The newly renovated Raley’s in Incline Village gives wine lovers cause to rejoice. Store Manager Mike Finn knows what he is doing in the Cellar section, and it is easy to find good wines at reasonable prices. Through the end of June, there are some good specials, such as 30 percent off six or more bottles.
Plan to taste some nice wines every Wednesday in the Raley’s Cellar section with tastings from 5 to 7 p.m. I spent an hour perusing the offerings and filled my six-bottle carrier with the following:
The 2012 Fume Blanc from Ferrari Carano. This wine, from Sauvignon Blanc grapes sourced in Sonoma County, has aroma of peach and mango, and clean citrus flavor of pineapple, pear and guava. It has bright acidity and a crisp freshness. 13.8 percent alcohol. $19.99.
Klinker Brick 2011 Farrar Syrah, Lodi. Using grapes grown near the Mokelumne River, it is beautifully balanced with aromas of white chocolate, bacon and tobacco, with a velvety texture of black raspberries and licorice interwoven with exotic spice. The winemaker notes the supple tannins and firm structure. 14.9 percent alcohol. $21.41.
I finished off my selection of California red wines with Rombauer’s 2008 Merlot, Carneros. The winemaker notes: “Enticing and lively red color; beautifully aromatic with black cherry and ripe plum. On the palate a purity of blackcurrant, cedar and mint flavors blend together seamlessly. Soft and supple, this wine has a medium-bodied mouth-feel.” 14.4 percent alcohol. $40.
The Hess Collection Napa Valley Chardonnay 2010 is a classic California chard. It has layers of complex flavor and various spice notes throughout the glass. 14.6 percent alcohol. $21.99.
J Pinot Gris 2011 Russian River Valley is a layered and well-balanced wine that is perfect for summer sipping. The winemaker notes: “An enticing bouquet of Fuji apple, ripe cantaloupe and apricot. The crisp, clean mouthfeel is bursting with flavors of lemon and lime. A hint of kiwi and sweet orange blossom honey on the palate complements the fruit and acid.” 14.6 percent alcohol. $16.99.
In the extensive international section, I chose the Alamos Malbec, Argentina. Both 2011 and 2012 vintages were in stock. Regardless of the vintage, this wine will be dark purple color, have aroma of black cherry, and a full and rich mouthfeel. It’s my house Malbec. 13.7 percent Alcohol. $10.99 to $11.99 bottle.
Raley’s is located at 930 Tahoe Blvd. in Incline Village.
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