At the beginning of the month, I joined some media friends for the “fun” table at another Chairman’s Selection tasting. At these events, which are not public, the wine buyers for each Fine Wine & Good Spirits store learn about the upcoming new selections. We were offered the preview to discover these ourselves. I’ve prepared for you my top picks — keeping them all below $30 (because, really, who wants to spend more than that on wine, anyway?).
Many of these are great buys, but are also limited in availability. If you can, visit one of the area’s “premium” stores or use the app or website to find where these can be purchased.
As you know, Chairman’s Selection wines are handpicked and are typically at least 40 percent below nationally quotes prices.
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Terra da Vino Masseria Dei Carmelitani Gavi di Gavi dOCG – $12.99 (quoted at $25) Big name, but this lovely and refreshing wine (my review) will pair well with seafood or other light dishes.
Signae Grechetto IGT – $9.99 (quoted at $16.99) I”ll be picking this up – very thirst-quenching, no oak. A perfect start to your holiday party. If you like pinot grigio, it’s a must. I called it “delightful.”
Stone Forest Chenin Blanc 2014 – $10.99 Okay, this won’t be available until the holidays, but it’s worth keeping an eye out for. This was a table favorite with comments like, “Bring on the rockfish!” and “That’s porch wine.”
Sterling Vineyards Malvasia Bianca Cellars Club – $8.99 (quoted at $15.99) Personally, this is too sweet for me, but it is light-bodied. If you like pairing sweet with spicy foods like Chinese or Thai food, you’ll enjoy this.
Herbert Beaufort Brut Champagne Bouzy Grand Cru Carte d’Or – $32.99 (quoted at $56.99) Oops went over my $30 mark with this one. Of the three champagnes we sampled this was by far my favorite. Personally, thought? Just buy a decent prosecco for gifts this year. Any clerk can recommend some good ones.
Jean-Paul Deubost Moulin-A-Vent En Brenay – $17.99 (quoted at $35) This Gamay-based red from Beaujolais will help you forget this year’s Nouveau. Has a berry, tart, sour cherry start and is well-finished. 90 Points from Wine Advocate. A great hostess gift.
Cultivate the Feast – $7.99 (quoted at $25) Basically, you can’t beat this deal, and you’ll find this wine in all stores. Has some detectable spice from the blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec and Syrah. Goes well with hearty meat dishes, including steak — and turkey. Buy a few at this price.
Domaine Sainte-Eugenie Corbieres Rouge – $8.99 (quoted at $13) Very light, but pairs well with venison and wild game birds, which are often plentiful in my home. At that price, if I can find it (limited distribution), I’ll grab a few.
Pat Paulsen Vineyards Primitivo – $10.99 (quoted at $18) Nice, rich fruit flavors like raspberry jam. Pair it with your charcuterie board.
Gloria Ferrer Merlot Carneros – $15.99 (quoted at $28) Very limited availability but this Merlot impresses. Plum and blackberry on the nose, great balance with a long and full finish.
Villa Montignana Chianti Classico Riserva – $12.99 (quoted at $40) A blend of primarily Sangiovese with small amount of Merlot and Cabernet, this is a terrific value. Like all Italian wines, it’s meant to be served with food, and it’ll be a perfect complement to your favorite Italian meal. 89 points from Wine Enthusiast Online.
BV Red Blend Limited Release – $14.99 (quoted at $24.99) I’d go over my “$12.99 or less rule” for this one. Notes of dried flowers, herbs and cracked pepper from the Syrah and Zinfandel, while the Cabernet adds bold tannins and juicy plum to the Merlot base. Perfect for the holidays — pairs well with roasted chicken, turkey and dried meats and cheeses.
Alexander Beck Cabernet Sauvignon – $15.99 (quoted at $29.99) Upfront softness, some spice and vanilla, rich palate. A Sonoma-style blend. Will go well with heartier dishes like beef stew.
Achaval Ferrer Quimera – $28.99 (quoted at $56) This highly rated wine (92 Points Wine Spectator; 90 Points Wine Advocate) is great for your holiday meals and entertaining (pair it with hearty cheeses or grilled meats), or you can lay it down to rest through 2018 or so. You know, if you can allow wine to sit around that long.
Feuerheerd’s Ruby Porto Reserva – $14.99 (quoted at $29.99) Good luck finding a port this good at this price. It’s available everywhere, so go out and grab a bottle. Makes a great gift along with some artisan cheeses or a fine cigar.
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Find these and more at www.FineWineandGoodSpirits.com.
