Observations

[robr]

I just got serious about trying new and better wines about two months ago. Since then I have tried 30 or 40, mostly reds, some whites, and here is what I have discovered.

1. Many reds made from a particular type of grape, or from a particular region/country taste so similar that I can barely tell them apart. The average good Spanish red and the average good Italian red really tastes like the same wine.

2. Merlot and Cabernet Sauv. are so similar that they taste nearly the same to me. CS is usually more tannic, and has a little bolder presentation, but not always. I can't tell much difference between these and an average Bordeaux.

3. Pinot Noir varies greatly. Some are subtle, others as strong as a shiraz, but most are quite a bit more subdued than other cold weather reds.

4. It's damn near impossible to find good German wine in Central Florida.

5. Good Chardonnay is heaven in a bottle.

6. Red Zinfandel is the most distinctive red wine. Probably because of the higher alcohol content.

I hope that this has been entertaining and perhaps a little provocative.

Rob