Two reds, two whites and a blue wine make things festive

Sunday evening was the bomb! After a brief burst of activity at Grove Market, the night proved to be uneventful until my drive home. Rehoboth traffic was flagged to a slow, confused mess, as fireworks let out there. I was told the smoke and red glare of the rockets bursting in air was quite lovely. Contrary to the ballyhoo by Mr. Trump’s whipping boys and gals, proof to all that this land of the free and brave still enjoys some degree of patriotism. Keeping with the theme, let’s do two reds, two whites and a blue today. 

Poggio al Tesoro Bolgheri Superiore Sondraia 2013 was well received by many in the media. I looked around a bit and located some at a local store.

True, due to the critical writing of RP, WS et al and its long successful lineage, it was a worthy wine and is now favorably priced. When reviewed, Decanter named it the “Best Tuscan of the vintage.” That hyperbole spiked them from $20 to $60. Subsequently they dropped back into the low $40s. I bought mine at $43. Needs another year on the shelf. These are a Bordeaux blend of Cab 65 percent, Merlot and Cab Franc. Those who enjoy wine made from perfectly ripened grapes (it’s the climate, doncha know) will enjoy these. Be careful; this is vintage specific. The 2008, ‘09, ‘13 and the recent release 2015 are best. The ‘15 needs time. Avoid the ‘14. Lovely dark purple with red rim. Blackberries, black currants, barrel spice, herbal note of rosemary in the bouquet. The 2013s are robust, yet balanced, with silky tannins.

These hold their price for several years with any increase reflective of time value of money once they are mature.

The 2014 Chateau de Fleurie is a really nice Beaujolais. Remember folks, the Grand Cru “Bow Julius” are made to keep, unlike the “Nu-Vo.” The window here is now to 2025, 93 points McD, buy at $170/case. Trust me on this. It will open your eyes to how lovely well-made Gamay Beaujolais can be. The bouquet is a complex blend of violets, black cherries, sweet berries, bitter chocolate, thyme and earth. On the palate, full-bodied and sappy with focus and mild tannic grip. Finishes long, clean and maintains its complexity throughout. 

Castello del Poggio Prosecco DOC is a straw-colored demi-sec with loads of sparkling tiny bubbles. Bright apple aromas supported by palate-cleansing minerality complete the package. This was sent to me as a sample. Place it on your list for a future purchase. Feudo Principi Di Butera 2014 was delicious with lobster and shrimp flashed ultra-hot with butter, red and spring onions, then poached in lobster broth, with tomato concassé added at the finish. Be sure to poach slow and low. Striate tails to prevent curling. Feudo is slightly green-tinged straw with a clear eye. The bouquet was floral (acacia and almonds) with some apple and tangerine. Nose repeated through the medium-bodied wine and was supported by crisp acidity and mineral notes, 88 McD points. Buy at $16 or $80/6-pak. 

Few flavors make me smile during early summer, more than Nassau Valley Vineyards True Blue Blueberry wine with King’s dark chocolate ice cream and fresh blueberries. NVV does a fine job with all its products, but I will put their True Blue, Peach Ambrosia, Redneck Rouge and Meadows Edge against most “sweeter” wines out there. I always smile at the term “fruit wine.” Last time I looked, grapes were fruit. NVV usually includes a recipe page with their newsletter. This month’s peach cobbler is a gobbler.

You can get more info by emailing mail@nassauvalley.com. True Blue is a very nice sipping wine also. Please don’t drink it too cold. This impedes the lovely aroma. True Blue has won many ribbons over the years.

I don’t get down to NVV enough to visit with Suzanne and Peggy, but when I do True Blue is always on my shopping list. Try to mosey on over to see the constantly changing art or maybe a trip to their farmers market. On your way, stop into Cape Gazette and tell all what a great wine BS guy I am.