So what's in your cellar?

I was looking over my wine collection yesterday, trying to take a visual inventory. Afterwards, two things came to mind. The first was that I have some very nice bottles I completely forgot about, which are at their peak right now and ready to drink. I guess because I've been so busy, and because of the world wine tour we conducted here on this blog (which we'll begin again shortly) many of these wines were neglected. But while I made a mental note of the bottles I'd be drinking in the coming weeks, I thought I would write about it as well so you folks would rummage through your collections and start drinking those bottles that are just screaming for your attention. For example, I have a 2001 Torbreck Shiraz that's been tucked away for a few years. No doubt it's ready to accompany my next meal...in fact tonight might be it's lucky night.

The second thought that came to mind was that my collection of white wines is, quite frankly, depleted and piss poor. With the exception of some vinho verde and some miscellaneous bottles of Chardonnay, my collection of whites is non-existent. But the reason I mention it is because I am a big fan of white wine, and I'm a little disappointed in myself for letting my white collection get this bare. I can assure you that several trips to Wine Library will cure that ailment.

Now, enough about me. What is it that you fine people have sitting in your cellars? Which aspects of your collections are you looking to build on? And, most importantly, is there a wine variety that you just have to have at this very moment?

The mic is open...sound off.

A Taste of Argentina: #3 of 5

FIRST WHITE WINE REVIEWED HERE...Hoorayyyyyyyy

The Wine: 2005 Jacques & Francois Lurton Pinot Gris
Country: Argentina
Region: Mendoza
Category: Pinot Gris
Vintage: 2005
Price: $7.99
Decanted or not: No


Tasting Notes:

The Color: Light Yellow

The Nose: Big citrus aromasand pineapple, little smoke, slightly metallic

The Taste: Big and fruity at the start, with lingering flavors of orange, pineapple and pear. The oak is noticeable, but not overbearing. Finish is smooth, flavorful, and a little bitter but refreshing. Also dryer than I expected. Tastes more like a dry chardonnay than a true pinot gris.

Overall a nice bottle, but I'm not a fan of dry whites. Not the kind of wine you can drink all day at a summer BBQ, if you ask me. At the price, however, it may be worth a shot for all you white wine drinkers out there. Probably be great with some grilled chicken, clams and shrimp.

The Verdict: 7 Corks