We’re still spending more time at home, so still need our weekday affordable and our splurge wines to celebrate the bigger moments (even if that’s just now Saturday). 

values

• Achaval Ferrer Malbec: Muscular black plum and black pepper but with soft tannins as far as malbecs go. Great with homemade empanadas! $19.99
• Ferzo Montepulciano d’Abruzzo: Can’t get enough of these indigenous Abruzzo grapes. A hint of black licorice gives some muscle to the black cherry notes in this one. $22

splurges

• Domaine Bertagna Vougeot: Beautiful! Silky and plush with black plum, sandalwood, slight hints of fresh mushroom and tobacco. This was my winner of the month. $109
• Crescere Sauvignon Blanc: Ritchie Vineyards in Alexander Valley is primarily known for its Chardonnay, but this is the only Sauvignon Blanc from it. Very elegant lemon peel and peach. $60
• Col D’Orcia Brunello di Montalcino 2016: Black olive, black cherry and an earthy acidity. I did a tasting with the winery, whose aim is to create more elegance than structure. They said they “ask plants to do just what they’re capable of producing and you get maximum quality.” $49
• Gundlach Bundschu Cabernet 2016: Cool climate Cab keeps the blackberry notes restrained and not overbearingly fruity. $39
• Domaine de la Mordorée Lirac Blanc La Reine des Bois 2018: Gentle white peach and soothing verbena – white Rhone blend of 30% Grenache, 20% Clairette, and a mix of Viognier, Roussanne, Marsanne, Picpoul, and others. $30

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