5 Wines to Enjoy

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.

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: 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.

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: 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.

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: 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.

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, 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

5 Wines to Enjoy from Shawn Burgert

Oct18

October 18, 2012 by VineSleuth Leave a Comment

Shawn is another one of those awesome bloggers I met at the Wine Bloggers Conference this summer. His site, Wandering Wino, has great winery reviews with not only beautiful photographs and videos, but also great stories and interviews with winemakers.

Here’s what he has to say about himself:

I started working the restaurant business at 19 in a Coco’s coffee shop style restaurant. They only had Inglenook and Bud Light on tap. Moving up over the years to higher end restaurants, I found myself working for a well known restauranteur. The wine list had ’61 Bordeaux and vintage Champagnes that cost more than my car parked across the street. At the time I mainly drank beer, but began to grow an interest in things I could not afford.

Just prior to exiting the restaurant business, my wife and I honeymooned in wine country, and we were both bit in a serious way. It was just the beginning. My palate has changed maybe a few times in the past two years and I can only reflect on more recent wines. I believe in drinking wines with soul, and a couple of these would sing James Brown if they could.

Shawn’s 5 Wines to Enjoy:

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

Chamisal Stainless Chardonnay

I am not certain to just how widely this is available and reason for my additional selection. A delicious, refreshing and dependable wine that is not over manipulated like so many Chards out on the market.

Dr Loosen Riesling

I love acid and minerality. This wine brings both. On a hot summer day, for the price, it beats out a lot of good beers.

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

Tres Picos Garnacha

Wildly available and an easy clutch wine that is great to get your party started and pairs well with a wide array of foods. I love it with good old fashion BBQ.

One splurge (whatever splurge might mean to you):

Chateau d’Yquem

One of the greatest pairings I’ve had was with a warm butter cake at Mastros. Angels sang.

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

Presqu’ile Santa Maria Valley Chardonnay (Barrel sample)

The winemaker told me this wine would be 2/3 blended with another Chardonnay. While I was crying he said he’d bottle a magnum for me before it’s all blended away. Minimalistic approach with maximum payoff. Dieter, the winemaker, calls it a “thinking man’s wine.” I call it the “shhhhh wine,” because I don’t want to hear anyone while I just sit, sip, and listen for singing angels.

2004 J Wilkes Bien Nacido Pinot Blanc

I’d be hard pressed to think of a single wine from Bien Nacido that I haven’t liked a lot. Happy to say I still have a half case left of this brilliant wine. This wine was built to age, and age well it has. Fantastic mineralality and acidity that makes me feel regal drinking 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.

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, Pinot Blanc, Riesling

5 Wines to Enjoy from Alana Gentry

Oct5

October 5, 2012 by VineSleuth Leave a Comment

I have known Alana Gentry of Girl with a Glass virtually for quite awhile, but finally got to meet her live in person at the Wine Bloggers Conference in Portland this year. (It seems we are on a roll of wines from those I met at the conference, doesn’t it?!)

She was as much a delight and powerhouse in person as she is online.

Here’s what she has to say about herself:

My life is about wine, food and travel. I love new experiences, meeting people and creating beautiful memories. I write because I am compelled to share my discoveries and joys with others. I’ve been to almost 500 cities in the world and when I’m home, I make a gourmet dinner and pair it with wine every night. I was first published at thirteen years old and my first play was produced at age sixteen. I’ve written three books and I started Girl with a Glass seven years ago. I’m especially interested in the global wine scene and “re-emerging” markets like South America, South Africa, Austria and Greece, and I adore small wine producers (artists) everywhere. If I can experience a new culture and one perfect pairing every year, I’m happy.

Alana’s 5 Wines to Enjoy:

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

2009 Bonterra Chardonnay (USA), $13.99

I am very picky about Chardonnay and I really love this wine. It has all of the elements of a thoughtfully-made, restrained Chardonnay. 70% of the fruit went through malolactic fermentation in French and American oak. It was then blended with 30% fruit from stainless steel tanks and finished off in neutral oak. For me, that is a winning combination; the malo cuts out the bitter acidity that I find nasty in “naked” Chardonnays and grapes from the stainless steel tanks keep the wine from being overwhelmed by oak flavors.

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

Novas Limited Selection Carmenère / Cabernet Sauvignon ($15)

This is what I call a Saturday night wine – complex, smooth, drinkable now. Very nice wine and incredible value from Chile.

One splurge (whatever splurge might mean to you):

Artiste Effervescence East Willamette Valley Sparkling Wine Method Champenoise (NV)

(170 cases produced) Bion Rice is a “Master Blender.” Located in Los Olivios California, he uses old world assemblage techniques with new world terroir. Everything Bion makes is unique, delicious and exciting. $75

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

2008 (or ’09) Tikal Patriota, Argentina, $16

This is one of my favorite bring-to-a-party or gift wines. It has bold Napa-like fruit with the balance and acidity of France. All fantastic. (60% Bonarda 40% Malbec) Color is clear and deep dark purple. Very exciting wine. Just gorgeous, balanced. Dry, melted tannins, refreshing acidity, full-bodied & extended finish. All the pieces are harmonious. Made by Ernesto Catena, one of my top 10 winemakers to follow. (Tip: If you’re serving lamb at any of your upcoming holiday parties, this a great wine pairing. Fairly easy to find online.)

2010 Robert Mondavi Pinot Noir Reserve, Carneros, Napa Valley $40

The Carneros region is like a box of chocolate, you never know what you are going to get. Discovering this gem blended with Napa fruit was surprising and rewarding. All of the elements come together, nice fruit and excellent winemaking. Beautiful expression of California’s diversity and one of my favorite grapes.

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: Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Sparkling

5 Wines to Enjoy from Frank Morgan

Sep28

September 28, 2012 by VineSleuth Leave a Comment

I met Frank at the Wine Bloggers Conference this summer and I love his philosophy of drinking what you like. So often I find people get wrapped up in what everyone else is drinking when, really, you should explore wines and drink what it is that YOU like. My hope for this feature every Friday, and my posts in general, is to help you do that, too: See what others think about wines to give you ideas, but then encourage you to drink what YOU enjoy.

Here’s a little more about Frank:

“I got into wine in 2005, while I was working on an extended project in San Jose. After a couple of months commuting back and forth each week to and from Virginia, I decided to stay over a weekend and visit this place called Napa Valley with work colleagues that were also staying over a weekend.

“I was hooked and stayed in the area every other weekend for about six months. I remember Alder Yarrow’s Vinography being the first blog I read, then I got hooked on other blogs. I started DrinkWhatYouLike.com in 2008, as a way to chronicle my wine travels and tasting experiences (though I’ve not done a good job of that).”

So what does Frank like?

Frank’s Top 5 Wines to Enjoy:

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

A tie between Gruet Brut ($14) and Sokol Blosser Evolution White

Gruet Brut, at $14, the highest QPR sparkling wine in the US in my opinion — and from New Mexico of all places. When in need of just one glass of bubbles during the week, this is our go-to sparkling wine. Crisp green apple, grapefruit with hints of bread dough.

Sokol Blosser Evolution White. A blend of nine grapes. I recently tasted this in Oregon at the Wine Bloggers Conference.

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

Louis Jadot Beaujolais-Village 2010 ($11.50)

Without a doubt the Louis Jadot Beaujolais-Village 2010 (and, I liked 2009 and 2008 as well). What a bargain for $11.50 — our go-to Tuesday night wine. Subtle cherry, spice and mineral components. Low tannin, high acid. And if you haven’t tried this one yet, be sure to. You’ll easily find it… big distribution.

One splurge (whatever splurge might mean to you):

Marcassin Vineyard 2005 Pinot Noir

No doubt on this one, we recently celebrated a special milestone and splurged — in a big way for me — by opening a bottle of Marcassin Vineyard 2005 Pinot Noir. Ethereal. (Any attempt at a review here would not be worthy of this wine)

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

Matthiasson Napa Valley White (2010)

Matthiasson Napa Valley White (2010) is a tasty blend of Sauvignon blanc, Ribolla Gialla, Semillon, Tocai Fruilano. I first met Steve and Jill Matthiasson during a trip to Napa in 2008 just after starting the Drink What You Like blog. They invited my wife and I to their home for dinner and I was hooked on their wine, authenticity and home spun charm. Steve truly is one of the most talented vintners in California today.

Annefield Vineyards 2010 Viognier

Viognier is best known as the grape of the Condrieu, but has found a home here in Viriginia, and is our signature state grape. Annefield Vineyards produces one of Virginia’s best examples of Viognier.

Have you enjoyed any of these wines? Do tell…

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: Pinot Noir, Sparkling, Under $20, white blend

5 Wines to Enjoy from Lisa Mattson

Sep20

September 20, 2012 by VineSleuth 1 Comment

I first met Lisa at the Wine Bloggers Conference in Portland this summer, at a party in her suite. She was a gracious hostess, a lot of fun to talk to (and very insightful!) and, of course, shared delicious wine (two of which she suggests below). She also impressed me as to how dedicated and forward-thinking she is about her winery’s blog, The Journey of Jordan. She is a 15-year veteran in the wine industry, though, so she definitely knows her stuff. It was no surprise to me when that site won Best Winery Blog at the Wine Blog Award s later in the conference.

Check her wine suggestions below (I know I will be.) and don’t forget to enter the Jordan photo contest before September 30.

Lisa’s Top 5 Wines to Enjoy:

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

Maison William Fevre Chablis “Champs Royaux” ($19)

William Fevre is one of Chablis’s most notable producers, and his entry-level Champs Royaux is one of the best value white burgundies I’ve found. It’s hard to find a white wine with such bright acidity and minerality for such a great price. Found at my local Beverages & More.

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

JCB Cremant de Bourgogne Brut Rose ($15)

Formerly known as Louis Boillot, I love the sleek new packaging from owner Jean-Charles Boisset – as well as the #69 he added to the package. He’s passionate about wine marketing and has a great sense of humor. Nice strawberry fruit. Great food wine. Think Thai salad, sushi, pizza. (Pink bubbly is as red as I get for under $20.)

One splurge (whatever splurge might mean to you):

2003 Jordan Cabernet Sauvignon Alexander Valley ($59)

This wine is just hitting its stride. It’s got a silky mouth feel and layers of blackberry and black cherry fruit. One of the best value library wines currently sold by Jordan—the current vintage, 2008, costs $52 and for only $7 more, you get a bottle that’s been aging in the winery cellar for an additional five years.

Disclaimer: Lisa works for Jordan. But I would agree this is a fantastic wine. –Amy

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

2008 Jordan Chardonnay Russian River Valley ($25-$32)

Now available as a library wine at Jordan, 2008 is stunning right now. It’s got this beautiful stone fruit and mouth-watering acidity that makes you want to take another sip. If you can find it locally, buy every bottle. This wine will not disappoint. It’s a true example of a Burgundy-style Chardonnay from California—and proves how balanced Chardonnays age gracefully.

Disclaimer: Lisa works for Jordan. But I would agree this is also delicious. –Amy

Franck Bonville Grand Cru Blanc de Blancs ($33)

The Champagne buyer for K&L Wine Merchants turned me onto this grower Champagne, and I can’t get enough of it. An amazing value. It’s like drinking Pierre Peters for half the price.

Have you enjoyed any of these wines? Do tell…

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.