Tasting notes from the "Corkscrew Chronicles" by Gary Twining, Director of Wine Education for the Hammer Company.

Gary Twining is wine writer, tasting judge and educator.  Gary is one of if not the most respected name in wine tasting in the entire area.

The following are some of Gary's notes on the current releases:

• Sauvignon Blanc – Ohio's only Sauvignon Blanc as far as I know.  Light straw gold with overtones of citrus, melon, mineral, herbs and honeysuckle.  Richly textured, broad palate.
   
• Pinot Blanc – Straw gold hue. Ripe and round with crisp acidity offers excellent balance to the richly textured palate. Aromas and flavors of toasty oak, nutmeg,  cinnamon and creamy textures from barrel fermentation. A stunning value at the  price!
   
• Chardonnay – Straw gold. Classic chardonnay aromas of ripe melons and citrus.  Balanced with oak and a pleasant nerve of acidity that adds length to the long lingering finish.
   
• Vidal Blanc – Moderate hue.  Overtones of peaches, pears, apricots with hints of honeyed richness.  Light sweetness, pleasant texture, very enjoyable in a lighter style.
   
• Riesling – Light color.  Melon, tropical fruit and mango aromas with a light sweetness.  Balanced and crisp, lemony acidity.
   
• Ice Wine – Made from Vidal blanc.  Rich, late harvest honey and apricot.  Excellence balance and a long finish.  A bargain at the price.
   
• Pinot Noir – Produced in a fruit forward style for near term enjoyment.  Garnet color.  Complex nose with moderate grip and bright yet serious aromas. Flavors of red raspberry fruit.  Moderate tannic grip and a long finish.
   
• Reserve Pinot Noir – Dark ruby red.  Aromas of autumn leaves, violets, and dark plumy fruit that is quite lovely.  Firm, long and warm finish.  A balanced and complex red that is a must to try and buy.
   
• Merlot – Deep ruby hue.  Full aroma of pure black raspberry and cassis.  Balance oak notes.  A firm long finish.
   
• Shiraz – Medium red color.  Spicy aromas with hints of herbs and black pepper. Hints of vanilla and texture from barrel aging.  A unique and exciting wine from  our own region.