Be at war with your vices, at peace with your neighbors, and let every New Year find you a better man." -- Benjamin Franklin, "Poor Richard's Almanac," 1755
In honor of the new year approaching I have chosen 2 bubbles for the festivities: One great Prosecco and one AMAZING Champagne. To wrap up the year I have chosen a few red bottles that are my personal favorites at this moment: 2 Washington blends, and one little-known varietal, Piedirosso, from Italy. Let’s celebrate 2017 and have some fun as we learn about these wonderful gems.
Borgo Alato, Prosecco, Italy, Non-Vintage
Pale light-yellow color, delicate and complex bouquet with fruity notes reminiscent of peach and green apple, there are also good secondary notes of acacia and lilac. Fresh and light on the palate with balanced acidity.
Lallier, Grand Reserve, Grand Cru, Champagne France Brut Non-Vintage
Currently the highest quality Champagne on the shelves. “Grand Cru”/ “Grand Reserve”!!! Get your socks ready to be knocked off. Back up socks will not be provided. An expressive nose of lemon, green apple, and soft baked bread leads to a very rich and full-flavored mid-palate as the relatively high proportion of pinot noir is definitely evident. A distinctive Champagne of excellent depth. This could easily be enjoyed now or held for another few years first.
Ocone, “Plutone” Piedrosso, Piedmont Italy, 2012
Smooth, shows good earth, cherry nose, medium body, sour cherry, anise, lingering finish. A nice white pepper with a little butterscotch in the nose. Nice tannins, has a hint of vanilla in the finish.
Patterson, “Due Anni”, Columbia Valley, Non-Vintage
Kitchen Sink World Blend! All grown in the Columbia Valley. Cabernet, Syrah, Merlot, Malbec, Grenache, Petite Verdot, Tempranillo, and Sangiovese!!! Smooth, fruit-forward with characters of blackberry, cherry & raspberry accented by licorice, black pepper & vanilla. Medium-full body with fine acidity and a finish that boasts tannins and plum notes.
Procedo Credente, Columbia Valley, WA 2012
A Super Tuscan blend from Washington! The Sangiovese grape does great in our state. The result is a remarkably plush wine packed with pretty flavors of cherries, raspberries, earth, and dried herbs.