It’s almost Friday and you are already thinking about your weekend plans and perhaps which wines to purchase. Weekly, I post two recommendations for your weekend wine choices. My occasional “Wine and Dine” articles suggest a recipe with wine pairings, but others (like this!) offer choices under $20 – one white and one red. On Friday evening, May 10, I attended Bottlenotes’ Around the World in 80 Sips wine tasting event at the stunning Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago. Many delicious wines from a variety of countries and with affordable prices were offered. This is the last article in the series of four which profiles some of my favorites. We’re coming home to the United States with one and taking a quick trip to Portugal for a truly delicious port!
**Wente Double Decker Pinot Grigio 2011 – Fresh, crisp, and perfect to sip on your porch with friends and appetizers, this wine from Wente Vineyards didn’t disappoint. Fermented in stainless steel tanks, the wine was full of the apple, citrus, and minerality you’ll enjoy. You’ll love the cost, too…$11.99.
**Fonseca Bin No. 27 Ruby Reserve Port NV – After a short two hours of wine tasting, the perfect way to end a tasting is to sample some Port wines! We were blown away with the rich color and intense aromas and tastes. And if you’re interested (!), the grapes involved in this Port are Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Barroca, Tinta Roriz, Tinto Cão, Tinta Amarela. This wood aged, full bodied, velvety Port shared notes of blackberries, cassis, plums, cherries, and spice and integrated tannins which lead to an elegant finish. Pair with chocolate, chocolate, and more chocolate…or pour a glass after a delightful meal, sit back, and relax!! The cost of this Port is $19.99.
Cheers to Around the World in 80 Sips! ~ Cindy
