Wines, 3rd Thursday Tasting, April 15, 2010         Cristalino Brut, Cava. Penedes, Spain One of our most favorite inexpensive bubblies, a wondrous wine from northeastern Spain made by the traditional Champagne method from traditional Spanish grape varietals (Macabeo 50%, Parellada 35% and Xarello 15%). It shows bright green-gold color, lots of fine, tiny bubbles, aromas of green apples, peaches, toast, flowers, and herbs, flavors of apples, lemon, and roasted almonds. Highly recommended with appetizers and spicy Asian or Mexican foods. Very food friendly and versatile. Sauvignon Blanc 2009, The Infamous Goose, Wild Rock. New Zealand Generous aromas of lime, grapefruit, and herbs. Bright flavors of gooseberry, citrus, and fresh herbs. Medium-light body. Long finish. A new favorite. Fine value. With seafood, salads, or as an aperitif.  Fish fillet with yellow curry sauce. Tangy cheeses. . Chardonnay 2008, Fair Valley. Coastal Region, S Africa Attractive Chardonnay for every day drinking--well-integrated light / medium oak.  Crisp apple aromas. Refreshing and appealing flavors of pear and apple. A nice aperitif. Have it with chicken or fish Malbec 2006, Aguaribay. Mendoza, Argentina A bold, spicy wine with notes of earthy dark berry, black cherry, and smoke. Lots of fruit and very good structure (tasty tannins). Lingering finish. This is definitely a wine for beef. Grilled sirloin with Argentine Chimichurri Sauce (parsley, olive oil, vinegar, garlic & seasonings). Shiraz/Grenache 2006, Razor's Edge, S Australia A beautiful Rhône blend of 75% Shiraz and 25% Grenache from McLaren Vale. Dark fruit, smoke, and a slight earthiness on the nose. Flavors of blackberry, black cherry, raspberry, plum, warm spices and a hint of black pepper and licorice. Velvety mouthfeel, lingering finish. Grill a thick ribsteak. Pork loin encrusted with Mediterranean herbs. Petite Sirah 2008, Peirano Estate. Lodi, California A robust, rich Petite Sirah with aromas of black raspberry and spice with hints of white pepper and cocoa. Flavors are plum, boysenberry, black raspberry, and black cherry with chewy tannins. Note that while Petite Sirah is related to Syrah, it has its own deeper, darker character and flavor. Grilled steak, sausages, dishes with tomatoes. Flavorful cheeses. Lamb shanks braised in petite sirah.     Cheers,  Wine World Taste through the wines at your own pace. We are delighted to talk with you about the wines.