Affordable Wines from California and Italy – It’s the Weekend!

The gifts have been opened, the voluminous amount of wrapping paper is in the recycling bin, family and friends with the best intentions are gone, and let’s face it, you’re exhausted.  What you need is to relax with a glass or two of wine that is delicious but doesn’t wreak (more) havoc on your holiday wallet.  Sent to me as samples are two affordable wines, from California and the region of Tuscany in Italy, that are quite good examples of those in the $10-15 range.  Each is lovely with a casual meal of holiday leftovers or alone paired with a good book by the cozy fire.  You may want to give these choices a try and discover something you probably haven’t found in awhile:  inner peace.

*Rare Wines Rare Rosé (sample) – This lovely, dry Rosé shines with the color of holiday red in the glass.  Intense aromas and tastes of strawberries and juicy raspberries from a multi-vintage blend of Grenache, Syrah, Merlot, and Symphony (a cross between Muscat of Alexandria and Grenache Gris developed for growing in hot Central Coast vineyards) were delightfully light and refreshing.  The tart citrus finish was very pleasant and will complement, among other fare, a plate of light cheeses and appetizers.  The cost is $13.

*Bolla Chianti 2012 (sample) – Red cherries and purple flowers were fragrant in the glass and you’ll enjoy the mild tannins and food friendly acidity of this Sangiovese based Chianti from Tuscany.  Creamy and balanced, flavors of black cherries, plums, and raspberries led to a deliciously lasting finish.  I paired the wine with an authentic Chicken Marsala dish, but you may also enjoy it with rich pastas, roasted meats, and aged cheeses.  At a mere $10 you can afford to purchase more than one bottle.

 Cheers to a relaxing weekend! ~ Cindy