WTN: Broadening Horizons at Good QPR

[Dan Smothergill]

Here are two unusual whites that both represent good value.

'03 Teliani Valley Tsinandali (Republic of Georgia). The Russians are playing games with Georgian wines these days, keeping them off the market. It's a shame if this one is at all representative. It's a blend of Rkatsitelli and Mtsvane from the district of Kakheti. Pale-straw color with a delicate licorice taste. Very dry, perhaps a bit too acidic. About $10 in DC area.

'05 Santa Julia Torrontes (Mendoza). Torrontes is thought to be indigenous to Argentina. Nice tasting with big mouth feel, floral aromas and a bit of spiciness. A terrific buy at $6.50.

Edited 1 June 2006: Have since found that Torrontes is a vinifera.

[Rahsaan]

The Russians are playing games with Georgian wines these days, keeping them off the market.

What does that mean? I heard something about this issue but didn't pick up on the details. Can Russian companies (who? why?) influence whether or not US importers work with Georgian growers? How?

[Robin Garr]

Can Russian companies (who? why?) influence whether or not US importers work with Georgian growers? How?

I think the relation is indirect, Rahsaan. Russia and Georgia are having a political tiff, and Russia has banned Georgian wine imports. This is a heavy hit to the Georgian economy, because Russia is its primary market. Exports to other nations aren't directly affected.

Here's a Miami Herald wrapup that seems even-handed

[Rahsaan]

Ok, that makes sense. Thanks.

I suppose there are other barriers to having more Georgian wines in the US, but, probably in the upcoming years/decades we'll be seeing more from Eastern Europe.

[Robin Garr]

What does that mean?

And for another view, this article from the Moonie-run <I>Washington Times</I>:

Standing Up to Russia

[Dan Smothergill]

I think the relation is indirect, Rahsaan. Russia and Georgia are having a political tiff, and Russia has banned Georgian wine imports.

I think Robin got this exactly right. That old newspaperman nose for accuracy comes to the rescue once again!

[Suzie Q]

I have a number of bottles of Pisano Torrontes from Uruguay. What a wonderful find. Lively and happy, with cinammon on the nose and an intruguing palate of ginger and lime. It's an awesome white that I always keep on hand.

[Dan Smothergill]

I have a number of bottles of Pisano Torrontes from Uruguay

Do you have the name of the retailer? I'd be interested in looking into having some shipped.

[Suzie Q]

LOL. Send me a PM. I AM the retailer. And I'd hate to be accused of advertising. Dunno if that is allowed here.

[Robin Garr]

LOL. Send me a PM. I AM the retailer. And I'd hate to be accused of advertising. Dunno if that is allowed here.

Hi, Suzie ... just to clarify, we discourage "spamming," as in <i>unsolicited</i> testimonials for one's own business. But there's certainly no harm in in-the-business people responding appropriately to direct questions. So, no harm in giving out the details in a context like this.