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 2026. 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
NV Domaine Moltes, Crémant d'Alsace - Alsace, France Impressions: This Pinot Blanc based bubbly opens with fresh, elegant aromas of apricots, green apple peel, and subtle hints of biscuit dough or butterscotch. On the palate, it is zippy with persistent bubbles, offering flavors of Granny Smith apples and citrus balanced by a fine minerality and a long, refreshing finish. Further proof that outside of Champagne, Alsace remains one of France’s best sparkling wine regions.
2024 Klaus Letsch, 'Cuvée Syví' Gruner Veltliner- Trentino-Alto Adige, Italy Impressions: 'Cuvée Syví' opens with an aromatic bouquet of green apple, citrus zest, and delicate floral notes. On the palate, this dry white wine offers a crisp, light-bodied texture defined by vibrant acidity, a signature white pepper spice, and a clean, mineral-driven finish. At just 10.5%, this is great for those seeking a low ABV offering.
2024 La Capranera, Falanghina - Campania, Italy Impressions: We love Falanghina for its versatility and this one is a textbook example that opens with an aromatic nose of cedar, tropical fruit, and a distinct hint of orange blossom. The palate is crisp and medium-bodied, balancing flavors of green apple and citrus with a persistent saline minerality on the finish.
2016 Luke Jefferson, 'Head & The Heart' Eola-Amity Hills Pinot Noir - Oregon, USA Impressions: Luke Jefferson is a specialized side project from Steve Doerner, the veteran winemaker for Cristom Vineyards. His experience is evident as soon as the cork is pulled as it opens with a seductive bouquet of ripe black cherry pie interwoven with savory baking spices. The palate is remarkably broad-textured, wrapping juicy black fruits in sophisticated layers of toffee and baker's chocolate, all structured by fine-grained tannins and a seamless, graceful finish.
2021 Bodegas Frontonio, 'El Casetero' Garnacha - Aragon, Spain Impressions: This Garnacha is a bit difficult to categorize, on the one hand, it’s a gulpable crowd-pleaser, but at the same time there is enough secondary notes to interest the wine nerds. Lovely aromas of ripe cherries and strawberries with an incredibly fresh, silky palate, and just a light dusting of white pepper for a little intrigue.
2021 Domaine Labranche-Laffont, Madiran - Southwest, France Impressions: Madiran is our go to region for cozying up to on chilly nights. This is a deeply concentrated red, offering a rich profile of blackberry pie, dark cherries, and savory notes of black soil and graphite. On the palate, its signature "chewy" density is balanced by surprisingly velvety tannins and a cocoa-tinged finish that provides both power and elegance. This robust structure makes it an essential winter companion.