Well, everyone says you have to start somewhere. I'm sitting at gate K10 in Chicago's O'Hare Airport waiting for a flight that might not take off today because of a fair bit of snow, both in the air and on the ground. Today, that's where “somewhere” is.
I want to do this because I enjoy wine, how it sparks conversation, and how a glass or two breaks down barriers for even the shyest of folks. It's worth mentioning that I have no formal education/training in the wine industry. I've got a few great, longtime friends who have taught and who exposed me to wine when I was young and who continue to foster my curiosity. I am immensely grateful and thankful for them.
So since I haven't taken notes on wine in a few weeks, I think the best way to start is to list some of my favorite wines from the past year. Here we go. I've provided links where possible.
This wine, if you like rosé, is pretty much the epitome of summer wine. It's bright, fresh, nicely acidic, and juicy. On the nose you will find strawberries, red currants, floral notes, and minerals. You will never regret opening this on a hot and humid day.
2/ 2017 Napa Valley Sauvignon Blanc, Duckhorn Vineyards
Sauvignon Blanc is a summer favorite for my friends and I, and this wine nears the top of our favorites wines (I'll admit, we are heavily biased). This wine is bright, juicy, and has streaks of minerality and natural acidity. On the nose, you'll find strong aromas of grapefruit, lime, and melon. This wine is the perfect compliment to a well-rounded cheese board after a long, hot hike. This is sold out on the producer website, but look for it in your local grocery store.
3/ Rosé, Decoy by Duckhorn Wines
Decoy is likely the brand you already know well and drink often. At $15/bottle (with Safeway discount) this is a steal. This wine is fresh and fantastically dry with crisp flavors of strawberries and raspberries. This is your platonic ideal of a summer wine. Oh, and it photographs well. Not sure if this is available, but check out the most recent vintage.
4/ 2018 Georgia Rosé, Becklin Vineyard, Dowsett Family Wines
This wine is special to me. It's evocative of friendship, learning, and celebration. I drink this wine a few times a year, and when I do it is stunning. All aspects of this wine embody why I love wine; it's delicious, can be easily shared, and is a medium for creating memories and lasting relationships. The family who makes this wine is incredibly hardworking and dedicated to their craft. Have a celebration? This is a good bet.
5/ 2017 Napa Proprietary White White, Paraduxx Wines by Duckhorn
With flavors of ripe tropical fruits and zesty aromas, this wine places you on the beaches of the Dominican Republic with just the right amount of sunburn and lack of responsibilities. It's blended to match the modern palate and easy drinking, yes even in winter. 2017 is sold out, but try 2018+.
If you've made it this far, thanks! There will hopefully be more posts. Also, most wines like these are traditionally drank during summer to maximize refreshment. People say you can't/shouldn't drink white/rosé wine during the winter. Fuck 'em. Just drink good wine with good people and the temperature ceases to matter.
To reply you need to sign in.