About WiNEZ

WiNEZ was a monthly event at EZ Street Saloon in South Range, WI. Unfortunately, due to lower turn out the owners had decided to stop hosting the event. The last wine night at EZ was held on November 12, 2014. But that is not to say the die hards won't be getting together for some wine tasting periodically at EZ Street Saloon. I will continue to blog the wines we have tasted pre starting this blog, along with our impromptu meetings, and maybe transform the blog into something more personal. We will see where it goes. I do know the blog will still be about wine!

So for my WiNEZ pals you can count on this blog to serve as an archive of what was consumed and a reference for your spending sprees. For those who are just curious about what the Northwest Wisconsinites are drinking here are some thoughts… but be warned I am by no means a wine expert-I only know what I like. Since I am not an expert I will try to include the winemakers label descriptions as well.

Salute! or as the Finnish would say Kippis!

Wednesday, February 8, 2012

446 Chardonnay


446 Chardonnay, a member of the Noble Vines collection, is named for the type of vine (4) and the block in which that vine is planted (46). These particular vines were brought over from Burgundy, France and re-established in Monterey, California, hence “born in France-raised in America”.

I think this is my favorite Chardonnay. Chardonnay like Riesling can have a wide variety of characteristics from sweet to dry, from light to fruity, crisp, clean, smooth, buttery, oaky, toasty.  Chardonnay 446 has just the right blend of characteristics for my palate. It is light to start, golden apples, and a little bit of sweet-maybe pineapples. Its midtone is medium bodied with a hint of that typical toasted vanilla and pear spice so many Chardonnays have.  All rounded out with a nice smooth buttery finish.

Varietal:  Chardonnay
Producer/Importer:  446 by Nobel Vines   
Region: Montery/California
Vintage: 2010
Price: $11.99
Tasting notes:
 Sight (Color/Clarity): light golden
 Smell (bouquet, aroma): typical chardonnay
Taste (acidity, balance, body): light to start, golden apples and pineapple, spiced pear and toasted vanilla middle and a smooth buttery finish
Bottle presentation: Simple silver label with red and black print.  Also has a QR code (those funny codes that are popping up all over) which will take you to their website.
Label description: “Born in France-raised in America. Not all vines are created equal. Nobel Vines 446 Chardonnay celebrates the most coveted vine stock of Burgundy, France.  Vine type 4 is grown to perfection on 46 at our San Bernabe vineyard in cool-climate Monterey. Prized for its complexity and flavor, this single vineyard chardonnay offers a modern expression of the classic French style:  the silky mouth feel is balanced by fresh citrus and delectable tropical and pineapple notes.  Enjoy with grilled fish, chicken or pasta with creamy sauces. 13.5% abv.  Vinted and bottled by Noble Vines, Manteca, CA.”
Comparisons: Buttery finish like the Kendall-jackson, but more complex.  I think if you like K-J Chardonnay you’ll flip for 446.
Overall rating (1-10): 9.5
Date consumed: January 11, 2012
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