Steve Morey of Vin Sauvage presented the “What’s New in Vin’s Bin for 2008”.  The event was hosted at Louis’s Osteen’s new restaurant, Fish Camp, located at Town Square.

Approximately 30 different vineyards where presented, representing wines from Germany, Italy, France, Chile, Argentina and the US.

This tasting had a great atmosphere, and was attended by most of the city’s sommeliers.

 I was asked by one of Vin Sauvage’s sales representative if there was anything new or interesting that intrigued me. I immediately replied Alligator. I don’t think I have ever had gator before and that was the first thing I was served arriving at the tasting. First I thought it might be a joke; however I quickly realized that this was no chicken I was eating. Although not so different from chicken, the meat was fattier and almost a hybrid of chicken and fish. Now back to the important stuff: wines…..

Today I decided to go by country, and as usual name the wine I preferred from select winemaker.

Italy was represented by no less than 16 different properties.

Carlo Lavuri came all the way from Tuscany to present [1] Fortediga wines, made by no other than Carlo Antonini’s son, Alberto.  Sodamagri, a 2005 Syrah from Maremma, Tuscany was the highlight of Carlo’s selection. Even though this wine is still young, it shows great structure, hence great potential.
[2] Selvapiana’s Vin Santo (dessert wine), was a true delight. This 1999 blend of Trebbiano/Malvisia, of Chianti Rufina, Tuscany, has golden amber tones, with aromas of dried apricot, roasted almonds, honey and caramel. Incredibly rich and complex and very well balanced with a lingering finish. Well priced considering the work that goes into making such a wine.

France was represented by an American, yes that’s right! His name is Bob and his wine is called [3] Vin de Bob which means Bob’s wine! Bob is a banker -turned-winemaker. Anything is possible these days. Bob makes a solid wine from Bergerac (Cabernet Franc) and only time will tell how Bob’s conversion to winemaker works out.

Finally, from the USA, we will talk about the [4] Morgan’s 2006 Cote de Crows. This Syrah has a beautiful nose and well balanced. In the quality-for-price category, it’s a great deal for all.

In addition to these, there were so many other fine wines at this tasting.  Unfortunately I will not be able to comment on all of them.

Cheers!