Posts Written OnJuly 2013

Pellegrini Vineyards 2007 Reserve

Pellegrini Vineyards 2007 Reserve ($70) offers aromas of toasty oak, plum, prune and black cherry with hints of earthy, woodsy spice and vanilla. Full bodied and showing a bit of alcohol, the palate is ripe and concentrated, showing plum, blackberry and cherry flavors that are somewhat dominated by nutty oak. On days two and three, a bit of earthiness and spice crept forward, perhaps pointing to improvement in the future. For now, this wine isn’t nearly as good as the 2005 edition and is ultimately not a great value. Producer: Pellegrini Vineyards AVA: North Fork of Long Island Grapes: 41% merlot, 35%…

What New York Wines Would You Have Oregon Winemakers Taste?

Recently at a wine dinner in Manhattan featuring Oregon’s Bergström Wines, general manager, vineyard manager and winemaker Josh Bergström expressed significant interest in New York wines, but due to limited distribution in Oregon, he has only had a few samples when he has visited New York City. As I always take advantage of such opportunities to share New York wines, I told him that I would provide him with some great examples, and in return he and his staff will do tastings of the wines and provide their tasting notes to compare with New York winemaker notes and wine reviews. Josh…

Empire State Cellars Wine Club: July 2013 Selections

The July shipment of the Empire State Cellars Wine Club will go out to members this week — meaning that it’s time to announce my selections. If you’re not familiar with the club, you can learn more here. “Hello New York” Wines Shinn Estate Vineyards 2012 Rose: There is a lot of delicious rose being made on Long Island, but when it comes to a burger- or barbecued-chicken ready rose, I often reach for Shinn Estates. Ripe berries and watermelon are fresh and concentrated — and able to stand up to foods that would dominate lighter rose. Brooklyn Oenology 2010 Social Club…