While the two reds are from different regions of the world, they share a common theme……..they are both outstanding with a juicy red steak.  The two whites are from different regions and they, as well, share a common thread…..they both satisfy the palate with light and refreshing fruit, acidity and just the right hint of sweetness.

Bieler Pere et Fils Coteaux D’Aix-En-Provence Rose 2008

Grape Variety: 15% Syrah, 25% Grenache, 60% Cabernet Sauvignon
Alcohol level: 13.5%
Color:         A delightful light-medium pink
Aromas:    Watermelon, cherry and strawberry
Flavors:     Refreshing, light blend of dried cherry, strawberry and raspberry; a hint of bitterness on the sides of the  tongue  but not unpleasantly so; flavors linger delightfully.

Opinions:   Jim really enjoys this Provence style Rose for a light stand alone summer wine.  It also pairs playfully with nearly the entire universe of cuisine from barbecue, if you are searching for a fruity, refreshing wine to balance a rich or spicy sauce, to fish and pork and of course, don’t omit summer salads (see the new Summer Salads and Wine in the Wine and Food segment).

                   Rosalee, on the other hand, finds this style easier to enjoy with food rather than stand alone, the hint of bitterness a little too prominent for her. 

                  What we both agree on is the fabulous pricing for this wine….~$11.00

Dr. Von Bassermann-Jordan Trocken Riesling Pfalz 2007

Note: Trocken is translated as “dry”
Alcohol Level: 12.5%
Color:  Rich medium yellow
Aromas: Delightful potpourri of summer peach and nectarine with citrus
                   hints looming underneath.
Flavors:  Refreshingly dry taste of tart peach and nectarine; nicely balanced acidity.

Opinion:  Both Rosalee and I agreed that this wine was very enjoyable.  We paired it with a spicy stir fried pork dish and it balanced the dish perfectly.   German Rieslings are a perfect match for spicy Asian, Chinese or Thai dishes.  Pricing was very reasonable at ~$16-18.00.

Mollydooker “The Boxer” Shiraz 2006

Alcohol Level: 16%
Color:  Deep, opaque purple
Aromas: Deep purple fruits (blackberry, blueberry), pan fried bacon, pepper
Flavors:  Full of depth and power yet balanced with well structured tannins and acidity. 

Opinion:  Rosalee missed this tasting so I’m on my own.  Mollydooker is a fabulous producer of Australian Shiraz, with wines that span the gamut from introductory (The boxer) to the collectible (Velvet Glove and Carnival of Love).  This wine is big and brooding with typical Australian Shiraz peppery spice and sporting 16% alcohol.  I brought this wine to a friend’s home to pair with grilled beef.  We all were very impressed by the character and balance of the wine, but by the second glass, felt nearly run over due to the alcohol content.  If you’re going with a wine like this in the very hot weather, pay attention to your hydration.  By the way, this wine will easily store away for several years and for the price of the ’06 ($18.00) is a great value for quality.  The ’07 should be as big and bold with pricing a little higher.

Bodega Norton Malbec Mendoza Reserve 2006:

Alcohol Content: A little over 14%
Color:  Deep purple
Aromas: Black cherry, plum and fig; toast and mocha notes and a soft violet fragrance
Flavors:  Black fruits with soft tannins that yield a wonderfully long and smooth finish

Opinion:  Both Rosalee and I thoroughly enjoyed this wine with a grilled steak.  It is very well balanced with fruit, soft tannins and acidity and pairs just perfectly with nearly any cut of grilled beef.  This wine should be drinkable for another year or so and is priced for ease of consumption around $15-16.00.

Tags: Australian Shiraz, Malbec, Riesling, Rose