The other day, I happened to be scrolling through Facebook and I saw the first Memorial Day post in my news feed this year. I thought I’d share it with you today courtesy of my cousin Tracy 🙂

Just a reminder that Memorial Day is not about BBQ’s, a day off work or parties.

It is to remember those that have fallen to protect those rights to have that BBQ, that day off of work or that party!!! I will remember and never forget their sacrifice!!

I love this reminder to just simply remember our fallen soldiers especially during our BBQ’s and parties. Most of us can’t even fathom the sacrifice that they and their families have made for all Americans. I believe they appreciate the fact that we all choose to celebrate our Freedom, each in our own way, in their name.

The “Gone but Not Forgotten” Memorial Day event at Woodward Park right here in Manteca is the place to be this weekend! If you haven’t been yet, Go. You have to experience this event. Check out it out here: Not Forgotten

“Not Forgotten” is an annual event that takes place every Memorial Day Weekend in Manteca, California. The purpose of the event is to honor all who have served our country in the military, to remember our fallen heroes and their families, to raise awareness in our community and remind our citizens that freedom is not free.

God Bless America!

I plan on going to the Not Forgotten weekend and we’ll probably BBQ at some point during the weekend as well. My flag will out on the house, and I hope to gather with some good friends. Of course, good friends deserve good wines…..

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Mulderbosch Chenin Blanc ~ 2013 Costiera White Blend ~ Graymont Chardonnay

Valley of the Moon Orbitor ~ Woodwork Red Blend

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2011 Mulderbosch Chenin Blanc

Elsewhere price $11.99 ~ Our Price $2.99 ~ You Save 75%!

I actually had never tried this variety of wine, and I still cannot pronounce it But, I don’t need to be able to say the name to enjoy it (thank goodness cause I really liked it) Arvin thought it was a nice summer wine and it paired nicely with the spicy shrimp guac that we had. Joe R said it was a little tart, and Steve agreed – tart like a Granny Smith apple. He added that this is a good one. Joe S called it nice, and said it had a little bite to it. Terri and Misty both liked this lighter wine and Ethan called it smooth.

Winemaker’s Notes

A powerful nose of guava, lime zest and ripe pear braced by honeysuckle and orange blossoms. A juicy palate with opulent passion-fruit, following through from the nose and finishing off with tart grapefruit characteristics. The refreshing acidity is perfectly counteracted by a creamy mid palate and subtle oak-derived spice. The 2011 vintage is a more fruit-driven style that is fresher and drier comparing to the 2010 vintage. A delightfully accessible wine that is mouth-wateringly moreish.

Partner with shellfish, grilled tuna, grilled sardines, lemon and herb roast chicken, or vegetable stews

88 points from WineEnthusiat.com: “Young and fresh, this Chenin shows the stuffing to hold for another couple of years thanks to firm, tight acidity and a solid fruit core of pear, melon, guava and lime rind. The mouthfeel is round, but the palate isn’t heavy. An attractive hint of sweet spice unfolds on the finish.”

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2013 Costiera Russian River Valley White Blend

Elsewhere price $22.99 ~ Our Price $6.99 ~ You Save 70%!

I took note of the very light color of this Russian River Valley White wine. Arvin said it has a little tingle – like a sangiovase. Steve noticed it’s long legs and fruitiness. Joe R agreed with Arvin that it was like a red – stronger than you’d expect a white to be – and he agreed with Steve on the fruitiness. I didn’t get notes from the other tasters on this Chardonnay as the Front Porch was pretty lively, so I missed some comments

Winemaker’s Notes

Enticing aromas and flavors of pears, stone fruit and citrus Rich texture and complexity on the palate balanced by crisp acidity and clean finish. 83% Pinot Grigio, 17% Vermentino

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2013 Limited Reserve Graymont Estate Napa Chardonnay

Elsewhere price $19.99 ~ Our Price $6.99 ~ You Save 65%!

This is the type of Chardonnay that I really enjoy! Steve called it buttery and sweet, definitely buttery though I didn’t really find it sweet. Arvin and Kerri were trying to identify the aroma, they decided on tobacco (but that could’ve been Ethan and his pipe). Joe R thought it had a buttery aroma and he said it ‘stays up a little longer’ (turns out that means, long legs). Larry said, Whoa! It clears your sinuses – great before bed wine to keep you from snoring.

I spent way longer than I should’ve searching the interweb for any info on this wine. I have nothing to show for it but this link to the GraymontWinery.

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2011 Valley of the Moon Orbitor Sonoma County Red Blend

Elsewhere price $16.99 ~ Our Price $4.99 ~ You Save 71%!

Misty called this red blend a good one! Arvin thought it paired nicely with Misty’s chocolate birthday cake (Happy Birthday Misty!) This was the winner of the night for Joe R. He complimented the aroma, he loves the smell of a good red wine. He called it ‘heavy’, adding: it’s a strong blend of all the good red wines (Zinfandel 49%, Petite Sirah 39%, Syrah 12%). It’s ready to drink now.

Surprisingly, only a 82.8 points from CellarTracker.com the reviews seem like they are from a completely different bottle of wine! But, the newest review is a year old. Who knows, maybe it wasn’t ready then.

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2013 Woodwork Central Coast Red Blend

Elsewhere price $15.99 ~ Our Price $4.99 ~ You Save 69%!

Arvin was afraid this Central Coast Red might have some sawdust flavors, but he was wrong. Terri and I both found it to be smooth. Joe R called it super dry – solid wood – the dryness sucks the juice from your gums. He thought it would be great with BBQ but he would lay it down for a couple years. Ethan said it smoothes out as you go, especially if you add an ice cube. Joe didn’t want to sit by Ethan after that, lol.

From the bottle: Influence: toffee, mocha, clove notes – Expression: Blackberry, plum, black current notes.

4.1/5 stars from Vivino.com: Toffee and mocha are evident but blackberry and plum come through as well. Smooth and tasty