Last and next tasting

Those of you who came over to Church St. Tues. last, were treated to a smorgasbord of wines from Austria, Switzerland, and Greece. The reasoning being was that I do not carry enough wines from any one of those countries to suffice so--
Austria led off with the ever popular Gruner Veltliner from Weinzierl in the convienient liter bottle. A light perfectly balanced charmer that is crisp and dry and delivers a touch of fruit and spice. "No brainer" white for sitting on your porch(later) and enjoying life. Next was a Moschofilreo a white wine, from the Mantinia region of Greece. This unique grape throws off a beautiful bouquet of flowers and fruit that is almost worth the price alone. The flavors are well integrated pear with spice held up by ample acidity. "Zorba the Greek" would drink two bottles and go singing and dancing into the night. Anybody remember the movie? Great stuff. He would have also liked the very popular red wine "Agiorgitko" due to its very charming personality. Smooth medium bodied, and just easy. A real discovery that would delight any "Zorba" in the house. Try it with lamb, Greek style and rejoice(good acidity for red sauces also). Then, ready?, from Pretterebner a Blaufrankisch( say that fast three times you could hurt yourself) An organic producer here uses minimal intervention, lets nature take its course and delivers a wine of complete originality. With aromas hard to describe but "barnyardish" might work with a touch raspberry and herbs. Very smooth mouthfeel. From Austria. Also from Austria the soft sophisticated elegant(dare I say feminine?) Zweigelt from Hillinger. More subtle that powerful in the best sense with red fruit flavors that linger nicely on the palate. Finally the delicious Germanier, Dole Balavaud from Switzerland. Dole is the blend that must be at least 85% pinot noir with some gamay added. Classy wine with "Burgundian" notes and a soft supple finish. Good match, I believe, for pork or turkey, among others.

Now for next week, the 26th. we will feature wines of Spain. From Jumilla, Valencia, Bierzo, Rioja, Priorat, and Penedes the incredible variety and quality of present day Spanish winemaking.

Have to mention again the visit to our store from the owner and winemaker of Le Piane estate in northern Piedmont. on the leap day the 29th of Feb. @6:30 See below for particulars.

One more thing concerning wine classes. I have gotten some interest and will try to hold the first class the 2nd Thurs. in March the 13th. Salem Film Fest is next week and the week after I'll be at Carleton School benefit at Old Town House if you care to attend. Wine, beer tasting with auction 7:00-10:00. Let me know through e-mail(salemwineimports.com) if you have interest in classes. $20 per for Cabernet night. Others priced accordingly