Gomers Wine Blog

2010-06-13T11:35:00.000-07:00

CIRRUS SYRAH 2003

Retail $55.29

As Jean Engelbrecht gained knowledge and an understanding of California wine, and in particular those from Napa, he was drawn to the wines of Silver Oak Cellars, their philosophy and the focused way they ran their operation. Drawing a parallel to his own family estate in South Africa, Rust en Vrede, he noted that both wineries focused on producing only red wine, and even further, concentrating on a specific wine – Cabernet Sauvignon for Silver Oak and a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, and Merlot for Rust en Vrede.
Inevitably Jean met Ray Duncan, proprietor of Silver Oak, and a friendship was formed which included visits to both continents. The synergy that developed between the two families, their mutual love for wine, and the challenge to produce a wine together, led to the formation of The Cirrus Wine Company. In 2004 Jean’s longtime friend and business partner, Ernie Els, became part of this exciting venture that was now formed between the three families.
As the wine was to be produced in South Africa, it was a natural decision to produce a Syrah. The view taken by the partners was one of starting off small, and to ensure that the venture was laying a strong and solid foundation for the future. As it turned out, their maiden vintage, 2003, was a great vintage in South Africa and the result is one that all involved are extremely excited about. This wine is the expression of the long-term view between three families that believe wine, above all should bring people together.

Vinification / Maturation:This wine was matured for 18 months in a combination of new French and American 300 l barrels.
This wine:Appearance: Inky black
Bouquet: Savoury aromas reminiscent of the Rhone Region make the initial impression. Cinnamon spice and violets emerge as the wine opens up. The fruit component is made up of dark fruit aromas. Hint of perfume.
Palate: The structure of the wine on the palate is the outstanding component. A delightful thickness in the mouth, well-defined velvety tannins, leading into a lingering finish. Pleasing vanilla spice notes and blackcurrant fruit on the mid-palate.
Impression: Leaning very much toward a Rhone Style of Syrah, this wine is bold and expansive. It certainly makes a powerful statement.
Grape Variety: Syrah 97%/ 3% Viognier Vintage: 2003Origin: Coastal RegionWinemaker: Louis StrydomAnalysis: Alcohol on label: 14,5 vol%Acidity: 6.8 g/lpH: 3.67Res Sugar: 2,9 g/l

2010-05-16T15:01:00.000-07:00

2007 Ballentine Block 9 Reserve Zinfandel

Winemaker's notes - This Zinfandel really gets going with its strong scent of a blueberry and blackberry reduction. A rich and concentrated core of blue and red fruit intermingle with the coffee, tobacco and cracked black pepper. Some floral notes help add a little finesse along with the anise/clove characteristics. There are hints of oak that come across as caramel wrapped red apples and vanilla soaked blueberries. The palate is extremely full and rich, with velvety luxurious tannins, and it brings to mind a black cherry crème brule served alongside a plate of fine chocolates. The finish meanders back and forth from cherries in chocolate to raspberries and caramel that last a great long while.

2010-04-01T16:06:00.000-07:00

2005 Chateau St Michelle Artist Series Meritage

Retail $125.99

This bordeaux style blend is 57% Merlot, 35% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Petit Verdot and 3% Malbec. Made from grapes sourced from their Canoe Ridge Estate Vineyard and the Cold Creek Vineyard, one of the oldest and warmest sites in Washington. Following is tasting notes by the winemaker himself.

"This is the ultimate sculpted wine, showcasing the power and elegance of Washington Fruit. The 2005 Artist Series Meritage is a blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Petit Verdot from the Columbia Valley. Each varietal contributes a special attribute to the blend, resulting in a complex wine with seamless tannins. The 2005 Artist Series marks the first time that Merlot, and not Cabernet, makes up a majority of the blend. The 2005 Merlot deserves to be the star of the show!"

Bob Bertheau, head winemaker

Great French wine at a great value.

2010-03-29T18:28:00.000-07:00

2006 Wine from the village of Nimes. This blend of 80% cabernet sauvignon and 20% syrah. Well balanced fruit and tannins, this wine is the perfect accompiment for roast or heavier meats. At $14.79 this is a perfect introductory French wine.

We had this wine at our tasting 2 weeks ago and everyone there loved it. This wine is distributed by JJ Gazzoli Imports.

What do you think?