Each week we post the favorite bargain wines we have tasted during the previous week. These are wines that we have purchased from various stores on the San Francisco Peninsula. Each week our Vintage Wine Club suggests wine for this list. Here are the picks for January 23.
2009 Viticcio Bere Tuscana – The Wine Stop, KL Wines $11.99 (Joe’s Pick)
This is a very nice Italian blend from Tuscany. It has more flavors and character than the average Chianti that is made with Sangiovese grapes. This one has 50% Sangiovese, 25% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 25% Merlot. It is very soft on the palate, with flavors of cherry and blueberries. It has a very nice finish and to me is a perfect wine with a pasta dish. Wine Spectator likes it enough to give it 90 Points. I will go with 88 Points. It is a crowd pleaser and very gentle on your pocketbook at $11.99.
Quivira 2009 Dry Creek Zinfandel – Costco $15.49, KL Wines $18.99 (Jim’s Pick)
I have seen this wine at various stores for around $19 and was tempted to try it because of the 91 Points from the Wine Spectator. Fortunately, the Foster City Costco started to carry the same wine at $15.49. How could I pass it up this time around? What I like about this Zin is that it’s just the right balance and not over the top, not too robust and port-like as many big Zins are today. Some nice spice flavors come through with this wine. We paired it with a roasted Rosemary chicken and it was delightful. 88 Points
Artesa 2010 Carneros Chardonnay- $12.99 Costco – (Janelle’s Pick)
Janelle loves Chardonnay wine that has a balanced oak, creamy feel in the mouth, not too much buttery flavors. Those are hard to come by for under $20. This Artesa Chardonnay will fill the bill for Chardonnay lovers of this style. The bonus in this tasty Chardonnay is the long and lingering finish. Wow! 91 Points by the Wine Enthusiasts, we will go with 89 Points. Suggested retail price on this wine is $20.
On an additional note to Artesa. This is a beautiful winery to visit in the Carneros wine region of Napa. It is easy to get to and the views are breathtaking. The Raventos family of Spain are the owners of this winery. Here is a link to the Carneros Wine Trail on WineCountryGetaways.com
