Psydr Short & To-The-Point Wine Reviews
Below are reviews of fun little finds purchased locally. The typical cost per bottle is $10 or less, and the label probably has a little more pizazz than your traditional Barolo. But don't judge the bottle by the label. These reviews are personal and certainly non-professional evaluations of wines we've tried. Enjoy!
February 23, 2009
February 9, 2009
2005 Washington Hills Shiraz
YEAR: 2005WINERY: Washington Hills
FLAVOR: Red, Shiraz
ORIGIN: Columbia Valley, USA
PURCHASED: Seattle, WA
AMOUNT: $7
NICKNAME: "Washington Hills"
3 Reviews:
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February 9, 2009 11:19 PM ,
psydr said...
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3 OUT OF 5 STARS
A nice, solid wine. The nose tipped me off to the concoction's sweetness. A little thin and whispy for a Shiraz, but I rather like such a wine these days. The flavor was indeed sweet, but this sensation was almost immediately followed by bitterness. In fact, I had no sooner confirmed the sweet taste on the tip of the tongue when the tannins hit the back of my tongue. Nothing to be upset about. The tannins are gone in a flash. This is followed by nothing. Oddly enough, there is a distinct lack of flavor in the aftertaste...
All-in-all a good vino. Just not great. It did compliment my flank steak quite well this evening, but I just can't quite allow myself to award a fourth star. I'll just have to stick with my gut instinct here. -
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February 16, 2009 10:55 PM ,
said...
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I'm curious to know more about the compliment that this wine paid to your flank steak. What did it say?
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February 18, 2009 5:18 PM ,
psydr said...
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The flank steak was marinated in a homemade kalbi sauce for a couple of days, so the resulting product was slightly sweet with a hint of sesame. Cooked to perfection with a hint of red center, the meat was matched perfectly to this vino selection. We all know red wines are to be consumed with red meat, but this pairing was quite remarkable.
Literally, I believe I heard, "hey meat, fancy meeting you hear."
January 11, 2009
1 Reviews:
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January 11, 2009 8:07 PM ,
psydr said...
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This wine is crap. Sweet enough to rot out your teeth and chewy enough to make your jaw sore. Seriously, this is awful. I should give it a "0," but I'm feeling generous. I usually reserve "0" for the absolute garbage. Let me tell you, this one is close to the bottom of the proverbial barrel.
January 7, 2009
2006 J. W. Morris Cabernet Sauvignon
YEAR: 2006WINERY: J. W. Morris
FLAVOR: Red, Cabernet Sauvignon
ORIGIN: California, USA
PURCHASED: Trader Joe's, Seattle, WA
AMOUNT: $3
NICKNAME: "Cheap-as-Dirt Cab"
Labels: 2006, 3 STAR, Cabernet Sauvignon, J. W. Morris, Red, USA
1 Reviews:
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January 7, 2009 11:04 PM ,
psydr said...
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3 OUT OF 5 STARS
For $3 you really can't go wrong. This wine is average. Maybe a tad sweet in the tooth and a bit leggy, but for three bucks what do you expect? Still, I'm giving this beverage a 3 STAR rating. I've had much worse bottles at ten times the cost.
This stuff can be picked up at Trader Joe's for nearly free, and it's a good bottle to have around for non-discerning guests. Serve it. People won't puke. Most of them won't even be offended.
January 6, 2009
2007 Trader Joe's Zinfandel
YEAR: 2007WINERY: Trader Joe's
FLAVOR: Red, Zinfandel
ORIGIN: California, USA
PURCHASED: Seattle, WA
AMOUNT: $4
NICKNAME: "Trader Joe's Zin"
1 Reviews:
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January 6, 2009 7:13 PM ,
psydr said...
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4 OUT OF 5 STARS
This is a decent wine... And I just realized it's the first Zin I've reviewed here. It compliments the Curry Chicken Artichoke Casserole I just devoured quite nicely. Very light bodied as one would expect in a Zin and very refreshing. This is an excellent purchase at $4. I highly suggest picking up a bottle or two at your local TJ's.
Being light in color and light in nose it's sure not to offend. I would suggest you could get away with serving this beverage to those who prefer a more substantial wine due to its thick legs. Yes, the legs are a tad heavy, but it doesn't lead one to being overwhelmed with sweetness as one would expect. The legs are misleading, but in a good way. Especially if you do prefer a good Syrah or Pinot.
As I mentioned, the aroma is light as well, but there is a hint of tannin and Earth leading to a dirty smell. Good though. Earthy is good...
January 2, 2009
1 Reviews:
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January 4, 2009 6:08 PM ,
psydr said...
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2 OUT OF 5 STARS
Another overly sweet beverage. That's two vinos in a row I've found to be a little overwhelming. However, the legs are fine. I do not find them to be too thick. And the aroma is pleasing.
I purchased this bottle on a recommendation of the store's staff. I feel like it is the same lady I've been disappointed by before. Perhaps I should take this to heart and realize I am to NOT purchase anything she recommends. Perhaps I should go so far as to ask her for her advice and then purposefully NOT pick the bottle up. Of course I would carry it off in her presence, but only to put it back whence it came after she walks away to dis-enlighten another patron.
Ah, who am I kidding? I'll review anything, and it's getting harder and harder to find wines under ten bones I have yet to review.
November 2, 2008
2003 Hoodsport Cabernet Merlot
YEAR: 2003WINERY: Hoodsport
FLAVOR: Red, 50% Cabernet Sauvignon, 50% Merlot
ORIGIN: Columbia Valley, USA
PURCHASED: Seattle, WA
AMOUNT: $8
NICKNAME: "Hoodsport Blah"
Labels: 1 STAR, 2003, Cabernet Sauvignon, Hoodsport, Merlot, Mixed Varietal, Red, USA
1 Reviews:
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November 2, 2008 11:30 PM ,
psydr said...
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1 OUT OF 5 STARS
Wow! Another crappy wine. This is not a good start for Hoodsport. I can take a hint. I promise not to buy another...
1 Reviews:
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November 2, 2008 8:18 PM ,
psydr said...
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1 OUT OF 5 STARS
Not so hot. This merlot has very little resemblance to an actual merlot. It tastes more like bitter grape juice. Not a juice I'd ever buy again. It's a nasty, bitter mess. Yuk.
October 27, 2008
1 Reviews:
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October 27, 2008 5:54 PM ,
psydr said...
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3 OUT OF 5 STARS
Fairly smooth for a Cabernet. Just a little edgy in the aftertaste. You definitely taste the earth in this beverage. Perhaps a little too much so... The other predominant flavor is blackberry. But you only notice it for a moment. Then the earth takes over.
Not one of my favorites.
October 24, 2008
2007 Working Girl Wines Go Girl Red
YEAR: 2007WINERY: Working Girl Wines
FLAVOR: Red, 85% Merlot, 15% Lemberger
ORIGIN: Columbia Valley, USA
PURCHASED: Seattle, WA
AMOUNT: $10
NICKNAME: "Working Girl Awful"
Labels: 0 STAR, 2007, Lemberger, Merlot, Mixed Varietal, Red, USA, Working Girl Wines
2 Reviews:
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October 24, 2008 1:27 AM ,
psydr said...
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0 OUT OF 5 STARS
This is cran-raspberry juice with a wine label slapped on it. Nothing more. Seriously, I'm appalled someone actually decided to bottle this stuff and SELL it (as wine). It is no wonder I found it on sale for $9.99 marked down from $15.99. I can't imagine anyone was willing to pay such a hefty fee for such swill. At least not more than once. The first round of buyers were suckered, plain and simple. I'm curious as to what percentage of these sales ended up poured down the drain. Surely none have finished a bottle. Not without gagging.
Perhaps this IS a breakfast wine. It might be a decent replacement for orange juice on occation... Well, not really. It's just terrible. I'm going to go out on a limb here and say this is the worst wine I've reviewed to date.
Barf! -
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June 30, 2009 9:57 AM ,
said...
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Is it me? Or does it seem like all these Zero Star wines look like the winery paid more attention to designing an attractive label than they did making a drinkable wine?
October 21, 2008
1 Reviews:
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October 22, 2008 12:22 AM ,
psydr said...
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3 OUT OF 5 STARS
A nice Merlot. Good nose and such. There's just a bit too much anise in the palate for my taste. And the color is extraordinarily dark and almost opaque. Other than that, it's fine. I don't think you'd upset anyone by severing this wine at your next gathering. It does have a good blackberry flavor. Anise is just overwhelming in my opinion.
The label is rather sheik, and certainly their cause is worthy. It's my understanding that 50 cents of each Doghouse purchase goes to help the Guide Dogs for the Blind organization.
October 15, 2008
1 Reviews:
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October 15, 2008 10:48 PM ,
psydr said...
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3 OUT OF 5 STARS
This is a decent Merlot. There's your standard hint of currant, and the fluid is a tad on the thick side. Pretty good though. Goes down smooth. Didn't cost much. And it has a groovy label. What more do you need?
I have nothing glowing or disparaging to say about this beverage. I guess if I was more into Merlots at the moment, I might have given the bottle a 3.5 STAR rating.
October 14, 2008
2006 The California Wine Party Franc/Merlot
YEAR: 2006WINERY: The California Wine Party
FLAVOR: Red, 70% Cabernet Franc, 26% Merlot, 4% Petite Sirah
ORIGIN: California, USA
PURCHASED: Trader Joe's, Seattle, WA
AMOUNT: $5
NICKNAME: "Wine Party Red"
Labels: 2006, 4 STAR, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Mixed Varietal, Petite Sirah, Red, The California Wine Party, USA
1 Reviews:
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October 27, 2008 9:33 PM ,
psydr said...
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4 OUT OF 5 STARS
Good nose. Maybe slightly sweet in smell. Dark and slightly clouded. Not the clearest of beverages. Good flavor though. Not bad at all for a cheap wine. Surprisingly, there is very little aftertaste. For some reason I was betting on a bit of the bitters after swallowing. Maybe because the color was a little off. Or maybe is was something I sensed in the aroma. Either way, I couldn't have been more wrong. This wine starts off smooth and finishes in exactly the same way. Some might describe it as having a slightly watered down feeling, but personally, I just think it's a nice, smooth vino. I tend to prefer a thinner wine at times. They just seem more refreshing.
Anyway, this is a good buy and can be found at your local Trader Joe's. Pick up a bottle and let me know what you think.
September 6, 2008
2006 Smoking Loon Pinot Noir
YEAR: 2006WINERY: Smoking Loon
FLAVOR: Red, Pinot Noir
ORIGIN: California, USA
PURCHASED: Seattle, WA
AMOUNT: $10
NICKNAME: "Smokin' Loon Pinot"
Labels: 2006, 4 STAR, Pinot Noir, Red, Smoking Loon, USA
1 Reviews:
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September 6, 2008 8:11 PM ,
psydr said...
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4 OUT OF 5 STARS
So, I was standing there at my local corner store racking my brain trying to decide which of their lovely wines would best compliment my jalapeno cheddar dip and Tostitos scoops when my eyes came upon this Smoking Loon. After quietly pulling up the Psydr Wine Review site on my new iPhone, I was quickly able to determine I have yet to review this bottle. Soon I was out the door with my new discovery. Now, sitting on my favorite couch, I have the following information to dispatch:
This is an excellent Pinot. Great nose. Almost refreshing like that first whiff of coffee in the morning. While a little leggy visually, the wine itself does not have a thick or sticky texture. The palate is very, very, cherry-berry. How's that for a description? Sorry. That's just what came to mind on first swallow. It's a very smooth wine which is fairly typical of the Pinot and probably why I tend to enjoy them so much.
I think you'll be a happy little camper if you choose this wine. Sometimes they DO carry the good stuff at the corner store. Whadaya know...
Okay, so now it's time for the chips and cheese. I was holding off for the review. Enough of that! I'm hungry.
September 5, 2008
2005 Columbia Crest Two Vines Cabernet Sauvignon
YEAR: 2005WINERY: Columbia Crest
FLAVOR: Red, Cabernet Sauvignon
ORIGIN: Columbia Valley, USA
PURCHASED: Seattle, WA
AMOUNT: $9
NICKNAME: "Columbia Crest Double Cab"
Labels: 1 STAR, 2005, Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Crest, Red, USA
1 Reviews:
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September 5, 2008 8:28 PM ,
psydr said...
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1 OUT OF 5 STARS
It makes me sad to have to give such a lowly review to a wine from Columbia Crest, because, in general, I believe them to be one of the best providers of decent wines under our little $10 bubble. This, however, is NOT one of them. And I believe they tend to pride themselves on their Two Vines selections.
The earthy Cabernet nose is there and the color is of dark, dark blackberry. But the palate is really quite unpleasant. There is a strange bitterness I can't quite describe. It's not tannins. It's more as if the wine has expired... not corked though. The "flavor" doesn't mess around. It's not an aftertaste. It hits you the moment the liquid hits your tongue. It's almost as if I had just brushed my teeth...
I don't know. Personally, I'm hoping I just picked up a bad example if this CC offering. I really hope so. I'll make an effort to pick up another bottle and give it another review shortly.
September 4, 2008
2006 Snoqualmie Syrah
YEAR: 2006WINERY: Snoqualmie
FLAVOR: Red, Syrah
ORIGIN: Columbia Valley, USA
PURCHASED: Seattle, WA
AMOUNT: $7
NICKNAME: "Snowqualmie Syrah"
September 1, 2008
2004 Silverlake Roza Red
YEAR: 2004WINERY: Silverlake
FLAVOR: Red, 50% Merlot, 41% Cabernet Sauvignon, 5% Syrah, 4% Cabernet Franc
ORIGIN: Columbia Valley, USA
PURCHASED: Seattle, WA
AMOUNT: $7
NICKNAME: "Silver Rose"
Labels: 2 STAR, 2004, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Mixed Varietal, Red, Silver Lake, Syrah, USA
1 Reviews:
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September 1, 2008 9:44 PM ,
psydr said...
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2 OUT OF 5 STARS
Semi-tart. Not very interesting in general. Vanilla. Perhaps a bit overdone. Smells of bad vino, but I don't think it's corked.
Don't know what else to say. I guess I'd just avoid from purchasing in the future. But don't get me wrong. It's not terrible. I just don't like it.
I'd rather go play with my new iPhone than spend any more time on this wine...
August 30, 2008
2006 Mirassou Cabernet Sauvignon
YEAR: 2006WINERY: Mirassou
FLAVOR: Red, Cabernet Sauvignon
ORIGIN: California, USA
PURCHASED: Seattle, WA
AMOUNT: $8
NICKNAME: "Mirrasou Cab"
Labels: 4 STAR, Cabernet Sauvignon, Mirassou, Pinot Noir, Red, USA
1 Reviews:
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August 30, 2008 6:21 PM ,
psydr said...
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4 OUT OF 5 STARS
Dark and delicious. This is a very nice Cabernet. It goes down smooth and has a nice finish. Then just a hint of tannins take over. Therefore the aftertaste is the only thing non-5 STAR I could find. There's something else in the aftertaste I can't quite define. It's not bad. But it's not terribly good either. This flavor doesn't detract from the wine though, so don't hesitate to snatch up a bottle or two. If you're a Cabernet Sauvignon fan, I DO believe you're going to enjoy this beverage.
I absolutely love Mirassou's Pinot Noir. It's one of my personal favorites, so be sure to give it a try as well... if you're in the market for a Pinot that is...
August 28, 2008
1 Reviews:
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August 28, 2008 7:41 PM ,
psydr said...
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3 OUT OF 5 STARS
This vintage is quite good for a mere seven bucks. It's a little bitter but has a rather pleasing dark cherry flavor. The legs are a little thin, but this is a quality I actually prefer in a shiraz. It's the syrup-legs of the thicker vinos I disapprove of.
Goes well with pizza!
Buy it. Try it. Tell the World what you think...
July 31, 2008
1 Reviews:
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July 31, 2008 7:46 PM ,
psydr said...
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3 OUF OT 5 STARS
There is a bit-o-bitter in this beverage. The legs are a little thinner than average for a Merlot I'd say... which isn't a bad thing. At times, leggier wines repulse me. I don't enjoy having to chew my liquids.
This is a good light-bodied wine. I just think it's a little high in tannins. The after-palate is a wee bit strong in the same way a first Sourpatch Kid out of the bag is at the movies. Halfway through the bag though, things are going down just fine and you're mostly just dreaming about your next opportunity to brush your teeth.
What really impressed me about the bottle was the label. I love it. I really do. There's print and foil relief composed of just a handful of coordinating colors. Thumbs up for style. Now, if you could just transform fashion into flavor... Then Tin Roof would really be onto something.
Don't get me wrong. This is a decent wine. I wouldn't hesitate to serve it at a gathering. I just wouldn't go out of my way to purchase it for moi (aka myself). For eight to nine bucks there are better options out there. THIS IS the sole reason I started this blog: To lead YOU to the excellent, great, awesome values. Of course, you must agree with my assessment of vinos! But who doesn't?
2 Reviews:
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July 31, 2008 6:25 PM ,
psydr said...
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4 OUT OF 5 STARS
I do enjoy Barberas, and this particular selection is no exception. However, the bottle is the first example I've sampled from the hills of California rather than my family's homeland of Italia. I say, "it's great!" Very smooth. Full of light-bodied flavor and ruby-red color. An excellent Barbera indeed.
I believe I gave a similarly shining review of Renwood's Syrah. To date I am very happy with their offerings and will continue to sample more of their varietals as time allows. A pat on the back to you Renwood Winery. -
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May 25, 2009 8:55 AM ,
Tom said...
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Very impressed with this full-flavored wine. It was a real hit with our friends over for dinner. 5 stars.
July 25, 2008
Pacific Peak Cabernet Sauvignon
YEAR: None Given, Purchased 2008WINERY: Pacific Peak
FLAVOR: Red, Cabernet Sauvignon
ORIGIN: California, USA
PURCHASED: Seattle, WA
AMOUNT: $4
NICKNAME: "Pacific Peak Cabernet"
Labels: 1 STAR, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pacific Peak, Red, USA
1 Reviews:
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July 26, 2008 9:41 AM ,
psydr said...
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1 OUT OF 5 STARS
Not a very pleasant wine, but for four dollars I wasn't expecting much. Although, I have been surprised by super cheap selections before, this is NOT one of them. The initial palate is of glorified grapejuice followed by a bitterness which could best be compared with the scrapings of the inside of an uncorked barrel left to sit in the sun unattended for a week OR three. A fellow drinker helping me consume this bottle had the following to say, "Funky! Gross."
Basically, this wine is icky. The only possible measure saving this bottle from receiving a 0 STAR rating is that it did not make me want to vomit... Close though.
July 2, 2008
1 Reviews:
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July 2, 2008 9:04 PM ,
psydr said...
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4 OUT OF 5 STARS
A very good Merlot. Dark and sweet with only a tinge of bitter aftertaste. The pallet is certainly heavy with cherry. I can almost visualize cherries and grapes being smashed together by tiny little feet to come up with this concoction.
And how cool is this label? Simplicity with a splash of color. Very classy. I love it.
I look forward to sampling more Red Rock in the near future.
June 24, 2008
1 Reviews:
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June 24, 2008 9:51 PM ,
psydr said...
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2 OUT OF 5 STARS
A decent wine, but just too sweet for my taste. For $6 it's a bargain though. It's currently on sale for such here and there. Not hard to find.
The nose is good, and the palate not bad. A strong taste of black current followed by an overwhelming sweetness.
Perhaps it just didn't go well with the stir fry I made this evening...
June 9, 2008
2005 Arrow Creek Cabernet Sauvignon
YEAR: 2005WINERY: Arrow Creek
FLAVOR: Red, Cabernet Sauvignon
ORIGIN: California, USA
PURCHASED: Seattle, WA
AMOUNT: $8
NICKNAME: "Arrow Cab"
Labels: 2 STAR, 2005, Arrow Creek, Cabernet Sauvignon, Red, USA
1 Reviews:
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June 9, 2008 9:23 PM ,
psydr said...
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2 OUT OF 5 STARS
Don't see myself drinking this again anytime soon. Aroma was pleasant and the legs were nice. But once I splashed a little on my tongue, I was very disappointed. Thick and syrupy like molasses with too much tannins. Unpleasant really, but not awful. I'm giving the bottle two stars today mostly because I'm in a good mood. A one star may well have been in order.
I'll pass.
May 18, 2008
2005 Lockwood Vineyard Block 7 Pinot Noir
YEAR: 2005WINERY: Lockwood Vineyard
FLAVOR: Red, Pinot Noir
ORIGIN: California, USA
PURCHASED: Seattle, WA
AMOUNT: $8
NICKNAME: "Lockwood Pinot Noir"
Labels: 2005, Lockwood Vineyard, Pinot Noir, Red, UNRATED, USA
May 10, 2008
2004 Trout Trilogy Cabernet Sauvignon
YEAR: 2004WINERY: Trout Trilogy
FLAVOR: Red, Cabernet Sauvignon
ORIGIN: Columbia Valley, USA
PURCHASED: Seattle, WA
AMOUNT: $8
NICKNAME: "Trout Cabernet"
Labels: 2004, 3 STAR, Cabernet Sauvignon, Red, Trout Trilogy, USA
1 Reviews:
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May 18, 2008 7:48 PM ,
psydr said...
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3 OUT OF 5 STARS
Not bad. A little earthy with a tinge of bitter tannins. That's it. No big review here. Just pick up a bottle if you find the label as interesting as I did and give it a shot. Or try a 4 STAR instead...
May 6, 2008
2006 Robert Mondavi Private Selection Syrah
YEAR: 2006WINERY: Robert Mondavi
FLAVOR: Red, Syrah
ORIGIN: California, USA
PURCHASED: Seattle, WA
AMOUNT: $9
NICKNAME: "Robert's Private Syrah"
1 Reviews:
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May 6, 2008 7:31 PM ,
psydr said...
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4 OUT OF 5 STARS
A very tasty wine indeed. I've had good luck with the Mondavis and particularly enjoy their Syrahs. I'll often order a bottle when out dining if nothing else looks new and exciting. You just can't seem to go wrong purchasing a Mondavi.
I feel like I sound like a Robert Mondavi commercial...
This Syrah is quite dark in color but has a very subtle nose. The palate is struck with a hint of raspberry and cherry... I think. No earthy tones here and no real hint of oak. Just goodness.
April 24, 2008
2005 Columbia Winery Cabernet Sauvignon
YEAR: 2005WINERY: Columbia Winery
FLAVOR: Red, Cabernet Sauvignon
ORIGIN: Columbia Valley, USA
PURCHASED: Seattle, WA
AMOUNT: $8
NICKNAME: "Columbia Cabernet"
Labels: 2005, 3 STAR, Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Winery, Red, USA
1 Reviews:
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April 24, 2008 8:10 PM ,
psydr said...
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3 OUT OF 5 STARS
Not bad. Went well with my flank steak and artichokes this evening. However, this isn't one of my preferred Cabernets. There is certainly a taste (and nose) of oak here. I'd go so far as to say there's a hint of walnut...
April 21, 2008
2004 Pine & Post Cabernet Sauvignon
YEAR: 2004WINERY: Pine & Post
FLAVOR: Red, Cabernet Sauvignon
ORIGIN: Washington, USA
PURCHASED: Seattle, WA
AMOUNT: $9
NICKNAME: "Pine Cabernet"
Labels: 2004, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pine and Post, Red, UNRATED, USA
April 14, 2008
2005 Big House Red
YEAR: 2005WINERY: Big House Red
FLAVOR: Red, Blend
ORIGIN: California, USA
PURCHASED: Seattle, WA
AMOUNT: $8
NICKNAME: "Big House Red"
Labels: 2005, 3 STAR, Big House Red, Mixed Varietal, Red, USA
1 Reviews:
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April 14, 2008 10:37 PM ,
psydr said...
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3 OUT OF 5 STARS
Cherry and Blackberry here with a stringent woody aftertaste. Decent stuff though. I wouldn't refuse it, and I'd purchase a bottle or two for a impromptu party.
April 13, 2008
2006 The Ghost of 413 Syrah
YEAR: 2006WINERY: The Ghost of 413
FLAVOR: Red, Syrah
ORIGIN: Columbia Valley, USA
PURCHASED: Seattle, WA
AMOUNT: $10
NICKNAME: "Ghost Syrah"
2 Reviews:
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April 20, 2008 12:19 PM ,
psydr said...
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4 OUT OF 5 STARS
This is one tasty beverage! The color: ruby as ruby can be. The nose: very fresh and fruity. The flavor: very, very good. There are hints of darker berries here but not bitter in any way. A really smooth and delicious wine.
The name is kinda groovy too. You really need to give this bottle a try. -
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October 28, 2008 6:44 PM ,
Nessa said...
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Keep up the good work.
1 Reviews:
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April 13, 2008 8:09 PM ,
psydr said...
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3 OUT OF 5 STARS
Okay, this is going to sound bad, but really it's not. This wine was nearly flavorless, which one might associate with "bad" or at least "not-so-great." But, no. This is a very palatable wine. I somehow found its lack of flavor as a plus. I feel like this bottle could be served with anything imaginable and still enhance its flavor.
This wine will neither woo nor disgust. It's a safe bet at any gathering, and therefore I give it a 3 STAR rating. I'd go so far as to recommend this wine at any eclectic social event...
Palate? For lack of better description, I taste Earth. Nothing bitter. Smooth as smooth can be.
Geez. Now I feel like I was raving... I wasn't. What I meant to pass on to you was just this: This syrah is Non-offensive.
1 Reviews:
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April 20, 2008 12:28 PM ,
psydr said...
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3 OUT OF 5 STARS
A little sweet but not overly so. However, I don't usually associate sweet with Pinot Noir, so something is amiss here. Decent wine though. Don't NOT try it.
March 31, 2008
2003 Columbia Crest Grand Estates Shiraz
YEAR: 2003WINERY: Columbia Crest
FLAVOR: Red, Shiraz
ORIGIN: Columbia Valley, USA
PURCHASED: Seattle, WA
AMOUNT: $10
NICKNAME: "Columbia Crest Grande Shiraz"
1 Reviews:
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April 1, 2008 12:51 AM ,
psydr said...
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5 OUT OF 5 STARS
First of all, this is a great wine. 5 STARS without a doubt. There's a wonderful cherry/oak flavor which comes together perfectly. Hats off to Colombia Crest. This is their best wine yet!
Okay, this is one of those moments of personal awkwardness. I'm pretty sure I've already reviewed the "regular" Columbia Crest Shiraz. And I believe I gave it a 5 STAR rating... which it deserved. However, if that's the case, then I have to come up with a new rating system, because this wine is easily TWICE as good as their "regular" shiraz. This Grand Estates stuff is the bomb. Damb, it's good!
Does this really mean I have to come up with a new rating system? No. It just means there's a wide variety of vinos which fit in the 5 STAR catagory. And ALL of them are incredible.
Is there one 5 STAR that's better than another? Of course. Absolutely. But my intention here is to make sure that if you were to pick up any wine I rate 5 STAR, you're going to be one happy camper.
We all need variety. Remember one thing: The bitter makes the sweet sweeter. There's soooooo much truth to that I won't even begin to approach the subject here...
March 30, 2008
2006 Robert Mondavi Pinot Noir
YEAR: 2006WINERY: Robert Mondavi
FLAVOR: Red, Pinot Noir
ORIGIN: California, USA
PURCHASED: Seattle, WA
AMOUNT: $10
NICKNAME: "Mondavi Pinot Noir"
Labels: 2006, 5 STAR, Pinot Noir, Red, Robert Mondavi, USA
1 Reviews:
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March 30, 2008 9:06 PM ,
psydr said...
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5 OUT OF 5 STARS
This wine is just excellent. I love it. Gorgeous color and smell. More quaffable than water. It's just a delight to drink. This is possibly the best wine I've reviewed in quite sometime. I'm not kidding.
There's some cherry here and a slight oak palate as it glides off the tongue and down the back of the throat. Perfect. Incredibly smooth. I just can't say enough about this wine. Bravo Robert Mondavi!
Do yourself a favor and pick up a bottle on your very next trip to the store. It is readily available at most stores in the Great Northwest...
March 29, 2008
1 Reviews:
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At
March 29, 2008 8:34 PM ,
psydr said...
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3 OUT OF 5 STARS
A good solid Syrah. Not great. My first impression was not good. After a good whiff and a swirl onto my tongue, there was an immediate bitterness I did not appreciate. After a couple more swills, the wine was going down smoother. It certainly mellowed over time. Now, I find it quite palatable.
There are better Syrahs out there for your $7. Try another. I only recommend this particular bottle if you enjoy a very, very strong taste of cherry.
March 25, 2008
2005 Chalk Creek Petite Sirah
YEAR: 2005WINERY: Chalk Creek
FLAVOR: Red, Petite Sirah
ORIGIN: California, USA
PURCHASED: Trader Joe's, Seattle, WA
AMOUNT: $6
NICKNAME: "Chalk Creek Petite Sirah"
Labels: 2005, 3 STAR, Chalk Creek, Petite Sirah, Red, USA
1 Reviews:
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March 26, 2008 6:16 PM ,
psydr said...
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3 OUT OF 5 STARS
Quite smooth until the slightly bitter end -- which is atypical of a Petite Sirah in my opinion. If it wasn't for the bite of bitter left lingering on my tongue, I would've easily given this wine a 4. So, if you don't mind such a bite, this will be a great wine for you at a great price.
Palate? Cherry and blackberry... Good with a simple meal of steak and potatoes. I can see the bitter coming in at the right moment to really spark the flavor of a nice, juicy, medium-raw sirloin.
I also like the label. Simple style and lack of color. Funky.
March 21, 2008
2004 Columbia Crest Shiraz
YEAR: 2004WINERY: Columbia Crest
FLAVOR: Red, Shiraz
ORIGIN: Columbia Valley, USA
PURCHASED: Seattle, WA
AMOUNT: $9
NICKNAME: "Columbia Crest Shiraz"
1 Reviews:
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March 21, 2008 8:31 PM ,
psydr said...
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5 OUT OF 5 STARS
Delicious! This is a great wine. In general, all Columbia Crest vintages and varietals can be used as a successful standby. They never disappoint.
If you were to throw a party and know absolutely nothing about wine, then the one thing you should be aware of is this: Columbia Crest will ALWAYS please. They haven't produced a single failure to my knowledge.
The Shiraz is sweet, but not too sweet. It's smooth and goes well with anything I've thrown at it. Tonight I had Lamb Korma. Perfect accompaniment.
Damn, I'm ecstatic Columbia Crest does what they do. Nice work folks. Keep it up. I don't personally know another winery which can be counted on without fail year after year, vintage after vintage, and across sooooo many varietals...
March 3, 2008
1 Reviews:
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March 13, 2008 6:37 PM ,
psydr said...
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4 OUT OF 5 STARS
An excellent and very smooth Syrah. A taste of Cherry and perhaps Blackberry... Good stuff.
Get it. Try it. I liked it!
2 Reviews:
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March 4, 2008 1:19 AM ,
psydr said...
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2 OUT OF 5 STARS
Another mediocre wine. Not terrible. But not even remotely average. This wine was cheap for a reason. Fairly sweet with a strong hint of berry...
Let's move along. -
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April 10, 2008 11:53 AM ,
said...
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I gave this one a 4 of 5 - above average. A lighter style cab, w/ soft tannins, dark fruit & choc on the palate and a nice black currant nose. Seemed well put-together to me. Maybe my sweet-tooth doesn't pick up the sweetness that you found, but I found this to be a pretty good deal @ $7.99 (btw, the bottle I bought was from Mattawa, WA, from WA grapes).
February 24, 2008
1 Reviews:
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February 24, 2008 5:23 PM ,
psydr said...
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3 OUT OF 5 STARS
There's wood involved in this wine. Certainly an oak flavor. Pretty good stuff. Just not fantastic. I don't even feel like giving it a FOUR. I guess I'd give it a 3.5 since I really feel it's just above average. But "no." THREE stars is what they get.
Word.
February 23, 2008
2005 Blackstone Pinot Noir
YEAR: 2005WINERY: Blackstone
FLAVOR: Red, Pinot Noir
ORIGIN: California, USA
PURCHASED: Seattle, WA
AMOUNT: $8
NICKNAME: "Blackstone Pinot Noir"
Labels: 2 STAR, 2005, Blackstone, Pinot Noir, Red, USA
1 Reviews:
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February 23, 2008 10:09 PM ,
psydr said...
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2 OUT OF 5 STARS
Another really sweet wine. Tons of berries present. Again, toooooo much. Not smooth. Why can't we chill on the additives and just produce a good, palatable wine?
This is a conundrum for me. Personally, I love Pinot Noirs. This just isn't one of them.
2005 Columbia Crest Merlot Cabernet Sauvignon
YEAR: 2005WINERY: Columbia Crest
FLAVOR: Red, Merlot & Cabernet Sauvignon
ORIGIN: Washington, USA
PURCHASED: Seattle, WA
AMOUNT: $9
NICKNAME: "Columbian Blend"
Labels: 2005, 3 STAR, Cabernet Sauvignon, Columbia Crest, Merlot, Mixed Varietal, Red, USA
1 Reviews:
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At
February 23, 2008 10:24 PM ,
psydr said...
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3 OUT OF 5 STARS
Good showing. I've always been pleased with Columbia Crest. However, this blend just didn't do anything for me. The bottle is of their Two Vines offering. In this case, nothing special.
1 Reviews:
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February 24, 2008 3:18 PM ,
psydr said...
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3 OUT OF 5 STARS
A bit sweet, but a good wine. Berries and plumb are the predominant flavors here. The resulting fluid is a bit thick for my taste but not offensive. The bottle went down quite easily with the ribs I devoured alongside...
2006 Mad Housewife Cabernet Sauvignon
YEAR: 2006WINERY: Mad Housewife
FLAVOR: Red, Cabernet Sauvignon
ORIGIN: California, USA
PURCHASED: Seattle, WA
AMOUNT: $8
NICKNAME: "Mad Housewife Cabernet"
Labels: 2006, 3 STAR, Cabernet Sauvignon, Mad Housewife, Red, USA
2 Reviews:
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February 23, 2008 10:31 PM ,
psydr said...
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3 OUT OF 5 STARS
Pretty good for a Cabernet. Certainly a hint (or more) of cherry here. Good job. Just not terribly exciting. You know what I mean. Sometimes you taste a wine and say, "this is it." And, sometime you don't. Besides, average isn't a bad thing. -
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March 24, 2008 8:20 PM ,
Jay said...
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3 out of 5 stars
Maybe 4 really. This one is pretty good, I guess. I find myself usually thinking..."Eh, sure. It's wine." This one is pretty tame, not terribly exciting, but it seems that may be what I like. Smooth and unoffensive. I can dig it.
It went well with my mixed up dinner of chicken satay and fajita chicken frozen pizza.
February 20, 2008
2006 Smoking Loon Cabernet Sauvignon
YEAR: 2006WINERY: Smoking Loon
FLAVOR: Red, Cabernet Sauvignon
ORIGIN: California, USA
PURCHASED: Seattle, WA
AMOUNT: $9
NICKNAME: "Smoking Loon Cabernet"
Labels: 2006, 3 STAR, Cabernet Sauvignon, Red, Smoking Loon, USA
2 Reviews:
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February 21, 2008 8:28 PM ,
psydr said...
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3 OUT OF 5 STARS
Decent Cabernet. Very smooth and breathes well. The first and the last glass were equally tasty. Not terribly fruity, but there is some hint of cherry or maybe even raspberry...
I feel comfortable recommending this wine, but there are many others I would suggest you try first. But don't hesitate to pick up a bottle at the store. You should enjoy. -
At
August 14, 2008 9:01 PM ,
Pastor's Perspective said...
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4 OUT OF 5 STARS
Thank you for your favorable review! This bottle has quickly become one of our family favorites to pour for our guests. Thanks too for helping me identify the interesting & enjoyable mixture of flavors.
1 Reviews:
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February 23, 2008 4:31 PM ,
psydr said...
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2 OUT OF 5 STARS
A little too earthy for me. Tastes a lot like wood and not necessarily the oak variety. Not sure what's going on here. I just don't particularly like it.
2003 Snoqualmie Syrah
YEAR: 2003WINERY: Snoqualmie
FLAVOR: Red, Syrah
ORIGIN: Columbia Valley, USA
PURCHASED: Seattle, WA
AMOUNT: $8
NICKNAME: "Snoqualmie Syrah"
3 Reviews:
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February 20, 2008 10:05 PM ,
psydr said...
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3 OUT OF 5 STARS
More Snoqualmie goodness. Not going to be one of my favorites, but a very good wine. Poured a glass of this Syrah, no one is going to complain. -
At
March 26, 2008 11:01 PM ,
Jay said...
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1 out of 5 STARS
Well....I kind of liked the label anyway. It's not often that I don't finish a bottle in a sitting. Just out of principal and polished it off the next day but I didn't enjoy it any more on the second try. -
At
September 11, 2008 9:54 PM ,
psydr said...
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3 OUT OF 5 STARS
On revisit of this wine, I'd like to give it a slightly more robust review. This is a very good Syrah. I can't quite give it a 4 STAR rating, but it's close. There are some great earthly tones here, and a very smooth palate of cherry and raspberry. Very nice indeed. Certainly worth your consideration.
And, as Jay pointed out, the label "pops." I do like it. It has a certain simpleness to it and an elegant use of color without going overboard...
1 Reviews:
4 OUT OF 5 STARS
I have to tell you, I'm a bit shocked by this vino. I nearly gave it a 5 Star for the pleasant surprise. Smooth. No bitter tannin aftertaste what-so-ever. Very berry with a hint of cherry. Perfect legs. Not too thin. Not to thick. Very subtle nose which might relate to the smooth overall texture and mild acidity. A really pleasant wine. Kudos to Trellis for producing such a wonderful concoction on the cheap.
Palate-wise, I'd say this Cab more resembles a Pinot than it's true heritage. It's probably a tad thin for your standard Cabernet. Very refreshing.
Served with stuffed chicken thighs and a fantastic rice pilaf, this wine really hit the spot tonight. I'm wondering if it was the roasted almonds that brought the flavor to life. Normally, this dish would be served with white wine, but I couldn't have made a better pairing if I'd tried...
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