Judging a Wine by its Name

  Have you ever decided on a wine because of it's name?  I admit, I have.  Awhile back I fell head over heels in love with Cupcake Vineyards pinot noir.  That infatuation lead me to Cupcake Vineyards Red Velvet.  I was wandering around my wine shop and for the first time in a long time their Cupcake Vineyards display was pretty full (typically this display in particular empties just as soon as it is filled).  When I saw the bottle sitting there I couldn't help myself.  Red velvet, all I could think about was a sweet, luscious make-my-teeth-ache yumminess.

  I could not have been more wrong.  This is not a sweet wine.  But don't get me wrong, it is a delicious wine.  According to their site Cupcake Vineyards Red Velvet "is a blend of Zinfandel, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon and Petite Sirah".  I noticed a slight hint of chocolate with red and blackberries.  The combination works out perfectly. The velvet in the name must come from the absolutely smooth, velvety finish.

  Check it out, and let me know how you enjoyed you red velvet.

Some Summer Wines

  Summer is quickly approaching.  Hot days, warm nights, lots of cook outs and time for friends and family.  What you drink during the summer tends to be a little different then what you sip over the cooler months.  Again, I'm far from an expert, but here are my suggestions of some fantastic summer wines.  All of these are perfect to enjoy sitting outside enjoying the sun with friends, or tucked away in air conditioning watching a movie while a summer storm passes by.  Pick up a bottle, grab an opener and enjoy!!

• Moscato by Lulu B Wines
• Vine Smoothie
• Big House Red
• Sam's Smith Organic Raspberry
• Stella Rosa
• Pine Ridge Chenin Blanc and Viognier
• Van Ruiten Vineyards Chardonnay
• Pinot Noir Rose Boedecker Reflection
• St Innocent Pinot Gris
• Two Vines Riesling
• Spiced Apple Wine
• Fish Eye Pinot Grigio

Totally Random

  I was perusing my most recent shipment of wines from Vinesse Light and Sweet Wine Club when I discovered Totally Random Moscato.  I wasn't sure if I was in a moscato mood, until I read the back of the bottle:

When a quiet night at home becomes a dance party, or a dinner with friends starts at dusk and ends at sunrise - life is giving you its best when you least expect it.  So prepare for the unexpected.  Be.  Live.  Totally Random

  After reading I popped the cork and decided to live a little, and boy did I!  This wine is perfect for a night in with your sweet wine loving mate.  I also think it's a great bottle to have around in case friends stop by or for that spontaneous summer cook out.  It's sweet, ripe, fruity, but most importantly it's YUM!!  My "I-only-drink-sweet" husband really enjoyed this with me.  Grab a bottle and let me know your thoughts!

You can pick up a bottle here.