THE MARSH HAWK PRESS TASTING

David writes in:

Encouraged by the Chatelaine, the wines served at a poetry reading on Sept 23, 2005, in NYC, were several cuts above the usual throat-burning jug slime and half-buck chuck served at readings and gallery openings.

I tasted the two reds and one of the two whites.

2003 Benzinger Carneros Chardonnay -- the basic white from the winery that pioneered "fighting varietals" with the Glen Ellen brand in the '80s. I have had this wine in the '02 and '03 vintages several times. Very consistent. Nice balance between fruit, acid, and oak. Medium bodied with a long finish. Often one of my house wines, as it sells for around $10-$11and is frequently available for as little as $8.99. A very good mass produced wine, and a great value.

2002 Ravenswood Cabernet Sauvignon. Smooth, but insipid. Mild varietal flavor, no complexity. My least favorite of the three.

2003 Cartlidge and Brown Pinot Noir. For the Sideways crowd. Better than the Cabernet, some complexity, nice texture, but it seemed a little too sweet, possibly because it was too warm. I would like to try it again at a more appropriate temperature.