Monday, October 24, 2011

Kings Garden Pinot Noir

2009 is currently offered and it is bursting with berry flavors on the nose. Ripe fruit is the predominant characteristic, but assertive points of oak keep the berries in check and the winemaker appears to be patient with this grape and its fussiness. VERY VERY GOOD

Kings Garden Vineyard Chardonnay

I did a vertical tasting between the 2003, 2005, and 2008 vintages of this wine. The 2003 was the favorite and is sold out, but with more time the 2005 could become the ultimate champion of this wine tasting. It should age well for the next few years. The 2005 is rich, with a butterscotch finish, and the 2008 is very similar to the 2005 but more acidic. Minerality is more prevalent with the 2008 as the 2005 is warm and silky, perfect for sharing with your companion on a night next to the fireplace. The 2008 went perfectly with Tandoori chicken from New Delhi Diamonds of Ithaca, but the 2005 stood up better to the spicy layers of the Aloo Gobi. 2003 - VERY VERY GOOD 2005 - VERY GOOD 2008 - VERY GOOD