Firesteed Pinot Noir Oregon Wine Review (Under $15)

December 13, 2011

Following the tradition of equine related vineyards, here’s another uncomplicated wine from the Pacific Northwest. Oregon is fast becoming known for its brilliant Pinot Noirs and the properly paired Firesteed, while not a brilliant Pinot, certainly serves up a fair offering to this reputation.

Be aware, that is an extremely light Pinot! I suggest letting it breath for at least 15 minutes and note it pours very thin but don’t let that steer you away as its uncomplication seems to be its strength.

I’d pair this with something tangy like Indian food, BBQ or anything with a little zest to spice it up. It’s easy to drink without a meal yet I prefer going solo on wines with a little more body than this offers.

Firesteed chose to start with varietals, not because they had vineyards full of ripe grapes, but because they believed they would rapidly gain a following with the wine-buying public. These are wonderful food wines, with bright fruit flavors and low tannins.

My recommendation… ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Technical Data
Appellation: Oregon State
Alcohol: 12.7%
PH: 3.73

Winemaker notes:
“Garnet in color with aromas of raspberries, cedar, leather and exotic spices, the wine’s berry and cherry flavors are framed by soft tannins and continue throughout its on the lingering finish. Grapes for this wine, as in previous years, were sourced from throughout the Willamette, Umpqua, Rogue and Walla Walla Valleys, creating a truly Oregon blend.”

Recommended pairings:
Texas-style spicy BBQ, Filet mignon w/ garlic roasted lemon potatoes, spicy curries.

Request it from your favorite local wine shop or you can find 2009 Firesteed Pinot Noir 750 ml online for $14.99 plus shipping. Tell them you found Firesteed from Angelea at HorseGirlTV!

If you’ve tried it, please feel free to share your thoughts with a comment below!

14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon Washington Wine Review (Under $15)

December 4, 2011

Having lived in and still in love with the Pacific Northwest and Spain, I’m partial to wines from these areas and this little wine is a gem for the price! It’s a must try for cab enthusiasts who value supple tannins with smooth tannins.

Gentle to the pallet, it can either be enjoyed with a meal or is talented enough to have a go it on its own!

Inhale deep then take a sip and think flavors of allspice, cherries and oak while letting it sit in your mouth. It has a very mild-mannered smell, velvety with no after taste.

14 Hands celebrates the spirit of Washington State wild horses (actually ponies) and their rich and unique history. The vineyards are set in the hills near the Columbia river and the terrain that gave these ponies endurance and spirit now feeds the wines of 14 Hands vineyards! This is definitely an easily drinkable, conversation piece wine!

My recommendation… ★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Technical Data
Blend: Predominantly Cabernet Sauvignon with Syrah, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and other select red varieties
Appellation: Washington State
Alcohol: 13.5%
Acidity: 0.52g/100ml
PH: 3.82

Winemaker suggestions:
“14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon features aromas of red currants and raspberries with subtle hints of spice. Spiced cherry & plum flavors are joined by notes of cocoa and complemented by fine, velvety tannins.”

Recommended pairings:
Tomato-basil bruschetta, eggplant parmesan, herb crusted prime rib, grilled beef steak, hearty venison stew.

Request it from your favorite local wine shop or you can find 14 Hands Cabernet Sauvignon online for $12 plus shipping. Tell them you found 14 Hands from Angelea at HorseGirlTV!

If you’ve tried it, please feel free to share your thoughts with a comment below!