Wednesday, Nov. 04, 2009

Tastings: Weekly wine, beer and spirits reviews

- Duck Rabbit Milk Stout, North Carolina, 5.7 percent alcohol, $8 per 6 pack

This beer has all the right stuff: great aromas, rich flavors and medium carbonation. The aromas of vanilla and black coffee flow smoothly into the taste. The flavors are supple. Dark coffee, milk chocolate and creamy vanilla are framed by roasted hops notes. Perfect for an evening when the weather turns colder and with cream sauce meals and dessert.

- New Amsterdam Gin, United States, 80 proof, $15, 750 ml

This is a good-quality, value-priced gin. Aromas of orange and whispers of juniper precede well-layered flavors of orange zest and citrus, with herbs and juniper adding a subtle undertone. This sweet-and-tangy gin has a medium-dry finish that works well for mixing, especially in fruit-based cocktails or as an alternative to vodka in cosmopolitans.

- 2008 Beringer Founders' Estate Chardonnay, California, $11

This chardonnay offers flavor and character for a reasonable price. Banana and pear aromas and flavors are complemented by notes of yellow apples and citrus zest balanced with a touch of oak. A subtle creaminess balances the soft fruit flavors, and the fruit and cream notes make this a perfect food wine, especially with roasted chicken or veal. This winery also makes a Cabernet Sauvignon layered with rich dark fruit and cocoa and a crisp Sauvignon Blanc with notes of grapefruit and white peach.

NOTE: FOR A LIST OF UPCOMING WINES TO BE REVIEWED, E-MAIL ADVANCE@WINETALK.ORG.

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