2019 Schloss Gobelsburg St. Laurent Selektion Reid Haide, Austria,

Vintage: 
2019
Score: 
93
Grade: 
A

One of the better Austrian Reds tasted on a recent trip.  Garnet in color, purple at the core.  The nose is nice with black cherries, slight black currants, smoke and herbs.  Medium bodied.  Light tannins.  Sinewy texture grips the palate in a good way.  On the palate, this has tart acidity but it works with this wine.  Black cherries and slight candied cherries on the palate.  Some depth.  Long finish that lingers.  This is drinking well now and should continue for another ten to twelve years.  It will work better with food (due to the acidity) but is refreshing on its own.  This would go

2019 Strekov 1075 Viola, Slovakia,

Vintage: 
2019
Score: 
70
Grade: 
C-
Current Price: 
$30.00USD

This wine is ok-ish.  It is another "natural" wine that could have been much better with a little more "intervention".  I am all for organic and sustainable but when the "natural" overrides the quality, there is an issue.  Especially at $30 a bottle.  Thei is a blend of 50% Alibernet, 25% St. Laurent, and 25% Blauer Portugieser.

2017 Cruse Wine Company Monkey Jacket, USA, California, Wine Review

Vintage: 
2017
Score: 
88
Grade: 
B+
Current Price: 
$25.00USD

This is a hodgepodge of grapes made in a "natural wine" style.  Twenty-five percent Alicante Bouschet, Grenache, Cinsault, Mondeuse, and Zinfandel from one source; another 25% Valdiguié; and the rest Syrah, Tannat, St. Laurent, and Carignan made from vineyards across California.  This was being closed out at a local wine store for $20.  Ruby in color, clear and bright.  The nose has a sweaty sock quality to it.  Once you get past that, there are some cherries and pomegranate notes.