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
Bisol Crede Brut Prosecco Di Valdobbiadene Superiore 2010, Docg
Italy$14.75
An elegant and fresh sparkling wine from Italy. Balancing on the refined side showcasing notes of pear, green apple, and hints of quince. It will surely have you pouring more than one flute!
3.5 Stars
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Finca Nueva Reserva 2004, Doca Rioja
Rioja, Spain$18.95
I'm in love! This wine will surely lure you into the boudoir this Valentine's day with it's silky sultry smoothness. It's typical Rioja. Wonderful nose with vanilla, chocolate and sweet ripe fruit. It's medium bodied so don't expect a macho-macho wine.
3.5 Stars
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Benmarco Expresivo 2008, Mendoza
Mendoza, Argentina$25.95
Lots of chocolate and dark fruit. Interesting blend with the Tannat in there.A mouthful of spice with a great finish. I really enjoyed this fine blend from Argentina. A great way to kick off the holidays!
3.5 Stars
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Ramón Bilbao Tempranillo Gran Reserva 2004, Doca Rioja
Rioja, Spain$27.95
I knew I'd love this the moment I nosed it. Wow. Excellent wine with lots to enjoy. It has ceder, spice and everything nice. Great body with soft black fruits. The tannins were very nicely integrated. If you need to pick up a holiday gift for a wine lover, I'm sure they would love this. I would too (hint hint). :)
3.5 Stars
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Duckhorn Cabernet Sauvignon 2009, Napa Valley
California, Usa$83.95
Chocolate and vanilla notes with plenty of fruit to be enjoyed. Smooth tannins. Slight heat on the finish but not distracting. Tasted September 2012.
3.5 Stars
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2027 Cellars Falls Vineyard Riesling 2011, VQA Vinemount Ridge, Niagara Peninsula
Ontario, Canada$18.95
Lovely aromas of white peach jump out of the glass. This Riesling is quite tart bringing a hint of sweetness along for the ride. Approachable and affordable. A pleasant introduction to this virtual Ontario winery. Tasted September 2012
3.5 Stars
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Bouchard Père & Fils Beaune Clos Landry 1er Cru 2008, Ac, Château De Beaune
Burgundy, France$24.90
Delicious. A very well made Chardonnay from Burgundy. Noticeable length on the finish with some notes of lemon. Slightly oaked to make it ever so delicate. 89-90 for sure.
3.5 Stars
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Riglos Gran Corte 2007, Mendoza
Mendoza, Argentina$29.90
This wine is big and bold but with ripe fruit. A bit too much alcohol at 15.2%. Wow. You can feel it too. It's a muscle wine. It's mostly Malbec with Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc. At first taste I liked it but I don't think I could drink too much of this without ending up under the table.
3.5 Stars
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Boutari Grande Reserve 2007
Naoussa, Greece$18.95
Coming to us from Greece, this red offers so much for the sub $20 range. Herbal, spice, dried berries, and tomato tickle the nose. Light and dry on its feet, it unfolds nicely on the palate with earthy tones and licorice. This Xinomavro-based wine has a very good length that ties everything together, leaving an excellent lasting impression. Great value. Tasted February 2013.
3.5 Stars
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Dry Creek Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2007, Dry Creek Valley, Sonoma County
California, Usa$24.95
This Vintages LCBO release featured California Cabs. This wine is a blend of 80% Cabernet Sauvignon, 11% Merlot with some Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec. This wine showed ripe blueberry, chocolate, plum and violet. It's dry with soft, integrated tannins. It's a bit hot on the finish but other than that, it's well-balanced. At this price point, there is a lot to enjoy!
3.5 Stars
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