#thewinemonkabroad

[thearizonawinemonk]

One of the common characteristics of wineries in Rhode Island, at least in my experience, is they consistently produce two different Chardonnay wines per vintage. One will invariably be a classic, California-style Chardonnay with heavy oak and which has undergone Malolactic fermentation, and the other will be aged in stainless steel. It's a good opportunity to compare and contrast the versatility of a grape, and the styles associated with it, making for a great educational opportunity. The only tasting room that does anything similar in Arizona is the @southwestwinecenter. In this case, stainless steel is on the left, oak-aged is on the right. #wine #azwinemonk #chardonnay #carolynssakonnetvineyard #thewinemonkabroad

[thearizonawinemonk]

Carolyn's Sakonnet Vineyard was my (our?) next stop. By all accounts, this is the oldest vineyard in Rhode Island and an integral vineyard in the creation of the New England AVA. #instagramrhodeisland #wine #chardonnay #rhodeislandwine #thewinemonkabroad

[thearizonawinemonk]

So... Massachusetts grows Pinot Meunier. Awesome, @westportriversvineyard. Super earthy, with hints of strawberry, chokecherry, thyme, and pepper. #sothishapoened #pinotmeunier #massachusettswine #wine #azwinemonk #thewinemonkabroad #winemonkvacation #westportriverswinery

[thearizonawinemonk]

The Gemini Red is probably my favorite red here at @newportvines, hands down. Balance between fruit, spice, acidity, and light tannins. Taking this home for the next hipster varietal party as it includes Landot Noir in the blend, along with Merlot, Cab sav, and cab franc. #thewinemonkabroad #winemonkinthetrunk #winemonkvacation #newportvineyards #rhodeislandwine (at Newport Vineyards)