Many wines cross my desk or are tasted at numerous restaurants and bars I visit almost night… For December, here are 5 wines that stood out in the last 4 weeks, whether by the bottle or tasted at a local restaurant/bar.
1. 2012 Margalleau Vouvray Sec Chenin Blanc ($16)
Recently at Gitane, I fell for the mineral, citrus notes of a layered 2012 Margalleau Vouvray Sec Chenin Blanc from Vouvray, France ($11 glass, $32 carafe, $44 bottle). It averages around $16 retail.
2. 2012 Jean-Marc Brocard Chardonnay from Chablis ($20)
During a recent return to French wine mecca RN74, I savored more excellent white and red Burgundy by the glass, one of my favorite wine regions in the world. My favorite of a number of half pours was the balanced acidity and yellow orchard fruit of a 2012 Jean-Marc Brocard Chardonnay from Chablis, France (I do so love Chablis). For purchase at K&L Wines.
Photo Source: riccicurbastro.it
3. 2009 RicciCurbastro Franciacorta Saten Brut ($35)
This Italian sparkling wine from Italy’s Lombardy region is made from 100% Chardonnay grapes, delivering a bright burst of acidity with unexpected notes of vanilla lavender, baked apple and toasted almond. This wine is a refreshingly affordable alternative to Champagne. For purchase at Binny’s.
4. 2012 m2 Wines Tormenta Tempranillo ($22)
From a 24-year-old vineyard on the east side of Lodi, comes this unexpectedly balanced, pleasing Tempranillo. The medium-bodied red is dark and lush, balanced by acidity. Purchase via m2’s website.
5. 2012 Bokisch Vineyards Tempranillo ($23)
Another balanced offering from Lodi and Bokisch Vineyards (try their Albarino at Picnic on Third) is this medium-bodied Tempranillo, delicately smoky with blueberry, subtle tannins and leather notes and acidity.