Post Memorial Day represents the kick-off of the BEST time of year: grilling season! It's time to dig out the charcoal from the far corners of your garage because your grill is screaming for attention. Not only can I start wearing white jeans, but I can also start planning my summertime menu comprised of fresh herbs, veggies and whatever my back yard has to offer. I am one happy girl!
In anticipation of doing a lot of entertaining this summer, I've (naturally) stocked my cellar to the brim with grill-friendly values including 2011 D'esclans Whispering Angel Rose and 2007 Waterstone, but what about a mid-level priced wine for that special occasion or holiday? I've set out to find two exceptional and affordable bottles that will definitely impress your guests. Here's what I found!
At only $54.99 a bottle, you'd be hard pressed to find a more focused, classic Chassagne Montrachet. Medium-bodied on the palate with hints of white flowers, citrus zest and toasted oak, this wine makes the perfect companion with lighter summer fare such as Paprika Deviled Eggs or cold Feta Artichoke Pasta. This lovely Chassagne also comes from an excellent Burgundy vintage with very low yields (making this bottle even more desirable!). Hit with a long, cold growing season, the 2010s burst with an uncommon- yet refreshing- acidity, which can seamlessly pair with several items on your summertime menu. Allen Meadows on 2010s:
"...Thus while I buy a bit of every vintage for personal as well as professional reasons, I will definitely be buying the 2010s to the extent that my means will permit it...and of course if I can find them." - Allen Meadows, Burghound
I was SO excited to try this wine! Having spent some time in the Galicia region of Northwest Spain, I'd experienced first hand the quality that can come out of this area. This is typically a maritime climate with a cold and rainy growing season. However, 2006 was an unusually hot and dry year, making the Mencia varietal transform from its typically thin natured blending grape to a multifaceted, elegant fruit. With the mouth-feel of an aged Pinot Noir and the complexity of a wine from the Languedoc, this wine is wonderfully surprising, and ultimately representative of what Galicia can offer to fellow curious wine enthusiasts. Pair this wine with delicate, grilled or smoked meats, dry-rub ribs, rosemary chicken or even pheasant. Delicious.
These two wines are sure to impress your guests for any occasion and aren't too heavy for the summer months ahead. Be prepared and stock up today!