Wine Tasting Blog- Mars & Venus Sauvignon Blanc, Takutai Pinot Gris, Yellowtail Reserve Merlot, Crane Lake Petite Sirah, Crane Lake Riesling

Name- Mars & Venus Sauvignon Blanc
Variety- 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Region- La Mancha
Country- Spain
Year- 2013
Price- $10

Winery Review- Citrus and gooseberry aromas are mild but typical of the variety. A basic citrus palate delivers modest tangerine and nectarine flavors which lead to a mild, pithy finish showing light citric notes.

My Review- Lemon aroma on the aroma, with a slight acidity on the tongue and some lemon peel. Very enjoyable taste.

I tasted this on its own.

Name- Takutai Pinot Gris
Variety- 100% Pinot Noir
Region- Nelson
Country- New Zealand
Year- 2009
Price- $21

Winery Review- Since this wine weighs in at 14%, the fruit was clearly very ripe. That ripeness is reflected in the flavors as well, which feature nectarine and honey accented by hints of white pepper. It’s full bodied and lush, with a long finish that mingles the sensations of sweet and spicy.

My Review- Some slight citrus on the nose. On the tongue it was very light bodied with some lime and honey on the taste. Very enjoyable as well.

I tasted this on its own. 

Name- Yellowtail Reserve Merlot
Variety- 100% Merlot
Region- South Eastern
Country- Australia
Year- 2010
Price- $12

Winery Review- Round, velvety and mouthfilling, this is a satisfying Merlot at a bargain price. Aromas of black cherries and herbs fold in hints of cinnamon and mocha, while the flavors are generally fruity, but with a slightly tomatoey note. Soft on the finish. Drink now.  

My Review- Some cherry on the nose as well as on the tongue, with some oaky/ woody flavor as well to compliment. Liked it but not as much as the first two. 

I tasted this on its own.

Name- Crane Lake Petite Sirah
Variety- 100% Petite Sirah 
Region- California
Country- USA
Year- 2013
Price- $5.95

Winery Review- Shows a certain rustic simplicity now, with youthfully jammy flavors of blackberries, cherries and currants, sprinkled with cocoa and pepper and wrapped into dusty tannins.

My Review- Grapey dark fruit smell, and it resonates in the taste as well. Didn't get much else from the wine, average to me. 

I tasted this on its own.

Name- Crane Lake Riesling
Variety- 100% Riesling
Region- California 
Country- USA
Year- 2013
Price- $5.95

Winery Review- Punchy lime and lemon mark this off-dry Riesling with a staccato rhythm, adding edge to honeyed tones of peach and honeysuckle. Exceptionally priced, it’s satisfying and elegant.

My Review- Strong pineapple on the nose with a sweet but not overwhelming citrusy taste. There was a taste I couldn't identify that was definitely the honey and peach. It was intriguing, something I would need to have a full glass of to decide if I liked it. 

I tasted this on its own.