And just like that…. September is upon us, and we have a new case of the month for you to continue your adventures in sipping. You may want to get your hands on some great values and a few standouts, as they will not be on the shelves for long. So grab a glass, sit back, and read on - we have a case made up and waiting just for you.
Sparkling
(Spain) Pinord Mas y Mas (+&+) Cava
Grapes: Macabeo, Xarel-lo, Parellada
Notes: The refreshing, medium-sized bubbles in this straw-colored, youthful cava boasts the over 100 years of experience Pinord has in making fantastic Cavas - true to its name, it delivers more with bright acidity, hints of pear and a touch of citrus. As it swirls in your glass, it develops a creamy texture while remaining clean and tasty. At 14$ a bottle, this may become your go-to for sparkling! Pair with shellfish - think late summer crab boil!
Rosé
(Spain) 2021 Coto de Hayas Rosado
Grapes: 100% Garancha
Notes: Another great value here. This bright pink delight suggests freshly picked raspberries on the nose, leaning into lychee and white cake batter. The tiny hint of oak is balanced with the lovely acids. It leaves a lingering banana candy taste on the finish. A late summer porch sipper for sure, it would also pair well with blackened chicken or pork. So pop the cork (note the unusual enclosure) and enjoy!
(Oregon) 2021 Lolati Rosé
Grapes: 100% Grenache
Notes: Although dry, there is a definite tropical thing going on here for those who prefer a non-sweet, fruitier style of rosé. Think ripe, ruby red grapefruits alongside peaches and pears. Made with grapes sourced from Washington, the winemaker draws on her South African roots to make expressive wines in small lots. The finish will have you thinking ripe strawberry creme. A fun departure from the more typical osés from the New World.
Whites
(Oregon) 2021 Division Wine L’Orange
Grapes: Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, Gewurztraminer, Aligote
Notes: Adventures in wine drinking go in cycles, and currently, Orange wines are gaining some market share. Division's L'Orange is a very approachable orange sure to interest the novice and experienced alike. The slight sweetness is tempered by lovely earthy tannins, tart acidity, and a touch of cardamom. The typical herbal notes are a bit muted, making this understated Orange fresh, zingy, and fun. Pair with a perfectly prepared pork belly - and you have a win!
(Oregon) 2019 Ashlyn Pinot Gris
Grapes: Pinot Gris
Notes: Here is another example of a very accurate Willamette Valley Pinot Gris. Dry yet soft, nice weight on the palate from start to finish. The aroma of spring blossoms greets you on the nose. It continues to deliver thoughts of white stone fruits and lovely minerality. The lingering honeysuckle finish would compliment any dish with significant spice. Refreshing yet elegant, this beautiful Gris will be sure to please.
(Slovenia) 2021 Ptujska Klet Pullus
Grapes: 100% Pinot Grigio
Notes: The brief skin contact produces a beautifully hued orange blossom honey-colored wine. Although a departure from traditional Pinot Grigio, some might say this is how the grape was meant to be treated. Light, bright, and crisp on the palate with medium acidity and a fruity finish that lingers on the palate. This wine would pair nicely with any pasta dish, a pizza with a white sauce, or enjoy on its own.
(New Zealand) 2021 Frenzy Sauvignon Blanc
Grapes: 100% Sauvignon Blanc
Notes: An excellent example of a classic Sauvignon blanc from New Zealand, this wine has the grapefruit and tart green apple notes with a hint of petrol that one would expect. The noticeable salinity is well balanced by high acid, leaving a lingering grassy finish. This light, refreshing wine is excellent on its own but would also pair well with a lovely charcuterie board.
Reds
(Italy) 2020, Angelo Negro Vino Rosso
Grapes: 100% Brachetto
Notes: Slightly funky, this chillable red is a fun venture off the beaten path. When we first tasted it, the thought of dirty strawberries came to mind in a good way! The red-fruited nose presents a lively wine on the palate and delivers in body. It has an earthy minerality and a hint of effervescence with a bing cherry undercurrent. This wine has great texture and is one you won't want to miss. Perfect to pair with bacon-wrapped dates - be sure to shake before serving!
(Spain) 2021 L'Heravi Negre
Grapes: Carinyena, Garnatxa Negra, Syrah
Notes: Very fruit forward with notes of plum and blackberry, This is a juicy mouthful that is well balanced with high acidity. The finish is interesting and suggests notes of coco and anise and a touch of oak. This wine also begs for a lovely lamb dish, perfect for all of your tapas.
(Oregon) 2021 Planet Oregon Pinot Noir
Grapes: 100% Pinot Noir
Notes: Fresh and juicy, this medium-bodied pinot is a great value winning awards left and right (91 points Wine Spectator, 90 points Wine Enthusiast). Sharp and detailed, aged in neutral oak, it shows tight blackberry notes with a slightly tart, peppery spin. The lightly chewy tannins integrate well with the acidity. Be traditional and pair with plank-grilled salmon, and you will have a fantastic experience with Oregon Pinot that won't break the bank.
(Washington) 2020 Casa Smith Barbera
Grapes: 100% Barbera
Notes: This Barbera is a smooth operator, just like its winemaker. There is a dark earthiness coming from the young vines that show great promise. It is fruity, savory, rich and elegant all at once. Although it is a bit of a departure from traditional Barbera, it works. From Friday night pizza night to grilled filet, at 20$ a bottle, this wine will definitely surprise and delight.
(France) 2019 Domaine Chante Cigale Chateauneuf-du-Pape
Grapes: Grenache, Syrah, Mourverde, Cinsault
Notes: The velvety mouthfeel on this fantastic wine is an incredible value for a Chateauneuf-du-Pape, as it drinks like it should cost three times as much. Inky, complex, rich, soft and lovely, this wine is well rounded and has a complex, pleasing finish. There is a significant suggestion of wet gravel and cold cement. At only 49$, this will impress even the most discerning palates. So be the star of your next dinner party, and show up with this!
