14 Hands Chardonnay and Four Vines Old Vine Cuvee Zinfandel

What ever cold/flu was going around, found it's way to me.  Now that I'm back on my feet and can taste wine it's back to reviewing.  I'm going to get back in the swing with two wines from my tasting this past weekend.  One was the customers favorite hands (no pun intended) down. 

14 Hands 2010 Chardonnay is from Washington State, sourcing the grapes from Horse Heaven Hills, Yakima Valley and other parts of Columbia Valley.  It is 89% Chardonnay blended with other aromatic varietals.   If you're looking for a creamy, buttery Chardonnay then this is it.  The flavor was a nice fruit and hint of spice with a little acidity.  Crisp and refreshing.  Customers enjoyed this wine and I sold out.   

I am a huge fan of 14 Hands wines.  If you try any of their varietals - Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Riesling, Hot to Trot Red Blend, and Hot to Trot White Blend - you wont' be disappointed.

Winemaker's Notes:  Bright apple and floral aromas are complemented by light notes of vanilla and sweet butterscotch.  Juicy pear and apple flavors give way to subtle touches of toast and spice and ends with a soft finish. 

Four Vines 2009 Old Vine Cuvee Zinfandel is from California with the grapes from Medocino, Amador, Sonoma, Paso Robles, and Lodi.    The aroma was delightfully fruity.  However, on the palate there was something that "bit you back".   The mouthfeel was also a bit thin for a Zinfandel.  I did sell a few bottles of this wine, but for the most part customers did not enjoy.  I enjoy old vine Zinfandels, but this one did not measure up. 

Winemaker's Notes:  On the nose the wine has layers of berry fruit and anise aromas with hints of spice.  On the palate, blackberry and  spice plum fruit with a rich mouth feel.  Big and opulent on the mid palate with plenty of structure, trailing to a velvety toasted oak finish.