Bogle - Old Vine Zinfandel - 2012

  From California

From the bottle: California is blessed with many historic Zinfandel vineyards. These grapes were first planted by European immigrants in the early 1900's and are still producing today. The old head-trained vines are unique because they produce a smaller crop of fruit that is unusually rich and concentrated in selecting grapes from these old vines, we have handcrafted a wine that displays intense blackberry, black cherry, and raspberry flavors, wrapped in a smooth blanket of vanilla and oak.

We've purchased this wine twice now. We enjoyed the first bottle so much that we picked up a second one. The second one was even better than the first. If your looking for a Thanksgiving wine - this is sure to be a hit!
 
Colin: The first bottle of this wine wasn't as good as the second. The aroma is sweet with a berry scent that I didn't remember from the first bottle. The flavor profile runs the gamut from buttery oak to lush fruit. There's a biting finish reminiscent of a good Cabernet. There's really nothing to complain about. It's a great bottle of wine to be enjoyed with Italian food. Highly recommended.
Rating: 9.8 out of 10 glasses

Rachel: When I opened our second bottle of Bogle Zin, I worried it was corked because of how overly sweet the smell was. But on first taste, which I had immediately after some garlic bread, was incredible. It's full bodied with numerous flavors in each sip. It's sweet, tart, buttery, and light. Highly recommended to accompany your next pasta dish.
Rating: 10 out of 10 glasses

Where can I buy it? We got our bottle at Trader Joe's. Find a distributor in your area.

Bogle - Pinot Noir - 2012

From Clarksburg, California

From the bottle:
As grape growers we hold high regard for the mindful tending of the soil and exacting knowledge of the cellar.

Colin: The crisp start might be a little harsh for some, but I enjoy it. The finish is what makes this Pinot Noir stand out, with a dry, smooth lingering taste. Probably a favorite Pinot for me.   
Rating: 7.5 out of 10 glasses

Rachel: There is a harsh, initial bite to this wine, which I thought would a permanent turn off. However, the finish is smooth and long-lasting. It has a bit of a licorice taste to it. I'm a big fan of the finish, and it works great with garlic-heavy food.
Rating: 7 out of 10 glasses

Where can I find it? We got it at Trader Joe's for under $10.

Semler - Sauvignon Blanc - 2012

From Malibu, California

From the bottle:
"Our vineyards are positions 2,000 feet above sea level where our rocky terrain, soils, and weather create a microclimate of unparalleled complexity and depth."

Colin: I'm quite fond of this, since it is a bold Sauvignon Blanc. There's an apple cider bite with a smooth, oak-y finish. This is a white for someone who doesn't usually enjoy whites. 

Rating: 9 out of 10 glasses

Rachel: This wine was fantastic at the tasting we went to, and even better with food (we had risotto!). It has an apple tartness to it, but a sweet, almost buttery finish that rolls off your tongue. Fantastic wine. 

Rating: 10 out of 10 glasses. 

Where can I find it?  We got it directly at a wine tasting.  You can purchase it on the Malibu Family Wines' site for $24.00.

Fish Eye - Cabernet Sauvignon - 2012

This Cabernet is from South Eastern Australia

From the bottle: "Cherry and blackberry with a hint of pepper on the nose."

Colin: It's hard to find fault in this Cabernet - even with its screw top.  This wine is a perfect, fruity cab. There's a earthy tone in the finish, which is the only downside for me. Great glass to have with food; recommend having it breathe a little before drinking. 

Rating: 8.5 out of 10 glasses

Rachel: I was blown away by this wine. It has a bold, fruity flavor with a lasting finish. Lately, I feel like we've been striking out on cabs. This one definitely hit the spot, with overall nice tones. 

Rating: 9 out of 10 glasses

Where can I find it?  We got this at our local grocery store for under $10. You can find more information on Fish Eye's website.