April showers bring May flowers

Wow I didn't realize how long its been since my last entry. Apologies. I have been enjoying a number of good wines in May and also gearing up for an ultra distance canoe paddle. You may remember that April around here was just a slightly wet month. ;) Fortunately as the saying goes April showers bring May flowers. Sometimes however the flowers are found in the glass rather than on the plants!

N. Joly Coulee du Serrant 2003 (Loire Valley France) - Wow, this is a brilliant Chenin Blanc! To wet your appetite; its golden yellow in color with almost bright orange hue at the edge. The nose is very floral and layered. Lanolin, Jasmine, Lavender, and white Lily could all be found as well as a light steely green fruit scent. In the mouth its a moderate to light mouth-feel but with nice moderate body for a Chenin Blanc. Lanolin flavor and oily texture coat the taste buds as it transforms to a bright granny smith apple flavor in the middle. The finish is strictly intense dry floral essence... Lavender and white Lilies evaporate the moisture on the tongue and leave a finish that is both delicate and impressive in its length. I was hugely impressed by this wine and am not often looking for Chenin Blanc. This was simply a superior wine though. The cost well its not what i would consider affordable for most Chenin Blanc at about 60-75/bottle. $$$

J. Christopher 2006 Zoot Allures - Can you believe anyone has any of this wine left? Simply put I think this is one of the best values in wine available in Oregon. A steal of a Pinot Noir its a bright cherry flavored sipper. Big in taste up front it has a moderate firm or almost coagulative mouth-feel - not slippery silk here in my opinion. It has a solid balance but fades a little rapidly for my tastes. Still it ends with a rose or jasmine leave and at $18/bottle, its a crazy good deal! $ You may have a hard time recognizing the label too as Jay has not put his trademark logo on it but pictures of his dogs instead. If you can find - Buy some, try some, sit on your porch with a knowing smile.