Welcome Spring with Flavorful Whites and Lighter Red Wines

Now that many of us long-suffering folk can see beyond the “Endless Winter”, we’re changing our food and wine choices to reflect a heightened anticipation of Spring. I’m starting to say “farewell” to those hearty soups and heavy pasta dishes and “oh, yeah!” to dishes including fresh seafood, the bounty of the garden or light, herb-driven meats. Instead of a bold Cabernet by the fire, I’m gravitating towards flavorful whites and lighter red wines that have a semblance of power yet embrace the palate with a promise of sunshine and a gentle breeze.

The following wines, received as samples, may temper your memories of ice, snow, and freezing temperatures then introduce “all the feels” of Spring with every sip. And don’t worry, I’ll be recommending plenty of rosés soon!

Flavorful White Wines

Pinot Grigio – From the Italian region of Friuli Colli Orientali DOC in the northeastern area of Italy, The Terlato Friuli Pinot Grigio 2017 ($20) was a refreshing surprise of flavor and body. From 20-45 year old vineyards, aromas of fleshy white peaches, stone fruit and a garden bouquet led to notes of juicy citrus, ripe pears, peaches and minerality on the snappy finish. More complex than your standard Pinot Grigio, pair this lovely wine with grilled fish, light pasta dishes, or a book on a sun-filled porch.

Grenache Blanc – There was joy in each sip of the Scheid Vineyards 2016 Grenache Blanc ($22). Delicate aromas of lemon, melon, yellow florals, stone fruit and minerality wafted from the glass and refreshing flavors of citrus and green apple were balanced. Bolstered by snappy acidity, a round mouthfeel and a lingering finish, give this wine a try.

Sauvignon Blanc– Fruit forward with the touch of spring we’ve been craving was the refreshing Ryder Estate Sauvignon Blanc 2017 ($12.99). Grapes from this wine were sourced from estate vineyards found in both cool and warm parcels of Monterey County. Aromas of green grass, spice, lemon, tropical fruit and herbs led to flavors of green apple, pineapple and banana, all surrounded by minerality and vibrant acidity. Paired with a fresh garden salad with slices of grilled salmon, lunchtime was perfection.

Viognier – Dobbes Family Estate was the first in Oregon to produce Viognier and I’m beyond thrilled that they did. Dobbes Family Estate Viognier 2017 ($26), from grapes cultivated in the Rogue Valley, offered enticing aromas of white flowers, honey, lemon zest and spice. Full bodied with mouthwatering acidity, minerality, and notes of dried apricot, honey, hints of oak and vanilla led to a round, balanced finish.

Chardonnay – Enjoyed at the winery with Fred Young and Robert Young, Jr., Robert Young Estate Alexander Valley Estate Chardonnay 2016 ($48) was an exceptional way to release the thoughts of snowdrifts in Chicago and embrace the abundant sunshine and green grass of Alexander Valley, ten minutes from Healdsburg. Of 100% Chardonnay, this complex, full bodied wine exuded aromas of ripe tropical fruit, crème brulee and warm baked apples. My appreciative palate relished notes of rich tropical fruit, hints of spiced apples and vanilla and medium acidity. I was once again reminded why I never tire of a premium Chardonnay. Paired with a luscious cheese plate, tender slices of pork tenderloin and roasted vegetables, this wine was superb.

Lighter Red Wines

Gamay – It’s no surprise to anyone who knows me well that I’m a huge fan of wines from Beaujolais where a variety of styles from the Gamay grape can be found. In particular, the choices from Fleurie, one of the ten Crus, are incredibly elegant, voluptuous, romantic and refined with notes of just-picked purple flowers and fresh red fruit. When I visited the region, I had the pure pleasure of tasting Maison Jean Loron Château de Fleurie 2017 ($15), a high quality, graceful wine bursting with cherries, red fruit and rose petals on a foundation of silky tannins and bright acidity. Trust me, this wine is a seductive pairing with poultry dishes under a blanket of flavorful sauce, savory crab cakes or grilled vegetables.

Pinot Noir – From the Willamette Valley, Dobbes Family Estate Grand Assemblage Pinot Noir 2017 ($28) was absolutely delicious paired with baked swordfish under a blanket of herb sauce. Sweet spice, vanilla, bright cherry, raspberry and strawberry aromas from the glass were as seductive as the flavors of herbs, white pepper, red fruits and roses. Framed with soft tannins and just-right acidity, each sip of this exceptional wine was superb.

Sangiovese – The Il Bastardo winery is found in Tuscany’s Rufina area that’s considered the “best area for Sangiovese grapes after the Classico region”. Well priced and gentle on the palate, Il Bastardo 2017 ($9) offered a bouquet of cherries, oregano, spice and a touch of earth on the nose. Notes of black cherries, plums and red fruit were framed with lively acidity and soft tannins. Easy drinking, pair a few glasses of this Sangiovese with a selection of premium Italian cheeses, authentic bruschetta or deliciously light veal piccata.

Tempranillo – The results of your first barbeque of the season call for a glass or two of the LAN Reserva 2011 ($20) for pairing. A glorious example of wine from Spain, the wine was produced from 92% Tempranillo and 8% Graciano grapes from 20-25 year old vineyards in the Rioja Alta and Alaveso subzones. Wafting from the glass were aromas of bright, juicy cherries, sweet spice, blueberries and plums. Mouthwatering acidity and soft tannins provided a foundation on which flavors of vanilla, spice, and red fruit rang true. Gentle yet bold, the wine was aged for 16 months in American and French oak barrels then another 24 months in the bottle before release.

Garnacha – Garnacha lovers, raise your glass of a generous pour of Particular Valero Cariñena 2016 from Bodegas San Valero ($10) and toast to a new season ahead. The Spanish region of Cariñena is known for its production of full-bodied wines boasting a fruit forward, earth-driven palate profile, bright acidity and soft tannins; this wine delivered all of that and more. On the nose, vanilla, red berries and herbs were aromatic and seductive while the palate burst with hints of pepper, juicy berries and spice framed with integrated tannins and lovely acidity. Enjoy a glass or two with fish tacos, roast chicken or any tapas you crave.

In the event you’re unable to find these wines at your local wine shop, consider ordering directly from the winery or asking for assistance in finding another that is similar in style and/or price.

Cheers to Spring! ~ Cindy