Sexy Wine Tasting -- February 6, 2008, 6:00-7:30 pm

Don't be shy. We promise to behave at this month's wine tasting

(or at least TRY to!). Join us in tasting six sexy wines in honor of Valentine's Day. The tasting notes say it all. Tasting begins at 6:00 pm (till 7:30 pm). $10 per person. RSVP Requested.

“Falling in love consists merely in uncorking the imagination and bottling the common-sense.” Helen Rowland, A Guide to Men. This is such an appropriate quote, both for the love of men and for the love of wine. Wine is all about common sense…It’s about what YOU like, unimpeded by the pressure you sometimes face to feign enjoyment of a wine simply because an “expert” says you should. Relax. Take a sip. If it tastes good, sit back and enjoy the experience. If it doesn’t please your palate, either spit it out or don’t take another sip. It’s as simple as that. My personal recommendation for either true love or the love of wine: Don’t settle, don’t compromise your tastes. Do the one you love. –Debbie
Special thanks to Susan Hoskins, Executive Director of the Albemarle Area United Way, our Guest Pourer for this evening, and to Lisa VanCuren of Empire Distributors who is here almost every month. Thanks, also to Mutual Distributing.

--Virgin Vines Chardonnay, 2006, CA – “Cool and crisp with a serious rebellious side. With an ultra clean finish, the perfect wine to serve your love in a romantic outdoor setting, or to order for that soon to be ‘new friend’ standing at the end of the bar.” “Round and smooth with a light toasty flavor complemented by fruity flavors of lemon, vanilla and honeydew melon.”
--Sincerity Sauvignon Blanc, 2005, Casablanca Valley, Chile (an Organic wine) – “Made exclusively from Sauvignon Blanc grapes biodynamically grown on Sincerity’s Cordillera vineyard estate in Chile’s Casablanca Valley, Sincerity Sauvignon Blanc is pale straw in color. It offers a classic herbaceous bouquet, crisp citrus flavors, and a lingering finish. It is a fine match for seafood, white meats, and a wide range of Asian fare. It also makes a wonderful aperitif.”
--Screw Kappa Napa Chardonnay, 2005, Napa Valley, CA – “Honeysuckle and Toasted Vanilla Oak Notes, Tropical Fruit, Rich and Balanced.” This wine has “a fruit-driven style, with vibrant, moderately rich apple, citrus, spice, quince and honeysuckle. Finishes with a touch of smoke and caramel apple flavors.”
--Folie à Deux Ménage àTrois Red, 2006 – “This wine exposes the fresh, ripe, jam-like fruit that is the calling card of California wine. Three saucy grapes make up the blend. Zinfandel adds a juicy character, Merlot mellows and Cabernet adds backbone. Forward, spicy and soft, this delicious dalliance makes the perfect trio.” (What were YOU thinking?!)
--Alexander Valley Sin Zin Zinfandel, 2006, CA – “A wild and crazy zin, the '06 Alexander Valley Vineyard Sin Zin breaks out with tasty red raspberry flavors that linger long on the palate.” “A bright, expressive nose, bursting with red fruits and crushed black pepper and a palate loaded with raspberries, strawberries, and black pepper.”
--(oops) Cabernet Carmenère, Valle Central, Chile – Referred to as the “Gentle Giant,” this wine is “a big robust wine with deep ruby color, full of rich, ripe black fruit and hints of vanilla; savory and smooth….” “This Cabernet Sauvignon’s graceful style makes it quite versatile, complementing anything from traditional big, juicy steak to grilled chicken, ribs, and even salmon. 85% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Carmenere.”
Added Bonus:
--Cristalino Rose Brut Cava, Spain – “Made by the traditional method such that second fermentation takes place in the bottle. The Rose Brut Cava is refreshing, fruity, smooth and easy to drink. It is perfect as an aperitif and pairs well with almost any foods.”