This is a WONDERFUL blend of Chenin Blanc and Viognier. If you like the dryness of Chenin Blanc or the sweetness of Viognier, or if you don’t tend to like either one, you’ll probably love this wine! This blend is great for both lovers and haters of the varietals, as it blends them harmoniously to make something very flavorful and unique. It drinks easily by itself or with lighter food dishes, and is refreshing during warmer days. Pick it up for $9.99 at Total Wine in Tustin. Don’t forget to check out my blog at www.OCWineAndLifestyle.com, or the Facebook Fan Page for OC Wine and Lifestyle. Also, after the show, stay tuned for a quick slide show of my newest listing in Tustin Ranch, CA. Happy Tasting!
January 28, 2011
September 16, 2010
2006 Nerelo del Bastardo
The Nerelo del Bastardo is an Italian blend that is supposed to be made from the same juice as some of the finer Italian wines, since Italian regulations limit the number of cases that can be produced under a certain label. I was really excited to try this, thinking that it might be something very special. But alas, I was disappointed. This wine just about bored me to tears! It had very little flavor and certainly did not display the characteristics of Italy’s finest. Fortunately, the price is right so if you want to give it a try for yourself, you can do so at Trader Joe’s for $6.99 (if they still have it). According to TJ’s, this one comes and goes, so if you’re curious, head over there soon to pick it up. If you happen to drink this one, let me know what you think! Also, don’t forget to visit the OC Wine and Lifestyle Facebook Fan page to see what others are saying about various wine reviews, and to check out upcoming local wine tasting events! Have a great day and until next time, Happy Tasting!
July 16, 2010
Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Incanto, 2005
Here is a tasty Italian treat from Trader Joe’s that is a great value. Enjoy this one all year and be sure to let it breathe for a good 25 – 30 minutes before you really start drinking it. Trust me, the wine is so much better after it has a chance to open up!
If you would like to follow us on Facebook, please visit the OC Wine and Lifestyle Facebook Fan Page and “like” us! Also, if you have questions about real estate in our local Orange County market, please feel free to contact me by visiting my website at www.KathySchager.com.
Happy Tasting!
July 2, 2010
August 7, 2009
Domaine de la Presidente Grands Classiques Cotes du Rhone 2007
I’ve purchased this wine twice now, just to be absolutely sure that I liked it the second time as much as I did the first time. It’s an interesting blend of a few varietals, including Grenache (primary) and Syrah. On the nose, you’ll enjoy a spicy, cherry scent. The palate bursts with an earthy and peppery flavor mixed with red berry and fruit that carries through to a very pleasant finish. The is the best French wine I’ve had in a while (since I haven’t purchased any Chateauneuf du Pape for quite some time). I would definitely recommend this one, especially at the fantastic price of $7.99 at Total Wine in Tustin.
For information on homes near Total Wine in Tustin or other parts of Orange County, please visit my website at www.KathySchager.com.
July 2, 2009
Trentatre Rosso 2007

A decent, inexpensive red from Trader Joe’s! While I can’t say it’s one of my favorites, it certainly didn’t disappoint me. It has aromas of plum and slight dark chocolate. The flavor is primarily dark berries and a bit of a smokey yet fruity finish. When I first opened it, I noticed that it resembled cough syrup on the finish. But let it breathe a while and it will be okay. This wine is a blend of 33.3% Cabernet, 33.3% Merlot, and 33.4% Montepulciano. The three wines blended gives this wine its Italian name: Trentatre, meaning 33.
