Wine Review: Castle Rocks Pinot Noir for Summer Sipping

Summer is almost here and it is time to switch from hardy winter wines like Merlot to something a little softer like a Pinot Noir. Castle Rock’s Pinot Noir has a strong showing in the market with a number of enthusiasts on the Web stating it is a great wine for the price of under $10.00. Wine and Spirits Magazines rated it as one of their top 17 American Brands with a specialty in Pinot Noir.

In relation to other Pinot Noir brands, Castle Rock is also a dry wine of rose pedal aroma. There is a touch of strawberry and raspberry in the taste. A warm and light after taste that doesn’t hang past five seconds. The color is soft red much like a rose wine. It would make a great selection for meats and vegetables due to its light and subtle taste.

Castle Rock is not your normal winery and can be better classified as a virtually winery. What this means is that they do not actually own the land or winery but found a way to lease the extra capacities of other wineries. They buy the grapes from growers and then make their wine at their locations to create a variety of styles and offerings. A nice way of doing business without all the fixed overhead.

http://www.castlerockwinery.com/

Wine Review: Chanteau St. Michelle's 2011 Riesling

Chateau Ste. Michelle shoots for the sky with their 2011 Riesling. Soft, subtle, and semi-sweet are three words that describe this chilled beverage. It is a summer white wine with a touch of class. With an average customer rating of 5 out of 5 stars, it is likely you will not be disappointed. Pick up a bottle at the store on the way home, as restaurant prices are astronomical. 

Located in Washington Chateau Ste. Michelle is not your standard Californian or Italian offering.  Based within its French culture the winery has morphed into offering separate products for red and white wine. The owners attempt to blend old world traditions with new world innovations to maintain the highest quality standards possible. 

Riesling originally comes from the Rhine region of Germany. The white grape variety has spread too many other locations around the world. Considered a popular type of wine for summer and fall it is offered in most restaurant establishments.  It is believed that the wine originally came from 14^th Century peasants and the traditional grapes are rare in modern production. 

For under $10 dollars a bottle, this is a great wine for lying under the Christmas tree or in front of the fire.  If you are from the Midwest you can always site on your porch and watch the leaves change color with the season. It will work well with holiday parties or as token gifts. Try it with your offerings of cheese & crackers, seafood, fruit or other appetizers. 

http://www.ste-michelle.com/