I’ve missed most of the trade wine tastings this Autumn season, sigh. I decided to drop in at the Opici Fall Tasting that was held last Thursday afternoon for a few minutes to say hi to wine drinking colleagues and to grab a quick taste. The event was held at the Prince George Ballroom which is located at 15 East 27 Street.

I didn’t stay very long but some highlights included: Peju Provence Winery “Tess”.  A non vintage blend of four red grapes and Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. The wine was served chilled and it was the perfect Summer wine for when you don’t want to drink a heavy red but want something with a touch more character than a white. Great balance, easy drinking and chilled.

The 2008 Chalk Hill Estate Red is about half Cabernet Sauvignon with the rest a Bordeaux blend. It was dark, chewy and chunky with some mint and tobacco on the nose and dark chocolate on the fruit.

The 2006 Vibreti Barolo Riserva “Bricco Delle Viola” was medium red with a nose of leather and dried fruit with a silky finish and firm but balanced tannins and acids at the end.