The Sip-Worthy Cellar

Blandy’s Madeira Malmsey 5 Year

Brandon — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 16:30:17 +0000

Madeira and Chocolate Truffles

Happy Happy New Year Everyone! I’d like to say that I was starting the year off with Madeira and chocolate, but I actually ended last year with it. Nevertheless, it was so darn good I had to share. Some of you may be asking, “What the heck is Madeira?”. Well, I’ve got the answer. Madeira is a fortified wine from Portugal. The wine is “fortified” by adding grape spirits producing something akin to Port. This particular Madeira is sweet with hints of toffee and caramel. If you like sweet wine, you should give Madeira a try. Madeira can also be produced dry, so ask before you buy. The sweetness in the Blandy’s is balanced by a nice bit of acidity, which makes it a real delight to drink. The Blandy’s was very good for the price and paired great with the truffles.- Brandon

2005 Blue Rock – Alexander Valley, Sonoma

Brandon — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 16:30:22 +0000

Something For Those Special Nights

Most of the wines I recommend here on The Sip-Worthy Cellar are reasonably priced. I make an effort to find great wines at great prices because I believe you don’t have to spend a lot of money to drink good wine. However, on occasion I come across wines that are a little pricey, but nonetheless worth every penny - Blue Rock is one of those wines. Priced at approximately $40, it is a great wine for a special occasion, dinner with the boss or a really “good” friend. Blue Rock is a nice Cabernet Sauvignon. It is full-bodied with loads of black fruits (cherries) and mint. The tannins are soft, but still provide a solid backbone to the wine. I served this with a standing rib roast and it paired perfectly. No matter the occasion, you won’t be disappointed. -Brandon

Bortolotti Treviso Prosecco – Extra Dry

Brandon — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 16:30:07 +0000

Prosecco..Let me count the ways

I love Prosecco. Of all the sparkling wines out there, Prosecco holds a special place in my heart. It is one of those wines that make me feel good when I drink it. I think it is because it is so unassuming, inexpensive and delicious. Prosecco is an Italian white wine normally made from Glera (“Prosecco”) grapes. This Prosecco from Bortolotti was a real treat. Bortolotti’s Prosecco Trevsio is produced extra dry, which confusingly means it is not that dry. It is kind of middle of the road dry and not as dry as a sparkling wine labeled brut. You can taste the sweetness on this wine and it makes a great aperitif (drank before the meal to stimulate the appetite). It is fruity with a fresh acidity that balances the sweetness. This one is definitely worth a taste. – Brandon

Hugo (Huber to Go) Rosé Sparking Wine

Brandon — Wed, 14 Dec 2011 16:30:31 +0000

Think Pink for the Holidays

I came across this rosé sparkling wine while attending a wine tasting last week at Regency Wines in Fairlawn, Ohio (check them out – great selection). I am always on the hunt for something off the beaten path and this sparkler was right up my alley. To start, it is from Austria….yeah that’s what I said…Austria? It doesn’t stop there my friends…it is made using a grape called Zweigelt. This grape is the most widely grown red grape in Austria. It is dry and very fruity with hints of fresh berries topped with a delicate acidity. At $14 a bottle, it is a nice sparkling wine to drink with friends during this holiday season (or any time for that matter). - Brandon