Welcome to my tasting! Sharing notes for each wine we will be tasting together. 

Tasting Notes for Matt’s Wine Tasting Event

 

1. Gato Senetiner Malbec 2022 - Mendoza, Argentina

- Winery Background: Founded in 1888, Gato Senetiner is a prestigious winery located in the heart of Mendoza, Argentina. Known for its commitment to quality, the winery blends traditional winemaking techniques with modern practices to produce wines that truly express the region's terroir.

- Price Range: $15 - $25

- Wine Rating: 90 points from Wine Enthusiast

- Awards: Gold Medal at the 2023 Mendoza Wine Competition

- Appearance: Deep violet color with inky edges, showcasing youthful vibrancy.

- Nose: Captivating aromas of dark fruits, particularly ripe blackberry and plum, with hints of cocoa, vanilla, and a whisper of oak.

- Palate: Full-bodied and rich, the palate mirrors the nose with an explosion of dark berries, complemented by well-integrated tannins and a touch of spice.

- Finish: A long and lingering finish with a smooth texture.

- Food Pairings: Ideal with grilled steaks, lamb chops, hearty stews, and aged cheeses such as sharp cheddar.

- Cigar Pairing: A robust cigar like the Padron 1964 Anniversario Maduro will complement the rich flavors of the Malbec beautifully.

 

 2. Codorníu Clasico Brut - Spain

- Winery Background: Established in 1551, Codorníu is one of the pioneers of Spanish sparkling wine. Located in the Penedès region, this winery is well-regarded for its exceptional quality Cava, created through traditional methods and a sustainable focus.

- Price Range: $12 - $20

- Wine Rating: 88 points from Wine Spectator

- Awards: Silver Medal at the 2022 Cava Challenge

- Appearance: Bright pale yellow with fine, persistent bubbles.

- Nose: Fresh and inviting, with aromas of green apple, pear, and citrus zest, along with a hint of breadiness from its aging process.

- Palate: Crisp and refreshing, with lively acidity balanced by a creamy texture. Notes of stone fruits and pleasant minerality create harmony.

- Finish: A clean and refreshing finish.

- Food Pairings: Perfect with seafood, shellfish, light salads, and crunchy appetizers, or served as an aperitif.

- Cigar Pairing: A light cigar like the Montecristo White will enhance the freshness of the Brut without overwhelming it.

  

 3. Giesen Sauvignon Blanc 2022 - Marlborough, New Zealand

- Winery Background: Established in 1981 by three brothers from Germany, Giesen Wines has become one of New Zealand's leading wineries. Their focus on quality yields wines that reflect the vibrant and diverse terroir of Marlborough.

- Price Range: $15 - $22

- Wine Rating: 91 points from James Suckling

- Awards: Gold Medal at the 2023 New Zealand Wine Awards

- Appearance: Bright, clear, light straw color with green highlights.

- Nose: Energetic and aromatic, showcasing bold notes of lime, gooseberry, and passion fruit, with a hint of fresh herbs.

- Palate: Zesty and vibrant, bursting with flavor, invigorated by crisp acidity and balanced tropical fruit and grassy undertones.

- Finish: A zesty finish with lingering citrus notes.

- Food Pairings: Excellent with grilled fish, shellfish, goat cheese, and fresh vegetable salads. A creamy goat cheese will elevate the wine's botanical notes.

- Cigar Pairing: Consider pairing with a lighter cigar such as the Ashton Classic, which will balance the zesty profile without overpowering it.

 

4. Cantina Zaccagnini Montepulciano d'Abruzzo - Italy

- Winery Background: Founded in 1978, Cantina Zaccagnini emphasizes artisanal winemaking in the esteemed Montepulciano d'Abruzzo region. The winery is dedicated to sustainable farming and traditional methods, resulting in wines that reflect the essence of their terroir.

- Price Range: $20 - $30

- Wine Rating: 89 points from Wine Advocate

- Awards: Bronze Medal at the 2023 International Wine & Spirit Competition

- Appearance: Deep ruby red with slight garnet edges, indicative of some aging.

- Nose: Complex aromas of ripe cherry, raspberry, and plum are intertwined with earthy notes, hints of herbs, and spice.

- Palate: Medium to full-bodied, revealing a velvety texture and well-structured tannins, with flavors of dark fruit and subtle oak and chocolate hints.

- Finish: A smooth and satisfying finish.

- Food Pairings: Ideal with hearty pasta dishes, roasted meats, pizza, and aged cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano.

- Cigar Pairing: A full-bodied cigar such as the Oliva Serie V will complement the wine's depth and complexity.

 

Conclusion

This carefully curated selection of wines showcases a rich tapestry of flavors, aromas, and histories, paired with complementary cheeses and cigars to enhance the tasting experience. Guests will enjoy exploring these exceptional wines and indulging in delightful culinary pairings.

 

Enjoy the tasting!