Beverage Dynamics is the largest national business magazine devoted exclusively to the needs of off-premise beverage alcohol retailers, from single liquor stores to big box chains, through coverage of the latest trends in wine, beer and spirits.
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and grapefruit; long, lingering finish with minerals and acidity. ($35) (93) Illumination Sauvignon Blanc 2009 (California). Lovely floral and citrus notes on the nose and palate, howev- er, it is mouthfeel and elegance that sets this wine apart from its peers; weight is established with partial barrel fermentation and contact with lees. ($40) (93) Domaine Drouhin Pinot Noir 2008 (Oregon). An out- standing vintage in Oregon has led to an outstanding wine from Domaine Drouhin; lovely cherry and berry components and a great spice element; beautiful now and shows great potential for the cellar. ($45) (93) Martin Codax Albarino 2009 (Spain). The bright green-straw color and slightly spritzy tingle make this a great wine for the picnic basket; hay and citrus on the nose and tea-rose on the finish show great winemaking from Rias Baixas. ($15) (93) Golan (Upper Gallilee) Moscato 2009 (Israel). Aromatic and bubbly, grapey and sweet, while remaining light and not cloying, this refreshing quaff is a perfect lunch choice; a moscato to compare with Italy’s best reminds us that Israel is also a great Mediterranean viticultural source. ($15) (93) Etude Rosé 2009 (California). Estate grown Carneros Pinot Noir gives this elegant rosé hints of strawberries and summer blossoms; treat your- self to a bowl of chilled shrimp and a glass of this. ($16) RATING SYSTEM FIVE STARS (92-100) A top- flight wine. Superior in taste and character and providing an outstanding price/value relationship. FOUR STARS (86-91) A very good wine and an excellent value. A wine for which customers will keep coming back. THREE STARS (80-85) An above- average wine, at a reasonable price point, which many customers will enjoy. TWO STARS (70-79) An average wine. ONE STAR (50-69) A below-average wine. (93) Duboeuf Fleurie “Domaine de Quatre Vents” 2009 (France). Deep garnet color; the gamay fruitiness of a well-structured cru Beaujolais like this helps remind us that there are other “light reds” besides pinot that are great food wines; pair with roast chicken or salmon. ($18) (92) Martinelli Sonoma Coast, Charles Ranch Chardonnay 2006 (California). The bouquet is really something, a complex and appetizing mix of tropical melons and other wild fruit aromas, but there is a lightly buttery note adding finesse; the palate kicks off with fresh and juicy fruit, and then it turns soft (92) Alexander Valley Vineyards Rosé of Sangiovese 2010 (California). Fragrant, with hints of violets and strawberries; flavors of melon and raspberries lead to a zesty, refreshing, dry finish; a perfect aperitif, it will complement fish, fowl, light meats. ($12) and velvety, while a leesy note tiptoes in toward the finish; bold and viva- cious; superb. ($40) (92) Aramis Black Label Mclaren Vale Cabernet Sauvignon 2007 (Australia). Spicebox and black- berries on the nose; a well-balanced wine with great depth; a potpourri of dark fruits; cherry, cassis and hints of floral. ($20) FOUR STARS (91) Shaw+Smith Adelaide Hills Sauvignon Blanc 2010 (Australia). A brigh,t clean peachy nose, dry with beautiful peach notes; grassy notes on the long finish. ($25) (91) Fuente Milano 2009 (Spain). Delightful blend of Verdejo and Viura; it’s like a Pinot Grigio on steroids with a touch of floral tones and creamier finish. ($9) Beverage Dynamics • www.beveragedynamics.com • May/June 2011 • 55