Monika Janek
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Followers (5)
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Following (2)
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Reviews (175)
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A lover of everything related to wine!
IT professional in the software/film industry, pianist, DJ, electronic music producer, figure skater...all these activities keep Monika busy. Her real love, however, is wine. She has completed the Advanced level with the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) but has now decided to study wine making through the distance program at UC Davis California starting in January 2012. She also has a blog where she shares her adventures to various wine regions and events. Yummy wine made from yummy grapes!
www.theyummygrape.com
Reviews
Fontodi Chianti Classico 2008
Tuscany, Italy$36.95
I enjoyed this Chianti very much! I would gladly add it to my collection. It's a bit tight but not too tight as not to let you enjoy what it has to offer. It has great herbal and cherry notes. Very well balanced. Delish.
4.0 Stars
(0)V
Henry Of Pelham Speck Family Reserve Chardonnay 2009, VQA Short Hills Bench, Niagara Peninsula
Ontario, Canada$29.95
A terrific example of how well Ontario can bring Chardonnay to life. This beautifully made wine has so many complex aromas and flavours. Noticeable use of oak yet finely integrated with good mineral notes. Ripe fruits with an enjoyable long lasting finish. There is also this "coolness" on the nose. Sara d'Amato mentioned in her review, "cool herbs" which accurately describes that. Tasted September 2012.
4.0 Stars
(0)W
Manuel Olivier Morey Saint Denis 2008, Ac
Burgundy, France$30.65
From a very small appellation in the Cote de Nuits, this wine has that forest floor, mulch aroma that is loved about Burgundy. Slightly tart yet fleshy, like cherry skin, the spice and berry fruit tingle the palate.
4.0 Stars
(0)V
The Paring Red 2007, California
California, Usa$30.25
This big red consists mostly of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot with a few other varietals thrown into the mix. It has a cool herbal, savory note on the nose. With hints of mocha, dense blackberry and cassis fruit, this Cali wine gives back to the community. It does have some heat due to it's elevated alcohol level but it's not the focus. A delicious, smooth wine overall. An interesting note, Pairing is the smaller sibling to the famed Jonata winery. Tasted September 2012.
4.0 Stars
(0)V
Charles Baker Picone Vineyard Riesling 2009, VQA Vinemount Ridge, Niagara Peninsula
Ontario, Canada$35.20
A wonderful example of how well the Riesling grape variety can thrive here in Ontario. With lively, dancing acidity, it shows beautiful notes of green apple, citrus, mineral and hints of petrol. I'll take another glass please...fill it up!
4.0 Stars
Antica Chardonnay 2010, Napa Valley
California, Usa$26.75
As theToronto International Film Festival descends upon the city for ten days of glitz and glamour, why not celebrate the star-studded week with a wine from California's most famous region - Napa Valley. The Anitca 2010 Chardonnay goes against the often stereotypical role of big, buttery and brutish. It resembles a classy Hollywood star from the 40s: smooth and elegant with considerable length. Displaying flavours of lemon and pear with hints of spice, the mineral notes shine through. The oak takes a step back from the limelight.
4.0 Stars
(0)V
Domaine De Fontavin Terre D'ancêtres Châteauneuf Du Pape 2010, Ac
Rhône, France$28.25
A stylish and structured wine. Blackberries, spice, hints of mocha and garrigue. Firm tannins. All parts working together in harmony. Excellent finish. Tasted February 2013.
4.0 Stars
(0)V
13th Street Cuvee Rosé Brut, VQA Niagara Peninsula
Ontario, Canada$32.95
I just love a fine sparkler. This is a very fine sparkling wine. Made in the traditional method blending Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and a hint of Syrah, it shows crisp acidity with muted fruit flavours. I think it will have mass appeal and I'd serve it for any one of my parties. :)
3.5 Stars
(1000+)E
Domaine De Beaurenard Châteauneuf Du Pape Blanc 2009, Ac
Rhône, France$43.95
When you say Châteauneuf-du-Pape, you normally think of red wine but there are some great whites to be had! This is one of them. Loved it. Damn you Châteauneuf! Damn you for being so delicious. This white is made from a blend of Clairette, Grenache Blanc, Bourboulenc and Rousanne. My wine buying is getting out of control. :)
3.5 Stars
(0)V
Duckhorn Merlot 2008, Napa Valley
California, Usa$59.95
I am NOT drinking any Merlot! Ah the famous line from Sideways. I enjoyed this Merlot. :) I attempted to go to this winery when I was in Napa but got there too late - they had closed for the day.
You can feel the heat of the alcohol, but it's not overpowering. Great fruit with decent length. Wines from Duckhorn don't come cheap but they are often enjoyable.
3.5 Stars
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