Robert Mondavi Pinot Noir
WineInfo101.com
Tonight I tried the Robert Mondavi Private Selection Pinot Noir 2009
I was a little worried about trying a 2009 so soon, but this is pretty good. I had seen it as a highly rated one, so I figured it was worth a shot. It is very good, but not worth the extra cost over some cheaper options. However, very drinkable.
Sangria Wine
WineInfo101.com
Sangria Wine is a fruity punch made with wine. It is primarily Spanish, with the word itself meaning bloodletting in Spanish. There are a myriad of sangria recipes, but the base ingredients are:
- A (usually cheap) fruity red wine. Spanish versions would include Rioja, Tempranillo or Grenache. However, any fruity red will do.
- Slices or chunks of fresh fruit. Oranges, apples, peaches, strawberries, pineapple, mango and lemon are the usual suspects. However, pretty much any fruit can be used.
- Some sort of sweetener. Sugar, honey or any fake sweetener will work.
- Generally another small amount of liquor is added. Rum, brandy or flavored liqueurs are the most common.
- Optional additions are usually ice and soda pop such as 7-up or Sprite.
- Another variation is using white wine. This results in the sangria being called sangria blanca.
Sangria wine is a favorite served throughout Spain and Portugal during the summer months as well as other parts of both countries all year. It is a popular drink among both locals and tourists at bars, taverns and restaurants. There it is often provided in pitchers or other large containers that can hold enough for a bottle of wine in addition to the other ingredients. Many times it will come with a lid or other strainer to help stop the chunks of fruit and ice from falling into the glass.



