Tasting Notes

Oriel Femme Fatale Rose Bordeaux 2003

Dark...but not mysterious, this 100% Merlot Rose is perfect for summer but not light or frivolous. Thoroughly dry, ripe with strawberries and raspberries, and enough structure to stand up to the beef tenderloin I just enjoyed.

A medium-long and very satisfying finish. Imagine that...a rose from Bordeaux. Outstanding. About $20.

Wine-Flair Wine Rating: 7.5+

Pinot Grigio Ramato (Italy), 2005

Ramato is the Italian word for copper, and this very light pink wine shines with a pale copper color while it delivers a strawberry flavor in a refreshing, dry style. This wine gives the lie to the notion that Pinot Grigio, a mutant of Pinot Noir (and also known as Pinot Gris), is produced only as a white. Just had a bottle with lobster bisque and prawns and it made a marvelous combination. Excellent value.