Sip, Savor and Spring into these wines

 By: Michael Bray

Every season inspires a different and unique wine style to explore. For some reason, and maybe it’s the seasonal nature of our shore towns waking up after a long cold winter, Spring brings an enthusiasm (and flavor!) that is palpable: lighter body, brighter fruit, higher acid, softer tannins, less oak, more stainless steel, more rosé… and the list goes on.

If you’re wondering what all this means, don’t worry as I have compiled a short list of specific wines, as well as additional varietals to seek out. As always, the wines featured are produced by farmers, producers and winemakers who deploy the most natural methods to handcraft wines at the highest level of quality. Happy Spring!

2014 George’s Cuvee by Arietta – an alluring and seductive white Bordeaux blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon. Produced by famed winemaker Andy Erickson (of Screaming Eagle, Harlan Estate and Staglin) and represents the one and only white wine by Arietta. The Sauvignon Blanc brings a racy structure of mouthwatering citrus, while the Semillon adds body weight, floral aromatics and length to the finish. Only found at Steve & Cookies in Margate for $13/glass.  

I’m not sure that rosé wine needs an introduction these days. For the last three years the category has been one of the fastest growing and for very good reason: the wines are clean, versatile, fruity, fun and racy – what’s not to like? Here are two:

2016 Chateau Puech Haut Prestige Rosé –Arguably one of the top five rosés in the South of France is the 2016 Puech-Haut Cuvee Prestige Rose. With a blend of 60% Grenache and 40% Cinsault it boasts a fresh, white-fruit pallet – think white peach and melon with fresh minerality and acidity. The vines range from 30-40 years old and are grown in clay-limestone soil which gives this wine a clean and refreshing taste. It is the perfect rose to enjoy by the glass with friends. Try pairing it with shrimp ceviche or tuna tartar. $19.99/bottle @ Joe Canals on Fire Road.

2015 San Salvatore Vetere Rosato – hailing from Campania, Italy - Vetere is the name of the small town located near their vineyards. This is a rosé wine comprised of 100% Aglianico. After a very gentle press, the wine is then placed into stainless steel tanks. The result is a light cherry pink color with notes of currant and maraschino cherry. Treat yourself and pair this wine with fresh Burrata (made from mozzarella and cream). Pouring at the Iron Room in Atlantic City. $11/glass and $15/bottle.  

2014 Failla Pinot Noir Sonoma Coast California – pronounced FAY-LA. This wine is produced by Ehren Jordan (winemaker) and Anne-Marie Failla (owner). This wine serves as a consistent and clear benchmark for Sonoma’s elegant, cool climate wines. The result is a 100% pinot noir that is all about finesse and fruit. Think sweet spice, rose petal, mint and succulent cherry plum notes. Pairings would include pecan crusted salmon, duck, roasted chicken and vegetables. Treat yourself, you won’t be disappointed. $14/glass, $51/bottle @ Knife & Fork Inn in Atlantic City.

2011 Tuck Beckstoffer Melée Grenache California – Some people, no matter what the season, will continue to drink a “full bodied red wine.” Grenache Noir is a red grape variety that thrives in California (as well as Washington, France, Italy and Australia). I was introduced to Melée on a recent visit to Napa, California and was super impressed!  It [Grenache] has all the qualities of a Spring red wine: fresh acidity, soft tannin, baked candied fruits, lavender, white pepper, higher alcohol and in the case of Melée – a touch of aged meats on the mid palate, which makes it slightly fuller than most. The wine is a beautiful illustration of how both power and finesse can exist in the same glass. Perfect for grilled meats and roasted vegetables. $34 bottle @ Passion Vines.

Lastly, ask your local shop if they have the following Spring varietals: Gruner Veltliner, Chenin Blanc, Verdejo, dry Riesling, Albarino and light reds from the Loire Valley.

Drink Passionately!

Michael Bray