With Light and Lively Wines
Provence, France $18
More than twenty years ago, Beiler Pere & Fils (father and son) started making rosé and struggled to ripen the fruit. Over time, they reduced the acidity to get the desired balance and now produce an award-winning rose. The combination of aromas and flavors includes ripe peach, raspberry, and rosemary. On the finish, it all comes together with a zing of bright acidity. Enjoy with light apps, hummus, fried seafood, and grilled hamburgers: great for summer!
Walla Walla, Washington $25
This recent vintage was named for Andrew Browne’s grandmother, Gigi, who helped inspire her family through her avid gardening. Since Andrew founded the winery, he has expanded it to include many wines, as well as spirits such as whiskey, gin, and vodka. Gigi’s is a unique blend of 60% Sauvignon Blanc and 40% Pinot Gris. The nose offers lemon peel and wet stone, and the palate brings notes of pear, key lime, and apricot, leading to a minerally finish. Try it with salads, oysters, or lobster bisque.
Rhone Valley, France $21
This favorite of mine is produced by the Paul Jaboulet Aine (the Elder) winery, founded in 1834 in the Cotes du Rhone region of France. The vineyard is located along the 45th parallel, hence its name. This blend is made from five white grapes, Viognier and Grenache Blanc, plus three lesser grapes. They all come together with aromatics of fine herbs, and the tastes of white fruit, lemon, and a light, flowery finish. Pair with hard cheeses, cured meats, salmon, or poultry. James Suckling gave it a 90-point rating.
Tuscany, Italy $23
The Poggio Maestrino wine estate has roots from the Etruscan-Roman era, around 351 BC. Torresaline refers to a single varietal white wine made from the Vermentino grape. Hints of apricots, peaches, and rosemary on the nose are followed by a mouthfeel of cherry and peach stone fruits with a balanced freshness and lively acidity. These flowery and fruity characteristics make this a great summer-ending wine. Serve with seafood, roasted veggies, and soft cheeses.
Mendocino County, California $18
“Bonterra” means good earth, and these organic grapes were picked from both coastal and inland regions, then underwent a cold fermentation and aging in stainless steel tanks. The distinct aromatics and fruit-forward flavors include lemon, papaya, and peach with notes of fresh herbs and honey throughout. On the finish, there is a crisp acidity that lingers on the palate. Pairs well with seafood, fish, poultry, veggies, and cheeses.
