What would you recommend?
Favorites from Minute 00:60 Subscribers
TASTE - May 21, 2009
Memorial Day weekend is a time to remember, to reconnect with friends and family, and to revel in summer's kick-off. Fired-up BBQs on perfect patios and delicious foods paired with wonderful wines are central characters to weekend festivities.
We wanted to share what's on the minds of our wine loving friends and fellow Minute 00:60 subscribers for the long-weekend. Our criterion: "Favorite Wines Around $20 or Less."
Have a wine others might enjoy? Stay tuned to the Minute 00:60 for the July 4th weekend request. Until then, jazz up your Memorial weekend celebrations with these favorites.
Wine: Paul Jaboulet Aîné, Parallele 45 Rosé, Cotes du Rhone, 2007 ($10)
Friend: Peter M., Lake Oswego, OR
Why I like it: A great warm weather wine that is versatile enough to go from simply sipping on the patio to a table replete with your favorite summer foods. It's a hearty rosé with a beautiful salmon color that suggests a sunset in a glass. Throw in the fact that it will only set you back a Hamilton and it might just be the best date you have all summer!
Wine: Abacela, Tempranillo Umpqua Cuvée, Oregon, 2006 ($20)
Friend: Steve M., Seattle, WA
Why I like it: Without a doubt my favorite value wine as of now is out of southern Oregon. For 20 dollars, it drinks like 35+ dollars. I have been waiting for an American vintner to capture the essence and complexities a Rioja can have. The vintner bet on the climate of southern OR, and I think he was right! Credit to the winemaker for showing some restraint. It is fantastic and goes great with grilled food.
Wine: HEY MAMBO "Sultry Red", California, 2006 ($9)
Friend: Lori D., Augusta, GA
Why I like it: I sometimes get drawn to a wine that I am unfamiliar with by its name. I was surprised by this deep, unpretentious blend of red wine and thoroughly enjoyed it with some appetizers and good conversation one evening. It is a safe bottle to have on hand and one that I never feel guilty enjoying on my own due to the low cost.
Wine: Ponzi, Pinot Gris, Oregon, 2008 ($17)
Friend: Carla C., Elmhurst, IL
Why I like it: A Pinot Gris with an interesting flavor; spicy and fruity. Grilled pineapple, clove, beeswax and yellow pear with a hint of apple, quince and lemon zest. Refreshing wine for a warm summer day. Perfect to pair with fruit, cheese or a light pasta dish.
Wine: Joel Gott, Zinfandel, California, 2007 ($17)
Friend: Matt B., San Francisco, CA
Why I like it: It pairs perfectly with meat cooked on the grill. Loads of well structured juicy cherry and red raspberry flavors with hints of pepper and smoke. Pull the ribs off the BBQ, pop a bottle of this tasty Zin and get the summer started right.
Wine: Sobon Estate, Amador County Hillside Zinfandel, California, 2007 ($9)
Friends: Lynn and Alan G., Philadelphia, PA
Why I like it (Alan): The 'expert' at our local wine superstore recommended this one and I bought the last 4 bottles. It was excellent with the steak I grilled, as well as with the English cheeses we served after the meal. It is mellow, smooth, not a heavy wine. It has another attribute which many cherish: it is easy on the budget. I can only hope that when I return the manager has managed to re-stock this selection.
Have a safe and happy holiday weekend.
Wine mark-ups and prices vary, and, as such, Wine Country Minute 00:60 cannot guarantee the accuracy of the listed prices. Please check around to find the best price and availability.
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