While it sometimes takes rounds of tastings to compile these sipper packs, (I know, tough gig, right?) our tasting appointments are off to an amazing start in 2025. February's Finest features both new arrivals that immediately blew us away, along with familiar favorites that have evolved into a more nuanced and finessed version of their former selves. Our 6 pack includes
2023 Chateau Grand Boise, Saint Victoire Cotes de Provence Rosé - Provence, France
Impressions: There are no rules for when to pull corks on rosé, especially the Provençal ones that pair so nicely with salmon and lighter fare. Precise notes of watermelon rind, underripe strawberries, dried rose petal and herbs de provence greet from the glass. A fresh acidity introduces a dense minerality that sways a juicy profile towards a crisp, dry, fruity and herbal finish.
2023 Heidi Schrock & Sohne, 'More Is More' Welschriesling Trocken - Burgenland, Austria
Impressions: A fantastic daily drinker that comes in a liter format! Opens with inviting notes of green pears, lemon peel, gardenias and almond blossoms. A racy acidity cuts through a round mineral-core before descending on a crisp, floral, and citrus finish. Enjoyable on its own, pairs brilliantly with Banh Mi.
2024 Cameron 'Giovanni' Pinot Blanc - Dundee Hills, Oregon
Impressions: We look forward to this wine every year and judging by how quickly it flies off our shelves, it appears our customers do too. Pristine notes of green pears, cardamom and white flowers leap from the glass. The palate displays a lovely tension between its acidity and its juicy, slightly creamy texture. The finish is fruity and savory with a hint of saline.
2023 Domaine Berthier 'Esprit de Seduction' Saint-Amour - Beaujolais, France
Impressions: We were hoping we'd find one for Valentine's Day, and sure enough, here it is in all of its Gamay deliciousness. Highly aromatic notes of ripe red cherries, strawberry coulis, maitakes and black pepper leap from the glass. The palate displays a silky texture entwined with its juicy minerality that fades into a crisp, fruity and dry finish. This one goes down easy.
2022 Contini 'Tonaghe' Cannonau di Sardegna - Sardinia, Italy
Impressions: Another favorite of ours, especially during this chilly time of year. Familiar aromas of blackberry, plum, violets and dried herbs greet you from the glass. The acidity effortlessly persists on the slightly rich palate with a lovely smooth texture that gently leads to a mildly sweet and herbal tannic finish. Despite its similarities to Spanish Garnacha and Southern Rhône blends, its sharper acid profile and finish speaks Sardinian.
2019 La Quercia, Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Riserva - Abruzzo, Italy
Impressions: Warm up with this comforting Montepulciano that opens with notes of black cherries, sun dried tomatoes, iron, dried herbs, and baking spices. A lively acidity introduces its plush and weighty texture that descends over fine grained tannins. The finish is fruity and smoky with a touch of herbs.