Whereas quite a lot of wine lovers engaged in “Dry or Dry-ish January,” a couple of family and friends members got here to my help to work by way of my stash of wines (despatched as samples) that have been begging to be opened. Benefit from the learn and should you’re impressed, contact the vineyard (hyperlinks supplied) for extra detailed data. Then, search for every at your favourite wine store or on-line wine retailer. Let me know what you discover!
La Follette 2021 Los Primeros Chardonnay Sonoma County ($25) was a mouthwatering pairing with goat cheese and fig jam previous to dinner one night. Pale straw within the glass, this refreshing alternative supplied citrus and white pepper on the nostril and a palate rife with snappy acidity, lemon curd, pineapple and pears. (Observe: “Los Primeros” means “the primary.” These wines from La Follette honor California’s early grape rising pioneers who planted vines alongside the coast.)
La Follette 2019 Heintz Winery Pinot Noir Russian River Valley ($60) jogged my memory as soon as once more that Russian River Valley is a really particular place. Heintz Ranch is a 50 acre winery situated in Occidental, a cool part of the Russian River Valley throughout the Sonoma Coast AVA. Coastal influences and cooler temperature enable for an extended rising season leading to wines with intense flavors. On the nostril, the Pinot confirmed notes of baking spice, crimson apple, crushed strawberries and cranberries. The palate was advanced with layered notes of earth, spice and crimson fruit. Get pleasure from a glass or two with butternut squash soup or glazed ham.
Pam’s UN-Oaked Chardonnay 2021 ($14) is a ardour undertaking of Ron Rubin whose spouse, Pam, was shocked with the wine after Ron and his winemaker collaborated on a method that she loves. Crisp and lightweight with a contact of candy, I discovered lemon, melon and golden apple on the nostril and a fruit ahead profile with excessive acidity on the palate. Refreshing, reasonably priced and simple ingesting, this can be a crowd-pleasing picnic wine.
Pam’s UN-Oaked Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 ($16) is an fascinating tackle Cabernet Sauvignon because it didn’t see a little bit of oak. On the nostril, blackberries, cinnamon and raspberries wafted from the glass. The palate, gentle in physique with delicate acidity and tannins, was fruit full of crimson berries. This wine is gorgeous on a sizzling day, served chilled with gentle appetizers or paired with chocolate brownies for dessert.
Tenuta di Arceno 2019 Chianti Classico Riserva ($30), from the Chianti Classico DOCG Assortment, is 90% Sangiovese and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon aged for 10 months in impartial French oak. Stunning aromas of darkish crimson fruit, dried herbs, leaves, earth, black olives and oak led to a palate bursting with strawberries, pepper, cherry liqueur, spice and the slightest trace of balsamic on a basis of reasonable tannins and vibrant acidity. The lingering end with notes of ripe oranges and black tea was savory and stylish. Pair with Nonna’s lasagna or eggplant parmigiana for a sensational dinner.
Cheers! ~ Cindy
For extra Grape Experiences and a free infographic “4 Keys to a Stellar Wine Decide” click on right here.