Summer Wine Jaunt to Italy, Spain and Argentina

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In case you hadn’t noticed, Mother Nature is going out ofher way to make sure you know summer is now in full swing. Watermelon, swimmingpools or swimming holes in my case, popsicles and air conditioning are a few ofmy favorite things this season.
The mornings are still cool and wonderful. Walking my dogRooster past the towering trees, the occasional horse, groups of cows, rows ofcorn and soaring sunflowers puts a smile on my face. On our way back home, thetemps begin to climb and humidity surrounds like a shroud. We stagger up thedriveway and up the stairs and collapse under the cool breeze of the ceilingfan.  
The evenings have been so warm and stifling we haven’t beenable to sip wine comfortably on the porch but instead retreat inside. Amongstthe cool air conditioning we’ve been enjoying a tour of international wines.
Rocca de Monte MassiSangiovese 2008 Sicily, ItalyAromas of black cherry and toasty vanilla give way toastringent dark fruits. Very cheek puckering. Fruits are overshadowed by thedry tannins with a tart and tight finish. This was a little too dry for me. Wepaired with tapas consisting of stuffed tomato nests (a failed dish), chorizoand tomato salad. 
Grapes are 100% Sangiovese from the District of Roccastrada,Maremma Toscana

El Prado TempranilloCabernet 2007 Valencia, SpainEnticing black cherry, plum and oak aromas draw me into thewine. First sip, front of the palate to the back, all I pick up is tannic fruitbut no one fruit shines through. I bought the wine several years ago, perhapsit was cellared a little too long or maybe the time spent in Florida took its toll. Was very disappointedin the flavors, especially after the wonderful and inviting aromas.
Made from 70% Tempranillo and 30% Cabernet Sauvignon.

Santa Julia Torrentés2010 Mendoza, ArgentinaFloral, citrus and a hint of almond in the aroma. Flavors offresh peaches and pears give way to an acidic finish. This was the one winethat did not disappoint.
100% Torrentés grapes, alcohol 13.8%, SRP $10.

Hope everyone had a happy and safe Fourth of July. We loadedRooster’s back pack with snacks and water and headed into the small town of Dahlonega for an oldfashioned celebration. Rooster was a hit and caught the attention of both youngand old.
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