Wine

with Daryl F. Mallett & William R. Mallett

Commemorative wines celebrating the America's Cup race are being offered from various wineries right now.

The official America's Cup wines are being produced by Callaway Winery here in our own backyard in Temecula. They were selected by the America's Cup Organizing Committee in the spring of 1991 to produce the official America's Cup Chardonnay and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Released in June of 1991 in a limited edition, these wines will be served at events hosted by the America's Cup Committee. They will also be available at wine stores, restaurants and supermarkets throughout the country, but must be purchased by the end of July of 1991, or else they'll be gone!

The America's Cup Cabernet Sauvignon represents the first time since 1982 that Callaway has produced a red wine. This deep garnet-hued wine is a blend of 81 percent Cabernet Sauvignon, 10 percent Merlot and 9 percent Cabernet Franc. It has a rich black cherry and currant flavor.

Due to the incredible success of the America's Cup wine, they will begin releasing their own Cabernet again in July 1991.

The Chardonnay's dominant flavors are spicy green apple, butterscotch and tropical fruit. It's dry with a good body and a crisp, clean finish. Both are highly recommended.

They are retailing for $12 per 750ml bottle. If you have any problems obtaining some, call Callaway Winery at 714/676-4001.

Cooks New Zealand Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc lead the pack of imported wines bearing special labels and marketing. These labels and/or bottles are limited editions and will be a must for any collector of such items. They are being distributed by Corbans Imports Inc., c/o Preiss Imports, P.O. Box 2172, Ramona, CA 92065 or fax your orders to 619/789-5461. The wine is being offered in packages of six 750ml bottles and runs $66, which includes shipping and sales tax.

If you're a fan of the America's Cup, a wine lover or a collector, you'll definitely want to try these wines. Pick up a bottle or two at your local store.

About the Authors
This month, we welcome wine critics Daryl F. Mallett and William R. Mallett. This son-and-father team share obvious expertise. Daryl complains that his father won't share the wine cellar key...

(Originally published in The Riverside Review Magazine, Vol. 1:6, May 1992.)