Chianti, Italy $29
Chianti Classico differs from other Chianti wines in that the grapes must come from the Chianti Classico area, in the central part of the region. This vintage of Tenuta Perano offers a bouquet of red cherries, violet, with a hint of spice. The palate brings flavors of plum, blackberry, vanilla and tobacco notes, with strong tannins adding to a lengthy finish. It’s also full bodied, and can stand up to thick cuts of beef on the grill.
Tuscany, Italy $27
As alternative to grilled beef or chicken, why not try in-season veggies on the grill? The best white wine for this dish can be a popular Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, but I recommend this Vermentino all the way from Tuscany. A straw-yellow color with greenish hues and a citron and honey nose, followed by hints of aromatic herbs, are typical of the grape. The texture is lively and lingering with a pleasant minerality and a slightly sweet aftertaste.
St. Helena, California $50
This big red blend shows a deep ruby color and notes of blackberry and raspberry bramble, chocolate expresso and black pepper. There are hints of black plum preserves and mixed berry notes on the concentrated palate, plus soft tannins leading to a lingering finish. Grapes are Zinfandel, Petite Sirah, and Syrah, blended for seven months in French oak. This wine can easily handle any roasted or BBQ meats, plus grilled T bones or Filet Mignon with a mighty 15.6 % alcohol by volume.
Mendoza, Argentina $16
This new creation, a silver-colored Malbec instead of red, is gaining popularity. With notes of green apple, nectarines, and plum on the nose, the mouthfeel offers lychee and a tropical profile similar to mango and pineapple. It offers a medium body with bright acidity and a subtle finish and is easy to enjoy. With just 10.5% alcohol, it’s a great aperitif for our hot summers, or serve along with grilled seafood or veggies. A great value.
Provence, France $34
This popular Rosé was part of the ‘Rosé Renaissance’, started by Sasha Lichine in 2006 when he bought the Chateau d’Esclans in Provence. He is the son of Alexis Lichine, a well-known wine writer and entrepreneur who had part ownership in two Bordeaux wineries. This wine is elegant, with a pale pink hue, and red berry fruit with floral aromas. Ripe flavors from Grenache, Cinsault, and Syrah grapes give it a complex and concentrated taste profile. An easy match for grilled chicken or seafood.
