Years of wine tasting leads to fussiness in retirement about what is worth the money, especially regarding the type of wine. Below are several picks, in ascending order of price.
Campi Rudi Appassimento 2020 (Puglia, Italy). Made by the ancient technique of vinifying partially dried grapes, this full-bodied dark red is of a robust nature and finishes with a dryness reminiscent of chocolate. From a blend of Italian varietals, its aromatics are complex, including dried figs and cherries with notes of allspice and tobacco. A change of pace bargain for many grilled foods. (Trader Joe’s, $6.99)
Montebuena Rioja Blanco 2021 (Rioja Alavesa, Spain). A medium-yellow blend of viura and malvasia (80:20), the acidity is sleek and steely rather than crisp. In mid-palate it displays its Mediterranean leanings with nuances of herbs and stones. It trails off to a lightly bitter touch. Bring on the tapas, from sautéed/grilled shrimp to stuffed grapevine leaves. (Williamsburg Pottery, $9.98)
Siegel Handpicked Sauvignon Blanc Reserva 2021 (Curico Valley, Chile). In top form now, this pale yellow, light-medium expression of the varietal is marked by the finesse of its acidity. The emphasis is delightfully on the “sweeter” aspect of citrus fruits, without veering toward the gooseberries often associated with sauv/blanc. Pairs with seafood, of course, but no need to stop there. (The Wine Seller, $10.99)
Monte Guelfo Chianti Classico 2020 (Tuscany, Italy). A well-matured, ruby red, graceful Chianti of medium body. The bouquet suggests dark stone fruits, with floral overtones, but actually is so unified as to hinder aromatic dissection. An outstanding value generally, and even more so for Chianti. Don’t detract from it with too much tomato sauce. (Food Lion, $11.99)
Secateurs Chenin Blanc 2022 (Swartland, South Africa). A top example of dry chenin blanc grown far from France. Color is that of lemon flesh, and the body is medium, with a nicely chalky texture. The aromatics include pineapple, pear and vanilla, but other nuances could develop with cellaring — and the backbone for it is there. For now, give it a pork chop in a creamy sauce. (Earth Fare, $14.99)
Bonny Doon Le Cigare Orange 2022 (Central Coast, California). The key word is orange. And to be sure, it is not rosé. But it also refers to the now popular technique of fermenting white grapes with the skins, which yields more color and also greater antioxidant content for our health. It is a sprightly, medium-bodied wine with reminders of lime and ripe peaches. The grapes are white Grenache with a bit of orange Muscat. A charming wine for convivial occasions — and almost anything roasted. (The Cheese Shop, $15.99)
Miles Lambert is a freelance writer who lives in Williamsburg.
