Domaine Fouet Saumur Champigny 2003 14% ABV.
WOTN For Me. Certainly a lot of rich, ripe red fruit. But, also the Green Pepper you guys have been talking about/warning me about. Still-this is not a one dimensional raw bell pepper wine-there is that nice fruit and some great French savory notes that make me think that I may want to explore Loire Cab Franc a little more thoroughly??? Solid ***+
Ruffino Riservo Ducale Oro Chianti Classico Riserva 2001
A decent Chianti Riserva. Inky black in the glass. Not a lot of nose. Good chianti acid, red fruit, just a hint of leather and tobacco. A solid wine, but at this price point ($30+), I would probably rather drink the Luiano or for $10 more even the fantastic Riecine Chianti Classico Riserva from the same year. Given it's competitiuon, I would only rate this **1/2, although it is a perfectly fine large production CCR. That's the problem, experience makes you too picky.
Cascina Val Del Prete Barbera d"Alba.
What an outstanding fruity everyday drinker. $16 at A.G. Ferrari. Not particularly complex or unusual or intellectual-just nice red fruit with a kick of acid to complement the red sauce based food. WHoever in the food forum said my friend's significant other would enjoy this wine was spot on. Solid ***.
