Sonoma, CA
It’s not often I buy 2 different varietals from the same winery in one shopping trip. In this case I had tried the Chardonnay from Angeline and was pleased, so my thought was, if even one of these new wines (Merlot or Pinot Noir) was good, I’d be happy. Well, I was fooled they both were great.
The Merlot started with aromas of cedar and black pepper. It might have had a bit of an alcohol scent but that definitely wasn’t in the tasting. Rich in blackberries and plum on the first tastes had this feeling like a well-balanced Merlot. Not too fruity with mild tannins and subtle oak on the finish made for a great wine at $13.
The Pinot Noir absolutely blew me away for a $12 wine. It must have been the reason the guy before me was loading his cart up with it. I guess that’ll be me next time… Strawberries, a hint of must and subtle spice stood out on the aromas. The tasting followed with bright berries and a velvety, smooth finish. The fruit on this wine is so nice! Very well balanced with a nice, easy drinking feel on the palette.
Angeline has 3 thumbs up for me now with their Chardonnay, Merlot and Pinot Noir. They must be doing something right. I look forward to hearing from any of you trying these wines in the future.