Water into Wino

Typical friday story...

I picked up a bottle of Montes Cabernet Sauvignon Reserve 2005 last night on my way to a friends house. The wine store was tasting a few wines so I couldn't resist trying a couple even though I was running late. Good thing I did cause the Oregon A to Z Vineyards Night & Day 2005 red was delicious. Mostly Merlot, Cab Franc, and Cab Sauvignon, it was ripe and fruit forward, with some earth and spice. The 2004 vintage was sprinkled with a bit of Dolcetto and Syrah as well as other grapes, but I'm not sure about this one. Nothing too complex but just a naturally enjoyable wine. They didn't have any to sell because I think the employees were tasting to decide on stocking it. If they do, I'm going to buy a couple... even if it is a screw cap closure.

As far as the Chilean Montes Cabernet went, it was OK. The aromas were sexy as hell but the tannins were very immature and bitter. The 2004 was voted best of tasting by the WSJ not too long ago in their Chilean Cab article. This vintage should mellow out with bottle age, but since I'm nothing close to an expert, I'm totally guessing.

Argyle Pinot Noir 2003

Argyle Pinot Noir 2003 Oregon, Willamette Valley ($23)

I have to admit... I am not the hugest Pinot fan. Could be due to the fact that I've never spent over $20 on a bottle of Pinot Noir. Could be that the latest buzz over Pinot is a turnoff. So many reviews, articles, and suggestions. A lot of hype and a lot to live up to. After combing through my limited cellar the other day I decided I needed a Pinot in there just because I may just need one to pair witht that perfect pork loin someday. I chose a Willamette Valley winery, paying just over $20. The man at the store said that this one was a popular gift. Argyle has a recognizable name, I guess, so why not try what a typical Pinot from the area tastes like. They did have a $45 bottle called "The Nuthouse" from the same winery, but I don't tend to pay that kind of cash for a wine I haven't tried.

This bottle is sealed with a screw cap for starters. I stay away from them usually, unless its a cheaper bottle. I think I'm too impulsive for screw caps. That extra time it takes to uncork a bottle might delay my decision to open it, which is a good thing as Martha would say. Very dark red color. Aroma was full extremely floral with plum and raisin. This was a "big" Pinot. Full bodied and over powering. Wasn't nearly as delicate as I thought Oregon Pinots were. Very jammy. It mellowed out a bit with time but it was still unbalanced. Not a bad wine, but not what I was looking for. My grade: B-