Last fall I had the opportunity to visit C. Donatiello Winery at the site formerly occupied by Belvedere, with fellow wine bloggers Lenn, Sonadora, Spoon, Joe, Thea, Nick, and Patrick. Chris presented us with an awesome flight of his estate Chardonnays and Pinot Noir. The Rosé which I had not tasted before last night, was a parting gift which I brought home and tucked away to save for warmer weather. Last night, I decided to follow Sonadora's advice and open it with bbq chicken wings, cornbread and cole slaw.
C. Donatiello
Rosé
Vintage: 2007
AVA: Russian River Valley
Alcohol: 14.5 %
Color: rose
Intensity: medium
Aromas: pine nut, orange blossom, strawberry
Flavors: raspberry, strawberry, mandarin, vanilla
Body: light
Acidity: moderate
Sweetness: dry
Finish: moderate
Summary: C. Donatiello specialized in Chardonnay and Pinot Noir so, this Rosé is likely made from Pinot Noir grapes. Upon opening the bottle, I instantly recognized the aroma of Sonoma. It has very enticing notes of cream which sink back into citrus and pine nut. The flavor is somewhat citrus forward finishing with sparkling raspberry and strawberry notes. The alcohol content is surprisingly high--tasting it, I would not guess that it was above 13.5%. This wine pairs nicely with food with plenty of palate-cleansing acidity. Unfortunately, the winery does not sell their Rosé but if you stop by in person, you might be able to sample it.
Monday, April 6, 2009
C. Donatiello Rosé
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6 comments:
I really enjoyed this one. Loved the Pinots when we visited too....holding onto my Maddie's though and guarding it jealously....!
Glad you liked it.
You should plan on stopping by on the Sunday of the Blogger's conference this year for another tasting and music. We have a great band in store (and the 2008 rose).
Chris Donatiello
www.CDONATIELLO.com
too funny, just had this last night actually. Almost made for the Monday quick sip, but decided to write about it tomorrow.
Fun little Rose!
I loved the Pinots too!
I forgot about the bandstand--thanks for reminding me! I remember now thinking it probably couldn't get much better then listening to a band next to the herb garden with a glass of Chardonnay. :)
John, that would have made two weeks in a row we opening the same wine on the same night!
I haven't opened my bottle of rose just yet (but thanks for the reminder) but I did open my RRV Pinot the other night...and finished it last night.
A beautiful wine...even if it IS from California ;) (that was just for you Chris).
Wish I were going to WBC09...would love to stop by again.
I just had Chris's Chards and Pinots in ATL at the HIGH Museum Auction.
I was impressed.
It is Rose time down here fo' sho'!
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