Can You Say Bonarda?

Debbie Miller Nelson By Debbie Miller Nelson
on June 04, 2007 at 9:34 AM, updated June 04, 2007 at 9:37 AM

Bonarda is Argentina's other signature grape next to Malbec. While not as well known, it's actually more widely planted. Like Malbec, it's a bigger deal in Argentina than it is here. Bonarda tends to make lighter, fruitier wines than most of the other varietals common in Argentina. We had the Nieto Senetiner 2003. It was amazing! We bought it because of the bottle. It looked medieval, with a raised metal label. I could write a review, but Winebow says it perfectly.

Dark as night...this ruby red wine with black notes shows attractive aromas of smoked oak from one year of aging, truffles and tobacco, combined with the red fruits typical of this variety. On the palate it is complex, with mature tannins and holds a strong personality with a balanced and supple finish.

Today's Educational Item: I started using the Society of Wine Educator's online education modules. I think I'm getting much more learning this way. After each section is a mini-test and after each module is a big test. It's helping me think more like what the questions will be like on the test. So, see if you know this answer:

1) What are the two principal end-products of the fermentation process?
a. Sugar and ethanol
b. Acid & Ethanol
c. Ethanol and carbon dioxide
d. Ethanol and sugar

Well, right away, you can eliminate A and D. Same answer in different order. That leaves B and C. Ethanol is in all of the answers, so you have to decide between acid and CO2. As yeasts convert sugars into alcohol, heat is generated, and carbon dioxide is released. The correct answer is C. Thanks for playing along!
