What wine is best for Thanksgiving? That is a hot topic at this time of year, and I have seen many answers to that question. In the past we have enjoyed Chardonnay and Pinot Noir with our Thanksgiving meal, but what if you want something different? Tonight we will taste several typical Thanksgiving foods with our wines to see if we can find a perfect pairing. Tonight, we taste:2021 Domaine Fillastreau. This is a Saumur from the Loire Valley, purchased from Sarasota Wines for $22.95. A rich, luscious wood-matured wine, this is dense and smooth. Honey and crisp apple come together in this ripe, full wine with its total freshness at the end. Drink the wine from 2023. Organic and biodynamic. 2022 Quinson Cotes de Provence, purchased from Trader Joes for $8.99. Cellar Tracker says light salmon colored, peaches and cherry aromas. Strong earthy mineral base. Light peach and good zip. 2021 Octopoda Pinot Noir purchased from Costco for $7.99.  It received a 91 from the Wine Enthusiast. It has 14.5% alcohol. Fresh and fruity aromas of black raspberry, red flowers and star anise. This ripe and well-rounded wine offers palate-warming plums, strawberries and cherries on a relatively soft texture, with accents of vanilla, clove and cedar from oak.  Next week The wines we will taste include: 2023 Foncastel Picpoul De Pinet. This Languedoc, France wine was purchased at Trader Joe’s for $8.99. 2022 Pacific Rim Riesling. Purchased from Costco for $7.89. 2022 Le Grand Noir Chardonnay purchased from Costco for $9.99.

Chianti is the most popular Italian wine. It is mostly made from the Sangiovese grape, but is normally a blend. How does it compare to a Sangiovese wine? Tonight we will find out. In a prior show we did a Chianti tasting. I love Chianti and I believe I liked all three wines we tasted that night. It is normally made from a blend of grapes, but is mostly made from the Sangiovese grape. It comes from the Tuscany region of Italy. Sangiovese produces a wine that is medium in body, has medium to high acid and medium to high tannins.You can pick out a Chianti Classico by looking for a black roster on the label. This means the wine comes from the classic region known for the production of Chianti.Sangiovese wine from California is more fruit-forward and is known for having more floral aromas. If drinking a wine by itself, you may prefer the Sangiovese, but I believe Chianti is more of a food wine.Tonight, we taste:2018 Carpineto Chianti Classico, purchased from Costco for $19.99. This wine was rated a 93 by the Wine Spectator and a 92 by the Wine Enthusiast. Made from Sangiovese and Canaiolo (Merlot like grape with soft tannins and bright acid) and other red grape varietals. Aged in Slavonian and French oak barrels for at least a year. 13.5% alcohol. Serve at 64-68 degrees in a decanter. Tastes of tar, stone, and umami of mushrooms, seaweed and soy sauce before sour cherries and cranberries emerge. Palate has black cherries, blackberries, milk and dark chocolate, bitter orange. Long finish. Pair with game and roasts. 2016 Idle Sangiovese purchased from Wine Styles for $37.00. Aromas of licorice, smoke, violets, herbs, and cherry. Pair with spaghetti, roasted vegetables. Comes from Knights Valley AVA in Sonoma. Picked in the early morning fog, transported to the winery in the back of a flatbed. Hand sorted at the winery, destemmed, cold soaked for 4 days. Fermented for 2 weeks with punch downs done 3 times/day. Aged 16 months in 30% new (medium-long) toasted French oak barrels, 70% aged in French oak. Blended with 3% Merlot.  Next week The wines we will taste include: 2021 Domaine Filliatreau. This is a Saumur, Loire Valley purchased from Sarasota Wines for $22.95. 2022 Quinson Cotes de Provence. Purchased from Trader Joes for $8.99. 2021 Octopada Pinot Noir purchased from Costco for $7.99.

After reading about and tasting New York wine, I have a strong desire to visit the Finger Lakes AVA.  Until the 1970s and 1980s, New York was known for producing wine made from the Catawba and Niagara grapes. Many people still have that perception. However, back in the 1950’s, Dr Konstantin Frank started the cultivation of Vitis vinifera (the old world grape varieties people are familier with). Today it is now well known for its Riesling, Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir production. In addition to the Finger Lakes AVA, it is also home to the Niagara Escarpment, Hudson River and Long Island AVAs. New York is now the 2nd or 3rd largest wine-producing state in the country.  Tonight, we taste:2022 Dr Konstantin Frank. Purchased from Wall to Wall Wine and Spirits for $18.99. Aromas of vibrant perfume of honeyed apple, citrus blossom and peach. Dry but with richness and lots of fruit and floral flavor. The grapes are de-stemmed, direct pressed, and stored in temperature controlled stainless steel tanks. There is no oak and no Malolactic fermentation. It has 7 g/Liter of residual sugar which is considered an off-dry wine. It has a pH of 3.0. Pairs with lightly prepared chicken, pork, and fish; as well as a creamy goat cheese. 2019 Heron Hill Eclipse red-blend. Purchased from Wine Styles. I saw online from $16.00 to $21.00. This is a Bordeaux blend wine made up of 44% Merlot, 31% Cabernet Franc, and 25% Cabernet Sauvignon.  Aromas of black and red currant fruit, tobacco leaf, herbs and cola-like oak. Grapes come from a variety of sources from growers in Long Island and Finger Lakes. Aged for 15 months in a combination of French and Hungarian oak barrels. Pairs with lamb, prime rib, grilled salmon, sharp cheddar or rich blue cheese. Next week The wines we will taste include: 2018 Carpineto Chianti Classico. Purchased from Costco for $19.99. 2016 Idle Sangiovese. Purchased from Wine Styles for $37.00.

Is price important for Rioja? Tonight we will blind-taste three Rioja wines and find out.Rioja is the leading wine region in Spain. Broken into three parts.- Rioja Alto- Rioja Alavesa- Rioja OrientalKnown for its red wine production and aging in oak barrels. (predominately American oak) Tempranillo is the most planted grape and makes up nearly 90% of the vineyards. Garnacha is the second most planted red grape, with smaller amounts of Mazuelo, Carinena (Carignan), and Graciano. Most Rioja wines are blends, with Garnacha added to the Tempranillo for added body.Tonight, we taste:1. 2017 Marques de Caceres, Rioja. This wine was purchased from Costco for $17.99. The grapes were hand-picked and aged in new French oak barrels for 15 months. Bouquet of blackberry and chocolate-covered orange peel. The wine has an inky garnet color and feels juicy on the palate. Flavors of black cherry and raspberry are joined by clove, bittersweet chocolate, and black olives. Lingering tannins complete the profile.2. 2022 Vina Torcida Tempranillo, Rioja. Purchased at Wine Styles for $20.00. Ripe fruit and spices on the nose. Black pepper, clove, and vanilla. 87% Tempranillo, 8% Mazuelo, and 5% Garnacha. Grapes come from vineyards located in all three zonas of Rioja. It is aged 27 months in American oak barrels. Pairs with spicy meats, stews, and roasts.3. 2018 Trader Joe’s, Rioja. Purchased at Trader Joe’s for $9.99. Reverse Wine Snob gave this wine a highly recommended, and described it as having flavors of ripe strawberries, leather, and tobacco.Next week The wines we will taste include:1. 2022 Dr Konstantin Frank Riesling. Purchased from Wall to Wall Wine and Spirits for $18.99. 3. 2019 Heron Hill Eclipse red blend. Purchased from Wine Styles. I saw online from $16.00 to $21.00.

Tonight, we will learn about and taste two wines, made from grape varieties unfamiliar to many of us. First, we will taste a Vignoles (white) and then have a Norton (red).Both wines come from small AVA’s in east central Missouri, along the Missouri River. The first wine we are tasting is a Vignoles from the first AVA in the US. It comes from the Augusta AVA. Vignoles is a hybrid grape originated in France from a cross of Seibel and Pinot de Corton. It was imported to the US and the Finger Lakes Wine Growers Association named it Vignoles in 1970. However, it has since been DNA tested and found to have very little if any genetic markers in common with Seibel or Pinot Noir. Therefore, its parentage is in question. Vignoles is the most common white wine grape grown in Missouri but is also grown in other states including New York. The wines can be sweet, semi-sweet, or dry. Vignoles is also used for dessert wines or ice wines. Wines are medium in body and crisp; with flavors of tropical fruits, citrus, and floral. Our second wine is a Norton from another small AVA in east central Missouri. The Hermann AVA is located along the Missouri River. German settlers came to the area in the 1830s, finding it similar to the Rhine River region of Germany. They immediately started growing grapes. Norton is the official state grape of Missouri and the number-one-grown grape in the state. Dr. Daniel Norborne Norton developed the variety in Richmond, Virginia in the early 1800’s. It produces a dry red wine with complex flavors.A Stone Hill Norton was named the “Best Red Wine of all Nations” in 1873 at the Vienna World Exposition. Norton wine is a full-bodied, dry, red wine.  Aromas of red and black fruits, coffee, chocolate, flowers, cloves, and leather. Tastes of raspberry, cherry, pomegranate, blackberry, blackcurrant, plum, vanilla, and spice. It also has a rich mouthfeel, smooth finish, and oak notes. It is also known as Cynthiana.It is very age-worthy. High-quality Norton wines reach their peak around 8 years of age and remain that way for another 8 years.Tonight, we taste:Balducci Vineyards – 2021 Vignoles purchased at the winery for $30.00. Tastes of pineapple, apricots, peaches, lemon, orange. Vignoles pairs well with salty foods, Brie cheese, spiced pecans, candied walnuts, Asian chicken, spicy pork ribs, seafood green or yellow curry, spicy peppers, spicy barbecue, chutney, and apricot. 2020 J Cross Norton from Stone Hill Winery of Hermann, Missouri. Purchased at Vineyard for $40.00. Aromas of ripe plum, blackberries, tart cherries, moist soil. Taste of plum, blackberry, leather, oak, chocolate, tobacco, and licorice. Pairs with steak, red meats, game meats. This wine can replace Cabernet Sauvignon.Next week We have an election show special and we will taste some Rioja: 2017 Marques de Caceres, Rioja. Purchased from Costco for $17.99.2022 Vina Torcida Tempranillo, Rioja. Purchased at Wine Styles for $20.00.2018 Trader Joe’s, Rioja. Purchased from Trader Joe’s for $9.99.

Tonight, our blind-tasting duo will taste three wines chosen by our listeners. We have one white and two red wines. Our first wine is a white wine from Burgundy, France. It is from the Chardonnay grape. Tonight, we taste:2022 Bourgonge - Maconaise - Macon Villages. Purchased at Costco for $12.79. Stored in stainless steel tanks. This is 100% Chardonnay. Tastes of Citrus, orange, orange peel, apple, green apple. 2022 Porta 6 Red from Lisbon Region of Portugal. Purchased at Trader Joes for $4.99. Wine Enthusiast rated this wine an 86 and called it a best buy. It is juicy, spicy, and ready to drink. Oak and Barrel - Porta 6 Red shows jammy cherry and plum flavors with a touch of vanilla and cacao. Extremely smooth and a great value red.2022 Ruggero Di Bardo from Puglia, Italy. Purchased at Trader Joes for $9.99. Made from the Susumaniello grape. Aged in stainless steel and oak for 3 months. Dark ink color. Aromas of black cherry, blackberry, clove, cinnamon, forest floor, vanilla, and cedar. Taste is bold and fruity, cherry flavors, sweet oak spice, and firm tannins.  Next week The wines we will taste include:2021 Balducci Vineyards, Vignoles. Purchased from the vineyard for $30.00. 2020 Stone Hill Winery Cross J Norton. Purchased from Stone Hill Winery for $40.00.

Tonight, our blind-tasting duo explore uncharted wine, at least for the show. Shiraz is the most planted and #1 grape from Australia. Shiraz is the same grape and wine as Syrah, but for some reason, Australia and South Africa call it Shiraz. It is a big, bold, full-body wine with high levels of tannin and acid. Because of the tannins, it is normally oaked and is a great pair with red meats.In France, Syrah is a single variety wine from the northern Rhone Valley, and is popular in the southern Rhone where it is part of the GSM blend wines. GSM stands for Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvedre.Syrah is also a popular grape grown in the US, mostly in the State of Washington and California. Some of the most popular Shiraz regions of Australia include Barossa Valley, Eden Valley, Clare Valley, Heathcote, Hunter Valley, McLaren Vale, Yarra Valley, Grampians, and Adelaide Hills.While Syrah and Shiraz wines will have many similarities, they will also have some differences. Syrah wines from France, Chile and Washington (State) are more of a cooler climate wine. Australian Shiraz and California, Spain, Italy, and Argentina Syrah are warm-weather wines. Syrah from cooler climates will be lighter in body, with more earthiness and floral notes. Warm weather Syrah/Shiraz will be fruit forward full-body higher alcohol wines. Tonight, we taste: 2021 Yalumba Barossa Shiraz. I purchased this wine at Wall to Wall Wine for $19.99. It comes from the Barossa Valley, Australia. It is plump and fruity, with lucid aromas of black cherry, plum, mint and ground pepper. A full body gentle frame of spicy tannins frames everything, and a nice level of acidity helps wash it all down. Winery is Vegan and started in 1849. 2019 Greg Norman, Limestone Coast Shiraz, $15.50 at Wall to Wall Wine. This wine comes from Coonawarra, McClaren Flat, Argentina. Nose: Bright aromas of ripe black and blue fruits, spice notes. Palate: Medium to full-bodied. Cola, black cherry, mixed berry jam and cloves. Other notes: plum and cherry. Peppercorn, mint, oak. Firm structure and balanced acidity. Area is known for having poor well draining soils. 2022 Yellow Tail Shiraz purchased at Walmart for $5.99. Rich and smooth, with juicy red berries and hints of vanilla and spice. Hints of mocha. Bold and smooth. South Eastern Australia includes all of Victoria and parts of South Australia and New South Wales.  Next week The wines we will taste include: 2022 Bourgonge – Maconaise – Macon Villages. This is a Burgundy white made from the Chardonnay grape. Purchased from Costco for $12.79. 2022 Porta 6 Red from Lisbon Region of Portugal. Purchased at Trader Joes for $4.99. 2022 Ruggero Di Bardo from Puglia, Italy. Purchased at Trader Joes for $9.99.

Our wine-tasting duo discuss their favorite wines and why they like them. Do you know your favorite wine and why you like it? Do you know the characteristics of your favorite wines? Why do you like a certain wine? This episode will help you make better buying decisions, find alternative varieties, and understand why you like the wines you do.Tonight, we are tasting:1. Denise’s favorite wine is the 2022 Gerard Bertrand Cote de Roses. We bought this wine at Costco for $12.99. It is a Rose’ Wine blended with Grenache, Syrah, and Cinsault grapes. It comes from the Languedoc region of France. Aromas of red fruits, black currant and red currant. Palette - floral notes of rose, citrus and grapefruit. Fresh finish with notes of English candy.2. Dennis’ favorite is the 2016 Rivallana Rioja Reserva. We purchased this bottle at Costco for $9.99. The Wine Spectator rated this wine a 92 and the Wine Enthusiast a 90. It is a blend of 90% Tempranillo - 5% Mazuelo -3% Graciano - 2% Garnacha. Inky garnet in the glass, this wine has a nose of black currant, purple plum, rosemary and oregano. It is soft at first sip, then tannins build in volume, mingling with flavors of cassis, blackberry, dark chocolate, coffee bean, and salted almonds. There is a touch of salinity on an otherwise bright finish. Next week our tasting will include:1. 2021 Yulumba Barossa Shiraz. We purchased this wine from Wall to Wall Wine for $19.99.2. 2019 Greg Norman, Limestone Coast Shiraz from Wall to Wall Wine for $15.50.3. 2022 Yellow Tail Shiraz from Walmart for $5.99.

Dennis and Denise have a budget-friendly show tonight, with each wine costing less than $10. We randomly selected and tasted three white wines. Also, see if you can catch ten references to different songs.See if Dennis and Denise can figure out what wines they are drinking tonight. Tonight, our three wines include:2022 Bouchard Aine & Fils, Chardonnay, purchased at Costco for $9.99. Wine Enthusiast scored it a 92. It has between 11% - 14% alcohol. Floral notes on the nose, Palate is rich with vanilla, lemon, and peach notes.2023 Famille Perrin, Cotes Du Rhone Reserve, from Costco for $9.99. 13.5% alcohol. Made from Grenache Blanc, Marsanne, Roussanne, and Viogneir. Nose – floral, apple, and peach. Clean and balanced with minerality. Serve with Mediterranean food, white fish, white meat, and Asian food. Serve at 50 degrees.2023 Vignobles Lacheteau. We purchased this 100% Sauvignon Blanc wine at Trader Joe’s for $6.99. It is fermented in stainless steel tanks with 11.5% alcohol. According to Blonde Voyage Nashville https://www.blondevoyagenashville.com, it has a pale/medium straw color, lemon, peach, green apple. It has slight grassiness on the nose with moderate acidity. Serve chilled. Perfect with cheddar, Gouda, or Havarti cheese. Also pairs with seafood. Next week we will have something a little different. The Episode is called “What is Your Perfect Wine?”  The two wines we will taste include: 1. 2022 Gerard Bertrand Rose. We purchased this wine at Costco for $12.99. 2. 2016 Rivallana Rioja Reserva that was purchased at Costco for $9.99.

Tonight, our wine-tasting duo takes part in our first-ever head-to-head challenge. We will examine the differences between the two wines and help you decide which wine is right for you. Pinot Noir is the wine that made Burgundy France famous, but what about Pinot from the New World, specifically, California and Oregon. Oregon is known for its Pinot, and its cooler climate has perfect growing conditions. Oregon Pinot is known for its earthiness, minerality, and fruitiness. California Pinot is often a slightly heavier body, darker, and more fruit-forward wine. Tonight, we taste:1.       2019 Talbott, Kali Hart Pinot Noir. https://www.talbottvineyards.com/ Purchased from Costco for $17.49. James Suckling gave this wine a 93. Wine Enthusiast rated it a 92. It comes from Monterey, Central Coast, California. Estate-grown, fruit-driven with just a touch of French Oak. Wine Enthusiast said aromas of cedar, grilled strawberry, and cracked pepper. Flavors of mace and cumin.2.       2021 Willamette Valley Vineyards Pinot Noir. https://www.wvv.com/ Purchased from Costco for $17.00. This wine comes from the Willamette Valley in Oregon. The Vineyard has iron-rich volcanic soils. They thin the grapes to increase the intensity of the grapes. It has raspberry, strawberry preserves, cardamom spice, and earth aromas. Another source says aromas of dried dark cherries, cinnamon, and cranberry. Taste of cherry, leather, tobacco, and fresh acidity. Ph of 3.33 - 3.50. Stainless steel barrels are used for fermentation. Next week we will have a Bargain Hunt Show looking for great tasting white wines under $10. The wines will include:1.      2022 Bouchard Aine & Fils, Chardonnay, purchased at Costco for $9.99.2.     2023 Famille Perrin, Cotes Du Rhone from Costco for $9.99.3.     2023 Vignobles Lacheteau, Sauvignon Blanc purchased at Trader Joe’s for $6.99.

Tonight, our blind-tasting duo heads down south, way down south to Argentina. Malbec is a Bordeaux grape that has become less popular in France but is king in Argentina. Malbec is the most planted grape by far in Argentina. It produces over half of the worlds Malbec. (According to the Oxford Wine Companion) Malbecs from Argentina are riper and more velvety than those from France. Malbec was a widely planted grape in California before prohibition. Plantings have again been growing in California.Malbec is a medium to full-body wine, normally fruit-forward. It has red and dark fruit flavors. The warmer the climate, the darker the fruit. Many Malbecs have little oak aging. Cahors in Southwestern France produces a lot of Malbec called Cot. It has darker fruit flavors with higher tannins and smoke or earthiness. Malbec often has a purple tint. Tonight, we taste: 1.       2022 Kirkland Signature Malbec $6.99 at Costco. The wine is produced in Mendoza, Argentina. Aged 12 months in French Oak Barrels. The Wine Adventure Journal and Reverse Wine Snob say - Aromas: Plum, blackberry, cola, licorice, vanilla, dusty spice, fig, and leather. Taste – Vanilla, chocolate, plum, black cherry. They call it an easy-to-drink wine with earthy characteristics. Reverse Wine Snob calls it a bulk buy. 2.       2022 Zuccardi Serie A $11.99 at Costco. I saw online for $14.00 to $17.00. This wine comes from the Uco Valley, Mendoza, Argentina. Robert Parker gave it a 92. The winemaker says, Aroma: cherry and prunes, with black pepper and tobacco. Also get chocolate, cherry liqueur, and spicy notes. Soft and velvety with firm tannins. 3.       2022 Wapisa Malbec $14.99 from Costco. The wine comes from Patagonia, Argentina. James Suckling gave it a 94. Flavors of dark plums and blackberries, chocolate, ripe tannins, and good acidity. Next week we are having our first challenge show. It is a Pinot Noir Challenge and features a California Pinot verse a Oregon Pinot. The wines will include:1.       2019 Talbott, Kali Hart Pinot Noir. Purchased from Costco for $17.49. 2.       2021 Willamette Valley Vineyards Pinot Noir. Purchased from Costco for $17.00.

To honor the start of the Football season (tailgate season). Dennis and Denise are having a canned and boxed wine show. We have never tried a canned wine, so we are excited to see if they are good. These wines are becoming more popular because of their user-friendliness. See if Dennis and Denise will recommend any of these three affordable wines. One of these may be a great option for your next picnic, hike, or canoe trip. Tonight, our three wines include:Bota Mini Sauvignon Blanc. I purchased it from Wall to Wall Wine and Spirits for $5.99. This is a crisp and refreshing wine with notes of lime zest, lemon grass, citrus and melon, and complemented by a touch of minerality. This 500 ml package contains the equivalent of three 5.6 oz glasses and features a 12.5% alcohol by volume content. The wine is produced in Chile and comes in environmentally-friendly packaging made primarily from paper, a renewable resource, which contributes to a smaller carbon footprint compared to traditional glass bottles.Black Box Australia Chardonnay. Purchased at Wall to Wall Wine and Spirits for $5.99. This is a light and clean wine with hints of pineapple, green apple, tart lemon, and lemon blossoms with a touch of sweetness on the finish.Canned Oregon Red Pinot Noir. Again, purchased at Wall to Wall Wine and Spirits for $5.99. This wine comes from the Stoller Family Estate, a family of veteran winemakers with deep roots in Oregon's Dundee Hills. Light and lively, this crushable red is filled to the brim with ripe red cherries, raspberries and hints of rose petal. It's perfect for sipping in the park or by a cozy fire.Next week we are tasting Malbec from Argentina. The three wines we will taste include:2022 Kirkland Signature Malbec, purchased at Costco for $6.99. 2022 Zuccardi Serie E, it was purchased at Costco for $11.992022 Wapisa. This was purchased from Costco for $14.99.

Dennis and Denise have a budget-friendly show tonight, with each wine costing less than $10. We randomly selected and tasted three red wines. Also, see if you can catch ten references to different songs. We learn some wine terms. We also discuss why we look at the wine before we swirl, smell, and sip.See if Dennis and Denise can figure out what wines they are drinking tonight. Tonight, our three wines include:1.       2018 Bogle https://boglewinery.com/ Petite Sirah from California. I purchased it from Costco for $8.49. Wine Enthusiast gave this wine a 91 and called it a Best Buy. 2.      2016 Chateau Le Grand Moulin, Blaye Cotes De Bordeaux. I purchased it from Costco for $8.00. The Wine Enthusiast gave this wine a 92 and was the Editor’s Choice. This Bordeaux blend is mostly made up of Merlot with Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. It is aged in cement vats and is described as being fruit-forward. Aromas of dark currant, blackberry, cassis, int, and spice with a touch of earthiness. Medium bodied. Refined tannins and balanced acidity. 3.      2020 Aglianico Puglia IGP. The Epicuro Vino Rosso https://www.femarvini.com/en/brand-en/epicuro.html was purchased at Trader Joes for $5.99. Cellar tracker gave the wine a 88. Flavors of Blueberry, plum and fig with a medium level of jamminess. Dark fruits with oak, vanilla and tobacco. Very smooth with full mouth feel. Need to let breath before drinking. Next week we are tasting canned or boxed wines that you can take to the tailgate. The three wines we will taste include:1.       Bota Mini Sauvignon Blanc, purchased at Wall to Wall Wine for $4.99. 2.       Black Box Australia Chardonnay, it was purchased at Wall to Wall Wine for $4.993.       Canned Oregon Red Pinot Noir. This was purchased from Wall to Wall Wine for $5.99.

Tonight our blind-tasting pair looks for a wine you can enjoy before summer is over. We will delve into some facts about Rose’ so you can make an informed purchase.We will also talk about wine characteristics, terms, and general rules you may want to follow to make your wine tasting experience the best it can be.We are also changing our format from a double-blind tasting to a single-blind tasting. NOOOOO! DON”T DO IT!!! Oh wait, what does that even mean? We will explain. Tonight, we taste:1.       2023 Kirkland Provence $7.99 from Costco. The blend includes 36% Grenache, 28% Cinsault, 12% Syrah, 10% Vermentino, 5% Carignan, 5% Tibouren, and 4% Ugni Blanc. The Reverse Wine Snob says - Aroma: strawberry, cherry and a little watermelon plus some salty minerality and pleasing touches of wild herbs and flowers. (Bulk buy) 2.       2023 Ro Substance Rose $9.99 from Costco. This wine is made from the Syrah grape and comes from the Wahluke Slope, Columbia Valley, Washington State. The Reverse Wine Snob says – Aroma: strawberry, melon and cherry, along with some light herbal notes. Tastes: Watermelon and some other tart fruit notes are added to all the other flavors from the nose. Smooth and a bit creamy, the wine also has great depth of flavor on the rich, juicy fruit.3.       2023 Illahe Tempranillo Rose’ $19.99 from Wall to Wall Wine and Spirits. The wine comes from https://www.illahevineyards.com/wines in the Willamette Valley from 100% Tempranillo Grapes that are picked early to give acidity. 25% barrel and 75% tank fermented. 3.22 pH (this is low so should be bright and crisp). The winemaker says Aromas of Lemon zest, spruce, rhubarb, and fleshy watermelon rind. Taste: juicy honeydew melon and Oregon strawberry finish. Next week we will have a red wine Budget Bargain Hunt Episode. Each wine will cost less than $10. We will be tasting three wines that will include:1. 2018 Bogle Petite Sirah that we purchased at Costco for $8.49.2. 2016 Chateau Le Grand Moulin, Blaye Cotes De Bordeaux, purchased at Costco for $8.00.3. 2020 Aglianico Puglia IGP, Epicuro Vino Rosso from Trader Joes for $5.99.

Our blind-tasting pair are in for a treat, and so are you if you taste along with them. Garnacha originated in northeastern Spain. It is a heat-loving drought resistant grape.  It spread around the Mediterranean and up into France where it is known as Grenache. Grenache is mostly a blending grape so getting a single variety wine can be difficult. Winemakers love it for blending because of its darker color and fuller body, medium tannins, and fruitiness. Denise loves it. Tonight, Dennis and Denise taste three affordable Grenache wines. (maybe two that are affordable, the third is pricey, but again it's hard to find a single variety Grenache) Our three wines include:1.      2017 Granito del Cadalso from Madrid, Spain. I purchased it from our local Wall to Wall Wine Store for $14.63. It comes from a co-op in the Sierra de Gredos, made from all old-vine Garnacha and grown in granite soils. It was destemmed and brought up all in concrete tanks. This Pinot Noir-like beauty offers notes of wild strawberries, rose hips, violets, and crushed rocks. Medium-bodied, with remarkable purity and vibrancy, it still has ample power and richness. This fabulous expression of Grenache is almost too good to be true.2.      2018 Centenaria Garnacha from Campo De Borja, Spain. We purchased from our local Wall to Wall Wine Store for $15.83. Rich and velvety, big but gentle with raspberry jam, cherry pie and vanilla flavors. Well-integrated tannins give subtle structure, while citrusy acidity keeps this fresh. Fruit centered.3.      2017 Idle Cellars Grenache from Sonoma County, a wine we purchased at Wine Styles for $37.00. Dry, fruit-forward but well balanced with acid, tannins, and body. Raspberries, cinnamon, cherries, strawberries, star anise, and black cherries are some of the flavors that come through. An adult fruit roll-up if you will. It pairs well with seared tuna, steak, roasted root vegetables, braised short ribs, and carnitas tacos.Next week we will be tasting Rose. The three wines we will taste include:1.       2023 Kirkland Provence, purchased at Costco for $7.99. 2.      2023 Ro Substance Rose’, it was purchased at Costco for $9.993.       2023 Illahe Tempranillo Rose’. This was purchased from our local Wall to Wall Wine Store for $19.99.

Chardonnay is probably the most loved and hated wine in the world. Have you heard of ABC – (Anything But Chardonnay)? Some people dislike it, but it is still the world's most plantedwhite wine grape. Why is it hated? We will try to find the answer in this episode. If you think you don’t like Chardonnay, maybe you haven’t tried the right one. Chardonnay is grown in nearly all wine regions, and it produces wines from bright and crisp to heavily oaked and buttery.Vineyard owners like Chardonnay because it is a hearty grape that grows in various climates. Winemakers like Chardonnay because of its versatility. Tonight, Dennis and Denise taste three affordable Chardonnays. Our three wines include.1.       The 2022 Domaine Seguinot-Bordet Chablis https://www.seguinot-bordet.com/en/ from Burgundy, France. I purchased this wine from our local Wall to Wall Wine Store for $27.99. Tasting notes: Acidic with balance. Green apple, citrus, pineapple, toasted oak, vanilla, butter, and salinity. 2.       The 2020 Aviary Chardonnay https://www.folktalegroup.com/aviary-vineyardsfrom Napa Valley. We purchased it from Costco for $11.99. I found this wine for sale online mostly in the $14-$18 range. Tasting notes: oak, butter, vanilla, cream, banana, yogurt, pear, apple, and melon.3.       The 2022 Kirkland Signature Sonoma County Chardonnay, a wine we purchased at Costco for $7.99. The Reverse Wine Snob https://www.reversewinesnob.com/ said it had, aromas of apples, citrus, and a touch of toasty oak. WineEnthusiast https://www.wineenthusiast.com/ gave it a 90. Tropical notes of pineapple and papaya, white nectarine. Some stone fruits and hints of florals, baking spice. Finishes with lemon zest and vanilla crème brulee.Next week we will be tasting Grenache. The three wines we will taste include:1.      2017 Granito del Cadalso from Madrid, Spain. I purchased this wine at ourlocal Wall to Wall Wine Store for $14.63.2.     2017 Idle Cellars Grenache from Sonoma County, a wine we purchased at the West Des Moines Wine Styles for $37.00.3.      2018 Centenaria Garnacha from Campo De Borja, Spain. We again purchased it from our local Wall to Wall Wine Store for $15.91.

Chianti is a classic Italian wine. It has come a long way from the basket wines found in the checkered tablecloth restaurants of the past century. Tonight, our two blind tasters will pair Chianti with some cheese. Join them as they taste these three wines. 1.       2021 Kirkland Riserva Classico ($8.99) from Costco https://costcowineblog.com/ 2.      2021 Gabbiano Calvaliera D’Ore https://www.castellogabbiano.it/ ($11.99) from our local Wall to Wall Wine Store 3.     2020 Peppoli Chianti Classico https://www.antinori.it/ ($24.99) from our local Wall to Wall Wine Store.  Other Sangiovese based wines from Italy. Brunello di Montalcino    Vino Nobile di Montepulciano    Morellino di Scansano    Carmignano    Sagrantino di Montefalco    Sangiovese di Romagna    Tignanello (80% Sangiovese- 15% Cabernet Sauvignon – 5% Cabernet Franc)    Bibi Graetz (100% from old vines) Nielluccio – Corsica (France)Next week we will be tasting Chardonnay. The three wines we will taste include: 1.       2022 Domaine Seguinot-Bordet Chablis from Burgundy, France. I purchased from our local Wall to Wall Wine Store for $27.99. 2.      2020 Aviary Chardonnay from Napa Valley. We purchased from Costco for $11.99. I found this wine for sale online mostly in the $14-$18 range. 3.      2022 Kirkland Signature Sonoma County Chardonnay, a wine we purchased at Costco for $7.99.

Riesling is a light, high-acid summer refresher and can be a great pairing with the right food. Some people avoid Riesling, believing it is only a sweet wine. While it can be made sweet, most Riesling is bone dry. Today we will taste these three Rieslings.1.       2023 Joseph Handler Riesling ($5.99) from Trader Joe’s. This wine is off-dry, with notes of Green-apple, pear, and apple.  2.       2022 Poet’s Leap https://longshadows.com Long Shadows Vintners Collection Riesling ($22.99) from our local Wall to Wall Wine Store. This wine is 100% barrel-fermented in a 360 gallon French oak cask. The wine remains on lees for four months after fermentation. Jasmine and slate aromatics, Gauva hints with citrus and stone fruit flavors. Bright acidity, good minerality. Long finish. It has 0.13 g/100 ml of residual sugar and is very acidic with a 2.97 ph. 3.       2021 Loosen Dr L https://drloosen.com  ($9.49) from Costco. Crisp, fruity and refreshing. From steep hillsides with slate soils. Peach, citrus, mineral.  It has 44.5 grams/liter residual sugar.Next week we will be tasting Chianti. Our three wines will include:2021 Kirkland Riserva Classico from Costco $8.99.2021 Gabbiano Calvaliera D'Ore from Wall to Wall Wine $11.99.2020 Peppoli Chianti Classico from Wall to Wall Wine $24.99.

Dennis and Denise are opting for a budget-friendly approach tonight, with each wine costing less than $10. We chose three refreshing summer wines that won’t break the bank. We taste the 2023 Landkastel Riesling ($6.99) from Aldi, 2023 Kirkland Pinot Grigio ($4.99) from Costco, and the Espiral Vinho Verde ($4.99) from Trader Joe’s. Listen to find out our favorite.

In this episode, Pinot Noir reigns supreme. The grape that made Burgundy famous and produces some of the most expensive wines in the world takes to the tasting ring. Which wine will wear the belt in the blind wine tasting? Unknown to us, tonight we tasted these three Pinots: 2022 Ken Wright Cellars Willamette Valley ($25.99) from our local wine store - Wall to Wall Wine; our second wine was a 2021 San Simeon Monterey Pinot Noir ($19.99) from Costco, and our final wine was the Kirkland Signature Russian River Valley Pinot Noir ($11.99) from Costco.Next week we will taste a 2023 Landkastel Riesling ($6.99) from Aldi; a 2023 Kirkland Pinot Grigio ($4.99) from Costco; and an Espiral Vinho Verde ($4.99) from Trader Joe’s.

Tonight, Dennis and Denise get marooned on the island of New Zealand where Sauvignon Blanc is number one. We wade through information about Sauvignon Blanc, before casting off on a blind wine tasting journey. Join the pair as they taste a 2023 Kirkland Ti Point Sauvignon Blanc; a 2018 Craggy Range Te Muna; and a 2022 Justin from the Central Coast of California. Three very different wines. Dovee loves one!

In this episode of the Wine Appraiser Podcaster, Dennis and Denise blindly taste, learn about, and rate three affordable Cabernet Sauvignon wines. This could be the best wine to pair with a juicy steak. Tonight we taste a 2019 Santa Ema from the Maipo Valley, Chile. We next taste a 2015 Farnito from Tuscany, Italy. Our final wine was a 2018 Clay Shannon from Lake County, California. We had one clear winner in this episode, and one is a good buy for the price.