Last night we focused on Shiraz and Syrah, and both wines were winners! Lisa presented the wines again and we started out with Ca'na Syrah from Costa Contra County in California. Notes of licorice, kirsch & sweet berries prevailed on the nose, while the palate offered chocolate covered cherries and spice. It was juicy, smooth & delicious! Regularly priced at $40, the Diva price was $36.
Next up was E&E Shiraz Black Pepper from the Barossa Valley in Australia. Barossa Shiraz are known for their big fruits and this one was no slouch in that department. Wine Spectator rated this gem a whopping 93 points stating "Firm; dark & peppery in flavor, with dense plum, currant & floral aromas & flavors playing themselves out through a long, generous finish". Lisa had brought a dish of chicken andouille in a Hoppin' John sauce to serve as an accompaniment to this shiraz and it was awesome how well it paired! The spiciness of the sausage was smoothed out by the shiraz and both were delicious. This wine regularly retails for $87 and the Divas were able to purchase it last night for $80.
We had an unexpected bonus wine, thanks to a distributor dropping by just before the Divas' meeting and left us Treana Red Blend to try. (Thanks, Macey & Eric!) This lovely wine is from the Central Coast of California and is a blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot & Syrah. Wine Spectator & Wine Enthusiast rated the previous vintage 89 & 88 respectively. It was even one of our previous Premium Wine of the Quarter! It retails for $38, but the current vintage will be making a slight increase in price.
Next month's meeting is August 16th at Blue Bamboo across the street. I can't wait for that meeting. Dennis creates some excellent dishes! See you all then!
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