You're probably wondering what took yours truly so long to review Little Black Dress Wines. After all, I'm clearly crazy about little black dresses and I certainly love a good glass of vino. Well, I confess to having mixed feelings about wines & spirits that specifically target women. These sips often have cute names and snazzy packaging but the actual wines tend to leave much to be desired. But have I been to harsh by lumping all lady libations in the same barrel? After all, wine is meant to be fun and enjoying a bottle with a group of girlfriends is one of life's pleasures. So, with an open mind and a receptive palate, I accepted the invitation to review Little Black Dress Divalicious White and Divalicious Red. And, I'm glad I did - these California beauties show that that a whimsical wine marketed to women can still be a quality product.
Little Black Dress Divalicious White 2011 ($11) includes Pinot Grigio, Moscato, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc. At 64%, Pinot Grigio is the diva of the bunch (pun intended) but the other grapes definitely shine through and this wine has more complexity than I expected. The hint of sweetness from the Moscato and the touch of grassiness imparted by the Sauvignon Blanc balance out the fruitiness of this lovely lemon-yellow white wine. Very crisp with a refreshing acidity, I see why Divalicious White 2011 received a Gold Medal at the Monterey Wine Competition this year. A great match with spicy food or alone as an aperitif.
Little Black Dress Divalicious Red 2010 ($11) is a revved up blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Carignan, Petite Sirah, Counoise, Zinfandel, Malbec and more. Aged in a combination of oak barrels and stainless steel tanks, this diva dazzles with flavors of juicy red berries, black cherries, and a hint of spice. A very smooth and luscious wine that is certain to please even the pickiest diva, this wine pairs well with meat dishes and spicy food.
Another fun fact about Little Black Dress Wines is that their winemaker is a Texas-born, Argentina-raised diva named Zidanelia. Affectionately known as "Z", this lady knows her wines - she has an Argentinean National Diploma of Oenology and served in the cellar at Les Vignerons du Pays d'Ensurene in France before heading to California to work her magic at Little Black Dress Wines.
Sure, the initial allure of Little Black Dress Wines is the playful fashion-forward branding but I'm happy to say that the bottles contain delicious wines that show real character and finesse. I may be a little late to the party, but I toast Little Black Dress Wines for bringing a bit of elegant fun into the wine world.
To learn more, visit the Little Black Dress Wines website.
