Early 2010 wines

2005 Marklew Chardonnay

Simonsburg - Stellenbosch, S. Africa

A refreshing chardonnay that was a big surprise to us.  Normally, chardonnays are slightly acidic and very complex.  This one was elegant in its simplicity.  It was creamy, oaky (but not overly so), and full-bodied.  3.5 out of 5 stars.

White Heron (semi-sweet white wine)

St. Julian

Paw Paw, Michigan

St. Julian has a "collection" of wines in the Heron line (red, white, and blue), all of which we've come to enjoy. These are all easy-drinking, under $10 wines that haven't steered us wrong.  (They can also be found at Meijer, which is a handy plus when outside of Michigan.)  The White Heron is pleasantly sweet, slightly acidic, with a big up-front taste and smooth finish which does not leave an aftertaste.  3 out of 5 stars.

2005 Sauternes (white bordeaux wine)

Chateau Rieussec

France

We did not know what to expect with this wine, as M found it in a snowbank in a parking lot.  (Classy, we know.)  After inspecting the bottle thoroughly, he decided it had not been tampered with and considered this a wine windfall in our favor. This is an ice wine and is supposedly a mid-priced ice wine.  It was very sweet, had a hint of honey, and not overly syrupy as is the case with some ice wines.  There was a slight citrus and spice flavor at the end.  4 out of 5 stars.

Watusi Red

Karma Vista Vineyards

Coloma, Michigan

This wine's label touts it as "a really great red table wine," and we tend to agree.  It is a sweet red wine, one which E thinks tastes of Concord grapes.  Overall, it's not a complex wine, but still satisfying.  A great wine for unwinding after a stressful day.  This is best chilled, so would be a good wine to have on hand during the summer. 3 out of 5 stars.