Wine Guy picks for June 2022
It’s been great to return to store and trade tastings as they’ve started to be held again. Here are some of my favorites that I’ve recently tasted, and all are great bargains for the quality. I hope to see you at wine events around the Valley! — John M. Webster
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White & rosé wines
Casteller Cava Brut. Characteristics: Made from estate-grown native varieties, in a traditional Cava style. Accompaniment: Appetizers. Origin: Spain. Retail: Approximately $17.
Wairau River Sauvignon Blanc 2021. Characteristics: Tropical and citrus flavors with a crisp, refreshing finish. Accompaniment: Chicken, fish. Marlborough, New Zealand. Retail: Approximately $17 on sale.
Raeburn Chardonnay 2020. Characteristics: Toasted oak and vanilla flavors lead to a smooth, balanced finish. Accompaniment: Charcuterie board, grilled fish or chicken. Origin: Russian River Valley, Calif. Retail: Approximately $20 on sale.
Waterstone Chardonnay 2018. Characteristics: Citrus flavors with toasted spice on the finish. Accompaniment: Shrimp, salmon. Origin: Carneros, Calif. Retail: Approximately $17 on sale
Pazo de Villarey Albarino 2019. Characteristics: Creamy lemon, apple and nectarine flavors produce a very bright-tasting wine. Accompaniment: Pan-fried fish, Asian dishes Origin: Salnes Valley, Spain. Retail: Approximately $15 on sale.
Red wines
Generation 1905 Grenache Vin de France 2020. Characteristics: Cherry and cranberry flavors, light tannins. Accompaniment: Steak, roast pork, grilled chicken. Origin: France. Retail: Approximately $15 on sale.
Lucas & Lewellen “Hidden Asset” Red Blend 2017. Characteristics: A blend of five estate-grown grapes produces this rich, flavorful, complex wine. Rated 91 points by Wine Enthusiast. Accompaniment: Steak, grilled burgers. Origin: Santa Barbara County, Calif. Retail: Approximately $27.
Chapillon Cuvee “Harmonie” 2019. Characteristics: Smooth Petit Verdot and Tannat blend with a big fruit-forward profile. Accompaniment: Roast, barbecue. Origin: Aragon, Spain. Retail: Approximately $20 on sale.
Four Vines “The Biker” Zinfandel 2019. Characteristics: Blend of Zinfandel and Petite Sirah with blackbery and plum flavors. Accompaniment: Steaks, ribs, pasta with red sauce. Origin: California Central Coast. Retail: Approximately $20 on sale.
Finca Resalso Tempranillo 2020. Characteristics: Classic red fruit flavors on the palate, with.mulberry and licorice aromas. Accompaniment: Grilled chicken, steak. Origin: Spain. Retail: Approximately $20 on sale.
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