Donnie on the Spot Syrah NV (about $15)

About the Wine:  Syrah and its near relative Shiraz are successfully grown in the South of France, Spain, Italy, California, Australia, Chile, and Israel.  These hot climates bring out the grapes big, bold fruit.  This Syrah is from the Finger Lakes, probably the best growing region in New York and some say between the Atlantic and the Mississippi.  I've never had a cold climate Syrah before and I look forward to the experience.


About THIS Wine:  It's a fairly translucent red in the glass, much lighter than I'm used to for the varietal.  The nose is hearty and has the jammy fruit components a Syrah should, but it is not heady and massive as many of its hot climate counterparts are.  The palate is surprisingly complex and balanced.  It actually has many of the elements I would associate with California Pinot Noir, right down to the sour cherry finish.  This has more body than most, Pinots though.


Drinking This Wine:  It would pair well with a good pot roast.


Overall Impression:  The price is reasonable and I find no fault with the wine.  This one is good for the price.

LiBella Pinot Grigio 2010 (about $14)

About the Wine:  The Finger Lakes region of New York State provides what is considered a maritime climate.  That is to say that the region is colder than is traditional for wine growing but the presence of a body or bodies of water mitigates the effects of the cold and makes wine grape cultivation possible.

About THIS Wine:  The color is light yellow with a clear rim.  Citrus, peach, and acidity are prominent on the nose.  The palate is light to the point of being watery, though citrus is present along with acidity that lingers in the finish.  LiBella is slightly sweet throughout, which is unusual in Pinot Grigio.

Drinking This Wine:  This could be a light sipping wine and it would also go well with grilled chicken.

Overall Impression:  It is not bad but I can find a better bottle for ten dollars.  Libella Pinot Grigio is good but a little overpriced.