As the year rolls on, new releases from our beautiful local wineries are rolling out. Here are some of the best:
Windy Oaks 2015 Rosé, Monterey: Named “Bastide La Combe” after a lovely guesthouse where Windy Oaks proprietors Judy and Jim Schultze stay in Provence, one sip of this blush beauty takes me straight to the South of France. Made with locally grown Grenache, I love the wine’s light, crisp flavor—and it pairs well with many different foods. $19.
Odonata Wines 2014 Malbec, Lodi: Winemaker Denis Hoey recently released his superb 2014 Malbec, a fruit-forward concoction with a silky finish. I’m taken with the richness of this wine and the deeply concentrated color and flavor. I love a good Malbec—and I’d give this one a gold medal. $28.
Loma Prieta Winery 2014 Sparkling Pinotage, Blanc de Noirs: This fun and fabulous sparkling white Pinotage is knockout delicious. Tropical fruit flavors and aromas of mango, passion fruit, guava, Key lime pie, buttered macadamia, and toasted coconut will convince you that you’re ready to party the night away. $49.
Stockwell Cellars 2015 Sauvignon Blanc, Paso Robles: Anything with even a hint of marzipan immediately gets my attention, which is one of the reasons this Sauvignon Blanc is on my list. Crisp and clean with touches of lemon meringue, white pluot and clementine–and with smidgens of lemongrass, pink peppercorns and kiwi–it’s a perfect pairing with ceviche or oysters. $24.
Bottle Jack 2013 Firenze Super Tuscan Blend: I love a luscious blend of vigorous varietals, and the Firenze is just that. Sangiovese, Teroldego, Merlot and Syrah from four different vineyards go into this splendid red wine, with the Italian Teroldego grape adding a saucy little touch like a Florentine lover. $28.
Hallcrest Vineyards 2013 Chardonnay, Mendocino County: Something organic this way comes—in the form of Hallcrest Vineyards’ Organic Wine Works Chardonnay. If I’m looking to go organic without breaking the bank, this delightful Chard—with hints of pear, honey, applesauce and nectar—is the go-to wine. $15.
