New summer/TikTok trend alert: spicy rosé. It’s simply throwing some jalapeño slices and some ice into your rosé. Usually I’m not into putting stuff in my wine, but with a non-fussy rosé there isn’t much harm. Grapefriend tip: I definitely wouldn’t use a light, Provençal-style rosé which would get completely overwhelmed by the spice. A good Tempranillo-based Spanish rosato holds … Continue reading
You might see a lot of people recommending Riesling for Thanksgiving, and here’s why: it’s incredibly versatile. The sugar balances out acid, but if you don’t prefer the sweeter styles try ones from Alsace which tend to be on the dry side. Try a very typical style, Amélie & Charles Sparr Sentiment Riesling ($25) is very zesty and crisp. The label on the Laurent … Continue reading
I hope you’re watching Succession! Roman’s constant barbs are as delicious as wine. One thing I notice a lot is that no matter how rich people might be (and ok, granted they’re actors but even on reality shows) they don’t ever seem to hold wine glasses properly by the stem. The Roy family are all … Continue reading
We actually have all Values this month, because even though one of the recommendations is over $40 it’s such a great red that it’s really a steal. Villa Wolf Sekt: Absolutely delightful light-strawberry Pinot Noir sekt from the Pfalz region in Germany. (Sekt is what they call sparkling wine in Germany and Austria). $17 Erbaluce: Had … Continue reading
With COP26 underway, it’s a great time to take a look at some of the cool sustainability initiatives happening in the wine industry all over the world. Regional Regulations: In the Médoc, producers are working to make sustainability and biodiversity practices mandatory in their AOC regulations which would involve practices like reducing pesticides, preserving biodiversity, and managing the region’s carbon footprint. Sustainable farming helps … Continue reading
Love me some Aperol spritz, but every once in a while you need an alternative and the Hugo fits the bill on hot summer days. Invented in 2005 in Northern Italy, it’s light and floral with lots of effervescence from the Prosecco bubbles. And, super simple to make! 1 ounce Elderflower syrup or liqueur like St. Germain … Continue reading
In the non-stop flow of pink, here are five faves for the month! 1 Olga Raffault: Stunning rosé from Chinon, full of minerality, strawberry, and the slightest touch of funk to give it complexity. Had this at Clay, or you can also get here for $16.99 2 Gerard Bertrand Cote Des Roses: Light and refreshing, reminded me of a … Continue reading
So many good ones this month. values Tussock Jumper Chenin Blanc: I go back and forth on Chenin and I think it’s just a matter of finding a good one. This one has great waxy white melon, piquant lemon and unripe pineapple and is only $11.99! Saget La Perriere “Marie de Beauregard” Cab Franc: Such a great … Continue reading
Summer nights are perfect for a quick-grilled white fish with just a spritz of fresh lemon, Italian parsley and capers. These crisp, light Italian whites are perfect pairings. Gavi: Digging the acacia and lemon spritz notes in Riva Leone Gavi ($14.99) and a fleshier apple Michele Chiarlo Rovereto ($16.99). Falanghina: This is more of a deep yellow wine, with a hint of herbs … Continue reading
Unroll the picnic mat and pop a tab. July is national picnic month, no surprise there. But what may be surprising is that canned wine – which is so convenient to bring on a picnic – can actually be pretty good. I’ll caveat this with saying I sampled a ton of canned wine that was not good, … Continue reading
