Tasting Notes – Dueling Pinots 07.17.2024

presented by Megan Gadwah of 3 Keys Wine Distributors

Pinot Blanc ~ 2021

The Cave du Roi Dagobert is a major player in Alsatian viticulture. Thanks to the strong commitment of its winegrowers, it has been able to forge an image of professionalism and quality. Aware of this rich past, the winegrowers of the Cave du Roi Dagobert are keen to enhance this precious heritage by implementing sustainable viticulture, respectful of the environment and the terroirs.
Grapes: 100% Pinot Blanc – ABV 13%
Tasting notes: Fresh and fruity, the companion of every day. Its robe is limpid with light yellow reflections. The nose is fruity and floral, all in finesse.
Pairings: Try it with cold buffet, salmon or Lorraine quiche, pikeperch with beurre blanc, onion pie.
Producer: Cave du Roi Dagobert/ Appellation: Alsace, France

Pinot Grigio ~ 2022

Pinot Grigio is currently the most cultivated grape variety in Alto Adige. The Raetia Pinot Grigio comes from

selected hillside plots characterized by large diurnal temperatures shifts, leading to a fruity expression with

notable freshness.
Grapes:
 100% Pinot Grigio
Tasting notes: Straw yellow color. Tropical fruit with honey tone. Fruity, ripe aromas, fresh, savory and persistent finish.

Pairings: Light appetizers, fish, seafood, as an aperitif.
Aging:
7 months stainless steel.
Producer
: Raetia/ Appellation: Trentino Alto Adige, Italy

Pinot Noir ~ 2021 ~ $25.00

At Kate Arnold Wines, we pride ourselves on being actively involved in every part of the winemaking process, from sourcing the grapes to the moment they are bottled. Quality and transparency are essential to us, as we declare the absence of additives and prioritize creating wines reflective of their origins. Wine is only as good as its fruit sourcing, and Kate’s goal is to create equitable, long-term relationships with growers who do “the right thing” in the vineyard. We purposely seek out family-owned, small grape growers.

Grapes: 100% Pinot Noir – ABV 13.5%
Tasting notes:  Dark ruby color. Aromas of black cherry, cedar, vanilla, forest floor, blackberry, and black tea. Notes of marionberry, blackberry, cinnamon, pomegranate, and cigar box. Bright acidity in the beginning and balanced mid-palate weight.
Pairings: Goat cheese, leek, and walnut tart; French onion soup; grilled pork loin with roasted rosemary potatoes
Aging: French oak barrels 3-7 years old
Producer
: Kate Arnold/ Appellation: Willamette Valley

Pinotage Soetmelksvlei ~ 2018

The vineyards of Babylonstoren are nestled in slopes of Simon’s Mountain, just north of Stellenbosch between Paarl and Franschhoek. The name dates to a time when a large hill on the property became a routine meeting spot for the diverse local population. It became referred to as ‘The Tower of Babel’ due to the converging of the many languages spoken in the area. The farm is owned by former magazine editor Karen Roos. 
Grapes:
  Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot
Tasting notes: Bordeaux style red, nose of black currant, spices, and leather, a bit of bay leaf. nice medium tannin with acidity to back it up. a little unripe fruit on the front end, gives way to herb/spice. concluded with that mild tannin and a decent acidity on the finish.
Producer: Babylonstoren / Appellation: Simonsberg-Paarl, South Africa