John Webster – The Wine Guy – shares his monthly wine picks from 2023. John would like to wish everyone a happy and safe holiday season! Note: Listings reflect price and availability at time of publication.
Coppola Diamond Collection Prosecco– Perfect for the holiday season, the Coppola Diamond Collection Prosecco has exotic fruit floral aromas, with notes of apple, citrus and white peach. Imported directly from the Prosecco DOC in Italy, it retails under $20. Take it to gatherings to drink or to leave with the hosts. I wish you all a happy and safe holiday season! – December/January 2022
2018 El Miracle by Mariscal Old Vine Garnacha Tintorera – Just in time for cooler weather is this month’s selection, the 2018 El Miracle by Mariscal Old Vine Garnacha Tintorera from Valencia, Spain. It’s been honored with a Robert Parker rating of 90, a Gold Medal from Wine and Spirits magazine, and other medals around the world. With upfront fruit flavors, a long finish, and 13.5 percent alcohol, El Miracle is a good companion for cheeses, roast meats and more. Spanish wines are being deeply discounted in the current market, and you may find this one under $11 – a true bargain. Enjoy your fall celebrations! – October/November 2023
Casa Primicia Crianza 2018 Rioja – As cooler weather is upon us, it’s a nice time to make the transition into fall with a younger style of red wine. The Casa Primicia Crianza 2018 Rioja is a great choice when you want something a little softer and more easy-drinking than an aggressive Cabernet. Aged in American oak, this Spanish wine earned a 92 rating by Wine Enthusiast. – September 2023
Manzanos 111 Reserva 2018 Rioja DOC – While many people gravitate to lighter white wines for summer, there’s still occasion to open a red. I highly recommend the Manzanos 111 Reserva 2018 Rioja DOC. Highly rated by Wine Enthusiast, this wine features textbook Rioja fruit flavors, crisp fruit and a long finish. Enjoy it on cooler evenings or at outdoor barbecues with your favorite grilled foods. – July/August 2023
Jaume Serra Cristalino Cava – Just in time to welcome summer, the Jaume Serra Cristalino Cava Brut is a very well-priced Spanish bubbly. Clean citrus flavors are nicely balanced, earning a 92 rating from The Tasting Panel magazine. It’s a great time to try it, since it’s currently on sale for under $15. – June 2023
Chateau Mayne Guyon 2019 Blaye Cotes de Bordeaux –For red wine lovers, the Chateau Mayne Guyon 2019 Blaye Cotes de Bordeaux is a great choice. This well-structured wine has generous notes of ripe red cherry, vanilla and dried herbs. A winner of Decanter magazine’s 2022 Gold Medal World Wine award, it was given a rating of 95 points. Enjoy! – April/May 2023
Muruve Roble Tinta de Toro 2019 – This highly-rated red Spanish wine offers big, spicy delicious flavors along with subtle oaky notes. Made from 100 percent Tempranillo, which locally is called Tinta de Toro. It pairs perfectly with grilled or roasted meats, as well as charcuterie boards. Try it this Valentine’s Day or on your next occasion. – February/March 2023
