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!

Thursday, August 28, 2014

One Hope Zinfandel by Robert Mondovi Jr


One Hope is a brand that everyone should feel good about drinking.  Not only is it a good quality wine, but 50% of the profits are donated to support our troops and their families. Profits from One Hope’s zinfandel go to Snowball express, and organization that supports families and children of fallen soldiers.  Since September 11, 2001 more than 8,000 children have lost a U.S. service-member parent as a result of ongoing conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.

One Hope Zinfandel is created by winemaker Robert Mondovi Jr.

Varietal:  Zinfandel
Producer/Importer:  One Hope   
Region: California
Vintage: 2011
Price: $18.99
Tasting notes:
 Sight (Color/Clarity): ruby red
 Smell (bouquet, aroma): fruity jam, mixed berry pie
Taste (acidity, balance, body): not overly fruity, a little nutty, smooth, a little spice on the finish
Winemaker’s notes:   ONEHOPE California Zinfandel starts with the foundation of an all-American grape, then custom blended with Syrah from select vineyards throughout Napa, Sonoma and the Central Coast of California. ONEHOPE Zinfandel is a rich red color with loads of juicy dark fruit flavors including plum and black cherry, with hints of pepper and a spicy finish. This delicious wine is versatile and pairs well with dishes such as pizza, barbeque ribs and lamb.”
Overall rating (1-10): 9
Date consumed: November 14, 2012
Comments: Proceeds donated to the troops, 13.5% abv

Tuesday, August 26, 2014

Le Grand Noir Malbec



Le Grand Noir, signature black sheep on the label, boasts of being a little rebellious and unconventional in their winemaking.   According to their website brand creators Robert Joseph and Hugh Ryman got the name “Big Black” after a Cathar priest in the region of Carcassonne. The Cathars, a breakaway group from the Catholic Church of the day, had some very unconventional views -Men and women are equal, contraception was not a bad thing and that the church should not amass wealth.

The wines are produced by Jean d'Alibert Winery. Le Grand Noir Malbec is deep dark purple in color and showcases flavors of black cherries and plums laced with hints of pepper and spice. Unfortunately it appears Le Grand Noir is no longer making a Malbec-as it is not listed on their website.

Varietal:  Malbec
Producer/Importer: Le Grand Noir 
Region: France
Vintage: 2010
Price: $7.99
Tasting notes:
 Sight (Color/Clarity): Deep dark purple-plum
 Smell (bouquet, aroma): fruity
Taste (acidity, balance, body): black cherries, plum, peppery spice
Bottle presentation: Black sheep on label
Overall rating (1-10): 8.5
Date consumed: November 14, 2012
Comments: Really like this brand’s Pinot Noir

Monday, August 25, 2014

River Bend- Magenta

River Bend vineyard and winery is located in Chippewa Valley, Wisconsin, USA. There isn’t much information about the vineyard, the winemakers, or the owners on their website.  I guess I will just have to make the 2.5 hour trip someday to tour.Especially if the rest of their wines are as good as their Rose'.

Varietal:  Rose’
Producer/Importer:  River Bend- Magenta 
Region: Chippewa Valley Wisconsin
Price: $12.99
Tasting notes:
 Sight (Color/Clarity): Magenta
Taste (acidity, balance, body): sweet raspberry, choke cherries, cranberry cocktail
Bottle presentation: dragonfly on the label
Winemaker’s notes:A semi-sweet rose wine. Frontenac grapes pressed immediately upon picking provide Magenta its signature color and crisp acidity. Enjoy chilled with aged cheeses, tangy barbecue or spicy cuisine.”
Overall rating (1-10): 9
Date consumed: November 14, 2012
Comments: dinner cordial