2016 Bulgariana Gamza, Bulgaria, Danube Plain, Wine Review

Vintage: 
2016
Score: 
85
Grade: 
B
Current Price: 
$10.00USD

This is made from the Gamza grape (known as Kadarka in Hungary).  It has a long history in Bulgaria.  Deep ruby in color, mostly clear and bright.  The nose has cherries, black cherries and pomegranates.  On the palate, this is tart with moderate tannins.  Very mouth-puckering.  Flavors of cherries and cranberries with some depth.  Long, tart finish.  This wine begs for food and will work better with food to cut the acidity.  Chicken dishes should work well.  Drink over the next few years.  

2018 Cramele Recaş Solo Quinta Recas, Romania, Transylvania, Wine Review

Vintage: 
2018
Score: 
89
Grade: 
B+
Current Price: 
$26.00USD

According to the label, this is a white blend of Chardonnay, Feteasca Regala, Sauvignon Blanc and Muscat Ottonel but also Cadarcă (known as Kadarka in Hungary) which is a red varietal.  Golden in color, clear and bright.  The nose is tight but with air opens up a bit.  Some cantaloupe and a bit of minerality.  Slightly oily texture.  Bold flavors on the palate.  This is dry with minerals, limes, melon and slight cherries.  A long finish.  This is a really serious wine that seems like it should hold up for five to seven years.  There is a nice complexity to it now on its own but should also

2016 Garamvari Marika Nemes Kadarka Semi-Sweet, Hungary, Balaton, Wine Review

Vintage: 
2016
Score: 
86
Grade: 
B
Current Price: 
$12.00USD

From the Lake Balaton region of Hungary, this is made from Kadarka grapes.  Ruby in color, mostly clear and bright.  The nose has cherries and cranberries and a slight dustiness to it.  Medium bodied.  On the palate, this is semi-sweet.  Smooth, not cloying and easy to drink.  No bite.  Cherry and cranberry notes balanced by the sweetness.  A nice wine to offer those who like this style but at the end of a meal, this would be a nice wine to serve with a few bites of hard cheeses.  Drink over the next five years.