Fratelli Bellini

Tonight we tasted Vino Bianco's Fratelli Bellini from Rufina Italy.  It was a 10.99 white wine in a SHARK BOTTLE!  Yes, I Erin Swartzwelder picked this wine.  It's a shark bottle.  Do I really need to explain my choice?  The entire Smeal clan was together for this one: Sherry, Brit, Robin, Jim, and most of the children and spouses attended as well.  :) 



None of us paired the wine with anything since we didn't end up tasting until 9:15ish. 

Appearance: The wine had legs, tiny bubbles, and was a ginger ale color.

Nose: We smelled citrus, honeysuckle, and it smelled DRY.  Robin pointed out that since it is 12% alcohol it will probably taste dry as well.  (GEE thanks).

Taste: We agreed that it was a light tasting wine.  It is citrus-y and it tastes just like it smells. DRY

Rating on the 4 point Brit Scale: (we needed a refresher on the Brit Scale and if you would like to know more about our rating scale click here.)

Brit 2
Robin 2
Sherry 2
Erin 3
Melissa  2

I must say that the coolness of the shark bottle MAY have influenced my rating.....

Smart Cookie Red Blend

First of all I, Erin, have to say that I am totally disappointed in my wine picking abilities.  However, this time I shall not take the blame alone.  Smart Cookie red blend was in the sweet section of our wine store.  The display said sweet, fruity medium bodied wine.  It also was touted as one of the best sellers at total wines.  The label also made the wine sound right up my alley.

Appearance: very dark plum, very little to no legs

Smell: butter, oak, cherry, vanilla, the label claims that it smells like cookies but we didn't get that, earthy, leather

Taste: turpentine, lackberry, burnt rubber, smooth feeling on the mouth, short finish

Pairings: better with cheddar, Gouda has no effect, chocolate has little to no effect as well

Brit Scale Ratings:

Erin:1
Sherry: 2
Gma: 1
Pap:1
Melissa: 2
Robin: 2
Sarah: 1
Gerry:1