More Wines for Your House List

Third party endorsements are always gratifying. So I was excited to read the June issue of Wine and Spirits magazine and their "Critic's Picks" section. The issue concentrated on value wines, and their top critics were asked to give their five or six quality favorites that met that criterion. It was cool to see many of my own favorites make their lists. Here are some of them.(Comments on the wines below are mine.)

Joshua Greene picked, among others:

• Ferrari Carano Sonoma County Fumé Blanc: This is a wonderful white with richness and clean acidity. It's the perfect choice when you don't want a too-sweet Sauvignon Blanc or an overpowering Chardonnay. Pairs well with "on the rich side" seafood and fried foods. Also would be a great summer apertif.
• La Crema Sonoma Coast Chardonnay: This one is also a nice richer white, with forward fruit, but an oaky hazelnut twinge. It's perfect for roast or grilled chicken.

Critic Tara Q. Thomas included these on her list:

• Segura Viudas Cava Brut Aria Estate: This is another wonderful bottling from the folks who also produce Segura Viudas Heredad Reserva cava, one of my favorites. It's clean and crisp and perfect for a hot summer day. And, like all of the wines on these lists, a great value at $12.
• Muga Rioja Rosé: Here's a great summer quaff. With just enough strawberry acidity, it stands up to a lot of light foods, including simply roasted pork, empanadas, and fried catfish. Or just open a bottle and have a glass or two during "happy hour." Whatever the pairing, check it out; it's another great example of the wine bargains you can still find from Spain.

And Patricio Tapia gives mention to:

• Crios de Susana Balbo Mendoza Torrontes: I am a big fan of this winery's Syrah/Bonarda blend (Try it with these braised short ribs!) and also her Rosé of Malbec. This spicy and subtle wine has joined the family as one of my "go to" bottles. It's another white that is light, but shows enough heft, to stand up to not-too-assertively spiced chicken and fish dishes.
• Descendientes de J. Palacios Bierzos Petalos: I always remember this wine from the "petalos" in its name. Makes me think of "petals" or flowers and this light red is a wonderfully flowery, spicy red with a backbone of acidity that would pair well with simple grilled or roasted meats. It's also another indication of my love for Spanish wines. (Try the same winery's Les Terrasses bottling from the Priorat region. It's inky and rich... a perfect nightcap accompanied by a plate of Spanish cheeses like Cabrales and Garrotxa.)

Since it's clear I share at least a few taste buds with these folks, I'm likely to try other wines on their lists as well. I'm most intrigued by the Monsanto Chianti on Greene's list and the Villard Casablanca Valley Expresion Reserve Pinot Noir that Tapia mentions.

I encourage you to check these out. Make it a goal to buy ONE of these wines in the next week or so and try it. If things go as I think they will, you'll have a great new value-priced addition to your everyday wines.