Starling Castle Red 2009

By Chris and Sherry Hardie
Oktoberfest is right around the corner, so it’s time to think of German wine. While white German wines such as rieslings are still the most common, red wines are finally becoming better known.
This wine is made with dornfelder, a hybrid grape that is the most common red varietal in the Rheinhessen region, one of the largest German wine-producing areas. Spätburgunder (pinot noir) is second in acreage.
This wine is made in a sweet style with very smooth tannins, making it very approachable for even new wine drinkers. It’s light-bodied and displays red fruit flavors. Serve chilled. It pairs nicely with grilled chicken and would make a nice Oktoberfest beverage alternative.
Sherry: “Strawberry, cherry and cinnamon.” Three stars
Chris: “Cherry and cinnamon with a bit of cranberry on the finish.” Three stars
Available locally for about $9.50.
Coming next week: Keltehue Winemaker’s Select Red