OC Wine and Lifestyle

Pine Ridge Chenin Blanc Viognier

kschager — Sat, 29 Jan 2011 00:28:01 +0000

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!

Castoro 2009 Fume Blanc

kschager — Thu, 20 Jan 2011 21:06:57 +0000

This is a light, tasty white that will pair well with fish and vegetables. Castoro is a winery to be reckoned with, as they offer a huge variety of varietals as well as some stunning blends. This Fume Blanc is something everyone can enjoy, and is very nicely priced. Look for this at Trader Joe’s for around $7.00.
If you would like more information about real estate in Orange County, CA, please message me or visit me online at www.KathySchager.com. Also, don’t forget to visit the OC Wine and Lifestyle Facebook Fan Page. Happy Tasting!

Columbia Crest Grand Estates Chardonnay, 2008

kschager — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 00:45:46 +0000

This is a very tasty chardonnay with wonderful overtones of butterscotch, oak and vanilla. It’s not as common as it used to be to find chardonnays that are made in this style, so I’m pleased that there’s something out there and readily available that delivers that. You can find this at Trader Joe’s for approximately $7.00. If you’ve had this wine, let me know what you think in the comments section. Enjoy and Happy Tasting!

2006 Nerelo del Bastardo

kschager — Thu, 16 Sep 2010 14:18:42 +0000

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!

Rondel Brut Cava, Spain

kschager — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 23:05:57 +0000

This is a great sparkling wine, especially for the price. You’ll get lots of citrus flavors, particularly lemon, along with some hints of creaminess. It has a nice bubble structure and is very drinkable on its own, or makes a great champagne cocktail like a Kir Royale or a Mimosa. The best part about enjoying this bubbly is the amazing price point of only $5.99 at Total Wine in Tustin. Great for parties, weddings, etc., this is a crowd pleaser and will leave your guests happy.
Don’t forget to “Like” OC Wine and Lifestyle’s Facebook Fan Page, and remember, if you have any questions about buying, selling or leasing a home, please don’t hesitate to message me. Happy Tasting!

Spiral Wines Cabernet, 2008

kschager — Wed, 18 Aug 2010 20:09:57 +0000

This bargain-priced wine at Trader Joe’s was listed as one of their best sellers, so I thought I’d give it a try. It’s actually okay if you’re not expecting it to taste like a Cab….This wine looks more like a pinot and drinks a little more like a pinot, too. It’s definitely not a robust, full-bodied Napa Cab. But for a whopping $4.99, what can you expect? If you try this one, I’d love to hear what you think. You can comment here or on the Facebook Fan Page. Happy Tasting!

2004 Staglin Family Estate Cabernet Sauvignon

kschager — Fri, 06 Aug 2010 22:14:31 +0000

The 2004 Staglin Estate Cabernet is an incredible treat! Enjoy cedar and fruit on the nose followed by a big, rich spicy palate interlaced with bold fruit flavors. This is a fantastic special occasion wine – definitely not to be missed. It’s priced accordingly, and this one can be purchased for about $150.00. Find a great occasion to pick this one up and enjoy it. It’s truly a gorgeous California Cab. Happy Tasting!

Cremant de Bourgogne Sparkling Wine

kschager — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 20:59:09 +0000

The Cremant de Bourgogne Sparkling Wine is nicely priced at $10, but not the greatest when it comes to flavor. While it tends to be pretty light and crisp, it lacks a great mousse and the refreshing quality that you get with a more light and crisp sparkler. In my humble opinion, this would be better enjoyed as part of a mixed champagne cocktail like a mimosa or a Kir Royale, than on its own. But you don’t have to take my word for it! This one can be found at your local Trader Joe’s, and might not be a bad one to try. Check out the video review here and remember you can always visit our Facebook Fan Page (OC Wine and Lifestyle) and “like” us to keep track of reviews that way. And finally, if you are interested in getting some information about buying, selling or leasing a home here in Orange County or the surrounding areas, visit me on the web at www.KathySchager.com. Happy Tasting!

Piper Heidsieck Champagne

kschager — Sat, 24 Jul 2010 15:48:17 +0000

The Piper Heidsieck Champagne is a fantastic bubbly with great balance and structure. You’ll get a bit of a nutty, toasty vanilla flavor mixed with some citrus and apple both on the nose and the palate. It’s one of my favorites and the full bottles can be found at a wide variety of locations, including grocery stores and Trader Joe’s.
Don’t forget to visit OC Wine and Lifestyle’s Facebook fan page and follow our reviews there! Also, if you have any questions about real estate (buying, selling or leasing) in Orange County, visit me on the web at www.KathySchager.com. Happy Tasting!

Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, Incanto, 2005

kschager — Fri, 16 Jul 2010 19:50:04 +0000

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!