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

Sileni Cellar Collection Sauvignon Blanc

Graeme Avery, a pharmaceutical scientist and former owner of medical publishing company Adis International started Sileni Estates in late 1997, along with financial director Chris Cowper and winemaker Grant Edmonds. They named the winery the Sileni who featured in Roman mythology alongside Bacchus, the God of Wine. 

The vineyards and winery are based near Hastings, Hawke’s Bay, on the east coast of the North Island of New Zealand, the Marlborough region. The Marlborough region of New Zealand produces around three-quarters of all the country's wine. If you get a chance, check out the Sileni Estates webpage on their innovative winemaking.  

Varietal:  Sauvignon Blanc

Producer/Importer:  Sileni Cellar Collection                      

Region:  Marlborough, New Zealand           

Vintage: 2011

Price: $11.99

Tasting notes:

 Sight (Color/Clarity):

 Smell (bouquet, aroma): Ammonia

Taste (acidity, balance, body): tart citrus start with a dry finish

Winemaker’s notes: “The Cellar Selection Sauvignon Blanc has ripe tropical and gooseberry fruit flavours with a zingy finish and impeccable balance. A great aperitif or seafood wine made for drinking young. Serve lightly chilled.”

Overall rating (1-10): 8.5

Date consumed: November 14, 2012

Split Rock Lighthouse Riesling

Split Rock Lighthouse Riesling is a nice novelty wine featuring a local landmark, but the wine is left to be desired.  The bottle pictures the Split Rock Lighthouse on the shores of Lake Superior.  The wine is a dry with a strong sour lemon aroma and flavor.  It would be a great compliment to a savory baked fish dinner, if you like drier wines.  If you are looking for more the typical Riesling - clean, crisp, and not awful sweet, this may not tickle your fancy.

Varietal:  Riesling

Producer/Importer:  Split Rock Lighthouse           

Region:  Rheinhessen Germany

Vintage: 2011

Price: $11.95

Tasting notes:

 Sight (Color/Clarity): Medium yellow gold

 Smell (bouquet, aroma): Sour lemons

Taste (acidity, balance, body): Dry, tart-sour

Bottle presentation: Picture of the Split Rock Lighthouse on the shores of Lake Superior

Overall rating (1-10): 8

Date consumed: November 14, 2012