Converted from paper version of the Broad Ripple Gazette (v07n23)
The Wine Scene - by Jill A. Ditmire
posted: Nov. 12, 2010
BEER ME
I'm not much of a beer drinker any more. Oh sure, I put away my share of Coors and Corona's and Becks in my day. Which is probably WHY I am not much of a beer drinker anymore. Recently I tasted some local craft brews that excited my palate enough to SERIOUSLY think about drinking a glass.
Teddy Bear Kisses, Upland Brewing Company-WOW-Imperial Stout (double the intensity on the ingredients which weighs this dark brew in at the 10.2% alcohol level) aged on fair trade cocoa nibs. This one is a warm fuzzy for the tummy. Great nose of cocoa, coffee gives way to smooth flavors of the same. Just a hint of bitterness but its more like a coffee bitterness. I think this would be delicious in a big glass with scoops of coffee, chocolate and vanilla ice cream.
Helios Pale Ale, mildly hoppy with subtle citrus notes. I know that Sun King's Cream Ale is getting all of the hype lately (and rightly so-its an EZ drinking brew ), but this is a mighty fine American style pale ale too. Nothing fancy. Just refreshing.
WINE TIME
I AM an avid wine drinker and have been sampling some NEW brands/bottles available on the Indianapolis wine scene. Thought I'd share some thoughts as Thanksgiving grows near and tailgate season continues...
Fruvi "Sexy Sangria", Spain-This could be THE beverage for the holiday office party circuit or perhaps the 21st Century Bartles & James. (Anybody else remember "wine coolers"?) And why not-all the work is done for you. You just have to chill it and swill it. And you will as this fruity, flirty wine is a blend of chardonnay and sauvignon blanc with added pomegranate juice and other exotic fruit juices. Oh yeah, it's less than $10. Get a big punch bowl, some fresh fruit and ice cubes and celebrate.
2009 Charles & Charles Red, Washington-Big, bold blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah. Black cherry, cocoa, spice. Chewy tannins in a smooth long finish. Perfect tailgate red for brats or burgers.
2007 Firestone Vineyards, "Discovery Series", Cabernet Sauvignon, California-Anyone remember "the bachelor" Andrew Firestone? This used to be his family's other business (yep-they are the tire folks) New ownership started a second tier of really first rate wines. This Cab is smooth and easy-lots of bright black cherry, vanilla and soft tannins. If you are a red wine newbie or want to give reds a try, this is a great starter.
Wrongo Dongo, Monastrell, Spain-Every now and then I have someone who wants a "dirty" wine-meaning the notes and flavors do have a slight similarity to the earth. This is one of those. Monastrell is known as Mouvedre in France and offers up wild blueberry, blackberry notes along with that earthy, rustic touch. Great label. And just saying the name is fun!
2008 Siete Cuchillos, Malbec, Argentina-If you love that big bold red grape from South America you will love this new brand on the Indy wine scene. Lots of juicy blackberry, mulberry and white pepper linger on in this full bodied red. Great with BEEF!
2009 Sean Minor Chardonnay, Central Coast California-I still can't believe this rich, smooth, lush dry white costs so little. Inviting nose of pear and soft caramel. Well balanced, just a hint of vanilla, subtle tropical fruit. Reminds me of some expensive Burgundian style chard's from France. Find it for less than $12!
2010 Albamar Sauvignon Blanc, Casablanca Valley, Chile-I have been to the Casablanca Valley in Chile, and it is as romantic and picturesque as it sounds. And a GREAT place to grow grapes. You want your sauvignon blanc to be young, fresh and LIVELY. This one fits the bill. I get notes of white grapefruit and white peach with enough zingy acidity to keep a smile on my face. Super with vegetarian dishes, Indian cuisine, and sushi.
Jill A. Ditmire is an Omnimedia wine specialist, AWS certified wine judge, freelance broadcast journalist and 20+ year home owner in the Warfleigh neighborhood of Broad Ripple. Send your questions and comments to Jill at
jill@broadripplegazette.com
Also on INSTAGRAM @jaditmire
jill@broadripplegazette.com