Triangle Chapter, AWS

 

Triangle Chapter, American Wine Society Serving Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill, NC, and Vicinity www.awstriangle.org

Selected Tasting Results from Triangle AWS Chapter Tastings

The highest ranking wine in each tasting is highlighted.
Average Score Interpretation:  12-14 Good, 15-17 Excellent, 18+ Extraordinary.
A "+" sign after Cost means add about 50 cents.

Tasting Results:  2010 - 2019

MOBILE USERS: We apologize, but these tables do not adapt well to mobile phones.  You may see them better, however, by turning your phone sideways. We have made the font as small as possible ...

December 16, 2019:  California Red Blends

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2017 Wagner Wine Wines Conundrum Red Blend, ABV 14.6%        7  $22  14.7
2016 Ferrari-Carano Siena Sangiovese Blend, ABV 14.5%        6  $17  15.0
2016 Murietta's Well the Spur Red Bordeaux Blend, ABV 13.5%  5  $20  15.4
2016 Duckhorn Vineyards Paraduxx Red Blend, ABV 14.9%        2  $44  16.0
NV   Orin Swift Locations CA Red Blend, ABV 15.5%            4  $17  15.7
2018 Prisoner Wine Company, The Prisoner Zinfandel Blend,
     ABV 15.2%                                               2  $40  16.0
2017 Orin Swift 8 Years in the Desert Zinfandel Blend,
     ABV 15.5%                                               1  $45  16.2

November 17, 2019:  The Wines of Costco

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
NV   Kirkland Champagne Brut France 12% ABV                  3  $20  15.8
2018 Kirkland Signature Chardonnay Sonoma County 13.5% ABV   5  $7   15.5
2017 Four Graces Pinot Noir Willamette Valley OR 13.9% ABV   7  $20  14.8
2015 Waterbrook Reserve Merlot Columbia Valley WA 14.3% ABV  4  $14  15.7
2017 Kirkland Signature Malbec Mendoza Argentina 13.5% ABV   6  $7   14.9
2015 Bodega Norton Privada Family Red Blend Argentina
     14.5% ABV                                               2  $16  16.9
2015 Bogle Phantom Red Blend 14.5% ABV                       1  $15  17.0

October 20, 2019:  The A List of Italian B Wines

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2018 Banfi "Rose Regale" Brachetto D'Acqui 7% ABV            5  $15  15.0
2018 Guerrieri Rizzardi Bardolino DoP Classico 13.5% ABV     7  $16  14.5
2016 I'armangia "Titon" Nizza DOCG Barbera 14.5% ABV         2  $30  15.7
2016 Le Volte dell'Ornellaia Toscana IGT Bolgheri 14.5% ABV  4  $23  15.5
2013 Fattoria La Lecciaia Brunello di Montalcino DOCG
     14.0% ABV                                               3  $40  15.6
2013 Castello di Nieve "Santo Stefano" Barbaresco DOCG
     14.5% ABV                                               5  $54  15.0
2014 G.D. Vajra Bricco Delle Viole Barolo DOCG 13.5% ABV     1  $70  17.1

September 15, 2019:  National Tasting Project - Napa Valley

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2017 Stag's Leap Winery Viognier 100% Viognier ABV 14.3%     7  $31  14.7
2017 Robert Mondavi Pinot Noir 100% Pinot Noir ABV 13.5%     6  $24  14.9
2015 Stag's Leap Winery Petit Sirah 76% Petit Sirah,
     12% Syrah, 10% Grenache 2% Viognier ABV14.5%            3  $37  16.5
2014 Green and Red Vineyard Zinfandel 100% Zin ABV 15.3%     4  $27  16.1
2015 Whitehall Lane Winery Tre Leoni Red Blend ABV14.7%      2  $24  16.6
2008 Screenplay Napa Valley Red Wine Red Blend ABV 14.5%     4  $51  16.1
2015 Mount Veeder Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 84% Cabernet
     Sauvignon, 12% Malbec, 4% Petit Verdot 14.5% ABV        1  $43  16.7

August 18, 2019:  Exploring the Major Wine Regions of France

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
nv   Louis Bouillot Perle d’Aurore Brut Rose’
     Cremant de Bourgogne Sparkling Wine, Rose,
     Pinot Noir, Gamay, Chardonnay 12% AVB Burgundy, France  8  $20  14.2
nv   Anne De K Cremant Brut Blanc De Blanc Champagne & Sparkling
     Wine, Brut; Pinot Blanc 12% ABV Cremant, Alsace, France 6  $20  14.9
2015 Debeaune Pouilly Fuisse Galopieres 100% Chardonnay
     13% ABV Maconnais, Burgundy, France                     5  $27  15.3
2014 Chateau de Chamirey Mercurey Rouge 100% Pinot Noir
     13% ABV Mercurey, Burgundy, France                      7  $35  14.3
2016 Chateau de Nages Costieres de Nimes Rouge Vieilles
     Vignes Rhone Blend; 70% Grenache, 15% Syrah,
     15% Carignan 14.5% ABV Rhone, France                    4  $17  15.7
2015 Chateau Garraud Lalande de Pomerol Bordeaux Blend;
     93% Merlot, 4% Cabernet Franc, 3% Cabernet Sauvignon
     14.5% ABV Bordeaux, France                              2  $30  16.5
2014 Chateau Tour de Bessan Margaux Bordeaux Blend;
     46% Cabernet Sauvignon, 54% Merlot
     13.5% ABV Bordeaux, France                              1  $27  17
2013 Chateau Cantegril Sauternes Semillon-Sauvignon Blanc
     Blend, 80% Semillon, 20% Sauvignon Blanc 13% AVB
     Graves, Bordeaux, France                                3  $30  15.9

June 9, 2019:  Cru Beaujolais Wines

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2015 Chiroubles, Domaine Cheysson Récolte                    6  $21  14.8
2017 Cru Fleurie Le Vivier                                   5  $22  15.3
2016 Robert Perroud Côte de Brouilly                         3  $25  16.0
2016 Pascal Aufranc Juliénas Les Cerisiers                   4  $25  15.5
2016 Cru du Beaujolais Brouilly Les Frères Perroud           2  $25  16.3
2016 Couvent des Thorins Moulin-à-Vent                       1  $25  17.1

May 19, 2019:  Surpising Slovenia

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2016 Ferdinand Rebula 12.0% ABV 100% Rebula (Ribolla Gialla) 5  $20  14.3
2013 Colliano Sauvignonasse 13.5% ABV
     100% Sauvignonasse (Friulano)                           4  $16  14.6
2017 Pullus Pinot Grigio 13.0% ABV 100% Pinot Grigio         3  $18  15.0
2016 Zajc Cvicek 9.5% ABV 50% Blauer Koelner,
     20% Blaufrankisch, 15% Kraljevina, 15% Laski Riesling   6  $15  12.7
2016 Kobal Blaufrankisch 13.5% ABV 100% Blaufrankisch        2  $23  15.7
2015 Colliano Cuvee Red 13.0% ABV 40 % Cabernet Franc,
     30% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Merlot                      1  $16  16.4

April 14, 2019:  Comparing the Wines of Argentina and Chile

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2015 Veramonte 100% Pinot Noir Chile 14.5% ABV               6  $17  14.2
2017 Durigutti 100% Bonarda (Charbono) Argentina 13.3% ABV   5  $16  14.8
2016 Vina Requingua Toro de Piedra 85% Carmenere,
     15% Cabernet Sauvignon Chile 13.5% ABV                  1  $18  16.6
2010 Antigal One Dona Angeles 87% Malbec, 13% Cab Franc
     Argentina 14.9% ABV                                     2  $55  16.3
2013 Bodega Los Toneles Don Genaro Reserva
     100% Cabernet Sauvignon Argentina 14.5% ABV             3  $22  15.8
2016 Amplus Santa Ema 100% Cabernet Sauvignon Chile 14% ABV  4  $32  15.7

February 10, 2019:  What Is It and Does It Really Matter

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2017 Domaine Trotereau Quincy, France                        5  $22  14.9
2017 Philippe Girard 'Cuvée Silex' Sancerre, France          2  $28  15.5
2015 Koehler-Ruprecht Kabinett troken Pfalz, Germany         6  $22  13.5
2015 Chateau de Chamilly Bourgogne,  France                  4  $22  15.4
2016 Chateau Haut-Monplaisir Cahors, France                  2  $19  15.5
2017 Vaglio 'Aggie' Tupungato (Uco Valley),
     Mendoza, Argentina                                      1  $20  16.1

January 20, 2019:  Rhone - North vs. South

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2017 Paul Jaboulet Aine Viognier Secret de Famille           7  $13  14.6
2016 Domaine Evigneaux - Rasteau                             5  $20  15.0
2014 Domaine des Bosquest Gigondas                           3  $22  15.9
2013 Domaine le Couroulu - Vacqueyras Vielles Vignes         6  $20  14.8
2016 Paul Jaboulet Aine Saint Peray Les Sauvageres           4  $20  15.4
2016 Eric & Joel Durand - St. Joseph Les Coteaux             1  $25  16.6
2015 Durand Cornas Premices                                  2  $30  16.2

November 11, 2018:  GSM:  Grenache, Syrah, Mouvedre

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2012 Burgess Cellars Grenache 14.4% ABV                      7  $15  14.3
2015 Vigilance Cimarron 13.9% ABV                            4  $12  15.7
2016 Gemtree Vineyards Cinnabar GSM 14.5% ABV                6  $15  15.0
2013 Ridgeback Winery SGMV 14.0% ABV                         5  $19  15.2
2015 Beckman Vineyards Cuvee Le Bec GSM 14.8% ABV            2  $23  16.5
2013 Big Basin Vineyards Gabilan Mountain GSM 14.9% ABV      3  $49  16.0
2016 Guarachi Bacon Red Blend 15.0% ABV                      1  $19  16.8

October 21, 2018:  Sherry

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
NV Hijos de Rainera Perez Marin La Guita Manzanilla 15 ABV   5  $16  16.1
NV Lustau Fino Jarana 15% ABV                                4  $19  16.2
NV Lustau Amontillado Los Arcos 18.5% ABV                    3  $19  17.1
NV Hidalgo Olorosa Faraon 18% ABV                            2  $18  17.2
NV Osborne Pedro Ximenez 1827 17% ABV                        1  $24  18.0
 

September 16, 2018:  Wines of Portugal (National Tasting Project)

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2015 Castello D'Alba White Reserva 13.5% ABV Douro           5   $17  15.8
2015 Beyra Vinho Branco Reserva 13% ABV Beyra Interior       7   $14  14.6
2013 Beyra Tinto Reserva 13% ABV Beyra Interior              6   $14  15.5
2015 Quinta do Gradil 13.5% ABV Lisbon Region                4   $10  16.2
2013 Dona Maria Amantis 14.5% ABV Alentejo                   3   $24  16.6
2013 Quinta Vale D Maria 15% ABV Douro                       2   $61  17.5
NV   Quinta Vale D Maria Field Blend Ruby Port 19% ABV Douro 1   $14  18.0

August 19, 2018:  Italian Wines

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
NV   Spumante Sparkling Terra Antica Vin Moscato Bianco
     11% ABV                                                 6   $10  14.9
2010 Sella & Mosca Cannonau di Sardegna 100% Cannonau
     12.5% ABV                                               7   $15  14.6
2014 Aia Vecchia Vermentino Toscana 100% Vermentino 13% ABV  5   $13  15.1
2016 Gran Passione Veneto Rosso 60% Merlot 40% Corvina
     14% ABV                                                 1   $13  16.8
2014 Tenuta di Arceno Chianti Classico 13.5% ABV             3   $23  16
2015 Lamuri Tenuta Regaleali 100% Nero d'Avola (aka Calabrese)
     13.5% ABV                                               2   $20  16.2
2012 Villadoria Barolo 100% Nebbiolo 13% ABV                 4   $39  15.3

July 15, 2018:  Wine & Swine in the Summertime

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
NV   Wilson Creek Rose' Sparkling French Columbard,
     Chardonnay, secret red grape 12% ABV                    2   $15  16.1
2015 King Family Wineyards Viognier 90% Viognier,
     10% Petit Manseng 13.5% ABV                             8   $27  14.8
2017 Arnot-Roberts Rose' 80% Touriga Nacional,
     20% Tinta Cao 11.5% ABV                                 6   $23  15
2014 Lea Santa Rita Hills Pinot Noir 100% Pinot Noir
     15% ABV                                                 4   $29  15.7
2017 Childress Swine Wine Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Malbec
     12.5% ABV                                               7   $12  14.9
2016 Sanctuary Vineyards Aglianico 100% Agloanico 12.5% ABV  5   $32  15.1
2011 Macquis Carmenere 98% Carmenere, 2% Petit Verdot
     13.5% ABV                                               3   $17  16
2014 Three Wine Company Old Vines Zinfandel 100% Zinfandel
     15.4% ABV                                               1   $20  17.3

June 24, 2018:  Budget Bordeaux

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2015 Chateau Clos Floridene Blanc Graves                     6   $32  13.2
2015 Chateau De La Huste Fronsac                             5   $20  13.9
2014 Chateau La Jorine St. Emilion                           4   $20  15.7
2014 Chateau Tour de Bessan Margaux                          3   $27  16.3
2015 Chateau La Fleur Peyrabon Pauillac                      1   $35  16.9
2015 Cheval Quancard Premiere Cote de Bordeaux               2   $13  16.8
 

May 20, 2018:  Spanish Wines

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
NV   Pescador Blanc Emporda                                  7   $10  14.5
2016 Valserrano Blanco Rioja                                 6   $15  14.9
2016 A Coroa Godella Valdeorras, Galicia                     4   $22  16.5
2015 Monje Hollera "Carbonica" Tenerife, Canary Islands      5   $25  16.3
2014 Scala Dei "Cartoixa" Priorat                            1   $50  17.5
2012 Marques de Murrieta "Dalmau" Rioja Reserva              2   $60  17.3
2011 Casa Los Frailes "After 3" Valencia                     3   $19  16.9
 

April 15, 2018: Rickety Bridge Winery, South Africa

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2017 Rickety Bridge Chenin Blanc                             7   $17  14.5
2017 Rickety Bridge Sauvignon Blanc                          4   $17  15.8
2016 Rickety Bridge Chardonnay                               5   $21  15.7
2017 Foundation Stone Rose'                                  6   $18  14.8
2015 Rickety Bridge Merlot                                   3   $25  16.1
2014 Paulina's Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon                    2   $45  17.0
2016 Rickety Bridge Pinotage                                 1   $24  17.4
 

February 25, 2018: Loire Valley Wines

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
     Domaine Boutet-Saulnier, Vouvray Brut 100% Chenin Blanc 3   $13  14.8
     Domaine de la Grange, Muscadet 100% Melon de Bourgogne  3   $10  14.8
     Domaine Philippe Raimbault, Sancerre Blanc
        100% Sauvignon Blanc                                 5   $19  14.4
     Chateau Reynon, Bordeaux Blanc 100% Sauvignon Blanc     6   $17  14.1
     Domaine Philippe Raimbault, Sancerre Rouge
        100% Pinot Noir                                      7   $19  13.2
     Domaine Guillemard Pothier Haute Cotes de Beaune
        100% Pinot Noir                                      8   $19  12.4
     Domaine de Chanteloup Bourgueil Vielles Vignes
        100% Cabernet Franc                                  2   $14  15.1
     Brut Exclusive Les Cordeliers Cremant de Bordeaux
        100% Cabernet Franc                                  1   $20  15.8

January 21, 2018: Valpolicella and Amarone

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2015 Antica Corte Valpolicella Classico                      6   $15  14.1
2014 Zenato Valpolicella Superiore                           5   $15  15.4
2013 Montresor Valpolicella Ripasso Capitel Della            4   $17  16.0
2012 La Giaretta Amarone della Valpolicella                  3   $40  17.8
2012 Zenato Amarone della Valpolicella Classico              2   $63  17.9
2013 Montresor Recioto Valpolicella .5 liter                 1   $45  18.1

December 17, 2017: Washington State Wines

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
NV, Domaine Ste Michelle Brut, 12.9% ABV                    2   $13  15.8
2014 Shooting Star Aligoté 14.5% ABV                        7   $14  14.5
2015 Eroica Riesling, Columbia Valley 12% ABV               5   $20  14.9
2013 Shooting Star Blue Franc 13.5% ABV                     6   $14  14.8
2015 Tenet, Pundit Syrah, Columbia Valley 14.5 % ABV        4   $20  15.5
2013 Browne Tribute Red Blend 13.9% ABV                     3   $33  15.7
2012 Northstar Cabernet Sauvignon 14.5% ABV                 1   $30  16.1
 

November 19, 2017: Zinfandel

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2014 Azienda Agricola Morella Primitivo Malbek Puglia,
     Italy 85% Primitivo, 15% Malbec 14.5% ABV              6   $24  13.8
2014 Woot Cellars LARGE BOLD TEXT (On a Plain Background)
     Zinfandel (by Pedroncelli) 15.5% ABV                   5   $12  14.4
2015 Pedroncelli Zinfandel Bushnell Vineyard Sonoma County
     Dry Creek Valley 3% Petit Sirah 15.2% ABV              4   $22  15.6
2014 St Francis Zinfandel Old Vines Sonoma County
     83% Zinfandel, 11% Petite Sirah, 6% Other 15.2% ABV    2   $15  16.3
2015 Seghesio Zinfandel Sonoma County 85% Zinfandel,
     9% Petite Sirah, 6% Other 14/8% ABV                    2   $20  16.3
2015 Biale Black Chicken Napa Valley 14.8% ABV              1   $50  16.5
 

October 15, 2017: White Bordeaux

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2015 Les Cordeliers Cremant de Bordeaux Brut
     100% Cabernet Franc 12% ABV                            8   $30  14.8
2015 Haut-Mouleyre 80% Sauv Gris, 20% Sauv Blanc Cadillac
     12.5% ABV                                              2   $17  16.1
2015 Chateau de Retout Retout Blanc 36% Sauv Gris, 35% Gros Manseng,
     16% Savagnin, 13% Mondeuse Blanc Medoc 13.5% ABV       7   $25  15.1
2015 Chateau Doisy-Daene 100% Sauv Blanc Barsac 13.5% ABV   5   $25  15.3
2015 Chateau Vrai Caillou 40% Semillon, 35% Sauv Gris,
     25% Sauv Blanc Entre-Deux-Mers 12.5% ABV               4   $14  15.6
2015 Chateau Guibon 60% Semillon, 30% Sauv Blanc,
     10% Muscadelle Entre-Deux-Mers 12.5% ABV               6   $15  15.2
2015 Chateau Calvimont 75% Semillon, 10% Sauv Blanc,
     10% Sauv Gris, 5% Muscadelle Graves 12.5% ABV          3   $23  16.0
2015 Chateau Granville-LaCoste 75% Semillon, 20% Sauv Blanc,
     5% Muscadelle Graves 12% ABV                           1   $21  16.3

September 17, 2017: Sustainable, Organic, Biodynamic Wines, AWS National Tasting Project 2017

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2015 Bodega Don Olegario Albarino Rias Baixas Spain 13% ABV 5   $18  15.3
2014 Domaine Zind-Humbrecht Pinot Gris Alsace France
     13.5% ABV                                              3   $26  15.8
2013 Chateau des Jacques Morgon Beaujolais France 12.5% ABV 6   $24  14.4
2013 Domaine Carneros Estate Pinot Noir Carneros CA
     14.3% ABV                                              3   $31  15.8
2014 Alta Vista Estate Malbec Lujan de Cuyo Mendoza Argentina
     14.5% ABV                                              2   $17  16.4
NV   Fonseca Terra Bella Reserve Porto Douro Portugal
     20% ABV                                                1   $20  16.7

August 20, 2017:  Les Vins de Bourgogne

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2015 Jadot Chablis (Chablis) 12.5% ABV                      3   $20  15.2
2015 Louis Latour Pouilly-Fuisse' 13.5% ABV                 6   $18  13.9
2012 Chapel Down Chardonney (England) 12% ABV               7   $18  11.9
2013 Ropiteau Bourgogne (Bourgogne) 11-14% ABV              5   $19  14.1
2013 Magnien Bourgogne (Bourgogne) 12.5% ABV                3   $24  15.2
2011 Belland Santenay Premier Cru Beauregard
     (Santanay Premier Cru) 13% ABV                         2   $40  15.5
2013 Magnien Nuits-Saint-Georges Vieilles Vignes
     (Nuits-Saint-George) 13% ABV                           1   $53  16.0

July 16, 2017:  Surfing California Wine Regions

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2015 Fetzer Riesling North Coast 12% ABV                    7   $7   14.4
2016 Holly's Hill Viognier Sierra Foothills 14.7% ABV       5   $22  15.4
2014 Wilson Creek White Cabernet Southern Coast 11% ABV     8   $26  13.1
2016 Tensley Grenache Rose' South Central Coast 13/5% ABV   6   $22  15.1
2010 Barnett Vineyards Pinot Noir North Coast 13.8% ABV     4   $45  16.7
2014 Alpen Cellars Lemberger (aka Blaufrankish) Far North
     13.5% ABV                                              3   $19  16.8
2014 Wente Cabernet Sauvignon North Central Coast 13.5% ABV 2   $13  17.2
2014 Three Wine Co Zinfandel Central Valley 15.3%           1   $25  17.7

June 18, 2017:  Dry Riesling

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2013 Trimbach Riesling (France, Alsace) 12.5 ABV            3   $23  14.4
2015 Tegernserhof Riesling Terrassen Federspiel 12.5 ABV
     (Austria, Wachau)                                      2   $20  14.7
2014 Zabregas Riesling (Western Australia, Mount Barker)
     12.7 ABV                                               5   $16  13.3
2015 George Albrecht Schneider Niersteiner Riesling vom Kalk
     13.0 ABV (Germany, Rheinhessen)                        1   $18  15.8
2013 Elk Cove Estate Riesling 13.0 ABV
     (Oregon, Willamette Valley)                            6   $20  12.7
2015 Paul Cluver Estate Riesling 12.0 ABV(South Afr, Elgin) 3  $17   14.4

May 21, 2017:  Boutique Wines of Chile and Argentina

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2015 Mayu, Pedro Ximinez Elqui Valley, Chile 12.5% ACH      3   $16  16.1
2015 Casa Silva, Sauvignon Gris "1912 Wines"
     Colchagua Valley, Chile 13.5% ACH                      5   $23  14.9
2013 Luca, Chardonnay Uco Valley Mendoza, Argentina
     14.0% ACH                                              6   $36  14.8
2014 Boya, Pinot Noir Leyda Valley, Chile 13.0% ACH         7   $24  14.2
2014 Garcia + Schwaderer, "Bravado" Itata Valley, Chile
     14.5% ACH                                              2   $24  16.4
2014 Graffito, Malbec Lujan de Cuyo, Argentina 14.4% ACH    3   $21  16.1
2013 Garcia + Schwaderer, "Vigno" Carignane Maule Valley,
     Chile 14.5% ACH                                        1   $53  17.1

April 23, 2017:  Dr. Konstantin Frank Wines

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2015 Rkatsiteli 13% ACH Dr. Konstantin Frank                6   $17  15.1
NV   Chateau Frank Celebe' 11.7% ACH Dr. Konstantin Frank   1   $21  16.0
2015 Dry Riesling 12% ACH Dr. Konstantin Frank              4   $16  15.5
2015 Gewurztraminer Reserve 13.4% ACH Dr. Konstantin Frank  2   $20  15.9
2014 Lemburger 13% ACH Dr. Konstantin Frank                 8   $22  13.4
2014 Old Vines Pinot Noir 13% ACH Dr. Konstantin Frank      7   $22  14.7
2014 Carbernet Franc 12.5% ACH Dr. Konstantin Frank         5   $22  15.2
2014 Merlot 13% ACH Dr. Konstantin Frank                    3   $22  15.8

February 12, 2017:  The Wines of Alsace

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2014 Sick-Dreyer Sylaner (Alsace)                           6   $22+  15.0
2015 Sick-Dreyer Clevner Pinot Blanc (Alsace)               2   $22+  15.5
2015 Sick-Dreyer Riesling (Alsace)                          3   $25+  15.4
2015 Sick-Dreyer Kaefferkopf Grand Cru (Alsace)             1   $36   16.0
NV Sick Dreyer Brut Rosé (Cremant d'Alsace)                 3   $30   15.4
2014 Sic-Dreyer Pinot Noir (Alsace)                         5   $27   15.3

January 15, 2017:  Southern Hemisphere Cabernet Sauvignon

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2013 Ridgeback Vansha White (South Africa)                  2   $13+ 15.6
2013 Murietta’s Well The Whip (California Livermore Valley) 6   $20  13.4
2012 O. Fournier Urban Eco Malbec-Tempranillo               4   $15  13.5
     (Argentina, Mendoza)
2011 Dal Zotto Sangiovese Cabernet                          4   $16  13.5
     (Australia, Victoria, King Valley)
2011 Steele Lake County Out Kaste Red Wine                  2   $20  15.6
     (California, Lake County)
2008 Gamble Family Vineyards Heritage Sites Red Wine        1   $30  16.2
     (California, Napa Valley)

November 20, 2016:  Last Bottle Wines

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2012 Straight Line Tempranillo (California)                 4   $16  14.7
2014 Casa del Siurana GR174 (Priorat)                       3   $14  15.2
2014 L'Abbe Dine Rouge (Cotes du Rhone)                     4   $12  14.7
2014 La Follette Pinot Noir Manchester Ridge (Mendocino)    6   $25  13.8
2012 Soos Creek Artist Series (Columbia Valley)             2   $20  15.3
2012 Casey Flat Proprietary Red (Capay Valley)              1   $15  16.8
2012 People's Wine Revolution The People's Grenache
     (Clements Hills)                                       7   $15  13.6

October 16, 2016:  Wines With Halloween Candy

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2014 Rest in Peace Pinot Grigio (California)                8   $11  12.2
2014 Black Cat Riesling (Rheinhessen)                       7   $14  13.1
2014 Hobnob Wicked Chardonnay (California)                  9   $13  12.1
NV Candoni Brut (Prosecco)                                  5   $14  14.4
2013 Vampire Red (California)                               6   $16  13.6
2014 Armida Poizin (Dry Creek Valley)                       4   $14  15.0
2013 Mt. Monster Cabernet Sauvignon (Padthaway)             3   $16+ 15.2
NV Sandeman Tawny Port (Portugal)                           2   $15  16.6
NV Sandeman Founders Reserve Port (Portugal)                1   $16+ 16.9

September 18, 2016:  Portuguese Wines

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
NV   Gazela White (Vinho Verde)                             5   $8   14.8
NV   Gazela Rosé (Vinho Verde)                              6   $9   13.8
2014 Quinta do Crasto "Flor de Crasto" (Douro)              2   $14  16.3
2014 Sogrape Vinhos "Vila Regia" Red (Douro)                4   $10  15.5
2011 Callabriga Red (Dao)                                   1   $20  17.3
2012 Quinta dos Carvalhais "Duque de Viseu" Red (Dao)       3   $13  15.6

August 21, 2016:  National Tasting - Rhone Rangers

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2014 Kita "T'Aya" (Santa Ynez Valley, CA)                   6   $22  14.1
2014 Scupterra Héroe Viognier (Paso Robles, CA)             5   $22  15.1
2012 Anglim "Cerise" (Paso Robles, CA)                      4   $28  16.1
2013 Thirty-Seven Grenache (Sonoma Coast, CA)               2   $26  16.3
2010 Derby "Fifteen 10" Red (Paso Robles, CA)               1   $28  16.6
2013 Tablas Creek "Patelin de Tablas" (Paso Robles, CA)     2   $14  16.3

July 24, 2016:  Celebrity Wines

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2014 Newman's Own Chardonnay (California)                   6   $12  14.6
2015 Childress Vineyards Riesling (Yadkin Valley)           7    $9  14.4
2014 Beaufort Vineyard & Estate Siegerebbe (Vancouver Isle) 5   $21  15.2
2014 Arrington Vineyards Firefly Rosé (Tennessee)           8   $18  13.7
2014 Save Me San Francisco Wine "Drops of Jupiter" (Cal)    4   $17  15.8
2013 Dreaming Tree Cabernet Sauvignon (California)          3   $12  16
2010 Il Palagio Casino Delle Vie (Toscano)                  2   $27  16.2
2013 Jefferson Vineyards Meritage (Virginia)                1   $30  16.5
 

June 26, 2016:  The Wines of Lodi - The Spains

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2014 Bokisch Vineyards Terra Alta Vineyard Albariño         8   $18  14.5
2014 Lange Twins Family Winery Estate Sauvignon Blanc       6   $15  15.1
2014 McCay Cellars Rosé of Carignan                         7   $18  14.6
2013 Rippey Family Wines Old Vines Zinfandel                5        15.9
2013 Maggio Family Vineyards Old Vines Zinfandel            4   $12  16.4
2013 Michael David 6th Sense Syrah                          2   $16  16.7
2014 St. Amant Winery Tools of the Trade Barbera            3   $18  16.5
2013 Estate Crush Cinsault                                  1   $26  16.9

May 16, 2016:  Grenache - Ward Farm, Durham

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2014 Rotie Cellars Grenache Blanc (Washington)              6   $32  13.4
2015 Kokomo Grenache Rose (North Coast, CA)                 4   $25  15.1
2013 Foras Cannonau di Sardegna (Sardinia)                  5   $18  14.3
2013 Yangarra Estate Vineyard Grenache Old Vine (McLaren Vale) 3   $23  16.3
2010&2012 Alto Moncayo Garnacha "Alto Moncayo" (Campo de Borja) 2   $45  16.8
2011 D66 Grenache Blend (Cotes Catalanes)                   1   $40  17.1
 

April 17, 2016:  Boutique Italian Wines - Buenzli Home, Wake Forest, with Jay from Piedmont

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2013 I Pastini Faraone Verdeca (Valle d'Itria IGP)          6   $16  14.2
2104 2104 Oltretorrente Cortese (Colli Tortonesi DOC)       5   $20  14.4
2014 Dacapo Ruche Majoli (Ruche di Castagnole Monferrato DOC)4  $24  14.9
2013 La Casaccia Monfiorenza (Monferrato Freisa DOC)        3   $17  15.4
2012 Caparsa Rosso di Caparsa (Toscana IGT)                 1   $18  15.9
2012 Carussin Sisto NA                                      1   $32  15.9
 

February 21, 2016:  French Sampler - Porter's Home, Durham, with Laure from Queen of Wines

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2014 Domaine Lelièvre Auxerrois (AOC Côtes de Toul)         6   $22  14.8
2014 Domaine Lelièvre Pinot Noir (AOC Côtes de Toul)        3   $22  15.3
2014 Les Chais du Lavieu Apremont (AOC Vin de Savoie)       5   $18  15.1
2014 Les Chais du Lavieu Pinot Noir (AOC Vin de Savoie)     4   $19  15.2
2014 Domaine Cheysson L’Exception (AOC Beaujolais Blanc)    1   $22  16.2
2014 Domaine Cheysson (AOC Chiroubles)                      1   $22  16.2
 

January 17, 2016:  Contempory Blends - Triangle Wine Company - Morrisville

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2013 Ridgeback Vansha White - South Africa                  2   $14  15.6
2013 Murietta’s Well The Whip -California, Livermore Valley 6   $20  13.4
2012 O. Fournier Urban Eco Malbec-Tempranillo - Mendoza     4   $15  13.5
2011 Dal Zotto Sangiovese Cabernet - Australia, King Valley 4   $16  13.5
2011 Steele Lake County Out Kaste Red - Ca, Lake County     2   $20  15.6
2008 Gamble Family Vineyards Heritage Red - Napa Valley     1   $30  16.2

December 2015:  Sparkling Wines - Glass's Home - North Raleigh

Chapter met at The home of Carter & Karen Glass - North Raleigh

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
NV Castellví de la Marca Santa Monica Brut Sparkling        6   $13  14.1
2012 Codorniu Gran Codorniu Pinot Noir                      5   $18  14.6
NV Ca'del Bosco Cuvée Prestige                              1   $25  16.2
NV Voirin-Jumel Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs                   2   $40  15.6
NV Chartogne-Taillet Cuvée Sainte Anne Brut                 4   $40  15.4
NV Chartogne-Taillet Brut Rosé                              2   $50  15.6

November 2015:  Barolo and Aglianco Wines - Brack's Home - North Raleigh

Chapter met at The home of Kathy & Fred Brack - North Raleigh

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2010 Alovini, Aglianico del Vulture "Alvolo"                6   $35  14.7
2010 G.D. Vajra, Barolo "Albe"                              5   $40  15.1
2009 Feudi di San Gregorio, Taurasi                         4   $45  15.4
2010 Podere Ruggeri Corsini, Barolo "Bussia"                2   $50  15.8
2009 Mastroberardino Taurasi "Radici"                       1   $73  16.1
2010 Ceretto, Barolo "Brunate"                              2   $50  15.8

October 2015:  The World of Pinot Noir - Spain's Home - North Raleigh

Chapter met at The home of Mark & Helen Spain - North Raleigh

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2013 Domaine Tripoz Bourgogne Rouge (FR)                    6   $22  14.6
2013 Paraiso Pinot Noir Monterey (CA)                       3   $22  15.6
2013 Montinore Estate Pinot Noir (Oregon)                   4   $21  15.5
2012 Weingut Dr. Heyden Pinot Noir (Germany)                2   $20  15.8
2013 Framingham Pinot Noir, Marlborough New Zealand         1   $23  15.9
2012 Veranda Pinot Noir, Bío Bío Valley (Chili)             5   $18  15.2

September 2015:  California vs France (Blind) - The Preserve - Wake Forest

Chapter met at The Preserve in Wake forest, hosted by Kathy C.

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2013 - Château de la Greffière,  (FR)                       5   $19  14.4
2013 - Au Bon Climat Chardonnay (CA)                        3   $25  15.1
2012 - Domaine Michel Briday, Rully ‘Les 4 Vignes’ (FR)     6   $29  13.6
2012 - Don & Sons Pinot Noir (CA)                           2   $23  15.9
2010 - Stratton Lummis Cabernet Sauvignon (CA)              1   $29  16.0
2010 - Château L’Ombrière, Bordeaux Supérieur (FR)          4   $16  14.6

August 2015:  AWS National Tasting Project - The Preserve - Wake Forest

Chapter met at The Preserve in Wake forest, hosted by Sue & Bob

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2013 Nigl ‘Freiheit’ Grüner Veltliner (Austria)             4   $18  15.5
2013 Heidi Schrock Weissburgunder (Austria)                 6   $22  15.1
2013 Royal Tokaji Furmint (Hungary)                         3   $16  15.8
2013 Glatzer Blaufränkisch (Austria)                        1   $17  16.0
2011 Gobelsburger Niederost Zweigelt (Austria)              2   $15  15.9
2013 Eszterbauer Kadarka Sogar (Hungary)                    5   $16  15.2
2012 Ergevin Egri Bikaver Bull’s Blood (Hungary)            3   $8   15.8     

July 2015:  "Wagner Family of Wines" - Woodcroft Community Center Durham

Chapter met at Ira and Violet's Woodcroft Community Center - Durham

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2013 Mer Soleil Chardonnay                                  4   $30  13.9
2013 Emmolo Sauvignon Blanc                                 3   $16  14.3
2013 Conundrum                                              5   $14  13.8
2013 Belle Glos "Las Alturas" Pinot Noir                    2   $20  15.6
2012 Caymus 40th Anniversary Cabernet Sauvignon             1   $25  17.0

May 2015:  "Costières de Nîmes Wines" - ENO River Vineyards

Chapter met at ENO River Vineyards, Farm of Jim and Cathy Ward - Durham

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2013 Chateau de Nages Buti Nages Blanc                      2   $12  15.5
2012 Chateau de Nages Vielles Vignes Blanc                  6   $15  14.1
2014 Chateau de Nages Buti Nages Rose                       5   $12  14.2
2013 Chateau de Nages Vielles Vignes Rose                   4   $15  14.8
2012 Chateau de Nages Buti Nages Rouge                      1   $12  16.0
2011 Chateau de Nages Vielles Vignes Rouge                  3   $15  15.5

April 2015:  "Greek Wines"

Chapter met at home of Mary Kay Buenzli - Wake Forest

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2014 Gavalas Santorini Assyrtiko                            2   $20  15.5
2013 Tselepos Classic Mantinea Moschofilero                 3   $19  14.8
2010 Strofila Nemea Agiorgitiko                             5   $20  13.7
2013 Kourtaki Vin de Crete Red Kotsifali & Mandilaria       6   $13  11.7
2010 Naoussa Chrisohoou Xinomavro                           4   $21  14.1
---- Kotrotsos Mavrodaphne of Patras NV Mavrodaphne         1   $14  16.2

February 2015:  "Chocolate & Wine Paring"

Chapter met at home of Bob & Cindy Moncsko - Cary

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
---- Cristalino Sparkling Cava                              5   $7   13.5
2012 Rioja Senorio de P. Pecina                             3   $15  15.3
2013 Hahn Cabernet Sauvignon                                6   $12  13.3
2013 CocoBon Red Blend                                      4   $7   13.9
2014 Moscato D'Asti VillaAlena                              2   $9   15.4
2008 Graham's LBV Port                                      1   $24  16.7

January 2015:  "Winter Wines"

Chapter met at the Triangle Wine Company - Morrisville

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2012 Guigal Cotes du Rhone Blanc                            4   $15  15.9
2011 Bodegas Rafael Palacios Louro Do Bolo Godello          6   $20  14.6
2013 Verso Rosso Salento                                    3   $19  16.1
2009 Domaine Jean Deydier et Fils Chateuneuf-du-Pape        1   $40  16.7
2010 Bodega Norton Privada                                  2   $25  16.4
2011 Tikves Bela Voda                                       5   $25  15.8
 

November 2014:  "Cabernets From Around the World"

Chapter met at the home of Fred and Kathy Brack - North Raleigh

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2012 Casarena Reserva Cabernet Sauvignon (Argentina)        4   $20  14.3
2008 Cederburg Cabernet Sauvignon        (South Africa)     2   $15  14.7
2009 Château Cherchy-Desqueyroux         (France)           5   $25  14.1
2007 Pinord, Bodegas Penedès C.S. Reserva Chateldon (Spain) 4   $20  14.3
2011 Hay Shed Hill Cabernet Sauvignon    (Australia)        3   $24  14.4
2009 Eponymous Cabernet Sauvignon Napa   (California)       1   $57  15.1

October 2014:  "The Grape Unknown" - Mystery Wines

Chapter met at the home of Mark & Helen Spain - North Raleigh

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2013 Alexakis Vidiano                                       1   $15  15.3
2013 Donnachiara Falanghina                                 4   $16  14.2
2012 Cantina Nals Margreid "Galea"                          2   $15  14.9
2012 Domaine du Cros "Lo Sang del Paris"                    3   $16  14.5
2011 Maison Angelot Bugey Mondeuse                          5   $18  13.9
2011 Chateau la Colombiere "Vinum"                          6   $13  13.2

August 2014:  Spanish Wines - AWS National Tasting Project

Chapter met at The Preserve - Wake Forest

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2012 Bodegas Ramon Bilbao Valinas Albarino                  4   $15  15.4
2011 Pazo de Senorans Albarino                              5   $28  15.0
2012 Vinos Torremoron                                       5   $15  15.0
2010 Cuno Crianza                                           3   $14  15.7
2009 Condado de Haza Tinto Crianza                          1   $25  16.7
2004 La Roija Alta Vina Ardanza Reserva                     2   $35  15.8

July 2014:  Eastern European Wines

Chapter met at the home of Shirley & Jerzy Buczak

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2010 Krimsekt Rose                                          6   $15  13.8
2013 Pullus Pinot Grigio                                    5   $16  14.7
2012 Tikves Rkacitell                                       4   $14  14.9
2011 Royal Tokaji Furmint                                   7   $20  12.9
2010 Zlatan Plavac                                          2   $25  15.6
2012 Yakut Okuzgozu-Bogazkere                               3   $14  15.2
2008 Royal Tokaji Aszu 5 Puttonyos (Sweet Desert)           1   $48  16.8

June 2014:  Refreshing Chenin Blanc

Chapter met at Eno River Vineyards - Jim & Cathy's vineyard

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2011 Domaine de la Croix Vouvray Brut                       4   $21  14.3
2013 Pine Ridge - CA Chenin Blanc                           2   $13  14.8
2013 Badenhorst Family Wines-ZA Chenin Blanc                7   $16  12.8
2012 DeMorganzon-ZA Chenin Blanc                            6   $38  13.5
2009 Domaine des Blaumard-FR Savennieres                    5   $24  13.6
2010 Chateau de Breze-FR Saumur Blanc                       3   $38  14.7
2009 Domaine de la Croix-FR Vouvray Grand Liquoreux         1   $39  16.0

May 2014:  Wines of the Veneto

Chapter met at Mary Kay's House

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2011 Riondo Proscecco 100% Giera                            5   $11  14.08
2012 Ca Rugate San Michele Soave Classico                   7   $15   9.1
2012 Montresor Bardolino Le Blanche                         6   $14  13.7
2012 La Giaretta Valpolicella "Volare"                      4   $13  14.3
2009 La Giaretta Valpolicella Ripasso                       3   $17  16.4
2010 La Giaretta Amarone Classico                           1   $30  18.0
2005 La Gairetta Recioto Classico                           2   $30  16.5

February 2014:  Back to Bourdeaux

The Triangle (NC) Chapter met at the Triangle Wine Company(Morrisville).

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2012 Chateau Saintingey (Bourdeaux)                         3   $12  15.5
2011 Pezat (Bourdeaux Superieur)                            5   $20  14.2
2009 Chateau Frand Ferrand (Bourdeaux Superieur)            6   $15  14.0
2004 Chateau Talbot Connetable de Talbot (Saint-Julien)     4   $50  14.9
2010 Chateau Les Barraillots (Margaux)                      1   $28  16.5
2010 Chateau Teyssier Grand Cru (Saint-Emilion)             2   $40  15.8

December 2013:  Petit Syrah

The Triangle (NC) Chapter met at the home of Fred and Kathy Brack.

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2005 Norman Vineyards Buzzard Tree                          5   $16  13.3
2007 Sheldon Deviant Velocity                               4T  $28  15.2
2010 Blockheadia Ringnosil                                  4T  $40  15.2
2010 Michael David's Petit-Petit(Blend)                     2   $15  16.0
2010 Girard Petit Syrah                                     3   $27  15.7
2011 Biale Royal Punishers                                  1   $39  16.4

November 2013:  Burgundy on a Budget

The Triangle (NC) Chapter met at the home of Mark and Helen Spain.

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2011 Cave de Genouilly Bourgogne Aligoté                    5   $15  14.5
2011 Domaine Chenevieres Chablis                            4   $20  14.6
2010 Chateau de Rully (Chardonnay)                          3   $25  15.0
2009 Marie-Pierre Germain Bourgogne                         5   $25  14.5
2009 Philippe Le Hardi Mercurey 1er Cru Les Puillets        2   $28  15.3
2010 Domaine Collotte Marsannay Les Champsalomon            1   $35  15.6

October 2013:  Red Wines of the Piedmont

The Triangle (NC) Chapter met at The Preserve in Wake Forest.

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2011 La Casaccia "Poggeto" Grignolino  del Monferrato       7   $12  13.1
2012 Dacapo "Majoli" Ruche Di Castagnole Monferrato         5   $22  13.9
2009 Giorgio Cantamessa Freisa d'Asti                       4   $15  14.8
2011 Terrabianca "Brichet" Dolcetto d'Alba                  3   $14  16.0
2011 Sant'Evasio Barbera D'Asti                             8    $8  12.9
2004 Prinsi "Gallina" Barbaresco                            2   $40  16.8
2007 Casa E di Mirafiore Barolo                             1   $40  17.2
2011 Sant'Evasio Brachetto                                  6   $17  13.5

September 2013:  National Rhone Tasting

The Triangle (NC) Chapter met at The Preserve in Wake Forest.

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2011 Guigal Cote du Rhone Blanc                             5   $17  14.3
2008 Torbreck The Steading                                  1   $36  15.9
2011 Cline Cashmere                                         4   $16  15.2
2011 Can Blau Celler Can Blau                               1   $17  15.9
2007 Guigal Crozes Hermitage                                5   $32  14.3
2010 Perrin et Fils Vinsobres                               1   $20  15.9

August 2013:  Biodynamic Wines

The Triangle (NC) Chapter met at SIP, A Wine Store, in Cary.

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2011 Dominio IV Still Life Viognier (Oregon)                2   $27  15.4
2011 Lustig Gruner Veltliner (Austria)                      5   $14  14.3
2012 Osoti Rosado (Spain)                                   6   $11  12.9
2009 Benziger Merlot (Sonoma)                               1   $18  16.3
2010 Dominio IV Love Lies Bleeding  Pinot Noir (Oregon)     3   $32  15.3
2010 Masseria del Feudo "Il Giglio" Nero d'Avalo (Italy)    4   $16  14.8

July 2013:  Red, White, and Blue

The Triangle (NC) Chapter met at the home of Mark and Helen Spain in Raleigh.

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
NV   Rondel NV Brut CAVA reception wine                     5    $9  14.8
2011 Sawtooth Reisling (Snake Rvr Vly)                      6    $10 14.6
2012 St. Supery Sauvignon Blanc (Napa)                      1    $12 16.7
2011 Pine Ridge Chenin Blanc-Viognier(CA)                   3    $14 15.4
2011 Byron Pinot Noir (Santa Barbara Cty)                   7    $18 13.8
2010 Apex Cellars The Catalyst (Col Vly)                    4    $17 15.1
NV   Marietta Cellars NV Old Vine Red Lot #58 (CA)          2    $12 15.9

June 2013:  Italian Wines

The Triangle (NC) Chapter met at the new Wine 101 in Raleigh.

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2011 Visintini Bianco de Cinzia                             4   $12  14.1
2010 Daniele Piccini Bianco dei Muni                        5   $18  11.9
2011 Rosso Nicolino Resbosco                                3   $25  14.4
2010 Tenuta l'Armonia Veneto                                2   $25  15.3
2008 Alla Costiera VoVecchio                                1   $25  16.3

May 2013:  Barbera

The Triangle (NC) Chapter met at Eno River Vineyards

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2011 Barbera McManis Family Vineyards                       5   $11  14.3
2011 Barbera del Monferrato Marchesi di Barolo              4   $13  14.6
2009 Barbera d'Asti DOCG Vietti                             6   $18  14.2
2010 Barbera d'Asti DOCG Montebruna                         3   $25  15.3
2010 Barbera "Dick Cooper Vyd" Jeff Runquist Wines "R"      2   $28  16.1
2007 Barbera d'Alba Superiore DOC G.D. Vajra                1   $37  16.2

April 2013:  Wines Under $20

The Triangle (NC) Chapter met at the home of Jerzy and Shirley Buczak.

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2010 Epicuro Aglianico Beneventano IGT                      2    $6  14.6
2011 Llama Malbec Mendoza, Argentina                        4   $16  13.9
2009 Black Mesa Merlot Velarde, New Mexico                  5   $20  12.4
2009 Vinha da Defesa  Alentejo, DOC                         1   $15  15.3
2008 Estrella del Norte Sangiovese Santa Fe, New Mexico     6   $17  11.6
2009 Clos de Quatre Vents  Fleurie AC                       3   $20  14.4

Additional Tasting Comments

February 2013:  Port

The Triangle (NC) Chapter met at Triangle Wine Company in Morrisville.

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
nv   Kopke Dry White                                        4   $12  15.1
nv   Kopke 10 Year Tawny                                    5   $22  15.0
1997 Kopke Colheita                                         1   $30  17.0
nv   Rocha Special Reserve(aka/formerly Vintage Character)  3   $13  15.4
2003 Rocha                                                  2   $40  16.6

January 2013:  Red Blends

The Chapter met at the home of Fred and Kathy Brack for a tasting of Red Wine Blends.

Year Wine                                                  Rank Cost Score
2010 Tikal Patriota (Argentina)                             4   $21  14.3
2008 Daou Celestus (Paso Robles)                            6   $21  13.4
2011 Orin Swift The Prisoner (Napa)                         1   $38  14.8
2011 LaCartuja Priorat (Spain)                              5   $18  14.2
2009 Andrew Murray Vineyards Espérance(CA)                  3   $25  14.6
2008 Stevens 424 (Yakima Valley)                            1   $35  14.8

December 2012:  High End Champagne

The Triangle (NC) Chapter met on December 9 for a tasting at the home of Carter and Karen Glass led by local Champagne expert Todd McGovern, who is one of only 250 USA members of the 3000 member Ordre des Coteaux de Champagne.  He presented a sampling of some very small production champagnes and some very famous ones.

YEAR WINE                                                  RANK COST SCORE
NV Laurent Thibault Champagne Brut Cuvee Bagatelle          5   $33  14.8
NV Chartogne-Taillet Champagne Sainte-Anne Brut             6   $40  12.7
2005 Thierry Triolet Les Vielles Vignes, Brut               3   $50  15.9
NV Billegart-Salmon Champagne Brut Rose                     4   $60  15.5
2002 Dom Perignon Champagne                                 2   $110 17.1
2002 Dom Ruinart Champagne                                  1   $125 17.6

November 2012:  Cabernet Sauvignon

The Triangle (NC) Chapter met on November 18 for a tasting at The Wine Feed in Raleigh.

YEAR WINE                                                  RANK COST SCORE
2008 Chateau-Chercy Desqueyroux (Graves FR)                 4   $24  13.4
2010 Daou (Paso Robles)                                     2   $30  15.3
2004 Felsina Maestro Raro Cabernet Sauvignon (Tuscany)      6   $49  12.6
2007 Altair Sideral (Chile)                                 5   $32  12.8
2010 Johann Reyneke Capstone (S Africa)                     3   $31  15.2
2009 Abeja Cabernet Sauvignon (Columbia Valley)             1   $45  15.5

October 2012:  New Zealand

The Triangle (NC) Chapter met on October 21 at Westgate Wine in Raleigh.

YEAR WINE                                                  RANK COST SCORE
2010 Fernlands Sauvignon Blanc                              2   $11  15.8
2010 Distant Land Pinot Grigio                              4   $13  15.0
2009 Neudorf Moutere Chardonnay                             9   $36  14.4
2007 Neudorf Moutere Chardonnay                             7   $36  14.7
2006 Picardy Chardonnay                                     8   $20  14.5
2009 Clifford Bay Pinot Noir                                6   $11  14.8
2008 Neudorf Tom's Block Pinot Noir                         3   $22  15.3
2009 Neudorf Moutere Pinot Noir                             4   $36  15.0
2004 Scali Syrah                                            1   $20  15.9

August 2012:  National Pinot Noir Tasting

The Triangle (NC) Chapter met on August 19 at The Preserve in Wake Forest for a tasting hosted by Mark Spain.

YEAR WINE                                                 RANK COST SCORE
2009 Luca (Argentina)                                      3   $39  14.0
2010 Kris (Italy)                                          4   $15  13.2
2010 Belle Glos Meomi (CA)                                 1   $20  15.4
2010 Willamette Valley Vineyard Whole Cluster Fermented(OR)2   $17  14.1
2009 Louis Jadot (France)                                  5   $18  13.1
2010 Innocent Bystander (Australia)                        5   $22  13.1

July 2012:  Rosé Wines

The Triangle (NC) Chapter met on July 15 at the home of Ed and Pat Bogdanski for a Rosé tasting hosted by Ed.

YEAR WINE                                                 RANK COST SCORE
2009 Dom de la Petite Cassagne Costieres de Nimes Rouge    6    $8   11.5
2011 Villa Wolf Rose de Pinot Noir                         4    $12  15.0
2010 Lorenza Rose                                          5    $14  14.8
2011 Cabernet de Saumur Rose, Reserve des Vignerons        2    $12  15.6
2011 Saintsbury Vin Gris                                   2    $15  15.6
2008 Saintsbury Pinot Noir                                 1    $25  16.3

June 2012:  South African Wines

The Triangle (NC) Chapter met on June 17 at The Preserve in Wake Forest for a tasting hosted by Bob Butler.  The subject was the wines of South Africa, from Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc to Pinotage.

YEAR WINE                                                  RANK COST SCORE
2010 Ken Forrester Chenin Blanc Reserve Stellenbosch        4    $14  13.6
2009 Paul Cluver Chardonnay Elgin                           5    $19  13.5
2011 Newton Johnson Felicite Pinot Noir                     6    $11  13.4
         Upper Hemel en Aarde Valley Hermanus
2009 Southern Right Pinotage Hemel en Aarde Valley Hermanus 3    $21  15.3
2010 Diemersfontein Pinotage Wellington                     1    $20  16.7
2010 Kanonkop Kadette Stellenbosch                          2    $12  16.2

May 2012:  Grüner Veltliner and Other Austrian Wines

The Triangle (NC) Chapter met on May 20 at Eno Vineyard and Farm for a tasting hosted by Jim Ward of Austrian Wines.

YEAR WINE                                                          RANK COST SCORE
NV Grüner Veltliner Brut, Burgenland  Szigeti Sekt                  6    $25  13.5
2011 Grüner Veltliner, Wagram  Anton Bauer Gmork                    3    $13  13.2
2010 Grüner Veltliner Reserve, Kamptal Steininger Grand Cru         1    $26  16.2
2010 Grüner Veltliner Smaragd, Wachau FX Pichler Urgestein Terrasen 4    $55  15.0 
2009 Blaufrankisch, Burgenland Leo Hillinger                        5    $20  13.7
2008 Blaufrankisch, Burgenland  Leo Hillinger Liethaberg DAC        2    $38  15.8
    

April 2012:  Tuscan Wines

The Triangle (NC) Chapter met on April 15 at the home of Mark and Helen Spain for a tasting hosted by Mark of wines unfamiliar to most of us -- those of Tuscany.

YEAR WINE                                                  RANK COST SCORE
2010 Gattavecchi Vernaccia di-San Gimignano DOCG            6    $14  13.9
2007 Viticcio Chianti Classico DOCG                         5    $25  14.0
2006 Mantellassi Morellino di Scansano-DOCG                 4    $20  14.1 
2006 Veccia Cantina Vino Nobile di-Montepulciano DOCG       3    $25  15.1 
2004 Ferrero Brunello di Montalcino DOCG                    1    $40  16.7
2009 Rocca di Frassinello Maremma Toscana IGT               2    $30  16.4
 

August 2011:  Loire Reds

The Triangle (NC) Chapter met on August 21 at The Preserve in Wake Forest for a tasting hosted by Bob Butler.  We got to taste wines that most of us were not familiar with from France's Loire Valley.

YEAR WINE                                                           RANK COST SCORE
2008 Mabileau, Frederic, St Nicolas de Bourgueil, Les Rouilleres     6    $18  12.4
2007 Dom. Bernard Baudry, Cinon Saumur-Champigny                     4    $17  14.1
2009 Reserve des Vignerons,                                          1    $13  15.6
2010 Marionnet, Henry Premiere Vendenge-Touraine                     2    $15  15.1
2009 Le Rocher des Violettes,Xavier WeisKopf (Malbec)                3    $22  14.2
2006 Coteaux du Giennois, Les Tetes deChats Matheu Coste (Pinot Noir)5    $21  12.8
    

July 2011:  Picnic Wines

The Triangle (NC) Chapter met on July 17 at Wine 101 in Wake Forest for a tasting of Picnic Wines, hosted by Deb Vogel. 

YEAR WINE                                                 RANK COST SCORE
     Dom d l'Auriere Muscadet                              4    $13  14.8
     Masciarelli Montepulciano D'Abruzzo Rose              5    $11  13.2
     Protocolo Spanish Red                                 1    $8   15.7
     Mark Davidson "Three's a Crowd" Cabernet/Merlot       1    $10  15.7  
     OPN Pinot Noir NV                                     3    $18  15.5

June 2011:  Italian Whites

The Triangle (NC) Chapter met on June 12 at Wine 'n Things for a tasting hosted by Tommy Goff.  Tommy presented seven wines, all of which were Italian whites, most not well known.

YEAR WINE                                                 RANK COST SCORE
2009 Coffelle Soave Classico Garganega (Veneto)            4    $18  14.3
2010 Sant Evasio Gavi di Gavi Corese (Piedmonte)           3    $20  14.4
2009 Bidoli Friuliano Grave (Tokay; Friuli-Venezia-Giulia) 7    $13  13.6
2010 Vitiano Verdicchio / Vermentino (Umbria)              2    $10  15.3
2009 Terradora Dipaolo Coda di Volpe (Campania)            5    $17  14.1
2009 Garofoli Macrina Verdicchio (Marches)                 6    $14  13.9
2009 Vietti Roero Arnes (Piedmonte)                        1    $25  15.6

May 2011:  Charbono and Bonarda Wines

The Triangle (NC) Chapter met on May 15 at the Ward's Eno River Vineyards ("The Farm") in Durham for a tasting hosted by Jim Ward.  The Chapter had the opportunity to taste wines from grapes not so well known, sold under the Charbono and Bonarda names.

YEAR WINE                                                RANK COST SCORE
2009 Maipe Old Vine Reserve Bonarda                       4    $16  15.0
2008 Dante Robino Bonarda                                 6    $13  14.7
2007 Duxoup Wine Works Charbono                           4    $19  15.0
2005 Summers Estate Charbono                              3    $26  15.5
2007 Tofanelli Family Vineyards Charbono                  2    $32  16.4
2007 Robert Foley Vineyards Charbono                      1    $40  17.2

April 2011:  Zins and Blends

The Triangle (NC) Chapter met on April 17 at The Preserve clubhouse in Wake Forest for a tasting hosted by Tommy Goff.  Tommy presented six wines, half of which were all Zinfandel, and half of which were Zin Blends.  The standard deviation for the tasting was very high (especially for the last wine), indicating wide personal preferences.

YEAR WINE                                                RANK COST SCORE
2009 Bedrock Sonoma Old Vine Zinfandel                    3    $23  13.8
2008 Bedrock Sonoma Heirloom (Blend)                      4    $30  13.5
2006 Ridge Paso Robles Zinfandel                          1    $30  14.3
2006 Geyser Ridge Zinfandel                               6    $33  12.5 SEE NOTE
2007 Ravenswood Vinter's Blend (of Zins)                  1    $9   14.3
2006 Ravenswood Old Hill Ranch (Blend)                    5    $65  13.4

NOTE:  We actually had two vintages of Geyser Ridge:  2006
       and 2007.  The quality of the 2006 pulled down the
       rating, as 2007 was much better.

March 2011:  Mollydooker Wines

The Triangle (NC) Chapter met on March 20 at the home of Fred and Kathy Brack for a tasting featuring exclusively Mollydooker wines. Barely half the 27 members present had heard of Mollydooker, but only a few had tried any of the wines before. Fred explained how Mollydooker was started in 2006 by established Australian winemakers Sarah and Sparky Marquis (often mispronounced as mar-KEY, but properly pronounced MAR-kwis), and he explained the story behind each wine name and label. He also demonstrated the "Mollydooker Shake," used to release the packaging nitrogen from the wine. The extremely fruit-forward wines were very well received by the membership!

YEAR WINE                                                RANK COST SCORE
2009 The Violinist, Verdelho                                  $25  14.9
2009 The Scooter, Merlot                                      $25  15.6
2009 The Maitre D, Cabernet                               3   $25  16.5
2007 Sip It Forward, Blend-aka Two Left Feet - see Note)      $25  16.2
2009 The Boxer, Shiraz                                    2   $25  17.2
2009 Blue Eyed Boy, Shiraz                                1   $49  17.6

Note:  The wine Sip It Forward is only available directly from Mollydooker.  It is a special packaging for charity of the 2007/2008 vintages of Two Left Feet, a blend of Cabernet, Shiraz, and Merlot.  The Boxer is their biggest seller among Mollydooker's 11 wines, although all the wines are hard to find, except via the website (www.mollydookerwines.com). 

February 2011:  The Wines of Alsace

The Triangle (NC) Chapter met on February 27, 2011, at the home of Jerzy and Shirley Buczak for a tasting featuring The Wines of Alsace. 22 members and guests were present.  While the two Gewürztraminers came in at #1 and #3, the standard deviation of the ratings for these two wines were the highest of the day, showing significant differences in the appreciation of this grape varietal.

YEAR WINE                                               RANK COST SCORE
NV   Lucien Albrecht Brut Rose                               $20  15.3
2006 Charles Schleret Sylvaner                               $16  14.1
2006 Trimbach Pinot Blanc                                    $17  13.2
2009 Jean Albrecht Pinot Gris                            2   $18  16.3
2008 René Sparr Gewürztraminer                           3   $20  16.2
2005 Lucien Albrecht Pfingstberg Riesling                    $40  15.6
2002 Hugel Gewürztraminer Vendange Tardive               1   $70  17.3

December 2010:  Grape BaseD Spirits

This month the spirits were ranked, not rated, and here are the summary results:

1. Zardetto Grappa di Pino Prosecco - 5th

2. Chateau de Laubade Bas Armagnac XO - 3rd

3. Cardenal Mendoza Solera Gran Reserva Brandy de Jerez - 1st

4. Germain-Robin Fine Alambic Brandy No. 25 - 4th

5. Delamain Grande Champagne Cognac "Pale & Dry" - 2nd

November 2010:  "High End" Wines With Doug Parsons

Notes:

• The first eight wines were tasted in pairs as representative of the same style of grape
• The last wine was a "bonus" wine, but we tasted it after the first two
• Prices are average, as some of these wines would have to be purchased on the secondary market (although most came from Doug's cellar)
• The first wine, J Faiverly, was extremely early in its drinking cycle and should be put down for a number of years to develop, according to Doug
• The standard deviation of the tasting results was the lowest of the year at 1.6

October 2010:  Oktoberfest - German Wines

September 2010:  National Tasting - South America

Read the Nationwide National Tasting Results

August 2010:  Wines of New Zealand

May 2010:  TNT - Tannat, Norton, Touriga

April 2010:  South African Wines

March 2010:  Beyond the Port of Portugal

February 2010:  Value Wines

* Sale price when noted; Lucky Star was "specially priced"

January 2010:  Sicilian Wines