–submitted by Mike Wilson
Twelve Madison Rotary Wine Fellowshippers met at Steve and Meryl Mixtacki’s home on Sunday, July 24, to taste summer wines each couple had brought for the group to try. Steve and Mike Wilson had additional wines so that “pairings” could be arranged with the wines brought along.
We tried two Methode Champenoise – a Gruet brut made in Albuquerque from grapes grown near Truth and Consequences in New Mexico, and a champagne -Taittinger. Both were excellent, but the Gruet for its price (less than half of the Champagne) was the winner.
Photo 1: John & Jane Wegenke; Photo 2: Mary & Robert Borland; Photo 3: Meryl & Steve Mixtacki
Next we tried 3 whites. A 2014 Pine Ridge Chenin Blanc and Viognier blend, a 2012 Adam Alsation Auxerrois (Pinot Gris/Pinot Grigio equivalent), and a 2014 Artesa limited release Chardonnay. This was the flight that was most loved. The first two wines were inexpensive, but the Artesa has only just been released by the winery and is not listed on the website but expect it to be about $40 (given the 2013 price).
The next flight was cooled Premier Cru Beaujolais, two of the lighter versions – a Chiroubles and a Regnie. After that we had an Artesa Pinot Noir and a Skouras (2012 Megas Oenas) – a Greek blend of Aghiorghitiko and Cabernet Sauvignon – and I rated them both as excellent.
We ended the evening with a Moscato (Piedmonte) that was cold, and sweet, with the typical low alcohol content (5-6% only).
A great time was had by all, and the best loved wines were the Gruet sparkler, Artesa Chardonnay, Pine Ridge (Chenin Blanc and Viognier), and Alsation Auxerrois (Pinot Gris).
Rotary Club of Madison, Wisconsin 