Store-Bought Review Times Two.

…as promised, a quick recap/review on my most recent grocery-store wine buys…

2006 David Bruce Petite Sirah, picked it up at the aforementioned Von’s for 30% off which took it almost to the $15 mark. Brought it home to drink all by itself with no food worth mentioning. The nose has strawberries and the palette leans towards a combo of blueberries and strawberries with a little bit of chocolate, and a kicker of a finish with some decent tannins. David Bruce has a great property in the mountains above Santa Cruz; one of my favorite wine areas. He’s known for his cool, coastal mountain Pinot Noirs, but his Petite Sirah is always worth checking out.

Oscar Sunday found me scrambling to assemble a dinner menu as my wife made it clear that she wanted a nice dinner at home while we watched the awards.

I picked up a bottle of 2007 Summerland Chardonnay which I opened as I closed the oven on what would be a 15 minute culinary journey as the Rex Sole I had prepared in olive oil with Rosemary, Cilantro was coming to fruition. Frankly, with cilantro in the mix, I could have gone with another white like a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, but sometimes we have to play the cards that we’re dealt. It worked out fine; I was greated by a sweet floral aroma with hints of citrus, which was followed by apples, pears and a hint of spice on the palate. The oak was there, but not overdone. All this on sale for twelve bucks thanks to my Ralph’s supermarket card.

I’d like to think I’m a smart shopper…