by contributing writer Steve Gross

Simply put: I like wines that smell good. They can be subtle or strong, but I want them to smell good. After that, I want those smells to stay with me as I drink the glass, not simply disappear into watery, tasteless nothingness.

I should probably stop right there, but you know how this goes. I’ll try not to pontificate much further from this point on, however.

New Wine Drinkers

My wish for newer wine drinkers is that they find at least one wine that really smells great. I’m pretty sure that once that happens, they’ll begin to ask questions and possibly demands from their wine. They’ll eventually insist that the wines they drink offer something special; note, not necessarily expensive or famous, just special.

Chemicals

What I smell in a lot of lower-priced, mass-produced wines is chemicals. Synthetic, plastic-like smells. I don’t really want to drink them at that point. A good, fresh glass of cold water would do just fine (no lemon, please). I would consider my job done if I could save newer wine drinkers from plastic.

Wine By the Glass

This brings us to wine by the glass, one area where many enter the wine drinking ranks. My experience is that most wine-by-the-glass lists in restaurants would NEVER encourage anyone to delve deeper into wine. In fact, many of the by-the-glass wines smell like those chemicals I talked about earlier.

This is really too bad, since the $8 Chardonnay at the corner restaurant has a real opportunity to initiate new wine drinkers and even encourage them to order the more expensive stuff down the road. Mostly, it’s over chilled and thin.

Though I live in one of the petrochemical capitals of the world, I stand in opposition to chemical aromas and flavors in the wines I drink. Who’s with me?

Steve Gross likes wine that smells good, moves him to states of reverie, and demands a second, third, or fourth taste. Seeking these wines keeps him busy, but he somehow finds time to work as a Special Education Teacher and to guide birdwatchers throughout Texas and the Western US. Look for Steve wherever great food and wine, mountains, birds, and fresh air are found.

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by Amy Gross, the VineSleuth

Unfortunately I had to duck out of the Rioja wine class and tasting at the Snooth PVA weekend a bit early in order to catch my flight back to Houston, but I was still able to learn quite a bit about the region and taste some delicious wines.

Region vs. Grape

Rioja is a wine region in Spain and, just like other Old World wines, the wine is identified by its region, not by the grape blend in the bottle. Tempranillo is the grape variety you are most likely to find in a Rioja wine as it thrives in the climate and has, consequently, grown in popularity over the years.

You can also find Garnacha Tinta (or Grenache, which is its more popular French name) Graciano, and Mazuelo in Riojan reds, as well as a few others. Don’t be mistaken, though, Rioja also produces white wines. Viura, Malvasia and Garnacha Blanca are among those white Riojan varieties.

Location

Rioja is situated in northern central Spain and is 70 miles long and 30 miles wide,  spanning 7 valleys created by tributaries into the Ebro river, which flows to the Mediterranean. The region is further broken down into three subregions: Rioja Alta, Rioja Alavesa and Rioja Baja.

High Quality Wine

In 1991 Rioja was the first region in Spain to earn the classification of DOCa, or Denominacion de Origen Calificada. This classification signifies that the wines from this region are consistently of high quality. Only two other regions in the country have the same classification. Planting, harvesting and yield practices, as well as other wine making practices and labeling guidelines are governed and monitored to keep this prestigious classification.

The Wines

So what do the wines taste like?

Tempranillo is typically a medium-bodied wine with red fruit characteristics. That means you might notice sour cherry, cherry, or red berry flavors in a glass. That being said, however, I don’t find them to typically be all fruit, as I often notice hints of tobacco or spices, as well. I most often find them to be full of flavor and have absolutely enjoyed exploring Rioja tempranillos both when offered at 100% and when blended perhaps with Garnacha Tinta.

What do You Think?

Are you a fan of Rioja wines? Which are your favorites? Let us know in the comments.

Disclosure: My attendance at this seminar was sponsored by Snooth. Opinions expressed are my own.

What is Rioja Wine? is a post from: VineSleuth Uncorked Thank you for Subscribing to VineSleuth Uncorked, the wine blog for casual wine drinkers. Cheers!

On our Memorial Day Pinterest Board, you’ll find:

• Decor Ideas: It’s always fun to add some patriotic flair to your Memorial Day get-together. We’ve found some links with FREE printables including signs, banners, a fill-in menu, food labels, and cupcake toppers.
• Recipes: Good food is essential to your Memorial Day BBQ. Try one of these delicious looking recipes for the grill — burgers with special ingredients, glazed salmon, sausages, and skirt steak. We’ve also found some traditional Memorial Day side dishes — deviled eggs, potato salad, coleslaw and more. And of course, we didn’t forget dessert! Red wine cupcakes, anyone?
• Wine Crafts for Entertaining: You might want to add a little wine decor to your gathering. Make some wine cork cheese markers, some wine charms for your glasses, or wine cork canape knives for dips and spreads.
• Wine Tips & Recipes: Get a few ideas about wines and wine pairing. Also, don’t miss a great sangria recipe that’s perfect for a beautiful Memorial Day!

How do you make your Memorial Day get-together special?

Memorial Day Party Ideas is a post from: VineSleuth Uncorked Thank you for Subscribing to VineSleuth Uncorked, the wine blog for casual wine drinkers. Cheers!

Mark the dates for these wonderful wine events coming up.  Most are in California, but the Austrian wine week is nation wide.

Jump to an Event

• Austrian Wine Retail Weeks – Nationwide
• Dutton-Goldfield Soundcheck Sunday – California
• Arista Winery’s Annual Memorial Day Weekend Backyard Party – California
• Alexander Valley Spring Bash and Blending Party – California
• Russian River Valley Passport to Pinot – California
• Chef’s Summer Dinner Series at Seghesio Family Vineyard – California
• Flanagan Winemaker Dinner – California

Austrian Wine Retail Weeks

Learn more about Austrian wines at wine shops nationwide.

Event Details

Event: This promotion will involve over 100 top retail stores across the country; each store will carry at least six different Austrian wines. During this period, Austrian wine will be featured in tastings, promotions, and more in select stores in top markets across the country.
Date: Now through June 9th
Location: in over 100 wine shops around the country
Contact: Austrian Wine USA
Schedule of Events: See the schedule of events here.

Dutton-Goldfield Soundcheck Sunday, California

Warm weather is here and so is live music at Dutton-Goldfield Winery. Enjoy basking in the sunshine, wine, and live music on Sunday afternoons throughout the summer.

Event Details

Event: Enjoy Dutton-Goldfield wines and the local music scene out on the patio.
Date: Every Sunday from May 19th through July 28th from 1:00-4:00pm, weather permitting
Location: Dutton-Goldfield Winery, 3100 Gravenstein Hwy North,  Sebastopol, California
Contact: info@duttongoldfield.com or 707-861-9460
Schedule: Click here to see the list of bands.

Arista Winery’s Backyard BBQ, California

Arista Winery invites you to join them in celebrating the release of new wines at their Memorial Day Weekend Backyard BBQ.

Event Details

Event: Wine release party featuring a traditional southern BBQ lunch and a live blues band.
Date: Sunday, May 26th from 12:00-3:00pm
Location: Arista Winery, 7015 Westside Road, Healdsburg, California
Contact: 707-473-0606
Cost: $85 per person
Tickets: Click here to buy tickets. Tickets are limited.

Celebrate the release of Arista Winery’s 2012 Ferrington Vineyard Gewurztraminer, 2011 Ritchie Vineyard Chardonnay, 2011 Mendocino Ridge Pinot Noir, and 2011 Smokey Ridge Vineyard Zinfandel.

Alexander Valley Vineyards’ Spring Bash & Blending Party, California

Have you ever dreamed of being a winemaker for a day? You can at Alexander Valley Vineyards’ Spring Bash.

Event Details

Event: Wine Blending Seminar and Competition followed by a gourmet luncheon.
Date: Saturday, June 1st from 10:00am – 3:00pm
Location: Alexander Valley Vineyards, 8644 Highway 128, Healdsburg, California
Contact: Lu Hughes at 800-888-7209 or lh@avvwine.com
Cost: $65 per person
Tickets: RSVP to Lu or Mike at 707.433.7209 or 800.888.7209 by May 24th. Reservations are required and space is limited.

After attending the blending seminar, you’ll join a team and have the chance to measure, blend and taste your wine as you come up with your favorite blend. The winning blend will be chosen by Winemaker Kevin Hall and bottled as the next vintage of Wine Club Reserve, with the winning team’s name on the label. A gourmet luncheon on the garden patio of the Wetzel Family Estate will follow. Click here for full details.

Russian River Valley’s Passport to Pinot, California

The Russian River Valley Passport to Pinot weekend offers ticket holders exclusive experiences throughout the weekend at participating wineries. Pinot is the focus, but each winery will also have unique offerings.

Event Details

Event: Wine weekend in the Russian River Valley.
Date: Saturday-Sunday, June 8th & 9th from 11:00am -  4:00pm
Location: over 30 wineries in the Russian River Valley in California
Contact: 707-521-2534 or info@rrvw.org
Cost: $65 (two-day), $40 (Sunday only), and $20 (designated driver)
Tickets: Click here to buy tickets.

Join the amazing producers of the Russian River Valley at our annual Passport to Pinot weekend where you can celebrate the allure of our Pinot Noir and escape into the rugged beauty of the valley. This world-class tasting experience will have you traveling through our vineyards and redwoods along the Russian River, discovering hidden gems – fresh, local food, hospitality like no other and exclusive experiences at participating wineries. Click here for more information.

Chef’s Dinner Series at Seghesio Family Vineyards, California

A unique dining experience showcasing Seghesio wines in the vineyards where they’re grown.

Event Details

Event: Guests will enjoy Chef Peter’s menu with a flight of Old Vine Zinfandels while surrounded by beautiful century-old, head-pruned vines.
Date: Saturday, June 8th from 5:00 – 9:00pm
Location: Seghesio Family Vineyards, 700 Grove Street, Healdsburg, California
Contact: 707-395-3609 or reservations@seghesio.com
Cost: $200 per person
Tickets: Click here to buy tickets.

These dinners, hosted by members of the Seghesio family, continue the winery’s long tradition of sharing wine and food among friends. Guests will be shuttled from the winery to these treasured sites to enjoy special wines from the Seghesio library and seasonal menus prepared by Executive Chef Peter Janiak, formerly of San Francisco’s Boulevard and Presidio Social Club.

Flanagan Winemaker Dinner, California

Join winemaker, Mark Mazzoni along with Eric and Kit Flanagan at Santé Restaurant in the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa. Each course will be paired perfectly with Flanagan wines.

Event Details

Event: Gourmet five-course meal paired with Flanagan wines.
Date: Thursday, June 13th at 6:30pm
Location: Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa, 100 Boyes Blvd., Sonoma, California
Contact: 707-939-2415
Cost: $115 per person (service charge and gratuity not included)
Tickets: Call 707-939-2415 for reservations.

Click here to view menu.

National Wine Events 5/19/13 is a post from: VineSleuth Uncorked Thank you for Subscribing to VineSleuth Uncorked, the wine blog for casual wine drinkers. Cheers!

One of the beauties of sangria is that it is easily made, without any strict recipes (just like lazy summer days). I also love that it can be made pitchers at a time to serve a crowd in a relaxed way.

As forgiving as sangria can be, it is always good to have a guideline sangria recipe until you are comfortable mixing on your own. This one from my friend Beth is a perfect one to get you started.

White Sangria

If you’d prefer a white sangria, just substitute a bottle of white Albarino, white Rioja, Pinot Gris or Sauvignon Blanc for the red wine.

Do you have a special ingredient that you add to your sangria? If so, please share it with us in the comments.

Sangria Recipe is a post from: VineSleuth Uncorked Thank you for Subscribing to VineSleuth Uncorked, the wine blog for casual wine drinkers. Cheers!

source: Janel Piersma. Used with permission.

I love personalized wine glasses. Not only are they inexpensive to make, but you don’t need wine glass charms if you make each one unique. Just pick up some plain wine glasses and add your own embellishments with glass paint. You can either make your own templates or purchase removable ones from the craft store.

Personalized wine glasses are also a perfect gift for the wine lovers in your life. Add personal touches that reflect the gift recipients, and you’ve got a gift that they’ll use and treasure.

Hand-Painted Wine Glasses

Back in December, Target had stemless wineglasses for just a dollar each. I couldn’t pass up the chance to dress them up a bit, and so I added different numbers to each one with gold glass paint (photo above). These are my go-to glasses. I just love them! Check out Life Your Way for the step-by-step tutorial on how to create your own templates on the computer and paint your design on with a paintbrush.

DIY Glitter Wine Glasses

source: Amy of Living Locurto. Used with permission.

If you want to add a little more pizazz to plain wine glasses, why not try glitter? Amy of Living Locurto has an easy tutorial that uses glitter nail polish and Dimensional Modge Podge. You can also add personalization with glass paint as well. Stop by the Living Locurto Blog for instructions.

Janel Piersma is virtual assistant, diy craft blogger, mom, and “law school wife” in Virginia. She blogs about motherhood, DIY, crafts, and living on a student’s budget at Life with L & E.

Personalized Wine Glasses is a post from: VineSleuth Uncorked Thank you for Subscribing to VineSleuth Uncorked, the wine blog for casual wine drinkers. Cheers!

Want to learn more about wines of a particular region or enjoy a multi-course wine dinner? Sign up for a wine tasting class from The Texas Wine School or a wine dinner from a Houston-based restaurant. Mark the dates for these great classes and wine events in the Houston area!

Jump to an Event

• Wine Tasting: Wines of Bordeaux
• Wine Tasting: Wines of Tuscany
• Revana Wine Dinner at Brennan’s
• Five-Course Agricola San Felice Wine Dinner at Damian’s Cucina Italiana
• Wine Tasting: Blind Tasting
• Wine Tasting: Wines of Australia

Wine Tasting: Wines of Bordeaux

Bordeaux is the premier region in the world and the one that everyone wants to know more about.

Event Details

Event: This seminar at The Texas Wine School is intended to teach you more about Bordeaux — its location, history, and trade within France and the world. Learn more about its grape varieties and blends: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon.
Date: Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Time: 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Location: Chilled Wine Storage, 2431 Bartlett Street, Houston, Texas, 77098
Contact: 713-882-8773 or e-mail jamesking@thetexaswineschool.com
Cost: $60 per person
Tickets: Register here.

Wine Tasting: Wines of Tuscany

You will leave this class knowing your way around the most important Tuscan wines and feeling more comfortable selecting wine at a restaurant and talking about them with friends.

Event Details

Event: This seminar at The Texas Wine School is intended to teach you about the most typical wines that Tuscan region of Italy has to offer.
Date: Tuesday, May 21, 2013
Time: 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Location: Chilled Wine Storage, 2431 Bartlett Street, Houston, Texas, 77098
Contact: 713-882-8773 or e-mail jamesking@thetexaswineschool.com
Cost: $60 per person
Tickets: Register here.

Revana Wine Dinner at Brennan’s

Enjoy a reception and five-course meal with wines from Revana Family Vineyard. The guest speaker will be Dr. Madaiah Revana.

Event Details

Event: Brennan’s of Houston will host a reception and five-course wine dinner showcasing the wines of Revana Family Vineyard. Tickets are non-refundable but are transferable.
Date: Tuesday, May 21st, 2013
Time: 6:30 – 9:30 pm
Location: Brennan’s of Houston, 3300 Smith Street, Houston, TX 77006
Contact: Fern Casio, 713-522-9711
Cost: $145 per person (plus tax and gratuity)
Tickets: Register here.

Five-Course Agricola San Felice Wine Dinner at Damian’s Cucina Italiana

Enjoy a five-course Italian meal with wines from Italy’s Agricola San Felice!

Event Details

Event: Damian’s Cucina Italiana will host a five-course wine dinner showcasing the wines of Italy’s Agricola San Felice. Special guest Paolo Boselli, ambassador of the U.S. for Agricola San Felice, will also be present to discuss wine pairings.
Date: Wednesday, May 22nd, 2013
Time: 6:30 pm
Location: Damian’s Cucina Italiana, 3011 Smith Street, Houston, TX 77006
Cost: $100 per person (all inclusive)
Reservations: 713-522-0439

Wine Tasting: Blind Tasting

These blind tastings really allow one to judge a wine with no preconceptions. The format has been designed to suit beginners to experts.

Event Details

Event: At this blind tasting seminar at The Texas Wine School, the taste profile of 4 different regions will be discussed before a tasting of 4 wines from an unidentified region. A brief seminar will follow about the region, what to look for, vintages, and what to buy.
Date: Wednesday, May 29, 2013
Time: 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Location: Chilled Wine Storage, 2431 Bartlett Street, Houston, Texas, 77098
Contact: 713-882-8773 or e-mail jamesking@thetexaswineschool.com
Cost: $60 per person
Tickets: Register here.

Wine Tasting: Australia

Australia is a truly beautiful country with a huge diversity of fauna and flora. Come learn more about its wines!

Event Details

Event: This seminar at The Texas Wine School will cover the diverse, complex, elegant and powerful wines from many different grape varieties.
Date: Wednesday, May 30, 2013
Time: 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Location: Chilled Wine Storage, 2431 Bartlett Street, Houston, Texas, 77098
Contact: 713-882-8773 or e-mail jamesking@thetexaswineschool.com
Cost: $60 per person
Tickets: Register here.

Houston Area Wine Events 5/12/13 is a post from: VineSleuth Uncorked Thank you for Subscribing to VineSleuth Uncorked, the wine blog for casual wine drinkers. Cheers!

by Gordon and Jean Leidner

All wine contains alcohol. That is stating the obvious. But did you know that the alcohol content in wine can range from 7 to 20%? What causes this variation? Which wines typically have a lower alcohol content and which have a higher? How can you tell how much alcohol is in a bottle of wine?

How Much Alcohol?

We’ll answer the easy question first.  Federal law requires all wine bottles to list the alcohol content on the label. Wine with an alcohol content between 7 and 14% is considered a “table wine,” and an alcohol content of 14% or more is considered a “dessert wine.”  However, as we will see later, many of these wines aren’t technically dessert wines at all.

Variations in Alcohol Levels

What causes such a wide variation in alcohol levels? To answer that question let’s start with a short lesson in how grape juice becomes wine. Grape juice turns into alcohol through the process of fermentation. Grapes on the vine are naturally covered with yeast. When the crushed grapes are put into a container at the right temperature, a simple chemical reaction occurs.  The yeast turns the sugars in the juice into alcohol and carbon dioxide. Voila!  Wine!

Causes of Variations

Now, to the original question: “What causes such a wide variation in alcohol levels?” Why does a German Riesling, for instance, have a low alcohol content (under 12.5%) while a California Petite Syrah can have over 14.5% alcohol?  It primarily has to do with the amount of sugar in the grape. Sugar is produced in the fruit as it ripens on the vine.  The more sugar in the grape at harvest time, the more sugar there will be in the juice for conversion into alcohol.

In cool climates, such as Germany, where the vines struggle to ripen their grapes, sugar levels are minimal, and consequently, the alcohol levels are lower.  California’s sunny, warm climate produces grapes with higher sugar content because the fruit ripens easily.

In addition to climate, the variety of grape makes a difference; some grapes naturally produce more sugar than others. For instance, Grenache and Zinfandel grapes have high sugar content and ferment into wine with a higher alcohol content.

A winemaker can use several methods to boost the sugar content in wine. One technique is to let the grapes get overripe on the vine before harvesting, which is how late harvest dessert wines are typically produced.  Another technique is to let the grapes freeze on the vine—which causes some of the water to be squeezed out of the grape—resulting in a higher residual sugar content. These grapes are then used to produce “ice wine.”

A third technique to increase sugar content is to interrupt fermentation. This is done by adding a distilled spirit to kill the yeast, a process known as fortifying, (the way Port wines are made) or by chilling the wine and filtering to remove yeasts (the way Italian Moscato and German Auslese wines are made).  Finally, extra sugar can be added during wine making in a process called chaptalization.

Alcohol Content in Types of Wines

See the table below for general guidelines regarding alcohol content in different types of wines:

Legs

As an indication of alcohol content, check out the “legs” in your next glass of wine. You may recall from last month’s post on Wine Terminology that the thickness of the “legs” that run down the inside of the glass has to do with the amount of alcohol in the wine.

Swirl your wine in the glass and hold it up to the light. You should observe tiny rivulets running back down the glass. This is caused because alcohol evaporates faster than water. The alcohol crawls up the glass as it evaporates, but since there is a film of water on top, it is pushed up in an arch. Eventually gravity wins, the water’s surface tension is broken, and down run the legs.

I hope you learned some fun new facts about fermentation.  Now it’s time to take your newfound expertise with you to the wine store and do some experimenting!

Photo Credit

Gordon and Jean Leidner have been wine enthusiasts for years.   They enjoy visiting wineries, hosting wine parties, and have even dabbled in making wine from kits.  Gordon has been a history buff for most of his life, and blogs at his website Great American History.

Wine Alcohol Content is a post from: VineSleuth Uncorked Thank you for Subscribing to VineSleuth Uncorked, the wine blog for casual wine drinkers. Cheers!

With many wines you know what to expect by variety or variety and region. For example, for the most part, a Napa Cabernet is going to be big and bold most of the time. Or a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc is going to be grassy, most of the time. But, when it comes to Gruner Veltliner, I am finding that I cannot be sure of what might be in my glass unless I give it a try.

Yes, I’ll likely get the classic profile of white pepper, green apples, yellow fruits and stone fruit with some zest, but from there, the range could be huge, from intense to nuanced, from sweet to dry, and yes even from light to full bodied.

Fortunately, I am finding that the Gruner Veltliner puzzle is one I enjoy exploring.

I still cannot pick up a bottle to pair it with a meal or my mood all too quickly, which can be a challenge on nights when I just want to open a bottle of something to go with dinner with little effort. However, enjoying wine isn’t always about consistency and predictability, and when I’m ready for exploration, Gruner Veltliner offers me adventure that typically results in enjoyment. And, as I learn more about the ones I love (and don’t love) I will get to the point of knowing what to expect and being able to pair it with less effort.

At the Snooth PVA weekend in Manhattan, award winning Master Sommelier Aldo Sohm introduced us to 12 Gruners Veltliners, sharing details about Austria and Austrian winemaking. It was a treat for me to try such variation. And, I’ll admit it, listening to his Austrian accent while tasting didn’t bother me a bit, either.

He explained that the Gruner Veltliner grape is the natural offspring of Traminer and St. Georgen, and that Gruner makes up the biggest block of Austrian wine varieties, but that the reds are gaining on it. (I’ve tried a few of those I like, as well.)

He also told us that the Gruner is sensitive during flowering and likes deep soils and  the best exposures. Basically, unlike Riesling, which likes to suffer, Gruner Veltliner likes luxury, and the Austrian climate and landscape offers that beautifully. He also explained that one-third of the wineries in Austria are organic and biodynamic, yet they don’t typically mess with certifications, since it is, and has been, a way of life in Austria to respect the ground and enable it to share its best.

I’m sharing my very rough notes on the wines we tasted here to show you the variety I observed. You’ll see a lot of reference to rocks and stones, citrus and smoke, but there is also honey, tropical fruit, short finish, long finish, rustic, clean and effervescent. This is one variety with a massive flavor portfolio!

Please, though, don’t take my notes as instruction. If you are ready for some refreshing exploration, head to your local wine shop and get ready to explore. Grab about 3 bottles (whether on my list or not), chill them, and then give them a try.  You’ll know they are from Austria by checking the top of the bottle:

Every wine from Austria has an image representing the country’s red and white flag on top so there is no mistaking.

In the event the pronunciation is puzzling you, here’s how Aldo told us to pronounce it: Grooner vetLEANer

So give a few a try and let me know which ones you like (Twitter is a great way to get a hold of me: @VineSleuth) and I’ll give them a try, too, and share my thoughts right back with you.

Prost!

Gruner Veltliner Tasting Notes

Gruner Veltliner- Stadlmann- 2011, $15.99

This one of my faves…  and inexpensive, too

• from Thermenregion, South of Vienna
• area unknown for GV
• zesty
• super clean
• slightly smoky undertone – indicates limestone
• Austerity to it, as it cleans up your palate
• Almost like Chablis??
• Lower alcohol

Obere Steigen- Huber 2011, $21.99

• mineral
• more tropical
• longer finish
• bit of pepper

Birthal- Ebner Ebenauer 2011, $18.75

• citrus zest
• high acid
• gravel component, not as clean, more rustic

Vom Schloss- Graf Hardegg 2011, $17.99

• grown on sandstone
• broader, more rustic
• metallic?
• Keep it on the skins overnight

Kreutles- Veyder Malberg 2011, $29.99

• more opulent, richer, powerful, generosity
• a bit of tang on finish– iron?
• fruit flavors
• slightly savory

Gruner Veltliner- Sohm & Kracher 2011, $38

• not sure what is in aroma, but very different—lime?
• totally different than the rest
• mineral, honey
• Chablis-influenced
• Zero residual sugar
• 2^nd label, 1^st vintage
• high acid
• longest finish yet
• stainless steel

St. Georgener Gruner Veltliner- Moric 2009, $48.99

• smokier, oilier smell
• resembles white Burgundy

Durnsteiner Liebenberg Smaragd- FX Pichler 2011, retail in $70

• tropical fruit
• effervescence
• a bit perfumey
• short finish

Stocklultur- Prager 2011, $90

• green, stemmy, pear?

Fass 4- Ott 2011, $26

• intrigued by this one, want to explore again
• fresh, nice acid, apple?
• Lasts longer on palate

Lamm- Schloss Gobelsburg 2011, $62

• like the effervescence

Tradition- Schloss Gobelsburg 2010, $50

• Thicker, sweeter, but not overly so
• Intrigued by this one, too

Curious as the what the other bloggers at the Snooth-sponsored seminar have to say about Gruner Veltliner?

Click over and check out their posts:

• My Vine Spot: Wines of Austria Master Class
• Benito’s Wine: Snooth PVA: Wines of Austria
•  The Reverse Wine Snob: Gruner Love Featuring the Stadlmann
• Jameson Fink: High Line Park and Gruner Veltliner
• Vindulge: So you think you know Grüner
• Wine Julia: SnoothPVA: Terroir Driven Grüner …
• V.I.P Table: My 2013 Vinous Revelation: Grüner Veltliner

My attendance at this seminar was sponsored by Snooth. Opinions expressed are my own.

Gruner Veltliner: A Delicious Puzzle is a post from: VineSleuth Uncorked Thank you for Subscribing to VineSleuth Uncorked, the wine blog for casual wine drinkers. Cheers!

Mark the dates for these wonderful wine events coming up in the Houston area in May!

Jump to an Event

• Wine Tasting: Wines of Germany
• El Meson Spanish Wine Dinner
• Everything’s Coming Up Rosé: A Wine for the Times
• Corte Alla Flora Wine Dinner

Wine Tasting: Wines of Germany

This seminar will focus on the new Germany that has been evolving over the last 20 years.

Event Details

Event: This seminar at The Texas Wine School is intended to show the change in attitudes, vineyards and wine making that is making Germany a vibrant wine growing region producing truly world class wines from the Pinot varieties.
Date: Tuesday, May 7, 2013
Time: 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Location: Chilled Wine Storage, 2431 Bartlett Street, Houston, Texas, 77098
Contact: 713-882-8773 or e-mail jamesking@thetexaswineschool.com
Cost: $60 per person
Tickets: Register here.

El Meson Spanish Wine Dinner

Spanish wine with authentic hospitality.

Event Details

Event: Intimate dinner centered around truly inspirational and classic Spanish pairings.
Date: Wednesday, May 15, 2013
Time: Cava Reception at 7:00 pm, Seating at 7:30 pm
Location: El Meson Restaurant, 2425 University Boulevard, Houston, Texas 77005
Information: Call 713-522-9306 or visit the website.
Cost: $95/person (plus tax & gratuity)
Reservations: Call 712-522-9306 for reservations.

Everything’s Coming Up Rosé: A Wine for the Times

Phil’s Wine Lounge is happy to announce the return of their popular sommelier series on May 22nd. With an array of wines being featured at each tasting, there will be something that will appease every palate.

Event Details

Event: ‘Tis the season for pink! Last year we couldn’t have been more successful in our offering of 15 Rosé wines by the glass. Come celebrate again with us in our exploration of the refreshing world of dry Rosé.
Date: Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Time: 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Location: Phil’s Wine Lounge, 1800 Post Oak Boulevard, Houston, Texas
Contact: kgarver@phillippehouston.com
Cost: $40; includes cheese plate
Reservations: Space is limited. Contact kgarver@philippehouston.com for reservations.

Corte Alla Flora Wine Dinner

Exclusive dinner with one of Italy’s finest winemakers.

Event Details

Event: Andrea Gragnotti, owner of Italy’s Corte Alla Flora winery will be at BRIX for a special Italian wine dinner, pairing six wines with delicious creations from Chef Mark.
Date: Wednesday, May 22, 2013
Time: Reception at 6:30 pm, Dinner at 7:00 pm
Location: BRIX Wine Cellars, 110 Vintage Park Boulevard Suite T, Houston,TX 77070-4047
Reservations: 281-374-6100
Cost: $85/person (plus tax & gratuity)

Houston Area Wine Events May 2013 is a post from: VineSleuth Uncorked Thank you for Subscribing to VineSleuth Uncorked, the wine blog for casual wine drinkers. Cheers!