A nice Meritage from Ecuador!

The fetching Mrs. Wine Guy and I have recently been in Quito, primarily to obtain certificados de censo and cedullas. We were partially succesful (Suzanne yes...Roger ooopsie) on that score.

If you're ever headed to Quito and looking for quality accommodations in the new town area, we heartily endorse the Hotel Sebastian! It's a quality facility at a more affordable (although not cheap) price than the Hilton a short distance away. Even if you don't stay there, take the time to dine out in their restaurant. The house wine at $4 per glass is Concha y Toro and the food quality, presentation and service was well, well above their price range!

On the wine front, The Wine Guy finally got to sample some wine from Chaupi Estancia, one of Ecuador's most established and successful wineries. I had heard about them well before my first visit to this country and had been anxious to sample some of their wine. They are located at a higher elevation in the Andes north of Quito. They are mostly renown for their white wines including a palomino fino type sherry which has earned accolades in international wine competition. THe Wine Guy, however, was impressed with their their red wine "Alyce" a meritage blend. Chaupi Estancia happens to be an international member of the Meritage Association which was found by California vintners to create a branded red wine blend somewhat comparable to French Bordeaux. The Alyce Meritage, in my opinion, ranks as the best red wine being produced in Ecuador and is retail priced in the $20-$25 range in Quito. We will be hunting for it in Cuenca and hope any of our friends will let us know if they spot it in our area. It is worth seeking out.

As always, Mrs. Wine Guy and I remain "juntos en el camino de la vida"! That's the name of our blog about our travels and decision to retire in another country. If you have interest, log onto www.togetherontheroadoflife.blogspot.com.

Take a little time out to enjoy life...sip one of your favorites today. Salute!