Impromptu Tasting of Assorted White Wines

I had the opportunity to taste a few selections from the Abarbanel line. Unfortunately, everything is always a little behind with respect to vintage year, but that can leave room for surprises. I tried the 2006 Pinot Blanc and 2006 Gewurztraminer, both from Alsace. The Pinot Blanc was a little on the dry side but had some nice aromas of cooked fruit. Very low acidity though. The Gewurz had a hint of residual sugar and some spiciness, just enough to let you know the varietal but not enough to make it exciting. These wines were both passable, but not thrilling. I also had a few old bottles of Moscato from Israel. I'm curious about the winemaking style used to makle these selections: they had all kinds of nutty and alcoholic flavors that was reminiscent of Vin Santo, an Italian dessert wine that's aged for years. Not for me though. I'll take my moscato from Italy, or from Golan Heights Winery (in non-Shmitta years).

I was pleasantly surprised by the 2005 Mount Tabor Sauvignon Blanc. It had some great freshness and acidity, especially for a wine of that age. While ordinarily I try to stick within 2 years of the curernt vintage, this wine is still kicking and tastes great. Smooth texture and aromas of grapefruit and sweet lemons. Remind me to post it on the Whites Page.