"Each purchase helps send low income, capable young women to college through the O Wines Opportunity for Success Scholarship program."
Two months ago on the #WineMuse podcast show, I enjoyed speaking with winemaker Katie Nelson of O Wines. Following up, I am happy to review her red and white wines. They were very good.
Our October winemaker conversation included speaking with Katie Nelson, Winemaker for 'O' Wines in Washington State. Each purchase of 'O' Wines helps fund scholarship to send young women to college through the 'O' Wines Opportunity for Success Scholarship program. Yes, drinking wine can support Scholarship.
O Wines was established in 2006 in Woodinville, Washington by Stacy Lill and Kathy Johanson with a mission to fund college scholarships for low income, capable young women so they can achieve their greatest potential through education.
Since the introduction of the wines to the Pacific Northwest in 2008 followed by a nationwide launch in 2013, more than $300,000 has been raised to support 52 college scholarships. Beginning in 2013 each scholarship is $20,000 given in $5,000 increments annually over 4 years.
Katie also spent 6 weeks working harvest in New Zealand in April. Of course we asked her about the experience of living, working and making wine in New Zealand. A fun and inspiring discussion. I encourage you to listen to the show and our conversation with this talented winemaker. You can support 'O' Wines Opportunity for Success Scholarship program by purchasing and enjoying O Wines. Learn more on their Our Cause page.
*Note: Scholarships are available to High School Senior females nationwide with US citizenship that are entering their freshman year of college and are enrolled in a four year program. Applicants must have a minimum GPA and meet established criteria. Each O Wines Opportunity for Success Scholarship is $20,000, given in $5,000 increments annually over 4 years.
**Note: The next O Wines Opportunity for Success Scholarship application window will open in March 2015. Learn how to apply on their Scholarship page.
Wine Reviews
Tasting Notes O Wines 2011 Chardonnay
Color: Pale gold, green highlights.
Nose: Mineral, toast, pear, slate, clean.
Palate: Big like at first taste. Good weight, honey crisp, unsweetened pear, fresh flow across the tongue, Asian pear into the finish. Lively and clean Chardonnay. New world style perfect for seafood, oysters, clams, shrimp, crab and appetizers.
After 30 minutes: Toasty nose, gingered pear, focused. Pear and lemon rush, fresh almost creamy, hint of spice on the centered finish. Craved chicken tamales and fish tacos. My speed.At one hour: Paired with fried chicken, a good match, wine more savory with food.
Thoughts: Ready to go at open. Perfect for dining out or in. You and your friends will enjoy this fresh drinking Chardonnay. Recommended + good value.
Closure: 2+1 cork
ABV: 13%
SRP: $10.99
Sample provided by the winery
www.owines.com
Tasting Notes O Wines 2010 Red Wine
Color: Ruby, clear.
Nose: Cherry, vanilla, soft earth, candy, leather with a little dry sage, friendly.
Palate: Medium body, cherry, fine tannin, creamy, a little grip lower gum. Instantly appealing and drinkable. Diners and guests will enjoy this wine.
After 10 minutes: Smooth, cherry, cranberry, in need of appetizers or pizza.
After 30 minutes: Cherry with orange pith, tannin friendly on the gums, medium finish.
45 minutes: Nose more focused, earthy fruit, touch of spice, dried herbs, candied cherry. Dry cherry, action on the back palate with more grip on the tongue and gums, light cranberry and currant. Medium finish.
At one hour: Fruity, dry, almost sweet with cola into the finish. Craved charcuterie, hard cheese and tamales.1.5 hours: Fluid, dark berry, cola, coffee into the friendly finish.
Day two: Modest nose, action was on the palate. Cherry, blackberry, cola, spicy background, light but lively body, enough tannin to meet food, a little tingle on the tongue, tasty medium finish. Craved grilled lamb skewers.
Thoughts: Crowd pleasing style. Suitable for your festivities with friends and ready for casual meals. Recommended + good value.
Closure: Natural cork
ABV: 13.5%
SRP: $12.99
Sample provided by the winery
www.owines.com
I strongly encourage you to seek out O Wines. They make wonderful everyday table wines and are perfect for parties and celebrations. And it helps a worthwhile cause. Visit their site and learn about the Criteria - Application - and Donation process. Well done Ms. Nelson.
Related Post: October 2014 Wine Muse Podcast Show Featuring New Zealand Wine.
Many thanks to Katie Nelson and O Wines!
Cheers!