Bargain bin

[Florida Jim]

Every once and awhile, the local Italian market has a sale on odd lots; the prices are very low and, if you buy a case, you get an additional 10% off. The prices stated below are the sale prices absent case discount – so, you can see that by buying several cases, the price is, well, hard to believe.

2001 Quinta do Infantado, Douro:

Initially, this comes across much like the Poiera I bought a case of about a year ago; the same grapes as used in port but done for the table (12.5% alcohol). But this lacks the concentration of the Poiera and the American oak comes out with a distinct lumber note and a bit of sourness. The maker made a mistake – and it’s as simple as that; because what is here didn’t deserve this kind of treatment. $7.

1995 J. Hofstätter, Pinot Nero Mazon:

This pinot from the Alto Adige is a find; relatively straight-forward nose of milk chocolate with a little earth and black fruit; the same on the palate that is velvety textured, perfectly balanced and delivers a mouth-feel that is second to none, fully resolved, decent depth; moderate finish. Not a complex wine but so charming and elegant in the mouth and not a hint of wood anywhere. $7.

2002 Bründlmayer, Grüner Veltliner, Terrassen:

Reticent nose of glazed fruit; medium body and very integrated flavors of fruit, mineral and herb in a lovely textured and precise delivery; long, bright finish. 12% alcohol and yet viscous and smooth; a lovely drop. $8.

Best, Jim