In what will most likely be our good friend/Tramonte rep/DEP’s alum Devon’s final appearance in the Whino’s studio (she may surprise us with one encore visit), she came by with 5 wines to preview, a prelude to her heading off to attend the University of California-Fresno, where she will finally begin her journey toward making wine (as opposed to just selling):

Rive della Chiesa Rose Marca Trevigiana NV.  Grade=Outstanding.  This elegant pink sparkler is full of strawberry mousse, Maraschino cherries, and creamy meringue undertones.  Fizzy verve despite it having been open for a day.

Maryhill Gewurtztraminer Columbia Valley 2008.  Grade=Outstanding.  Soft white peaches, lychee nut, orange blossom and white flowers mix with minerality and well-balanced acidity.  A pretty white wine.

Maryhill Winemaker’s Red Columbia Valley 2008.  Grade=Outstanding.  This Bordeaux-leaning red blend is juicy, but without the overbaked dark fruits you may see in many on the market in its price bracket.  Fresh-picked red and black berry fruit aromas and flavors, scents of violets, and hints of mineral, pepper and dusty earth lead into a fresh, well-balanced finish.

David Girard Mourvedre El Dorado 2008.  Grade=Outstanding.  Dark, brooding purple and blue fruits, smoky vanilla, white pepper, clove, and a bit of marzipan, mocha and pumpernickel.  Delicious.

Treasure Hunter Proprietor’s Reserve Carson’s Key Dry Creek Valley 2009.  Grade=Average.  This red blend is jammy red fruit up front, a bit of blueberry pie in the middle, and finishes with a bit of iodine and raw meat.  Kinda lame.