Wine of the Month Featuring Salneval, Albarino and Rustridge, Racehorse Red

Salneval Albarino, 2008, a Spanish White Wine

Albarino is the defining grape grown in the northwest region of Spain, called Galicia, and the appellation known as Rias Biaxas.  Because of the region’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, the grapes are trained to be grown on pergolas to avoid rot from all the moisture and fog precipitated by the ocean.  The 2008 Salneval is made by Condes de Albarei winery.  This white wine in light straw in color, the nose of this Albarino is seductive with honey, pear and tropical fruit and a slight mineral component.  It is racy and zesty with citrus and floral flavors in the mouth, it is round and soft at the same time.  It matches perfectly with fresh seafood and shellfish; it is an ideal accompaniment to salty, spicy Asian Cuisine, and it is a great wine to drink all by itself.  Albarino is similar to a Viognier, but without the attitude; it’s more supple and user friendly.  Cheers!  Enjoy this special white Spanish wine.

Racehorse Red, 2005  Rustridge Winery

What a delight this wine is, The Chiles Valley produces unique and remarkable fruit that make for some really remarkable wines.  The Chiles is a very distinctive grape growing region the northeastern part of Napa Valley.  It is a small, narrow and very steep growing region that sits between St. Helena to the west and Lake Berryessa to the east.  The regions warm climate and well drained soils provide great growing conditions for Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon.   A blend of 67% Cabernet Sauvignon and 37% Zinfandel.  This wine offers delicious fruit flavors,  great balance and plenty of character.  We found ourselves spending a lot of time just inhaling the sweet aromas of this wine