Definitely not a typical table wine, Nipozzano Riserva 2007 from Frescobaldi, a Chianti Rufina, is a delicious vintage that you will want to share at with friends at an intimate gathering or a special someone for a romantic meal. Made from 90 percent Sangiovese and a 10 percent blend of Malvasia nera, Colorino, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine begins with a slightly spicy taste that turns into a richer flavor of black pepper and cocoa powder. Like all Chiantis, the dryness gives way to an enjoyable sensation of warmth. The color is deep and beautiful. In fact, it’s almost purple. The first aromas you inhale are prominently of blackberry, dark cherry, and raspberry.
Even though it’s getting warmer, and most people begin to veer away from red wine, Nipozzano Riserva is actually a great partner to barbequed meat. Even when adding a sweeter barbeque sauce, this wine truly compliments the meal. It’s also a great pairing to aged cheeses for an appetizing starter.
Tip: This wine was ready to drink after only 3 months in the bottle, but after it’s opened, don’t keep your red wine for longer than a week, as it tends to go bad.
The winemakers at Louis Martini have always believed that Cabernet Sauvignon is the most noble of grapes, holding firmly to their motto, "from the best grapes come the best wines." And since they've been producing top notch wines for over 70 years, they've learned a thing or two about what it takes to produce a bottle you won't forget.
Laden with intense aromas of black currants, licorice and cedar, this bottle makes for a perfect holiday sipper. Its velvet-smooth finish and hints of leather, tobacco and vanilla layers also make this wine a great partner for dark chocolate treats.
Tip: Aside from dessert, Louis Martini Cabernet pairs well with poached, grilled, or roasted red meats as well as strong and salty cheeses. Check out Behind the Burner's sommelier lesson with Landmarc's wine director, David Lombardo, for even more holiday wines to choose from.
Grande Dalles Gampo is a remarkably delicious wine an even more remarkable story behind it. Produced in the heart of Oregon's Columbia Valley, this wine represents the heart and soul of winemakers Stephanie LaMonica and Scott Elder, a couple who finally opened the vineyard of their dreams to produce different varieties of amazing wine. Like many other wine producers, LaMonica and Elder have realized that the cool climate of Oregon is ideal for more than just Pinot Noir, and they have begun experimenting by producing Old World varietals in New World style.
The inspiration of this wine is actually LaMonica's Italian grandfather, whom she lovingly referred to as Gampo. Grande Dalles Gampo is composed of an Old World blend of 80% Sangiovese (a Brunello clone), 17% Cabernet Sauvignon, and 3% Cabernet Franc. With beautiful ruby coloring and the earthy aromas of red fruits and leather, Gampo has exceptionally fine tannins and has subtle flavors of cherry, espresso, walnut and olives. Because it is primarily made from the Tuscan grape variety Sangiovese, Grande Dalles Gampo pairs beautifully with traditional Italian dishes made with truffles, braised game such as rabbit or boar, osso buco or anything with a tomato-based sauce.
Tip: Currently Grande Dalles Gampo can only be ordered online, but check out the Holiday Promotion to buy a 3 Bottle Sampler Pack. After the New Year, you'll be able to find Gampo as well as their other varieties in various NYC stores and restaurants.
As fall slips further away, we are beginning to enter the days where it's almost necessary to warm yourself up from the inside out. A glass of Willamette Valley Vineyards Whole Cluster Pinot Noir on a chilly night may be exactly what you need to give you that warm, fuzzy feeling. Like most Pinot Noirs, this wine thrives in the colder climate of Oregon and contains hints of cranberry, cherry, vanilla, and nutmeg.
Willamette Valley Vineyards Whole Cluster Pinot Noir also makes for a great holiday wine. Although we recommended this wine as one of our Five Festive Wines for Thanksgiving, don't forget that this wine would also make a great addition to other seasonal meals as well. Because of its fruity tannins, this wine accompanies many different meals, even pizza and Thai food.
Tip: For a great appetizer, try pairing this wine with a bold cheese like aged Gouda or Brie to bring out the fruity undertones of the Pinot Noir.
I usually prefer white wines, but for a friend's birthday, I decided to switch things up and try a dark colored fruit wine. Although I had low expectations, I was pleasantly surprised by Tomasello Winery's newest fruit flavored creation. Tomasello's pomegranate wine proves grapes aren't the only fruit to make sweet wine.
Made from 100% pomegranate, this wine incorporates bold and tangy flavors with a pronounced fruity aroma. The wine is fermented in small quantities and cold conditions to lock in the unique flavor with the added health bonus of antioxidants. Tip: Try using this wine to make a pomegranate martini.
Tomasello Pomegranate Martini:
3 parts Tomasello Pomegranate
1 part Grand Marnier or Triple Sec
1 part Orange Flavored Vodka
Splash of lime
1. Shake all ingredients in a cocktail shaker filled with ice and strain into a chilled martini glass.
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