Ed's posterous

Syrah Search Continued...

2007 Jinetes [he-nay-tays] - meaning a horseman or cavalier - Eagle Point Vineyards in Mendocino
county. Only 13% alcohol. Fruit forward, raspberries, bacon and lavender aromas. Black and red fruits on the palate with good grip and hint of black pepper on the finish. This was a sample and very, very delicious. Two of the three proprietors were actually jockeys but this wine is limited and available at 2 online resources for about $45.

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Celebrations from America's Four Corners

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Though I am not exactly at the corners where UT, AZ, NM and CO meet, I am pretty close in Kayenta, AZ, just south of monument valley. The natural landscape here is phenomenal and, well, monumental. Today's mileage was much less than the previous days because I chose to start the day slow and enjoy a tasting of sparklers at Gruet winery before leaving Albuquerque. These bubblies are made in the traditional manner, where 2nd fermentation occurs in the bottle, and are great for their price point. Most were only $14 with the vintage bottles going for $32 (03 Grand Rose') and $46 (01 Grand Reserve). The NV Blanc de Blancs was yeasty on the nose and presented lemon curd and apples on the palate. The mouthfeel was creamy and finish was moderate. A great buy. Vineyards are about 150 miles south and they were bringing in fruit already for this year's sparklers allowing for higher acid levels, which is key for sparkling wine. Fruit for their still wines will hang a few more weeks longer.

This week I am celebrating every day with, or without, the bubbly. Tomorrow: Monument valley and on to Salt Lake City

More pictures will be on the way but in this area of the country it's tough to find wi-fi or a cell signal. Cheers!

Big Meat in Texas

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In Amarillo, TX by lunch (not by morning) and had to check out the Big Texan tourist trap. No 72oz beef for me, but I wonder if Adam from Man v. Food has tried this one yet?

What would you pair with such a load of protein? Probably something you wouldn't mind losing a little later if you catch my drift. p.s. There are dudes walking around in real cowboy hats. Yeehaw! On to NM.

-Easy

Memphis BBQ

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Since infamous Payne's BBQ is not open on Sundays, I went with a backup recommendation from Benito (http://wine-by-benito.blogspot.com/) and Brad (@biskuitatl) and stopped by Central BBQ for lunch as I passed through Memphis today.

The staple Pulled Pork sandwich with slaw was tender and moist with great smoked flavor. The sauce and the beans brought a lot of good spice to the mix. A great dish for lunch so hit it up the next time you are in town. Now, back on the road to Little Rock.

Cheers!

Easy Rider