At the beginning of January I encouraged all of you to try a new grape varietal in 2016. I was so impressed with everyone’s open mindedness that I thought I would try something else this month. So for Lent, give up your ubiquitous, generic California red blend and try a new one.
Nowadays, when people think of red blends they typically go towards the rich, slightly sweet Apothics and Menage a Trois of the world. Many times, they think that the blending of several grape varietals is a new concept. Of course, that is wholly inaccurate. Bordeaux and Tuscany have been making blends for hundreds of years. In California, as in most wine making regions, the name of the grape on the label only has to make up 75% of the wine. Many times, other grapes are used to round out the flavors of the predominant grape.
So next time you come in, check out the table at the entrance of the wine room. I have selected a variety of unique and well-made blends for you to try.
Friday, February 19, 4-7pm
Donna Hutchinson
To get us in the red blend spirit, Donna will present to us today two Rhone blends that are a favorite of mine. (And a rosé blend too!)
Vigneau-Chevreau Vouvray Cuvée Silex 2013 $24.99
Couly-Dutheil Les Chanteaux Chinon Blanc 2014 $32.99
Domaine le Clos des Lumieres Rosé 2014 $14.99
Domaine le Clos des Lumieres Cotes du Rhone 2014 $14.99
Domaine la Guintrandy Visan Cotes du Rhone 2012 $18.99