TONS of good ones around the $20 range this month! We’ll start with a bubbly, as you always should, and then get into lots of great whites. Montinore Vivace – This is a sparkling blend of Gewürztraminer, Müller-Thurgau, Pinot Gris and Riesling. That’s a lot of flavor, but it blends together harmoniously and is a fun … Continue reading
With the economy still figuring itself out, everyone is looking for values. I have quite a few, although I was sharing some with people in my apartment building and someone said they thought even $20 was too high. Always good to get these reality checks. The good news: one of my favorites wines this month … Continue reading
Rosé is needed now more than ever. No, not because of Covid. Because we’re getting into the warm July and August deck days. Here are my top 3 for the month: Balletto: Pinot Noir-based rosés are basically my favorites – the best balance of elegance and decent fruit. This has lots of watermelon and lovely … Continue reading
In the states, we get lots of Chardonnay from California. But on Chardonnay Day (May 21), let’s explore the grape’s options from all around the world. Oregon: What I love about Chardonnays from Oregon is that they change your mind about what Chardonnay can be. This one from Yamhill Valley Vineyards was surprisingly light and crisp, much … Continue reading
Anyone home schooling their kids during quarantine (or just hosting them, like my mom) deserves some bubbly. Be sure to pop something good for them. Pol Roger Extra Cuvée de Réserve: So rich – deep yellow apple, honeyed hazelnuts, and crispy bubbles. And in homage to matriarchs, this is a royal family favorite. ($45) Bouvet Rose … Continue reading
As everyone’s in lockdown and perhaps starting to tighten belts, here are this month’s monthly value recommendations so you’re saving money but not flavor. I’m sharing a mix of specific bottles you might be able to find, more general regions and grapes that should be at your local shop (hopefully it’s open or will be … Continue reading
I was listening to my friend Anne Krebiehl on an old Wine Enthusiast podcast the other day and she was raving about Blaufrankisch. It’s an Austrian grape I’d had maybe once or twice, but Anne has the ability to make you crave whatever she’s talking about so I went home that night and opened one. … Continue reading
Have you been exploring along? Here are this month’s grape and region suggestions, and if you’ve had them before then pick your own adventure! Grape: Cab Franc This is one of the five grapes found in a Bordeaux blend, but all on its own you get plum and green pepper. Bernard Baudry is one my favorite … Continue reading
Back in the day it was rare to have a female winemaker. Luckily that’s all changed now, and today on International Women’s Day you have a ton of women-made wines to choose from. Here are a few I’ve enjoyed all over the world, often with the winemakers themselves. Caroline Diel at Schlossgut Diel in Nahe, … Continue reading
Have already been clocking some serious fireside time this winter. If I can’t have Happy Hour on the deck, I’ll take it with a crackling fire and a glass of red to go with my grilled steak or amazing boeuf bourguignon. Try some Tuscans like Rocca delle Macie’s Riserva di Fizzano ($30) a silky Chianti Classico that … Continue reading
