Crisp, refreshing, tingly…July begs for a Prosecco. The San Martino winery is housed between the hills of Valdobbiadene, near the Piave River, and Conegliano, both areas famous for producing Italy’s sparkling delight, Prosecco. Generally lighter and fruitier than Champagne and Cava, Prosecco has broken sales records in the past several years. This brut wine, made with the Glera variety, retains the slightest hint of residual sugar to balance its zingy acidity. It is also a “millesimato,” which means it is a vintaged wine, only crafted in the best years. Also of note is its shapely, beveled, and dark bottle, which would impress any fan of spumante wine. Scents of white flowers plus green apple, citrus and tangerine notes are abundant. While Prosecco and sparkling wines in general go with many different foods, especially fried foods, we suggest going in a more elegant route with your favorite fish dish or sushi, like the Endless Love roll from Sushi Café.
Vignoble de Reveur ‘Pierres Sauvages’ White – Alsace AOC – FR (Platinum)
A triple threat of Pinots, the ‘Pierres Sauvages’ is certainly a wine that you will ponder, even after leaving the tasting. Pinot Blanc and Gris are color mutations of the Pinot Noir variety, producing white wines. The winemakers chose a longer maceration, leaving the juice in contact with the skins and seeds (although the Pinot Noir was left on a shorter time), and they aged the wine on the lees for a year; both techniques contribute to more complexity and body. This blend exhibits interesting aromas of honeysuckle, subtle citrus, dried golden raisins, and yellow apple with a touch of salinity. While a classic Alsatian wine pairing is foie gras, you could grab something a bit less expensive, like the Gobi Manchurian appetizer from Sangam Indian Restaurant.
Maddelena Rosé – Paso Robles AVA – CA (Gold)
July is the perfect temperature for rosé, and the Maddelena will surely hit the spot! Maddelena falls under the umbrella of Riboli Family Wines, the four-generation family that operates the famous San Antonio Winery in California, which was awarded “Winery of the Year” by Wine Spectator in 2018. Sourced predominately from Grenache, with a touch of Syrah and Primitivo (also known as Zinfandel in Italy), this wine boasts zippy acidity and tangy fruits. Strawberry, watermelon, white peach, and hints of rose flower infuse both the nose and the palate. Rosés go with so many cuisines, but a delightful pairing would be the Chicken Florentine from Fera’s Italian. Or if at a picnic or poolside, try it with chicken salad.
Alta Marfa ‘Super TX’ Tempranillo – Texas Davis Mountains AVA – TX (Platinum)
When you think of Marfa, you might think of a bustling art scene and the Prada permanent sculpture installation that people Instagram on their way to the next big Texas town (three hours away…). But in true reinvention mode, the city has given birth to its first boutique winery, Alta Marfa. Embracing natural viticulture, Alta Marfa’s mission is to “make any drinker feel welcome, excited, and interested” about wine, whether a novice or a connoisseur. The ‘Super TX’ is 100% “Deluxe Tempranillo” sourced from multiple soil types and from three distinct regions of the state. It boasts juicy black currants, black cherry, and subtle spices. An interesting and enjoyable pairing with this wine would be the BBQ Brisket Taco at Rusty Taco.
In addition to having a fantastic name, the Domaine du Grand Belly estate is steeped in history. The original farmhouse was built by Italian charcoal makers who supplied Pope Clement V with all his carbon-based needs at his palace in Avignon, about 10 miles away. Currently, the estate is a sought-after wine resort and can be rented out for weddings and other celebrations (talk about an upgrade from coal!). The Domaine specializes in Côtes du Rhône, which is typically a red blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre (but could have up to 12 other grapes). In this case, it is an S-G-M, consisting of 50% Syrah, 40% Grenache, and 10% Mourvèdre. Bursting with red fruits, garrigue, and spice, this wine is easy-drinking and smooth. Game is the traditional pairing for a Côtes du Rhône, but the Smoky Mountain pulled pork sandwich platter from Juicy Pig Barbecue will do the trick!
Bodegas Añadas developed the “Care” line to showcase the city of Cariñena, in Aragon, which the ancient Romans nicknamed "Care.” The winemakers also pledge that their passion for vinification aligns with the English word “care,” so this wine is full of double entendre! Seeking to become the pioneers of Garnacha in Spain, the Tinto Sobre Lías is predominantly Garnacha with some Syrah. The Garnacha variety is drought- and wind-resistant, both constant concerns in Aragon, and delivers juicy, fruity wine. The Tinto evokes black and red fruits, from black cherry to plum, and finishes with mocha and spice. While this Spanish red would partner well with any grilled meats, stews, or casseroles, for something more nontraditional, try it with the Lamb Souvlakis from Feta’s Food truck, usually situated in front of Oak Street Draft House.
A winery devoted to the Pacific Northwest, Cedar + Salmon seeks to highlight the terroir of the second (WA) and fifth largest (OR) producing states of wine in the nation. In this case, southeastern Washington is the star. Mostly Bordeaux-style, this wine is blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot, Grenache, and Cabernet Franc. The varieties work together to produce big fruit, floral and herby aromas, plus silky tannins. Wild dark fruits, including black cherry and blackberry, are palpable, along with violet, allspice, and hazelnut. Despite the not-so-subtle salmon messaging of the brand, heaven on earth could be achieved with a glass of this red blend with the Smoked Wagyu Short Ribs from the Bartonville Store and Jeter’s Meat Shop. Yes, it’s a bit of a drive, but it’s a sensory experience!
Many people ask about the differences in Syrah and Shiraz, and while there may not be one perfect summation, in general, Shiraz connotes a warmer climate, riper fruit, fuller body, and higher alcohol as opposed to Syrah, which can be a little leaner and more elegant. Australia brilliantly co-opted the grape from France (and certainly other wine regions) and turned Shiraz into its signature red wine. McLaren Vale just so happens to fall in South Australia, with its Mediterranean climate and sunny weather. The ‘Red Silk,’ produced from family-owned Oliverhill, is fuller-bodied, plush, and jammy, and comes in at a whopping 15.3% ABV! Luscious dark red and black fruits as well as cola and vanilla coalesce into a pleasant, if not hot, wine. The Ka-Pow spicy beef entrée at Andaman Thai Restaurant would partner nicely with the ‘Red Silk.’
Jul 9, 2023 at 12:57 PM
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