Norm's Tasting Notes

Thursday, March 13, 2014

2010 Basilica Cafaggio Chianti Classico

Norm's Tasting Notes

By: Norm Bentley
North Georgia Wine Advisor

normwine@bellsouth.net

2010 Basilica Cafaggio Chianti Classico

#nb-11-14

The primary grape in Chianti is Sangiovese, which is normally blended with other varieties to produce Chianti. The Basilica, however is 100% Sangiovese, and is about as good as it gets for this price range, and especially for a Chianti Classico. This wine hails from the heart of Tuscany, and the Classico labeling denotes higher quality for Chianti wines.

The wine is deep red in color with violets and cherries in the nose. The flavors abound with cherry and plum, and a pronounced cranberry background, highlighted by a faint trace of strawberry. The finish is spicy with just enough acidity to complement a hearty marinara sauce. The alcohol content is 13%.

This wine is a perfect companion for most Italian dishes including pasta marinara and veal dishes, but we enjoyed it with a thick grilled pork loin chop, paired with roasted new potatoes and Caesar Salad Norm's score is 90.

Score: 90

Price: $10 -$15

Norm

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Thursday, March 6, 2014

2010 Baldacci Elizabeth Pinot Noir

Norm's Tasting Notes

By: Norm Bentley
North Georgia Wine Advisor

normwine@bellsouth.net

2010 Baldacci Elizabeth Pinot Noir

#nb-10-14

There are a number of different styles of Pinot Noir ranging from light and delicate, to robust and hardy. The Baldacci Family Vineyards describes their 2010 Elizabeth Pinot Noir as a Pinot Noir for those who enjoy Cabernet Sauvignon. I would say that qualifies as hearty and robust, and in my opinion, this Pinot Noir fits the bill.

The wine is dark red in color, with an earthy bouquet which suggests currants, and dark berries. The flavor is certainly full-bodied, with a strong presence of blackberry and currant, and undertones of cherry and vanilla. The finish is lingering, with a noticeable touch of tannin that backs the strong fruit flavors, which continue long after the last sip. The alcohol content is 14.5%

We enjoyed the Elizabeth Pinot Noir with a thick medium rare fillet and fresh garden salad.

This wine would also pair well with more exotic meats, like venison or elk. One suggestion would be, to decant the wine, as there is some sediment. Norm's score is 89.

Score: 89

Price: $35-$42