Bright notes of lemon drop and rind are intertwined with white flowers and hints of stone fruit to make for a clean, crisp aperitif inspired by the Hugo Spritz that’s a delight alongside a simple spread of Castelvetrano olives and Marcona almonds. 12.5% ABV.
A heady perfume of just-peeled orange with a hint of bitterness and a dab of sweet cherry announces this wine cocktail that, according to the respected New Mexican sparkling-wine producer behind it, was “inspired by a classic Aperol spritz.” Though the mouthfeel is a bit denser than that of its prototype, it’s still an easy drinker with an underpinning of orchard fruit and medicinal herbs. 12.5% ABV.
An unpretentious wine with contemporary styling may seem a bit unlikely from a generations-old family winery, but here’s an example of exactly that. Bold flavors of cassis and blackberry are brightened with fresh acidity and provided complexity by spice notes and a whiff of woodsmoke.
Skillfully grown and wrought in the cellar, this tastes like special occasion Chardonnay for a surprisingly approachable price. It shows all the “bells and whistles” of a high-end rendition, with accents of spices, smoke, and vanilla on a core of creamy fruit with citrus edging. However, all those bells and whistles are subtle, “sounding” like they’re coming from someplace down the hallway. Exemplary California Chardonnay at a more-than-fair price.
Linen and Meyer lemon surge with an assertive acidity. Clean, focused minerality and an exquisite, glassy mouthfeel.
With its gold-yellow color and medium body, this wine offers aromas of apricot, nectarine, peach, lemon, grapefruit, and quince. It possesses a weight on the palate that makes it versatile with various dishes. The fruit is balanced by acidity.
From 63% Pinot Blanc Auxerrois, 22% Chardonnay, 9% Pinot Noir and 6% Pinot Gris. Pale yellow color with notes of red currant, raspberry, cranberry, and kirsch. Hints of elderflower and flint, with a croissant finish. On the palate, green apple, gooseberry, and lemon zest complement the red fruit flavors, along with a touch of herbaceousness. Lively acidity.
Full-bodied, with generous purple fruit and chocolate-kissed coffee. Well-structured and superb balance delivers like a wine three times its listed retail price.