This past weekend was a busy one for Sippin as I had the pleasure of enjoying several bottles with my friend the “Hick” while taking my son back to college (our boys room together at U. Mass Amherst.) 

2009 Koyle Cabernet Sauvignon:  was in fact a gift from the “Hick” and “Dish” and I must say was quite enjoyable.  Dry Red yet very flavorable.  Hints of both Red and black Fruit jump out as soon as it hits your palate.  Was wonderful now but would have been even better in 2-3 years.  85% Cabernet, 12% Malbec and 3% Petite Verdot. 

 

Kim Crawford  Sauvignon Blanc:  I am a big fan of any New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc and the Kim Crawford is no exception.  Terrific Summer wine that is very flavorful.  Does not disappoint. 

 

Klinger Brick Shiraz:  Like most Shiraz’s, very “beefy” with flavors and aromas of dark fruit.  Full bodied wine that could almost pass for a Cabernet.  Not for the faint of heart J. 

 

Roblar Sauvignon Blanc:  Nicely balanced wine with hints of Pear and Melon.  Prefer the New Zealand wines to this but still woerthy of a “Sip” 

 

Also, enjoyed two regular favorites:  Luna di Luna Chardonnay/Pinot Grigio and Conundrum Red.  Both have become staples in my home and are always consistent.  Canot beat them for the price ($8.99 - $19.99/bottle).  

 

 

I would also like to recommend the dinner we had at the East Side Grille in Northampton Massachusetts.  Everything was Top Notch from the service to the meals.  The Dish was bullseye on this one (although it was the “Hick” who make the initial find.   My meal consisted of the salad with sprinkled gorgonzola and a house balsamic

 (which was nothing less than spectacular) followed up by the Lobster Corn Chowder that had more lobster than some actual lobsters I have ordered in restaurants

with a main course of blackened scallops and steak tips which were prepared to perfection (spicy enough yet not too spicy). 

 

Highly Recommend. 

Top Notch from 

Sipping With Stollie