Caretaker Wines, California Pinot Noir, 2008

Here's one that drew mixed reviews. Only available at Trader Joe's this $9.99, 2008 Caretaker Wines, California Pinot Noir resembles many we've shared in the $18-$20 range. Possibly a bit too young and in need of some maturing...it's still a great deal at that price and makes for a nice, light, summer drinking red. Sustainably Farmed.

Have you tried this wine? If so, what did you think?

Hoegaarden

OK...it's not wine, but it might as well be..and smitten with its floating citrus, I simply had to take its picture! Hoegaarden is a white Belgium beer with hints of lemon, pepper and clove, that when paired with fresh orange slice... makes for a delicious, refreshing, easy drinking beer!

This past Friday, we enjoyed Hoegaarden along side Balsamic Glazed Chicken and grilled bread with homemade bruschetta. The beer's mild sweetness, was the perfect beverage to round out the meal's wonderfully fresh, tart & zesty flavors.

The photo above a prelude... to our beautiful weekend ahead!

(Note: If you like a Blue Moon now and then...give Hoegaarden a try...you might just like it better!)

Bogle Petite Sirah, 2007

Bogle Petite Sirah, 2007 - at $10.99 we're thrilled the tiny market close by picked it up! We enjoyed a bottle last week served along side our Croissant Steak Sandwiches . Its hints of plumb, spicy, bold, yet smooth taste, held up perfectly to the intensity of the dish! The California red would make a nice house Petite Sirah to have on hand for all you serious griller's out there with festivities on the horizon! We just might buy a case!

Chateau Ste. Michelle Cabernet Sauvignon

Chateau Ste. Michelle Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley, Cold Creek, 2006, is a smooth, easy drinking Washington State cabernet in the $25 range. We enjoyed it last Sunday evening paired perfectly with filet tips sauteed in, shallot, garlic and Spanish sherry; a wilted spinach-arugula salad and warm crusty bread. Smooth on the back end with hints of plum and berries, the price was a bit of a splurge for a "non-occasion" - but then the filet was a gift...so we were craving a worthy red accompaniment. We have had it before, and we're excited to have it again! Works well with most substantial entrees. I imagine it being a very respectable "house cabernet" in a high end restaurant. Cheers!