints of peach in the flavor.

Paired with food: No, but I would give it a try. I was not a fan of the wine so perhaps food would balance it even better for my palate.

Tasting- Oxford Landing Viognier

Name: Oxford Landing
Variety: 100% Viognier
Region: South Australia
Country: Australia
Year: 2014
Price: $13

Winery Review: "This wine may not be quite as rich or expressive as the other Viogniers in the Yalumba stable, but it's still an attractive effort. Pineapple and apricot flavors pick up hints of gingery spice on the vibrant finish."

My Review: Definitely sniffing pineapple here which is enticing to me. The taste was crisp on the tongue, fruity, light and dry. Very warm down the throat, hints of pineapple and berry.

Paired with food: No, but if I had to guess maybe it would go well with pineapple or a fish with pineapple salsa. Yum!

Tasting- Crane Lake Gewurztraminer

Name: Crane Lake Gewurztraminer
Variety: 100% Gewurztraminer
Region: California
Country: USA
Year: 2015
Price: $5.95

Winery Review: "This floral wine has notes of rose, peach, and apricot, with a smooth, lingering finish. This wine pairs well with both smoked Gouda and Munster cheeses. Also try it along with roast pork, turkey, red snapper or sautéed abalone."

My Review: I could immediately detect the sugar upon smelling, however the taste was not overwhelmingly sweet. Definitely a peachy floral mix with some citrus apple. The taste was slightly confusing I think because I used the same glass which may have had previous flavors mix with it.

Paired with food: No, but see the winery review for some cool experiments.

Tasting- El Ganador Malbec

Name: El Ganador Malbec
Variety: 100% Malbec
Region: Mendoza
Country: Argentina
Year: 2015
Price: $12

Winery Review: "Garnet color. Aromas of black cherry, plum jam, rich dark soil, and violet honey with a lightly tannic, lively, dry medium-to-full body and a tingling, complex, medium-long black cherry, rich garden soil, crushed plum, and cinnamon toast finish with medium tannins and moderate oak. Dense, dark and chewy with earthy complexity, balancing the luscious jammy fruit qualities of new world with earthy qualities of old world wines."

My Review: Smelling this wine offered hints of spice and floral elements. The taste lingered on the throat and tongue with dry yet spicy flavors.

Paired with food: No, but I would give it a second chance by pairing it with a burger or steak, yum!

Tasting- Grand Cru Pinot Noir

Name: Grand Cru Pinot Noir
Variety: 100% Pinot Noir
Region: California
Country: USA
Year: 2014
Price: $5.95

Winery Review: This ruby-colored wine has aromas of raspberry, cherry and a hint of vanilla. Flavors of cherry and plum lead to a soft velvety finish. This wine can be enjoyed by itself. It is also an excellent accompaniment with appetizers and main courses. This wine goes well with Brie, goat cheese and smoked salmon, lamb shanks and pork tenderloin.

My Review: This red wine was very dry, thin and smooth. It had hints of berry though I could not depict which ones exactly. If you are someone who liked whites this would be a nice transition for you into reds. Very light, refreshing, and crisp which is similar to a white wine but moves away from the floral flavors into fruity berries.

Paired with food: No, but look at the winery review for suggestions to experiment with!

Tasting- Douglas Hill Sauvignon Blanc

Name: Douglas Hill Sauvignon Blanc
Variety: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Region: California
Country: USA
Year: 2014
Price: $5.95

Winery Review: "This light, crisp Sauvignon Blanc has aromas of grapefruit, bell pepper, and asparagus. On the palate, hints of floral and honey are revealed to yield a well-balanced, refreshing wine."

My Review: Upon smelling this wine I didn't get much more than just fruity. The taste however, seemed the opposite. It offered more bitter, earthy flavors which lingered on the tongue. I would go as far to say a cat pee aftertaste. Fun fact- this is commonly seen in Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand but is well balanced, it is also world famous.

Paired with food: Not at this tasting, though I feel I needed something to cleanse my palate. Personally I thought this was an unpleasant experience.

Tasting- Prime Brume Soave Garganega

Name: Prime Brume
Variety: Soave blend with Garganega
Region: Soave
Country: Italy
Year: 2015
Price: $10

Winery Review: "Brilliant emerald straw color. Aromas and flavors of brazil nuts, creme fraiche, and kiwi and starfruit with a silky, lively, dry-yet-fruity light-to-medium body and an effortless, engaging, medium-length watermelon, yellow apple, and clementine finish. A delicious, artfully balanced soave with a great range of fruit flavors."

My Review: Round two of tastings, here we go! This smelled fruity, and if I had to name a particular one I would go with pear. Tasting it was dry, light, thin bodied, and hint of pear taste.

Paired with food: No, but if it was personally I would just eat the food. I didn't particularly care for this wine.

Tasting- Dona Sol Shiraz, Petite Syrah and Symphony

Name: Dona Sol Shiraz, Petite Syrah and Symphony
Variety: Blend
Region: California
Country: USA
Year: Non-variety
Price: $6.95

Winery Review: Shiraz has a unique jammy fruit character that is well represented in the Sweet Red. Both on the nose and on the palate, jammy fruit, like strawberries, cherry pie and red licorice, entices the senses and pair well with cheeses and desserts. 

My Review: The first sip of this wine was shocking, my palate was not prepared for the amount of sweet that occurred. Subsequent sips however were much better and my palate became acclimated to the sweet taste. This wine had a berry smell and a warm citrus taste. More specific flavors I could taste were crisp orange, cranberry and pomegranate. I would drink this wine again, but I would probably only be able to have one glass.

Paired with food: Not at this tasting, but I would be curious to experiment with pairings because this could be a dessert by itself!

Tasting- Avery Quinn Zinfandel

Name: Avery Quinn Zinfandel
Variety: 100% Zinfandel
Region: Santa Rosa, California
Country: USA
Year: 2013
Price: $15

Winery Review: Lightly spicy aromas and rich, soothing fruit flavors make this an attractive, lovable and classically proportioned wine. Cherry and raspberry flavors rest on a lightly tannic but smooth texture, and linger on the finish.

My Review: My favorite wine at this particular tasting by far, so much so I actually bought a bottle! Smells offered a rose like hint, and the taste was incredibly smooth. Slightly sweeter and lingered with a smokey flavor at the end. Delicious!

Paired with food: Not at this particular tasting, but I am pairing it with broiled pork medallions, artisan bread and Gouda cheese tonight because I loved it so much!

Tasting- Finca del Castillo Tempranillo

Name: Finca del Castillo Tempranillo
Variety: 100% Tempranillo
Region: La Mancha
Country: Spain
Year: 2015
Price: $4.95

Winery Review: Vivid ruby. Spice-accented red and dark berry aromas show good clarity and a hint of fresh rose. Juicy and seamless on the palate, offering lively currant and bitter cherry flavors that become sweeter with air. Clings with good tenacity on the energetic finish, which repeats the floral note and shows no tannins.

My Review: Getting to reds now which I have slightly more experience in, yay! Upon tasting this red wine I deduce berry and fruity flavors, though again, my palate is not trained enough to be able to specify those berries or fruits. This was a dry wine with a potentially tannins feel.

Paired with food: No, still a free tasting!

Tasting- Pieter Cruythoff Chenin Blanc

Name: Pieter Cruythoff Chenin Blanc
Variety: 100% Chenin Blanc
Region: Swartland
Country: South Africa
Year: 2015
Price: $9

Winery Review: "A wonderful nose of bananas, oranges and melons jumps from the glass of this 100% Chenin Blanc, which is finished with a screw cap. Another great value from South Africa, this wine is medium-bodied, fresh, lively, and a terrific dry white to drink over the next year."

My Review: Still my first tasting here so be patient with me regarding the review, eventually I will get better! This white wine was the second one I tasted, and I preferred this over the Verdejo (see my previous tasting post). Still a light wine, but I would dare to say more medium bodied, and definitely not as dry to me. This definitely had a fruity and a hint of a floral taste as well as smell, though I cannot name exact fruits. Finally, though not a sweet wine by any means, it had a hint of sweetness which made it enjoyable.

Paired with food: No, just a free tasting for now!

Tasting- El Cortijillo Verdejo

Name: El Cortijillo Verdejo
Variety: 100% Verdejo
Region: La Mancha, Spain
Country: Spain
Year: 2015
Price: $4.95

Winery Review: "Golden straw color. Bright, attractive, tropical aromas of creme brulee and fruit tart with a silky, bright, dry-yet-fruity light-to-medium body and a smooth, intriguing, snappy lime and apple finish with crunchy, fruit tannins and light oak. A super smooth and pure white sipper."

My Review: Upon my first "sniff and swirl" I will admit I did not gather much other than it smelled like wine. Perhaps this combined with my lack of experience with white wines lead me to a lack of descriptions, even with the help from the wine wheel. Regardless, here goes nothing... This wine is definitely light and has a hint of fruit though my palate is not mature enough yet to determine which kinds. It was a very dry wine and a great place to start though personally it was not my favorite. However, if you know you prefer whites this would be a great one to start with, especially if you're on a budget!

Paired with food: No, just a free tasting for now!