Jenn K.

5 Wines to Enjoy from Camila Xavier

Mar7

March 7, 2013 by Jenn K. Leave a Comment

About Camila Xavier

“I grew up in Brazil and, similarly to Europe, wine was always present at our table. I moved to New York in 2001 and started working with wine as a PR and Events coordinator shortly after graduating college, 7 years ago. After taking a class at the International Wine Center to learn a bit more about wine, I felt in love with all the history and science that comes along with studying it, and I haven’t stopped ever since.

I am currently in the WSET diploma program and have become a insufferable wine geek, always trying to understand particular soils, climate, yeasts, grape varieties, etc. I joined Palm Bay International two years ago as a PR Manager and have loved every minute of it. I feel incredibly lucky to work with such great winemakers and represent such esteemed brands.”

Camila’s 5 Wines to Enjoy

One white wine under $20 and widely available in the US:

Santa Rita Reserva Sauvignon Blanc

The grapes for this wine come from the Casablanca Valley in Chile where the cooler climate results in wines of great freshness. It is also super food-friendly, and I usually pair it with seafood or chicken.

One red wine under $20 and widely available in the US:

Sella & Mosca Cannonau di Sardegna

Sella & Mosca’s Cannonau di Sardegna has such beautiful complexity with earthy aromas and notes of plums. I like to close my eyes and imagine that I am sitting by the sea in Sardegna while I enjoy a glass at the end of the day.

One splurge (whatever splurge might mean to you):

Giulio Ferrari Brut

The ultimate expression of Traditional Metodo Classico sparkling wine. It has delicate yet incredibly intense aromas of honey, vanilla and brioche; on the palate, it is rich and elegant with a finish that just keeps going.

And two others of her own choosing (these may be either easy or hard to find):

Planeta Carricante

A bit more exotic, this 100% Carricante from Planeta shows all the potential of Mount Etna’s rich mineral soils. It is fresh and mineral with notes of green apple accented by mint and white flowers.

Faustino I Gran Reserva

Rioja’s Gran Reservas make me understand why it is worth waiting for a wine to age. I recently had a 1964 Faustino I Gran Reserva that was still so full of life, it left me speechless. The more recent vintages are also great food wines . Its cedar and leather notes make it an ideal pairing for roasted meats.

Have you enjoyed any of these wines? Do any sound interesting to you? Tell us what you think…

Looking for more suggestions? Check out the VineSleuth 5 Wines to Enjoy archives.

Would you like to share your 5 Wines to Enjoy on Vinesleuth Uncorked? I’d love to hear from you. Drop me a note and we’ll talk.

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Leave a Comment Filed Under: 5 Wines to Enjoy Tagged With: Sauvignon Blanc

5 Wines to Enjoy from David Keck

Feb28

February 28, 2013 by Jenn K. Leave a Comment

About David Keck

“David began his career in the service industry at the age of 18 in his home state of Vermont. His drive and perseverance to continue to grow led him to New York City, and now to Houston, Texas, where he is the Beverage Director for the renowned Uchi Restaurant. David has traveled the globe tasting wine, from Texas and New Zealand to France and Austria.

David achieved his Advanced Sommelier certification in October of 2012, in which he also won the Rudd Scholarship for top honors. He is continuing to pursue wine certifications with the Court of Master Sommeliers. In 2013, he is a Regional finalist for the TOP SOMM competition.”

David is taking part in the Guest Sommelier series at Phil’s Wine Lounge next Wednesday, March 6.

David’s 5 Wines to Enjoy

One white wine under $20 and widely available in the US:

Vietti Arneis

A grape essentially revived by the good people of Vietti, Arneis is now one of the most successfully cultivated white varieties in Piedmont. Floral and light with bright acidity and long finish—a perfect first wine of the evening.

One red wine under $20 and widely available in the US:

Juan Gil Monastrell

Sometimes you just want a big, intense, ripe, full bodied wine. Juan Gil’s Monastrell (Mourvedre for the Francophiles out there) from Jumilla, Spain, is rich and jammy, while still carrying acidity, some tannin, and lots of smoke and spice.

One splurge (whatever splurge might mean to you):

Avignonesi Grandi Annate Vino Nobile Riserva ‘06

This is the wine that I opened on the night I proposed to my wife, Sarah. Primarily Sangiovese with some Cabernet Sauvignon. This wine smells like rose petals and violets, has all the structure that Vino Nobile should have, with beautiful fruit, nice tannin, and a bouquet that is surreal. Great with food or by itself.

And two others of his own choosing (these may be either easy or hard to find):

H. Billiot Fils Rosé NV

In any list there must be some bubbles, and this wine is beautiful. A grower Champagne (“farmer-fizz”) made from 100% Grand Cru Pinot Noir grown in Ambonnay. It is bright, full of fruit and finesse, without losing any of the necessary structure and acidity to pair perfectly with food.

Von Buhl “Armand” Kabinett Riesling ‘10

A completely affordable and delicious Riesling from the Pfalz region in Germany. With just enough sweetness to balance the acidity of the wine, it has the richness of the Pfalz, but without too much weight. One of my favorite bottles with Thai or Indian cuisine.

Have you enjoyed any of these wines? Do any sound interesting to you? Tell us what you think.

Looking for more suggestions? Check out the VineSleuth 5 Wines to Enjoy archives.

Would you like to share your 5 Wines to Enjoy on Vinesleuth Uncorked? I’d love to hear from you. Drop me a note and we’ll talk.

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Leave a Comment Filed Under: 5 Wines to Enjoy Tagged With: Pink/Rose, Riesling, Under $20

5 Wines to Enjoy from Kelsey Ivey

Feb22

February 22, 2013 by Jenn K. Leave a Comment

About Kelsey Ivey

“Sipping my way around the world, I am a bit of a travel and wine junkie. From my first taste of wine while studying abroad in Italy, I fell in love with the tiny bubbles of Prosecco and then decided to continue the affair in Oregon, working at a boutique winery near Eugene.

When the travel bug bit again, I interned at a winery in South Africa and sipped the region’s refreshing Sauvignon Blanc and Chenin Blanc and rich Pinotage.

Now back in the states, I have dived head over heals for Oregon wines and enjoy exploring the state’s AVAs winery by winery. I love sharing Oregon’s wine stories and inspiring others to travel, taste and truly experience the state’s terroir.”

Kelsey blogs at Oregon Winette.

Kelsey’s 5 Wines to Enjoy

One white wine under $20 and widely available in the US:

Brooks Amycas ($15)

This wine springs to life in your mouth like the first sunny day of summer and is a great one to sip on that day too! With pleasant notes of stone fruit and citrus plus a touch of cool melon, Brooks Amycas is a refreshing white blend with nice acidity and light sweetness.

One red wine under $20 and widely available in the US:

King Estate’s Acrobat Pinot Noir ($19)

Ruby red and fruit forward, this wine is consistently delicious and really shows off how light, delicate and drinkable an Oregon Pinot Noir can be. No need to prepare a fancy meal to enjoy this wine!

One splurge (whatever splurge might mean to you):

Winderlea’s 2010 Shea Pinot Noir ($48)

Simply put, this wine exudes terroir. Sourced from Shea Vineyard in the Yamhill-Carton AVA, this designate Winderlea wine drinks with heavy soil notes of minerality, stone and ash but without losing the grape’s delicate mouth feel, balanced acidity, and fruit and pie spice nuances. Don’t think twice, order a bottle of this for a nice occasion. You won’t be disappointed!

And two others of her own choosing (these may be either easy or hard to find):

Youngberg Hill’s 2008 Jordan Pinot Noir ($40)

Big and rich for a Pinot Noir, Youngberg Hill’s 2008 Jordan Pinot Noir fills the mouth with gluttonous red and blue fruit plus a pinch of brown sugar like a sweet blackberry pie. Combined with soft tannins and a cut of acidity, this Oregon Pinot I could drink any day, with or without food.

Helioterra’s Pinot Blanc ($16)

While they are currently sold out of the 2011, if their new release is anywhere near as good as the last, this will be one wine that you want to snatch up as soon as possible. Crisp and engaging, Helioterra’s Pinot Blanc starts will full notes of citrus – lime and grape fruit – and finishes with notes of stone fruit and juicy pineapple. With a backbone of bright acidity, the wine is balanced with hints of grass and green herbs.

Have you enjoyed any of these wines? Do any sound interesting to you? Tell us what you think.

Looking for more suggestions? Check out the VineSleuth 5 Wines to Enjoy archives.

Would you like to share your 5 Wines to Enjoy on Vinesleuth Uncorked? I’d love to hear from you. Drop me a note and we’ll talk.

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Leave a Comment Filed Under: 5 Wines to Enjoy Tagged With: Pinot Blanc, Pinot Noir, white blend

5 Wines to Enjoy from Jason Sherman

Feb15

February 15, 2013 by Jenn K. Leave a Comment

In addition to serving as the Sommelier at Brennan’s in Houston, TX, Jason is taking part in the Guest Sommelier series at Phil’s Wine Lounge next Wednesday, February 20.

Jason was interested in wine at a young age and, in college, he was already collecting wine and selling wine at auctions. He earned his level I Sommelier certificate at the age of 21 and hasn’t looked back. Well, except for that short period when he gave corporate America a try, only to run back to the world of wine and restaurants. And Houston is thankful!

Jason has also worked at Morton’s Steakhouse in the Houston Galleria. He earned his advanced Sommelier certificate in California when he was 26, and he loves to spend as much time as possible in wine country. He hopes to spend more time in Oregon in the near future.

We’re glad to share Jason Sherman’s selection for 5 Wines to Enjoy on VineSleuth Uncorked.

Jason’s 5 Wines to Enjoy

One white wine under $20 and widely available in the US:

Dr. Loosen Riesling

I have long been a fan of German Riesling. They are both great with food and priced great. This is the one I had while I was learning the area, and has all the characteristics you want in a great Riesling—flavors of apricot and stone fruit, great acidity and striking minerality. This is a great wine to take to Chinatown for spicy Asian food.

One red wine under $20 and widely available in the US:

Ridge “Three Valleys” Zinfandel

The entry level Zinfandel from the experts. These guys have been making great Zinfandels in California for decades, and this wine shows off the skills. Made from vines that age between 20 and 60 years old. Full of lush, ripe, dark fruit and cracked black pepper. What else could you want with Texas BBQ?

One splurge (whatever splurge might mean to you):

Chateau de Beaucastel Chateauneuf-de-Pape Blanc “Vieilles Vignes”

Hands down one of the best wines made each year in the world. This wine changed my life about 10 years ago. Balanced and beautiful, this wine goes with almost any food. Full of fresh, vibrant fruit with a finish of salted butter, it makes you want more every sip.

And two others of his own choosing (these may be either easy or hard to find):

Domaine Hubert Lamy St. Aubin Blanc

This is an exceptional Chardonnay from Burgundy that really shows off the region and the vintage well. It’s a good bridge into Burgundy for many California Chardonnay lovers.

Big Table Farm “Whitehawk” Syrah, Santa Barbara

One of the most underrated varietals around, Syrah has found a home in Santa Barbara county. Full of flavor with notes of cured meat, crushed stone, and raspberry pie. If most people would just give Syrah a chance, they would love it.

Have you enjoyed any of these wines? Do any sound interesting to you? Tell us what you think.

Looking for more suggestions? Check out the VineSleuth 5 Wines to Enjoy archives.

Would you like to share your 5 Wines to Enjoy on Vinesleuth Uncorked? I’d love to hear from you. Drop me a note and we’ll talk.

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Leave a Comment Filed Under: 5 Wines to Enjoy Tagged With: Chardonnay, Riesling, Syrah/Shiraz, Zinfandel

5 Wines to Enjoy from Wilfred Wong

Feb8

February 8, 2013 by Jenn K. Leave a Comment

Wilfred Wong, Cellar Master for BevMo, a California and Arizona chain of 130 stores, is a wine industry veteran of more than 40 years. He currently tastes between 6,000 to 9,000 wines annually and judges in a dozen major wine competitions each year. His job duties include managing the content and blogging on BevMo.com for the retail chain, which includes keeping current on 3,000+ wines, 1,200 spirits, and 800 beers, and working the company’s Vineyard Partners program in which he works with winemaking teams worldwide on blends that make up the wines. Wong works closely with the wine-merchandising department and travels four to seven times a year to France, Italy, Spain, Chile, Argentina and other port of calls in searching for new and exciting wine discoveries. On the media side, he writes for the Tasting Panel Magazine as well as other publications.

Our own Amy Gross was fortunate to meet up with Wilfred at the Wine Bloggers Conference in Portland last summer where she noticed that he not only knows wine, but was also fascinating to talk with and shoots some amazing photographs.

Wilfred’s 5 Wines to Enjoy:

One white wine under $20 and widely available in the US:

2011 Chateau Ste Michelle CHARDONNAY Indian Wells (COLUMBIA VALLEY) ($18)

Delivers superb flavors at this price point, the 2011 Chateau Ste Michelle Indian Wells Chardonnay offers plenty of ripe core fruit flavors and a hint of sweet oak. Chateau Ste. Michelle, one of America’s great wineries, offers consumers a superb range of fine wines.

One red wine under $20 and widely available in the US:

2010 Rosemount Estate Diamond Label SHIRAZ (SOUTH EASTERN AUSTRALIA) ($15)

The Aussies want a way back into the marketplace, this wine is the ticket. The 2010 Rosemount Diamond Series Shiraz is full of gorgeous ripe fruit flavors; long and satisfying in the finish.

One splurge (whatever splurge might mean to you):

2010 TeHo MALBEC (ALTAMIRA) ($100)

This is one of the world’s “coolest” winery teams. Co-winemakers, co-owners Alejandro “Colo” Sejanovich and Jeff Mausbach are incredibly intent on making the finest wines period! The 2010 TeHo Malbec is seriously good! Powerful and expressive, one of the top red wines in the world!

…and two others of his own choosing (these may be either easy or hard to find):

2010 Klinker Brick Winery OLD VINE ZINFANDEL (LODI) ($22.50)

A magnificent zin, the 2010 Klinker Brick Old Vine Zinfandel shows power and finesse on the palate; explodes with beaucoup berries; great finish. This is one of Lodi’s top producers.

2008 Twomey MERLOT (NAPA VALLEY) ($48)

Twomey Cellars is starting to make a name for itself as a top Merlot producer. The 2010 Twomey Merlot is packed and firm; shows ripe fruit and sweet oak; finishes firm and long.

Have you enjoyed any of these wines? Do any sound interesting to you? Tell us what you think…

Looking for more suggestions? Check out the VineSleuth 5 Wines to Enjoy archives.

Would you like to share your 5 Wines to Enjoy on Vinesleuth Uncorked? I’d love to hear from you. Drop me a note and we’ll talk.

Like what you've read? Subscribe to VineSleuth Uncorked and have it delivered straight to your inbox!

Leave a Comment Filed Under: 5 Wines to Enjoy Tagged With: Chardonnay, Merlot, Syrah/Shiraz, Zinfandel

5 Wines to Enjoy from Vanessa Treviño Boyd

Feb1

February 1, 2013 by Jenn K. Leave a Comment

We’ve featured Vanessa Treviño Boyd of Philippe several times here on VineSleuth Uncorked, but never asked her to suggest 5 Wines to Enjoy for us. Now, especially since she is kicking off the guest sommelier series at Phil’s Wine Lounge with 7 of Houston’s best Somms starting Feb 6., we thought it was the perfect time to get her picks.

Check out these wines and let us know what you think. And, if you’re in Houston, swing by Phil’s Wine Lounge at Philippe and let her know, too.

Vanessa’s 5 Wines to Enjoy:

One white wine under $20 and widely available in the US:

“Eroica,” by Dr. Loosen & Chateau St. Michelle, Washington 2010

This partnership by the German estate & Washington’s pioneering Riesling producer consistently produces value-driven wine of quality–an intermingling of New World and Old World sensibilities. This slightly off-dry Riesling is typical in its precision, clarity and elegance, and at its entry-level price tag is a marvel.

One red wine under $20 and widely available in the US:

Pinot Noir, La Crema, Sonoma Coast 2011

What a value for an up-and-coming region regarded by many as one of the best sites to produce elegant, balanced Pinot Noir. La Crema’s wines are always full of up-front fruit, delivering immediate deliciousness and accessibility that would make even Grandma want to have a second glass.

One splurge (whatever splurge might mean to you):

Laville Haut-Brion

My first fine wine revelation was a 1947 Laville Haut-Brion, a white wine produced by the legendary Haut-Brion property in Bordeaux. It was nutty, waxy and rich with an elegance and clarity that fine white Bordeaux start to exhibit around 20-30 years old. Impossible to find again, so I’d settle on the ’89.

…and two others of her own choosing (these may be either easy or hard to find):

Bourgogne Rouge, Domaine de Montille, Burgundy, France 2009

What a great entry-level red Burgundy from a vintage yielding more accessible wines right out of the case. Etienne de Montille inherited choice parcels of land throughout northern and southern Burgundy–this ‘little’ wine is declassified classy stuff.

Gruet, Rose, New Mexico, NV

I wish this sparkling wine were available in every state throughout the U.S.–if everyone could just have a glass of this after a hard day at work, they’d be a lot happier. And yes, it is from New Mexico. Trust me on this one.

Have you enjoyed any of these wines? Do any sound interesting to you? Tell us what you think…

Looking for more suggestions? Check out the VineSleuth 5 Wines to Enjoy archives.

Would you like to share your 5 Wines to Enjoy on Vinesleuth Uncorked? I’d love to hear from you. Drop me a note and we’ll talk.

Like what you've read? Subscribe to VineSleuth Uncorked and have it delivered straight to your inbox!

Leave a Comment Filed Under: 5 Wines to Enjoy Tagged With: Burgundy, Pinot Noir, Sparkling

Houston Area Wine Events 1-23-13

Jan23

January 23, 2013 by Jenn K. Leave a Comment

There are quite a few wine events coming up in the Houston area. Here’s a quick rundown of events in order for you to get your wine calendar booked!

BRIX Wine Cellars, on the beautiful Piazza Fontana in the Vintage Park Shopping Center in Northwest Houston, has a variety of wine events coming up including:

A Torbreck Wine Tasting on January 31, 2013 at 6:30 pm for $25/person.

Dave Powell, founder and chief winemaker for Australia’s Torbreck winery will be here for a wine tasting with light hors d’oeuvres on Thursday January 31st. Join us as we taste Torbreck’s “Woodcutter” Semillon, Barossa Valley Shiraz, “Cuvee Juvenile” and “The Steading” red blend, and “The Bothie” Muscat dessert wine. This is a unique opportunity to meet the founder of the winery responsible for some of Australia’s finest wines. Make your reservation now!

A Surh Luchtel Wine Dinner on Febuary 6, 2013 at 6:30 pm for $85/person.

Gary Luchtel, owner of Surh Luchtel Winery will be here Wednesday, February 6th for a four-course wine dinner pairing his Viognier, Pinot Noir, “Mosaique” red blend and 2006 Sacrashe Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon. This elegant dinner includes Lobster bisque, Uruguayan bresaola and zamarano salad, Parmesan & herb-crusted lamb chop, Roasted beef tenderloin, and Dark and White Chocolate Mousse Parfait.

A Valentine’s Day Dinner on February 14, 2013 beginning as early as 5 pm for $59/person.

Have you experienced Valentine’s Day dinners that are overcrowded and under deliver? This won’t be the case at our Valentine’s Day dinner. Enjoy an elegant dinner at BRIX. Reservations begin at 5:00. Make yours today as seating is limited and we do sell out.

In the Spirit of Love of Community, Wesley Community Center, is hosting their 2nd Annual Lone Star Night (for Love!) at Vintners Own Winery on Friday, February 8th, 2013 from 6:30 – 8:30 pm.

This special event will serve to build and strengthen relationships with our friends and supporters and raise critically important general operating funds for our broad array of educational and social services that empower, build self-sufficiency and promote health and well-being among children and families of Houston’s Near Northside. The love-infused, Valentine’s Day-inspired event will feature a sumptuous, romantic small bites menu developed by Robert Martinez of MaxGray Production. Vintners Own has paired this menu with an inspiring selection of varietals from their award-winning, California Napa and Sonoma Valley wines produced locally in their Houston facility. There will be original Nuevo Flamenco compositions along with other Brazilian bossa nova and jazz favorites performed by Guitarist Guillermo Serpas. In addition, you’ll be entertained with a silent auction and a “live art” piece created by artist Wiley Robertson.

Lone Star Night (for Love!) tickets start at $125 for the Friendship level and $280 for the Sweetest Hearts (for couples) level. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available and include a variety of recognition activities. Please visit the Lone Star Night (for Love!) event website for more information.

Messina Hof winery will host a wine dinner at J. McKinney’s Restaurant at the Fredonia Hotel in Nacogdoches, Texas on February 8, 2013 at 7 pm to kick off the Annual Wine Swirl. Guests will experience four courses of J. McKinney’s Restaurant specialties magnificently paired with award-winning Messina Hof wines. The cost is $69 per person plus tax and gratuity.

Winery co-founders, Paul and Merrill Bonarrigo, will be in attendance to help kick off the Nacogdoches Wine Swirl, a wine event with food pairings to benefit Nacogdoches’ historic downtown on Saturday, February 9.

The Fredonia Hotel is a landmark boutique hotel located in Nacogdoches, Texas. To attend the wine dinner, please RSVP by calling (936) 564-1234 for a reservation. For more information on the Nacogdoches Wine Swirl, visit them on Facebook.

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Leave a Comment Filed Under: Houston Area Wine Events

Wine.Woot: Bodegas Paso Robles 2011 Albariño

Sep26

September 26, 2012 by Jenn K. Leave a Comment

Wine.Woot.com has a special deal today on the Bodegas Paso Robles 2011 Albariño 4-Pack! Get it for 32% off list price $59.99 for a 4 pack! A little about this fantastic wine:

The 2011 Galicia is off-dry and a perfect sipping wine. It has a pear and apricot bouquet followed by a touch of sweetness and finished with the classic Albariño crisp grapefruit flavors. It pairs well with spicy food, Dungeonous crab, oysters, white fish, summer soups, and fruity desserts.

Pair it as I did with the spicy tang of Mexican food like this recipe for Creamy Chicken Enchiladas.

Order yours today!

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Leave a Comment Filed Under: Wine Deals & Promotions

Crú Food & Wine Bar

Sep25

September 25, 2012 by Jenn K. Leave a Comment

Houston ladies, join your girlfriends at Crú Food & Wine Bar in The Woodlands or at Kirby & Westheimer every Thursday night for Girls Night Out and receive 1/2 off all Champagne bottles all night long! Cha-CHING!

Plus, every Sunday evening, everyone can get 33% off all bottle wines. Taking advantage of these kinds of deals makes for a great opportunity to be daring and try different wines and champagne than normal… or just enjoy your favorites.

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Leave a Comment Filed Under: People & Places

Wine.com: Labor Day Sale up to 40% off

Aug30

August 30, 2012 by Jenn K. Leave a Comment

Wine.com is having a fantastic Labor Day sale with select wines on sale for up to 40% off! There are quite a few wines on the sale list that are typically crowd-pleasers and great to have on hand like: