This month, I’ve put together some wines that are great for everyday enjoyment as well as special occasions (Happy Valentine’s Day!). Many of these picks are currently on sale, so prices may be even lower than shown here. Print and bookmark for your next wine buying trip!
White and Rose Wines
• Joseph Matthew Chardonnay 2016 – Characteristics: Ripe apple, pear, cinnamon, finished in oak. Accompaniment: Chicken, fish. Origin: Napa Valley, Calif. Under $17.
• Michael Pozzan Chardonnay 2018 – Characteristics: Intense and vibrant flavors of pear, apple, and fig. Accompaniment: Salmon. Origin: Russian River, Calif. Under $20.
• Sherwood Sauvignon Blanc 2019 – Characteristics: Gooseberry, grapefruit, touch of mineral. Accompaniment: Appetizers, cheese tray. Origin: New Zealand. Under $18.
• Howling Cellars Chardonnay 2017 – Characteristics: Unoaked with lemony citrus flavors. Accompaniment: Chicken, fish. Origin: Calif. Under $13.
• Montoya Vineyards Chardonnay 2017 – Characteristics: Pear, apple. stone fruit, and melon with hints of toasty oak. Accompaniment: Chicken, ham. Origin: Monterey, Calif. Under $16.
Red Wines
• Southpaw “Knockout” Red Blend NV – From Ray “Boom Boom” Mancini, a great blend of Barbera, Charbono and Petit Sirah. Currently on sale from original price of $20. Accompaniment: Steaks, burgers. Origin: Santa Lucia Highlands, Calif. Under $15.
• Howling Cellars Zinfandel 2015 – Characteristics: Blackberry, cherry and spice flavors. Accompaniment: Ribs, barbecue. Origin: California. Under $15.
• Wildstock Pinot Noir 2015 – Characteristics: Ripe plum, bing cherry, blackberry and spice flavors. Accompaniment: Chicken, roast pork. Origin: Oregon. Under $30.
• Sherwood Pinot Noir 2018 – Sweet dark fruit and subtle oak. Accompaniment: Chicken, pork chops. Origin: New Zealand. Under $20.
• Chianti “Rene” DOCG Governo All’Uso Toscano – Characteristics: Full bodied with hints of red fruits (92 points from reviewer James Suckling). Accompaniment: Steaks, chops, red meat sauce. Origin: Italy. Under $20.
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