For the LOVE of FRENCH INSPIRED WINE...

Forgeron Cellars, 2009 Ambiance; It says it all in the name.."AMBIANCE"  This  remarkable blend of Roussanne, Grenache Blanc, and Viognier, puts my mind in state of romance. It envelopes my taste buds with a creamy yet tart, thirst quenching flavor. With the smell of green apples picked right from the tree, wet river rocks running through my nose.  This full bodied white is the perfect ending to a fairytale.  Paired alongside Rogue Creamery's Touvelle Cheese, with the rosemary flavor making it a perfect match.  Creates memories of almonds and nutmeg in a rich buttery bechamel sauce served upon a bed of homemade fresh pasta...Mmm, I'm hungry for dinner...anyone want to join me??

Jen

Forgeron Cellars: Blacksmith Merlot 2008

When I first tried this wine, I was a little hesitant. Of course, that isn't saying much. I really don't have much experience with wine so I'm hesitant around most of them. One of the first things I noticed about this wine was the color. It's a very nice, deep red, with a hint of burgundy; it kind of reminded me of the color of grape jelly. It also sits very nicely in my glass. It moves as I move and reflects just the right amount of light. There isn't much I could say about the smell. It smells like wine, which is a good place to start I suppose. I am still in the process of fine tuning my nose. When I first tasted it, I didn't really have much to say about it except, it's dry. Now, my mother loves dry wines. So I grew up tasting her wine and it didn't do much for my fondness of dry wines. The first few sips left my tongue cringing. However, I tried some Bravo chipotle cheddar cheese and then some paté. Boy, did that make a difference. I immediately changed my mind after having some paté. Not only did the paté relieve my tongue, it also brought out more flavors in the wine and made it a much more pleasant experience. Suddenly, the dry, albeit pretty, wine was something I could see drinking with dinner.

- Caite

BLACKSMITH

  This 08 Blacksmith Merlot from Forgeron Cellars in Walla Walla is outstanding!!  Everyone who loves big, full bodied reds must take 2 bottles of this wine home.  When you finish the first bottle you won't have to worry if there is any left at BELLA.   What a find!!!
Lynn

Time to Start Tasting!

The BELLA Grand Cru will post their notes and thoughts about the world of great wines (plus many more thoughts about wine, food and chocolate of course!) right here...
Stay Tuned!!
Here's Maggie getting a head start!