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Shhh! Two years on oak, varietals that suit the CA climate and a talented and down to earth winemaker result in a wonderful everyday red from Mendocino. This is one I always have around as its food friendly and nicely balanced. A $20-$30 wine hiding in a $11 bottle.
(Holding the #1 spot)
My heavens! 50+ year old, organic Mencia vines from some of the highest vineyards in Bierzo. Subtle aromas of strawberry, pink grapefruit and white pepper play with clean river rock minerality touched by zesty key lime. Balance and finish are tied together with a vibrating acidity. Structured and executed like a world class ballerina doing flamenco. Sells out every year for good reason. Lighter than Provence, a different planet than White Zin. The only hard part is only opening one bottle at a time. (behind by 22 bottles)
First lets say that this is Not ChocoVine. This wine is actually made with eighty five percent Merlot and than has natural chocolate cream added to the mix. This is the wine for anyone looking for sweet red or the chocolate lover at home. Great gift for the holidays. (behind by 7 bottles)
An amazing value for Auslese (certified ripeness) fruit from Germany's Mosel River Valley. Classic light petroleum and mineral nose yet flavor sweet and soft with hints of apricots and vanilla cake. A great German staple with pork of all kinds and cheeses from soft Brie to hard Gouda. tied
Along the Loire river you'll find Saumur. Cab Franc dominates the red plantings and we can see a prime example with this bottle. Perfumed floral aromas, dark cherry, forest floor and mineral. Gorgeous mouthfeel and smooth tannic structure. Bright acidity making this wine an easy drinker.
Wine geeks know of Gigondas and Vacqueras that show off Grenache like no other. Bordering both is Beaumes de Venise which is known for fortified Muscat. On a steep hillside (at 1500 ft!) twin sisters Sabine and Isabelle make this earthy, spicy blend of Grenache, Syrah and Counoise. A gorgeous wine.
Lightly sparkling, fruity and sassy, Poquito is small in size but big on taste. Delicate floral aromas combine with a sweet yet refreshing palate of ripe peaches, pears and apricots. Apply liberally at any social occasion. Great right out of the bottle but really amazing with mint and rum as a mojito!
Do you love Burgundy, but not the price tag attached to it? This spatburgunder from Baden gives you a stellar example of what pinot can be outside of France. Red fruits and floral notes accompanied by that earthy, forest floor, mushroom that Burgundy is known for. Beautifully balanced, definitely one that should have a place at your table.
