STAFF PICKS
Things our staff "taste tested" this week. Tough job, but someone's gotta do it.
2018 Parajes del Valle, Jumilla DO - Spain (100% Monastrell) - $18.99
Everything about this wine says: Fresh Fruity FUN!!! Made by 28y.o. winemaker Maria Jover in the arid area knowing for big oaky reds, it’s surprisingly fresh, elegant, with mineralogy and acidity from limestone, and super approachable - everyone at your party will enjoy it! Bright red ruby in color, dark bing cherry on the pallet, soft barely present tannins and long spicy velvety finish. A great patio pounder, PLEASE TRY IT CHILLED!, excellent party wine, beautifully pairs with smoke meats and spicy food. And the most fun designed bottle you would love to bring home or to a party. Cheers to Midsummer!
-Alexei V.
2018 Domaine Pierre Guillemot, Bourgogne Rouge (biodynamic)- $32.99
Are you the type of person that loves Oregon Pinot Noir? Who enjoys a touch of earth and certain esoteric quality that ignites your imagination? I encourage you to explore Bourgogne; a.k.a. Burgundy. To keep things straight forward if it's Bourgogne and it's red it's Pinot Noir. If its white, it is Chardonnay. This particular entry level red over delivers for the price. Dark cherry, wild forest fruit and dried underbrush. A touch of kirsch and subtle spice finish this palate pleasing pinot noir.
-Mary K.
2018 Broc Cellars, Love White, Madera, CA (375ml Can) - $10.99
Summer on the water! Time to enjoy wine in a can! But, don't worry, this isn't your father's can of wine. A blend of Southern Rhone white varietals from one of the leaders in the California "Natural" wine scene, Broc Cellars harvests these Organically grown grapes from their 1300 ft elevation vineyard, near Redwoods National Park, with native green cover to keep the grapes cool, for a lighter more delicate expression. Soft acid, spring and summer floral aromas, and flavors of pear and quince are balanced with fine tannic structure from Roussanne, that is blended with Marsanne, Picpoul, and Grenache Blanc. All fermented with native yeasts and no to little added sulphites. This is a perfect summer wine on a pontoon boat or beside a pool, matched with a platter of delicate cheeses and crackers!
-Patrick D.
2019 Matthiasson, Village Chardonnay, Napa Valley - $23.99
This is the entry-level chard by Matthiasson Family Vineyards, but the quality exceeds many of its competitors. The acidity hits the palate instantly awakening and refreshing the drinker. This leads to a ripe pear, bruised golden delicious finish making this the perfect afternoon delight. Please enjoy this with some easy appetizers or in the good company of friends well shaded from the hot summer sun.
-Samuel P.