Easter weekend, for many folks, brings to mind the return of outdoor Sunday brunches with balmy temperatures and sunny days. Whatever Mother Nature has in store for your weekend repasts, PRP Wine has a selection that'll be ideal for your favorite brunch fare. Apparently some of our clients must be on the same page I am, because they've been asking me about some of my brunch-ready faves:
PIEROTH BLUE NV SEKT/DEMI SEC (SPARKLING RIESLING)/GERMANY: $22.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)
For some reason I still can't understand, many wine fans shy away from sparkling wine. (No, I'm not going to fall into the trap of referring to all sparklers as Champagnes, especially since I know that authentic Champagne comes from the region, by the same name, in northeastern France.) Some say that bubbly "tastes funny," citing its unusual dryness and acidity (classic characteristics of those from the Loire Valley), or its fullness and opulently rich mouthfeel (Cava, anyone?). At any rate, here's a bubbly that's very different from the zesty Bruts or the ultra-buttery Spanish sparklers most folks know: It's a Sekt, a variation on the sparkling theme that hails from Germany. In the case of the Pieroth Blue -- a bubbly made by the traditional method -- its Riesling grapes are sourced from family-owned vineyards throughout the German wine regions of Rheinhessen, Rheingau, and Nahe. As the first PRP selection I'd tasted, I fell instantly in love with its exuberant aromas of mandarin orange, tangerine, apricot, lime, and pear, with fresh notes of jasmine, candied ginger, and honey adding a grace note. Those same fruit essences carry over onto the bright, lively palate, with engaging acidity keeping things interesting all the way through the cheerful finish of sweet citrus and zippy baking spices. It's a delightful, light-on-its-feet variation of the Riesling grape, just the thing for citrus-based desserts -- think lemon meringue pie, Meyer lemon tarts, ice cream or creme brulee with a hint of citrus -- and it's a must-have for mimosas. Did I forget to add that it should be on the must-buy list for bridal couples planning their wedding receptions?
PUERTA DEL MEDITERRANEO '07 60% BIANCO MALVAR/40% AIREN/LA MANCHA (SPAIN): $16.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)
As wine fans the world over know, Spain is emerging as one of the world's hottest wine-producing regions in terms of the ever-elusive combination of quality and value in vino. Although Spain's long renown for noble, age-worthy Rioja riservas -- Tempranillos that frequently see more than two years in oak before bottling -- it's getting much-deserved love for other varietals from other regions, including Albarinos from the northwesternmost region of Rias Biaxas, Monastrell from Jumilla, and this crisp, fresh white blend from La Mancha. (Yes, that's the same region referenced in the 1972 film Man of La Mancha.) It's a region with chilly winters, blisteringly hot summers, and plenty of minerality in the soil, all of which are expressed in our zesty, light-bodied mix of Bianco Malvar and Airen. Lively essences of fresh lemon and lime -- as well as notes of green pepper, dill, and oregano -- dance from the glass, as does its palate with mellow, smoothly integrated minerality. The finish of lemon, dill, and white pepper offers grace to the wine's elegant nature. Pair this ultra-flexible white with the likes of halibut, mahi mahi, swordfish, shark, chicken, or veggies, and you'll have happy guests at your table.
FURST FERENC '07 GRUNER VELTLINER/AUSTRIA: $18.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)
Folks at the Los Angeles PRP office have heard me rave endlessly about this selection for months, and I'm not about to stop enthusing about this sultry, exotic dry-white selection any time soon. Small wonder: It's far and away the best example of this varietal -- which dates to Roman times, but officially termed Gruner Veltliner by the mid-1800s -- under $35. Austria's terroir allows this classy varietal, with its medium-full body and gripping acidity, to flourish, thanks to its steeply terraced vineyards, its mineral-laden soil, and its cool nights. Although many Gruners take the mineral-and-acid trip much too far, ours is in perfect balance. Look for invigorating scents and flavors of freshly squeezed lime, grapefruit, in addition to compelling hints of snap pea, green pepper, white pepper, and star anise. Pair its well-integrated, zippy minerality with a spicy, back-palate finish, and you'll enjoy a gorgeous white I wish I were sipping now. It's a star with oysters, as well as artichokes and asparagus -- two notoriously tough-to-pair vegetables -- but the Ferenc is a perfect match for them both.
CECILE CHASSAGNE '06 COTES DU RHONE/$19.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)
Since any self-respecting brunch will also offer heartier, more robust fare than souffles, waffles, or poached eggs -- think blackened salmon or roast beef, for example -- it's only fair to provide oenophiles a red that'll provide plenty of character without being so ponderous that it'll be out of place during a mid-day repast. That's where this medium-bodied Southern Rhone baby comes into play; its magenta hue accents any brunch table with elegance. But if you want to do more with this wonderful red blend that merely look at it, you'll be rewarded with its succulent scents and flavors of dusty-dry raspberry, cranberry, and blackberry, as well as its classic Southern-Rhone notes of freshly ground black pepper, smoke, and "barnyard" on the nose. Hints of sage, dill, and peppercorn linger on the palate, all the way through its streak of spicy acidity, its remarkable integration and structure, and its satisfying finish of herbs, smoke, and dry red and black berries. Needless to say, this classic and exuberant Cotes du Rhone is a red to order by the case, given its ready affinity with a wide variety of casual/comfort fare: burgers and any grilled meat, stews, meat or turkey loaf, pot pies, casseroles, or classic French country fare -- cassoulet or French onion soup come readily to mind. (Since the Cecile Chassagne Cotes du Rhone has been one of my PRP faves for a while, I was bowled over when my manager gave me a bottle of it as an Easter gift.)
Cheers!
~ Jan
Friday, April 10, 2009
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Springtime, and the quaffing is tasty
With sunshine and balmy temperatures on the horizon -- if they're not here already -- it's time to think about planning get-togethers with the favorite folks in your life. (Did I forget to mention that both Mother's and Father's Day, Memorial Day, graduations, weddings, and family reunions are right around the corner?) With the wide array of wines available from PRP Wine International, you'll never be at a loss for scoring a hit with your friends and guests, regardless if they prefer fresh, zesty whites or voluptuous, full-tilt reds. Don't hesitate to contact me, via a reply, if you'd like to pick up some of these beauties for your wine collection, or if you'd like to make a milestone event even more memorable with our custom-designed label that showcases that special day.
CONTE OTTAVIO PICCOLOMINI DUCA D'AMALFI (VENETO): $18.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)
PRP clients the world over have bought oceans of this tempting Chardonnay/Pinot Grigio/Trebbiano blend over the last few decades, and it's easy to understand why: It entices with its lovely nose of orange, tangerine, lemon, lemon blossom, and jasmine, captivates with its sassy citrus flavors, candied-ginger notes, and peppy acidity, and delights with its upbeat finish of orange, lemon, and ginger. One of my personal favorites in PRP's collection, it's unbeatable with grilled chicken, halibut, swordfish, or citrus-marinated shellfish. Enjoy!
2008 VICOMTE BERNARD DE ROMANET CHARDONNAY (LANGUEDOC): $19.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)
The Languedoc -- the region in southern France facing the Mediterranean Sea -- is known for its warm, sunny climate similar to that of California's Central Coast; it's small wonder, then, that hot-weather grapes thrive there. This unoaked, fruit-forward Chard is Exhibit "A" of that concept, with its cheerful and inviting aromas of orange blossom, naval orange, and lemon. The same fruit carries over onto the full, mouth-filling palate, accented by lively notes of ginger and white pepper. It's terrific with chicken or white fish with a citrus salsa, or just by itself.
2007 CHEVALIER DE BAYARD VIN DE PAYS D'OC (LANGUEDOC): $17.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)
This cheerful fruit-forward, light-bodied red blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvedre from Languedoc is a long-time favorite among PRP customers, who affectionately call it "Chevy Red." Small wonder: It bursts with juicy, mid-palate flavors of raspberry, boysenberry, and strawberry, as well as zesty notes of nutmeg and clove. Not only is it absolutely studly with casual fare -- think burgers, ribs, pizza, meat loaf, or pasta with red sauce -- it's a winner to cook with. (Many of our customers put a healthy splash of Chevy Red on burgers while they're cooking on the grill, with the red fruit bringing out the rich flavors of the beef.) Without a doubt, this selection is a must-have for anyone who enjoys cooking.
2007 SATIRANO BARBERA (PIEDMONT): $17.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)
One of our most in-demand Italian selections is this vivacious winner from Piedmont, the northwesternmost region of Italy renown for Nebbiolo, the grape featured in heavyweight stars Barolo and Barbaresco. This intriguing medium-bodied red offers aromas and flavors of black cherry, fig, black licorice, coffee, and cloves. Keeping things fun is that engaging kiss of lemon, which provides zippy acidity to the vibrant essence of the wine. Throw in a zesty finish of lemon, black cherry, and nutmeg, and you've got a wine that pairs wonderfully with a wide variety of fare, including blackened salmon and pasta topped with marinara sauce. Did I mention it's also nifty to enjoy by itself?
2007 SATIRANO DOLCETTO D'ALBA (PIEDMONT): $21.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)
Another lighter red that calls Piedmont home is Dolcetto, and ours is a classic example of the varietal, with to its appealing nose and palate of black cherry, black licorice, coffee, cloves, and a soft hint of smoke. It's a bit softer than Barbera, thanks to a delicate hint of acidity, but its medium body and easy finish of black cherry and baking spices make it one of the more versatile reds known. Try it with an array of comfort entrees, such as meat loaf, beef stroganoff, stew, or anything grilled.
GOLDEN GRAPE 54% SHIRAZ/40% CABERNET SAUVIGNON/6% MERLOT (AUSTRALIA): $19.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)
When fans of big-bodied, full-flavored reds hear Australia mentioned, it's a sure bet their eyes light up. That's why we at PRP offer this robust, jammy red blend with its outgoing scents and flavors of ripe-to-the-point-of-bursting blackberry, boysenberry, and blueberry, as well as hints of cloves, nutmeg, black pepper, dark chocolate, coffee, and menthol. Add its opulent body, its gentle tannins, its velvet-soft mouthfeel, and its sweet 'n' spicy finish, and it's clear why this big boy has been a PRP favorite for years. Ribs, anyone?
2005 GOLDEN GRAPE CABERNET SAUVIGNON (RUTHERFORD): $39.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)
If you're yearning for an opulent Cab from Napa, search no longer. One of my PRP colleagues sampled this plush beauty at a recent event, and was utterly blown away by its layers of rich, intense currant, blackberry, and plum -- as well as essences of dark chocolate, espresso, freshly cracked black pepper, cloves, and smoke -- that unfold one by one on the velvety palate. Add its gorgeous, deep scents of ripe black fruit, sweet spices, smoke, and earth, not to mention its well-integrated tannins and a lush mid-palate finish of fruit and pepper that seems to last for an hour, and you have an absolute stunner. Please introduce it to a thick cut of ribeye with a port-reduction sauce!
Cheers!
~ Jan
CONTE OTTAVIO PICCOLOMINI DUCA D'AMALFI (VENETO): $18.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)
PRP clients the world over have bought oceans of this tempting Chardonnay/Pinot Grigio/Trebbiano blend over the last few decades, and it's easy to understand why: It entices with its lovely nose of orange, tangerine, lemon, lemon blossom, and jasmine, captivates with its sassy citrus flavors, candied-ginger notes, and peppy acidity, and delights with its upbeat finish of orange, lemon, and ginger. One of my personal favorites in PRP's collection, it's unbeatable with grilled chicken, halibut, swordfish, or citrus-marinated shellfish. Enjoy!
2008 VICOMTE BERNARD DE ROMANET CHARDONNAY (LANGUEDOC): $19.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)
The Languedoc -- the region in southern France facing the Mediterranean Sea -- is known for its warm, sunny climate similar to that of California's Central Coast; it's small wonder, then, that hot-weather grapes thrive there. This unoaked, fruit-forward Chard is Exhibit "A" of that concept, with its cheerful and inviting aromas of orange blossom, naval orange, and lemon. The same fruit carries over onto the full, mouth-filling palate, accented by lively notes of ginger and white pepper. It's terrific with chicken or white fish with a citrus salsa, or just by itself.
2007 CHEVALIER DE BAYARD VIN DE PAYS D'OC (LANGUEDOC): $17.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)
This cheerful fruit-forward, light-bodied red blend of Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvedre from Languedoc is a long-time favorite among PRP customers, who affectionately call it "Chevy Red." Small wonder: It bursts with juicy, mid-palate flavors of raspberry, boysenberry, and strawberry, as well as zesty notes of nutmeg and clove. Not only is it absolutely studly with casual fare -- think burgers, ribs, pizza, meat loaf, or pasta with red sauce -- it's a winner to cook with. (Many of our customers put a healthy splash of Chevy Red on burgers while they're cooking on the grill, with the red fruit bringing out the rich flavors of the beef.) Without a doubt, this selection is a must-have for anyone who enjoys cooking.
2007 SATIRANO BARBERA (PIEDMONT): $17.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)
One of our most in-demand Italian selections is this vivacious winner from Piedmont, the northwesternmost region of Italy renown for Nebbiolo, the grape featured in heavyweight stars Barolo and Barbaresco. This intriguing medium-bodied red offers aromas and flavors of black cherry, fig, black licorice, coffee, and cloves. Keeping things fun is that engaging kiss of lemon, which provides zippy acidity to the vibrant essence of the wine. Throw in a zesty finish of lemon, black cherry, and nutmeg, and you've got a wine that pairs wonderfully with a wide variety of fare, including blackened salmon and pasta topped with marinara sauce. Did I mention it's also nifty to enjoy by itself?
2007 SATIRANO DOLCETTO D'ALBA (PIEDMONT): $21.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)
Another lighter red that calls Piedmont home is Dolcetto, and ours is a classic example of the varietal, with to its appealing nose and palate of black cherry, black licorice, coffee, cloves, and a soft hint of smoke. It's a bit softer than Barbera, thanks to a delicate hint of acidity, but its medium body and easy finish of black cherry and baking spices make it one of the more versatile reds known. Try it with an array of comfort entrees, such as meat loaf, beef stroganoff, stew, or anything grilled.
GOLDEN GRAPE 54% SHIRAZ/40% CABERNET SAUVIGNON/6% MERLOT (AUSTRALIA): $19.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)
When fans of big-bodied, full-flavored reds hear Australia mentioned, it's a sure bet their eyes light up. That's why we at PRP offer this robust, jammy red blend with its outgoing scents and flavors of ripe-to-the-point-of-bursting blackberry, boysenberry, and blueberry, as well as hints of cloves, nutmeg, black pepper, dark chocolate, coffee, and menthol. Add its opulent body, its gentle tannins, its velvet-soft mouthfeel, and its sweet 'n' spicy finish, and it's clear why this big boy has been a PRP favorite for years. Ribs, anyone?
2005 GOLDEN GRAPE CABERNET SAUVIGNON (RUTHERFORD): $39.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)
If you're yearning for an opulent Cab from Napa, search no longer. One of my PRP colleagues sampled this plush beauty at a recent event, and was utterly blown away by its layers of rich, intense currant, blackberry, and plum -- as well as essences of dark chocolate, espresso, freshly cracked black pepper, cloves, and smoke -- that unfold one by one on the velvety palate. Add its gorgeous, deep scents of ripe black fruit, sweet spices, smoke, and earth, not to mention its well-integrated tannins and a lush mid-palate finish of fruit and pepper that seems to last for an hour, and you have an absolute stunner. Please introduce it to a thick cut of ribeye with a port-reduction sauce!
Cheers!
~ Jan
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Embrace spring with wines for every palate
When you're in the wine business, you're involved in a happy whirlwind of a wide range of activities -- events, promotions, and many others -- with sampling wines you've never tried before as the happiest, of course. And if being introduced to a bevy of distinguished selections isn't enough to make a soul smile, the gorgeous early spring weather that Southern California denizens have enjoyed the last few weeks is sure to do the trick. (Let's hope we're seeing the last of cold and gloomy springs!) With that, let's bring on on a variety of selections that'll appeal to a wide range of wine fans:
RAUENTHALER STEINMACHER 2006 SPATLESE RIESLING/RHEINGAU: $22.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)
When I poured this vivacious Spat, my better half was relaxing that afternoon, sprawled out on the couch in front of the tube and flipping channels before settling on "Herbie Fully Loaded," the 2005 Disney vehicle starring the oft-troubled Lindsay Lohan. (Don't worry, folks: He's not a devotee of pre-teen Disney fare.) That's when I realized that the phrase fully loaded describes this Rheingau beauty to a "T," starting with its lovely golden hue and ultra-aromatic noce of ripe pineapple, tangerine, and orange blossom. Add its astonishing mid-palate explosion of pineapple, lemon, tangerine, pear, and dried apricot -- with notes of candied ginger and cinnamon to keep things lively -- as well as that exotic texture of zippy acidity and luscious butter. Add a lengthy finish of butter and pineapple, and you've got a wine that'll be sure to impress your guests at your springtime feasts. May I suggest pairing this loaded Riesling with glazed ham topped with pineapple?
CONTE OTTAVIO PICCOLOMINI 2007 SICILIA SANGIOVESE: $12.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)
Here's a classy, balanced Sangiovese (yep, folks, that's the grape that's featured in Chianti, Tuscany's oenological claim to fame) priced for fans of the varietal to enjoy every night, yet noteworthy enough for a dinner party or a gift. Despite the fact that this Sangiovese is grown in a region better known for the brooding Nero d'Avola, everything about this Piccolomini selection showcases the varietal at its brightest and food-worthy best: its subtle nose of Bing cherries, strawberries, lemon, and a hint of rose petals; its mouthwatering flavors of tangy red and black cherries, strawberries, green peppers, dill, oregano, and peppercorns that dance all over the palate; its fun squirt of lemony acidity, and its laid-back finish of green pepper and oregano. While it's a natural match with herb-loaded marinara sauce, don't be shy about introducing it to spicy blackened salmon (a favorite at home), chili, Tex-Mex dishes, or meat/turkey loaf.
DEEPWOOD CELLARS 2007 CHARDONNAY/MONTEREY: $21.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)
As most wine fans already know, there's been a relatively serious backlash during the last few years among the public regarding heavily oaked, over-extracted Chards with finishes so heavy that they resemble gasoline. I tend to agree with the dissenters of this type. To paraphrase the title of that 005 Disney trifle I'd mentioned earlier, the Chardonnay grape is, by its own merits, so fully loaded that it doesn't need much -- if any -- interference from anyone else than Mother Nature. If any wine makes this case perfectly, it's this deceptively voluptuous offering from Monterey, which offers a seductive bouquet of succulent melon and butter; a rich mid-palate deluge of melon, lemon, and lime, with intriguing hints of eucalyptus, menthol, and dill; and a caressing finish of butter, lemon, and dill. This wine is an obvious pick to click with chicken, halibut, swordfish, or mahi mahi with lemon-dill sauce -- as well as souffles -- but its full body and dynamic flavors can make it a great match with a wide variety of fare.
CHATEAU BERTIN 2005 BORDEAUX/ST. EMILION: $30.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)
Stop me if you've hear or read this before, but 2005 has been hailed as one of the finest vintages for Bordeaux in years. (When I'd been the owner-manager of a wine shop in northeastern Orange County, I was briefly in the lucky position of having both an '00 and an '05 -- two vintage winners -- in stock at the same time. How good was that?) Anyway, to paraphrase one of my PRP collegues in describing that landmark '05 vintage, winemakers in Bordeaux were blessed with such good fortune from the oenological gods that year that they pretty much sat back and let the terroir take care of the grapes. As a result, everyone who has the savvy to pick up the '05 will experience the opulence and complexity this vintage offers in abundance. Truly, the Bertin is a don't miss, as well as one of my all-time favorites. It's a show-stopper, from its rich nose of dry currant, blackberry, earth, smoke, and understated floral notes; its flavors of dusty blackberry, currant, plum, cedar, earth, and gravel that unfold on the mid-palate; its gorgeous structure and balance; its mellow, faintly minerally acidity, and its lingering, smoky finish. While balanced Bordeaux such as this one are ideal with aged beef or rack of lamb, don't hesitate to pair this one with grilled steaks -- its smoky flavors and finish are a natural with anything with a bit of char -- or with your favorite stews, cassoulet, or French onion soup.
DEEPWOOD CELLARS NV BLACK MUSCAT/LODI: $19.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)
Still wondering what to serve with that can't-resist creme brulee, dessert souffle, Meyer lemon tart, or favorite fruit dessert you've prepared so carefully for your spring desserts? Ponder no more: This sweetie from Lodi -- the hot-weather region known best as a top source of high-octane Zinfandels -- befriends all of those postprandial treats, and more. Not only is it pretty to look at (how can you turn away from its enchanting ruby color?), it's a charmer to enjoy, with its nose of ultra-ripe raspberries and boysenberries, its flavors of massively ripe red berries that explode all over the middle palate, and its soft, gentle finish that subtly accents your chosen dessert. Now that I think of it, this Black Muscat would also be ideal with French vanilla ice cream, strudel, white chocolate ... and a host of other opulent goodies.
Cheers!
~ Jan
RAUENTHALER STEINMACHER 2006 SPATLESE RIESLING/RHEINGAU: $22.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)
When I poured this vivacious Spat, my better half was relaxing that afternoon, sprawled out on the couch in front of the tube and flipping channels before settling on "Herbie Fully Loaded," the 2005 Disney vehicle starring the oft-troubled Lindsay Lohan. (Don't worry, folks: He's not a devotee of pre-teen Disney fare.) That's when I realized that the phrase fully loaded describes this Rheingau beauty to a "T," starting with its lovely golden hue and ultra-aromatic noce of ripe pineapple, tangerine, and orange blossom. Add its astonishing mid-palate explosion of pineapple, lemon, tangerine, pear, and dried apricot -- with notes of candied ginger and cinnamon to keep things lively -- as well as that exotic texture of zippy acidity and luscious butter. Add a lengthy finish of butter and pineapple, and you've got a wine that'll be sure to impress your guests at your springtime feasts. May I suggest pairing this loaded Riesling with glazed ham topped with pineapple?
CONTE OTTAVIO PICCOLOMINI 2007 SICILIA SANGIOVESE: $12.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)
Here's a classy, balanced Sangiovese (yep, folks, that's the grape that's featured in Chianti, Tuscany's oenological claim to fame) priced for fans of the varietal to enjoy every night, yet noteworthy enough for a dinner party or a gift. Despite the fact that this Sangiovese is grown in a region better known for the brooding Nero d'Avola, everything about this Piccolomini selection showcases the varietal at its brightest and food-worthy best: its subtle nose of Bing cherries, strawberries, lemon, and a hint of rose petals; its mouthwatering flavors of tangy red and black cherries, strawberries, green peppers, dill, oregano, and peppercorns that dance all over the palate; its fun squirt of lemony acidity, and its laid-back finish of green pepper and oregano. While it's a natural match with herb-loaded marinara sauce, don't be shy about introducing it to spicy blackened salmon (a favorite at home), chili, Tex-Mex dishes, or meat/turkey loaf.
DEEPWOOD CELLARS 2007 CHARDONNAY/MONTEREY: $21.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)
As most wine fans already know, there's been a relatively serious backlash during the last few years among the public regarding heavily oaked, over-extracted Chards with finishes so heavy that they resemble gasoline. I tend to agree with the dissenters of this type. To paraphrase the title of that 005 Disney trifle I'd mentioned earlier, the Chardonnay grape is, by its own merits, so fully loaded that it doesn't need much -- if any -- interference from anyone else than Mother Nature. If any wine makes this case perfectly, it's this deceptively voluptuous offering from Monterey, which offers a seductive bouquet of succulent melon and butter; a rich mid-palate deluge of melon, lemon, and lime, with intriguing hints of eucalyptus, menthol, and dill; and a caressing finish of butter, lemon, and dill. This wine is an obvious pick to click with chicken, halibut, swordfish, or mahi mahi with lemon-dill sauce -- as well as souffles -- but its full body and dynamic flavors can make it a great match with a wide variety of fare.
CHATEAU BERTIN 2005 BORDEAUX/ST. EMILION: $30.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)
Stop me if you've hear or read this before, but 2005 has been hailed as one of the finest vintages for Bordeaux in years. (When I'd been the owner-manager of a wine shop in northeastern Orange County, I was briefly in the lucky position of having both an '00 and an '05 -- two vintage winners -- in stock at the same time. How good was that?) Anyway, to paraphrase one of my PRP collegues in describing that landmark '05 vintage, winemakers in Bordeaux were blessed with such good fortune from the oenological gods that year that they pretty much sat back and let the terroir take care of the grapes. As a result, everyone who has the savvy to pick up the '05 will experience the opulence and complexity this vintage offers in abundance. Truly, the Bertin is a don't miss, as well as one of my all-time favorites. It's a show-stopper, from its rich nose of dry currant, blackberry, earth, smoke, and understated floral notes; its flavors of dusty blackberry, currant, plum, cedar, earth, and gravel that unfold on the mid-palate; its gorgeous structure and balance; its mellow, faintly minerally acidity, and its lingering, smoky finish. While balanced Bordeaux such as this one are ideal with aged beef or rack of lamb, don't hesitate to pair this one with grilled steaks -- its smoky flavors and finish are a natural with anything with a bit of char -- or with your favorite stews, cassoulet, or French onion soup.
DEEPWOOD CELLARS NV BLACK MUSCAT/LODI: $19.99 (A PRP WINE EXCLUSIVE)
Still wondering what to serve with that can't-resist creme brulee, dessert souffle, Meyer lemon tart, or favorite fruit dessert you've prepared so carefully for your spring desserts? Ponder no more: This sweetie from Lodi -- the hot-weather region known best as a top source of high-octane Zinfandels -- befriends all of those postprandial treats, and more. Not only is it pretty to look at (how can you turn away from its enchanting ruby color?), it's a charmer to enjoy, with its nose of ultra-ripe raspberries and boysenberries, its flavors of massively ripe red berries that explode all over the middle palate, and its soft, gentle finish that subtly accents your chosen dessert. Now that I think of it, this Black Muscat would also be ideal with French vanilla ice cream, strudel, white chocolate ... and a host of other opulent goodies.
Cheers!
~ Jan
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