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Thursday, June 3, 2010

Mark West Central Coast Chardonnay 2007

In my quest for refreshing white wines, I turned to a wine label I know I can count on for great tasting Pinot Noir’s hoping they can satiate my thirst for a summer heat busting Chardonnay. After the first couple of sips, my palate was extremely pleased with the tantalizing flavors provided by this Central Valley wine, Mark West’s Chardonnay 2007.

First whiff of aromas were a tad high on the alcohol side and a little tight. After a few more moments and a bit of swirling the aromas opened up to green grass and honey notes. The flavors are the perfect representation of summer as crisp pineapple, peach and, banana hit the palate. The wine is semi-sweet and finishes with a touch of honey.

Mark West wineries was founded in 1978 and acquired by Purple Wine Company, LLC in 2001. Headed by former Blackstone Winery CEO, Derek Benham, and winemaker Alex Cose the winery’s primary juice is Pinot Noir. Interesting tid bit; one out of 10 bottles of Pinot Noir sold in the U.S. is a Mark West Pinot. The winery is committed to using green energy and conservation while reducing Greenhouse Gas emissions.

Mark West’s Central Coast Chardonnay grapes are sourced mainly from the Monterey area along the Salinas River. Where cool foggy mornings and warm days provide for a long growing season allowing the flavors of the grape to mature on the vine. Additional grapes are sourced from San Luis Obispo County, known for intense fruit flavors and natural acidity. After harvest, the grapes are fermented in stainless steel and then aged in 40 percent new oak barrels for seven months.

We paired the wine with pulled pork sandwiches and grilled veggies. Would also pair well with hamburgers or a grilled Caesar Salad. What’s a grilled Caesar Salad you ask; take one head of Romaine lettuce and cut length wise. Place flat side down on grill, grill until lettuce starts to wilt or grill marks appear. Top with your choice of meat and Caesar dressing.
Picked this little beauty up at my local Publix for around $11.






My rating - We'll drink the rest tomorrow

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