This is the second half of our monthly Staff Picks Wine Tasting.
Sunday 1-4pm
Remhoogte First Light 2016 Chenin Blanc, South Africa (Jess)
Chenin blanc is a highly versatile grape, grown initially in the Loire Valley where it is known as Vouvray, but also it thrives in California, South Africa and Argentina, and can range from dry to sweet, and light-bodied to full-bodied. This fresh light-bodied version boasts apricots, pear, and orange zest aromas followed by undertones of almonds and fresh acidity. Dry (3.1g/l sugar; whereas off-dry is 18-50g/L), this wine is aged partially in French oak and the remainder in stainless steel. Try this with salmon baked in parchment paper, sushi, roast chicken, or smoked salmon or trout.
Regularly: $14.99
Mills Club: $13.49
Case Price: $11.99
Red Tail Ridge 2015 Pinot Noir, Finger Lakes, New York (Tim)
This Pinot Noir is sustainably farmed on the shores of Seneca Lake in upstate New York. Strawberry, vanilla, spice and cocoa accent this medium-bodied wine that is equally savory and spicy. Aged 10 months in neutral French oak, this wine would pair beautifully with ham or salmon. Red Tail Ridge was the first New York winery to achieve the LEED winery certification.
Regularly: $24.99
Mills Club: $22.49
Case Price: $19.99
Teliani Valley 2015 Khvanchkara, Republic of Georgia (Tim)
Khvanchkara is an AOC in the Racha district at high elevation in the Caucasus mountains, a blend of Georgian indigenous grapes Mujuretuli and Alexandreuli. Fermented in stainless steel, this is a semi-sweet wine (35g/L residual sugar), silky and velvety in texture, fresh with wild raspberry, pomegranate and strawberry notes balanced with acidity. Enjoy with a selection of rich cheeses and nuts. Rated 90pts by Wine Enthusiast magazine.
Regularly: $19.99
Mills Club: $17.99
Case Price: $15.99
Chateau Rocher-Figeac 2015 St.-Emilion, France (Pat D.)
85% Merlot and 15% Cabernet Franc from 35 year old vines figure into the blend from this estate, founded in 1880 by Rocher, an ancestor of current proprietor Mr. Tournier. Aged 6 months in French oak, this affordable Saint-Emilion will pair nicely with leg of lamb, venison chili, or beef wellington.
Regular Price: $22.99
Mills Club: $20.69
Case Price: $18.39
David Reynaud 2014 “Georges” Crozes-Hermitage Vignes Authentiques, Rhone, France (Jen & Jerry)
A bit of a splurge but entirely worth it in our opinion, this 100% Syrah is aged 12 months in used oak. Black raspberry, toasted spice, dried flower notes and a hint of game emerge from the glass in this supple, medium-bodied, elegant and velvety smooth red. Only 112 cases imported. Rated 90pts Wine Spectator. Enjoy this lovely wine with cassoulet, beef stew, or Moroccan lamb.
Regular Price: $29.99
Mills Club: $26.99
Case Price: $23.99
Fonseca Bin 27 Ruby Port, Portugal (Jen & Jerry)
Fonseca Bin 27 was initially intended for consumption by the founding (founded in 1822) owners the Guimaraens family. It was not available commercially until the 1970s. Rich and velvety with notes of blackcurrant and cherry, this wine will nicely accompany a rich chocolate birthday cake or cheeses and is sure to warm one up on a cold winter’s night. Rated 90pts by Wine Spectator.
Regular Price: $19.99
Mills Club: $17.99
Case Price: $15.99