Happy New Year! 2023 promises brighter horizons, new adventures and, of course, great wine. You will thank us for this newly procured case of the month and for keeping your budget in mind without sacrificing the quality of the wine. As one of our favorite distributors said one day - it's all about moderation. Be that as it may, we know January can be an eye-opener as we discern the damage of the holidays. So read on to glimpse our value-minded case of the month.
Bubbles
(Spain) Mas y Mas Cava NV, $15
Grapes: Macabeo, Xarel-lo, Parellada
Notes: Fresh, inviting, easy and fun, this bubbly Cava is straw yellow and made with the traditional Catalan grapes found in standard Cava. Light citrus greets the nose, while notes of Asian pear will become noticeable on the palate. This lovely little wonder is delightfully creamy without being over-cakey or yeasty. Thank a six-month stainless fermentation. Organic and vegan, these folks have not been making Cava for over one hundred years for naught! Pair with tapas, shell and lean fishes, or simply on its own, it takes every day to an elevated day.
Rosé
(France) 2021 Triennes Rose, $15
Grapes: Cinsault, Grenache, Syrah, Merlot
Notes: The expressive and compelling aromatics quickly lead to a slightly strawberry kissed Rosé that is interesting, dry, and elegant. This isn't your neighbor's boxed Rosé - it definitely has something to offer the most discerning palates. It exhibits the slightest funk on the finish with definitive notes of sandalwood and earth. Pair with grilled seafood of all kinds. This is one to drink now (or tomorrow will be fine).
(France) 2021 Cecilia Beretta Bianco di Custoza, $14
Grapes: Trebbiano de Toscano, Garganega, Tocai Friulano, Malvasia
Notes: A rare white blend that offers a ton of bang for your buck. Flirty and fresh, this wine has an aromatic greenness that will make you think only one bottle for your cellar is simply not enough. This is the entry-level wine for Cecilia Beretta, but trust us, it can definitely hold its own with more expensive comparisons. Perfect for white fish or dinner pre-gaming. Truly refreshing and truly enjoyable.
Reds
(Italy) 2020 Le Fraghe Bardolino, $18
Grapes: Rondinella
Notes: The lightest of this month's red selections, this is an easy-going sipper with quaffability galore. The winery is female-owned and operated, and its feminine touches will not go unnoticed. Cherry and raspberry, with hints of cinnamon and peppercorn, ends with a soft, velvety finish that is surprising for such a light, lovely wine. With a bit of zip on the front end, soft cheeses would fit the bill nicely. But, as it is no slouch, pair it with some game, and see how it holds up!
(France) 2021 Les Here+Iques, $15
Grapes: Syrah, Carignan
Notes: What's inside counts (not just with people), but this bottle will speak to you. The label is compelling, and thankfully the contents definitely do not disappoint. It is dark boysenberry in color with a definite suggestion of blackberry jam. The round tannins are easy and fruity without being too much. It is plush yet still reasonably dry, bold and compelling. A solid choice. Serve with your best charcuterie, and your guests and palate will thank you.
(Spain) Dominio de Eguren Protocolo Tinto, $12
Grapes: Tempranillo
Notes: These guys are well known for producing some of Spain's highest-value table wines. Organically farmed, this gem shows incredible freshness and balance and is fully expressive with respectable restraint. The tannins are humble and balanced with elevated acidity. Dark cherry with a persistent oakiness and a definite presence of vanilla on the finish. Being a bit lighter-bodied, it is perfect with manchego and Jamon, yet it could take a turn at the table with veal or lamb.
(Spain) Vina Olabarri Crianza, $17
Grapes: Tempranillo
Notes: Another Tempranillo, you ask? Yes! This value favorite from Rioja is a must-try for even the most discerning palates. It is full-bodied, well structured and leans dry - think cranberry cola. Earthy and maybe even a bit smokey (BBQ, not a forest fire), it is soft, spicy, and lifted but oddly crunchy. An excellent go-to for roasted meats of any kind. And with a haunting zip on the finish, it will make you want to reach for it again and again.
(Spain) 2021 Pago Casa Gran Casa Benasal Elegant, $15
Grapes: Shiraz, Monastrell, Garanacha Tintorera
Notes: This gem from Pago Casa Gran is an old favorite of ours. It's a moderately bold red with a nose to behold, a silky mouthfeel and a lingering finish. So grab your favorite sausages and reminisce about the days of outdoor grilling without rain - or better yet, keep it inside and do some old-school beef tacos. All around, this is a staple for winter wonderings of all kinds.
(France) 2016 Jean Pierre Gaussen Vin de pays du Mont-Caume, $15
Grapes: Cinsault, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Granachee, Mourvedre
Notes: This rustic and wonderful blend from France is meaty and funky without pretension. Although more savory than fruity, it maintains balance, showcasing the terroir and ability to provide something big and brambly yet restrained and sophisticated. The essence of geranium on the nose ends with suggestive baking chocolate aromas on the finish. Although light on the palate, it delivers in spades. If hard cheeses are your jam, this is a winner or pour it with a decadent dinner. The winemaker has said, "this is the best lamb wine out here."
(Washington) 202 Kiona Lemberger, $17
Grapes: Lemberger
Notes: Returning to our home country, this unusual and uniquely underrated varietal whose winemaker said, "this bottle contains a tasty bit of liquid intrigue." Bright and medium-bodied, with well-balanced nuances of oak and fruit, this is a succulent sip that is easy on its own, delightful and delicious. On a rainy Northwest night, these guys clearly understand the relationship between comfort, wine and a hearty pasta dish that will warm your heart and your soul without breaking the bank!
(France) 2019 Chateau di Peraza Cuvee Speciale Tinto Minervois, $15
Grapes: Syrah, Grenache, Mouvedre
Notes: All around the mulberry bush! This is a fruity, unoaked, easy-to-drink score. Dark garnet in color, the raspberry/cherry compote gently leads into an amazingly balanced velvety wine that even Goldilocks would say, "this wine is just right." Meatless pasta, or if you are feeling saucy, toss in some veal, and you may find your neighbors peeking in the window to see what you have going on.
(France) Clos De la Coutale Malbec, $19
Grapes: Malbec with just enough Merlot
Notes: If the critics judged a red wine based on color alone, this would be 150 out of 100 points. With a beautiful dark ruby color, this wine says drink me NOW, although laying it down for a few wouldn't hurt. It juggles elegant rusticity with everyday, delicate drinkability. If you had to choose just one wine to enjoy this month, do yourself a favor and pick this one.