Weekend drinking was these (and a Sake) at my brother's place where we experimented with Japanese non-sushi foods.
Muenzenrieder Zweigelt Classic 2008 - Austria, Burgenland, Neusiedlersee
9,95€; 13,5% abv; under screwcap. A rather nice little drop, sweeter and darker fruit than in the Bründlmayer Zweigelt that I am very fond of. Juicy and savoury fruit. More body, alcohol, tannin and sweeter fruit than in the Bründlmayer, but also less elegance and brightness and focus. Refreshingly tannic finish. I very much like it that we have two very affordable, very likeable Zweigelts available in such contrasting styles. I think I will usually buy the Bründlmayer for its red toned elegance, however.
N.V. Lopez Hermanos Málaga Trajinero Oloroso Seco - Spain, Andalucía, Málaga
100% Pedro Ximénez; 18% abv. Fermented dry, then some young PX is added to make an eventual RS of about 20 g/l. Orange/brown. It also smells of oranges. A little oxidative from the 3-5 years in American Oak casks. Soft for Oloroso, a little bit sweet. Gentle compared to Oloroso from Jerez. Long, spicy finish. A little too "easy" - not an exciting wine intellectually, but very drinkable.
Vicarage Lane Sauvignon Blanc 2008 - New Zealand, South Island, Marlborough
12,5% abv; 6,4 g/l acidity; 4,3 g/l RS; 10,98€. Very typical Marlborough aromas, pungent gooseberry mixed with tropical fruit aromas. A little richer palate than expected (maybe from the big of RS?) but balanced by clean acidity. Moderate length finish, but it was gentler than I expected from the acidity. If one likes SB, this is a good example of the Marlborough style for the price.