Here’s a wrap up of last week’s tastings that we’re keeping brief:

La Loggia Barolo 2005 – Light as the summer breeze. Unlike traditionally intense Barolo, though makes for a solid pizza wine if only the price afforded more value. (Trader Joe’s)

Monte Del Frá Tenuta Lena Di Mezzo Valpollicella Classico Superiore 2008 – Smoke fruit with good tannins. Almost a great wine, but not quite. Takes a while to open up. (Wine Chateau)

Quinta Ferreira Sauvignon Blanc 2008 – A gorgeous tropical thunderstorm of the senses. Mango, melon, passion fruit wrapped in a pleasantly acidic grapefruit blanket. Brings back thoughts of summer to this grey Pacific northwest autumn.

Nk’mip Mer’r'iym Meritage 2008 – An intense and concentrated blend from the Okanagan Valley’s southern desert that feels like a hot California wine.

Also, do check out pics from out wine travels and these and other tasting notes at www.pinterest.com/wineshout.