Exposure to several different varietal selections alone is worth the price

I’ve received several emails concerning the spate of mixed case wine offerings that seem to be favorably priced. Over the past several months, I’ve been looking into these offers, and sampling or reading reviews attempting evaluation of the offers. Two obvious similarities rose to the top of my observation. Many of the wines gathered are from wineries that are too small to afford national exposure. I approve of the idea, because of the exposure, and the infusion of cash it provides those small, often marginal producers. Another very positive effect, in many cases, one is exposed to varietal wine whose name is unfamiliar, thereby broadening the knowledge of most who take up these offerings. Obviously, I’m generalizing here, so I decided not to dwell on the few negative aspects. My primary reasoning here was when buying 12 bottles of wine which costs well under $100 and are drinkable, the exposure to several different varietal selections alone is worth the price. It is noteworthy that most of these packagers, in addition to pre-selected mixed cases, extend into customers being able to select cases content to some extent, red, white, rose and or varietal type or even in a few cases countries of origin. Two listed 75-100 wines and allowed you to choose. 

 Following is an example of a case of Aussie whites labeled Premium mixed whites, priced $89 with free shipping. Don’t worry folks; I had it shipped into Philly. Later Jean Laffite and crew sailed it into Lewes in the dead of night. “Revenoors” were nowhere to be seen. Likely they’ve been assigned social distancing and mask duties. Two bottles each of Angullong Fossil Hill Riesling 2017 Orange - pale straw green hues, crisp lime and lemon riding minerally acid frame 87 McD. Recommended retail was $16; Bibliotheque Romantic Fiction Sauvignon Blanc 2017, very pale slightly green, gooseberry, grassy, trop fruit 85 McD; Artan Reserve Chardonnay 2018 mid-palate minerality trop fruit flavors, hints of oak and hazelnut 85 McD;  Zilzie  Pinot Grigio  Murray Darling 2018, pale green color .pear and apple aromas and flavors backed with citrus. Really enjoyed the long clean flavorful finish, 87 McD.; Uleybury Semillon 2011, Adelaide Hills. Difficult to believe there was a 2011 Semillon. Lovely golden, crisp white Euro style. If you lived in Australia you can buy three cases for $125. Describes in a nutshell the plight of this formerly loved white wine when made dry. Many are aware Semillon is the primary ingredient for those delicious dessert Sauternes; few are so well aged to remember the heyday of the” big grassies” from Bordeaux.  Dee Vine Estate Drovers Lane Chardonnay 2019 were the final two. Spring straw color, fruit nose, hints of oak in finish. 84 McD. Groupon will sell you a case of Drover Lane, five varietal wines, for $60. Meh!! 

OK, so here is a list of wine that is fairly priced and can be easily found locally. Also please note, with one exception this is a buy USA. Folonari Pinot Grigio 2019 $8, 86 McD; Bogle Chardonnay (less than) $10 88 points; Kendall Jackson Vintners Reserve Chard 2018, less than $14, 89 McD. This is my go to when supplying a crowd. It’s never failed me with those who just ask for shardonnay.; Columbia Crest Horse Heaven Hill Cab $12, 88 McD another for those who just ask for “A Cab” Consistent ; Bonny Doon Vin Gris de Cigare Rose’ 89 McD less than $17. This may be harder to find but worth the search for those who prefer dry Rose’ that is complex; Parducci Small Lot PN is one that won’t break the bank >at less than $13; consistent 89 McD;  Seaglass PN 2017, 90 ;2018 89 less than $14.For sweet wino pals Nassua Valley Vineyards Delaware White $14 is my go to. The varietal grape is Delaware, look for honeysuckle nose, a delicate sweetness on the palate is supported by appropriate acidity and finishes with green apple, or  the Meadow’s Edge white, a semi-dry blend of Seyval and Vidal Blancs. Honeyed sweetness dissipates on your palate to a nice clean finish. Great with rich, pungent cheeses. These folks make the best peach and blueberry wine you have ever smacked your lips over. I’m not going to describe them because it is just a hop, skip and jump to visit the vineyard to sample them. A tasting is available until 4:30. Choose six wines for $10.  Please wear your masks. NVV has safety measures (shields etc.) in place, but only you can prevent Corona fires.