Kozlovic Muscat, 2006
Istrian Wines and Gianfranco Kozlovic
In the mid-1990s, young Istrian politicians proclaimed that, far from having to rely solely on coastal tourism, the Istrian economy could thrive on the production of wine and olives, and the caches of truffles in Istrian forests. Today, in this relatively small region that makes up the northern coastline of Croatia, there are more than 80 active wineries. The private wine makers of Istria have made local grape varieties a specialty. Drawing on tradition and the grapes’ suitability for the region, they are able to produce high-quality wines of unique appeal. Made from the most noble Muscat variety, Muscat Blanc à Petits Grains, this sweet nectar is a Kozlovic specialty. Its bright honeysuckle, orange-blossom and slight licorice aromas deliver generously on the palate, along with ripe pear and a medium-high acidity that enlivens the wine.
LAN Rioja Crianza, 2005
Light scents of crushed rose petals and frisky cherry tomato flavors give this a bright, zesty tone. The tannins are also light, with a gravelly feel. This is a versatile red for olives and jamón Serrano, or more substantial meats such as duck.
LAN Rioja Reserva, 2004
A silky texture carries expressive flavors of black plum, violet, licorice and smoke in this focused, balanced red. Has good intensity yet remains vibrant and accessible.
Lirica , 2008
Produced and bottled on Peljesac, north of Dubrovnik and just south of the controlled apellation of Dingac, Lirica delivers vibrant aromas of sun-ripened fruit, fresh cherries, cloves and cinnamon. Its high acidity and ample tannin make this earthy, rustic wine a good choice for burgers and steak.
Mansus Klarnica, 2008
Who needs dessert when you can have this Klarnica! Baked apples and pear tart aromas, oily, silky smooth - this wine will seduce anybody! Klarnica is a local variety grown only in Vipava Valley in Slovenia. Mansus Klarnica is an organic, small-production semi-sweet wine that is a rare find for wine lovers!
Marko Polo Posip Cara, 2010
The isaland of Korcula, just a short ferry ride from the northern Peljesac, is Dalmatia's most populous island and the historic birthplace of the explorer Marko Polo. Wine production here is 70% white, and Posip is the premiere white grape. This early-ripened is native to Dalmatia, and some researchers cite a possible relation to Hungary's Furmint. The vineyards of PZ Posip, the producer of Marko Polo Posip, are located in the valley of the village Cara, the top designated growing region for the grape. The Marko Polo label is produced from the top 10% of the vineyard harvest and is matured in neutral barrels. The wine is extremely popular in Croatia, and is becoming increasingly well known in Europe and the United States as a unique indigenous wine showing varietal character and sense of place.
A lovely deep lemon hue leads to citrus aromas on the nose, along with sweet pear and a hint of vanilla. The wine is dry, with medium acidity and fairly full body. Pear and citrus dominate the palate, with a typical bitter-almond finish. Ideal with prosciutto and other charcuterie, Marko Polo Posip is also a classic pairing with seafood.
Pago Senda Misa Krismon, 2008
This bodega makes three lovely Ribera del Duero wines from a small vineyard in the heart of Ribera del Duero. As the name suggests, the Krismon 2008 6 meses in barrica is a wine that has been aged for 6 months in new French oak barriques. Although the fruit for this wine comes from the youngest part of the vineyard, the vines are still more than 20 years old and the same care is used in the harvest
and vinification as for the top wine of the bodega. The resulting wine shows ample fruit along with the leather, tobacco, and earthiness that characterizes this as a classic, powerful Ribera del Duero wine.
Picada 15, 2007
This is blend: 40% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot, 20% Melbec and 10% Pinit Noir from vineyard of Patagonia harvested by hand.Tasting Notes: Deep ruby red. Aromas of green pepper from the Cabernet Sauvignon togetherith red berries from the Merlot. A round fruity finish with cherries. A pleasant easy drinking wine.
Pomelo Sauvignon Blanc, 2008
Vivid passion fruit, lime peel, guava and quince flavors are refreshingly juicy and light-bodied, with good focus and a distinctive mineral note. Scents of green fig and fresh cut grass fill this light, herbal sauvignon. Chill it for a salad of goat cheese and green zebra tomatoes.
Pullus Pinot Grigio, 2009
Made from selected, perfectly ripe grapes, this Pinot Grigio was given cold maceration, ML, lees aging, and 10% barrique maturation.
Tasting Notes:
Starting with a delightful rosy-gold hue typical of the grape, this dry wine delivers everything wine lovers expect from Pinot Grigio - and more. The nose offers ripe pear, green melon and floral notes, while the discreet oak and the creamy quality given by lees aging round out the experience. Perfect for pasta, white meat and young cheeses.
88 points Best Buy By Wine@Spirits
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