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New Zealand Whites Plus Ports    February 14, 2004

First – New Zealand Whites. New Zealand is an up and coming area and has a climate that is partial to white wine. Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Riesling are the current white wines of choice. More can be read and understood at http://www.nzwine.com/
Second – as a tribute to Valentine’s Day, Jack and Carolyn will bring a couple of good Ports. Bring DESSERTS that will go with Port. Jack suggests Stilton Cheese, Dark Chocolate, anything with almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts, and Apple or Pecan Pie.

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From the Bottle Label
Comments
1 Brancott Vinyards Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough 2003 $12 Hugh Johnson's 2004 booklet gives it 2-3 stars where 2="above average" and 3= "well known, highly reputed" Good with delicate tastes like sole. Pleasant and nice balance.
2 Villa Maria Private Bin Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, 2002 $14 Bottle says "rich tropical fruit." Hugh Johnson: "One of NZ's three largest companies. Private bin wines can be excellent value." 2-3 stars, colored stars ndicate "Especially good in its price range." Somewhat acidy, not well balanced. (Anne thought it was interesting.)
3 Goldwater Dog Point Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough 2002, $20 Hugh Johnson: "Pungent", 3 stars. Balanced and more robust.
4 Thornbury Chardonnay Hawkes Bay 2000. Fermented in French Oak Barrels. No one was a fan of this one.
5 Porto Barrow Vintage Character $14 Ruby color, fairly mild taste
6 Fonseca Guimarens Vintage Porto. 1984, bottled in 1986. rated 85-88 $40 Would have cost more if it were a designated year. Stronger flavor.
7 Delaforce Oporto Curious Aged in wood 20 years, bottled 2003. Rated in the 90's. $60 Tawny, a lot of intricacy to the flavor, especially caramel. Tasted like a dessert in itself.