Val’s February Blog
February 29th. Every four years we get an extra day. To enjoy life and with that to enjoy a glass of nice wine and/or beer. Three weeks before Spring temperatures are rising. Days are sunny and we still spend quite a bit of time on the mountain. After a long and tiring in a good way day, we look forward to a refreshing beverage that will make our evening perfect. Here are some suggestions that I think will complement your day greatly.
Red Wine: Joel Gott makes quite a few wines. And I can say he makes all of them very well. A great guy himself, his wines speak quality and great value. It’s easy to pick any of them for dinner or to enjoy by itself. His Washington red blend is not too well known so we’ll focus on it today. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and a touch of Syrah are blended to make an exceptional wine. Dark fruit flavors on the front of the palate are followed by elegant tannins and a long finish. An amazing quality for only $17.99 a bottle. I highly recommend it!
White Wine: Most of you have probably heard of Chateauneuf-du-Pape appellation in the Rhone Valley in France. But did you know there is also a Chateauneuf-du-Pape blanc (white)? Domaine des Senechaux is an iconic producer in that area. Their red wines are gorgeous. But their whites are a hidden gem. Their 2015 C-d-P Blanc is a somewhat untraditional blend of Roussane, Clairette, Grenache Blanc and Bourboulenc, due to the rarity of Clairette in those parts of the valley. Grape varietals you might have never heard of but ones that will please your palate. The wine has a great structure and complexity and the finish is elegant and long-lasting. Rated 93 points by the Wine Spectator, a bottle of it is on sale for only $34.99, down from $44.99.
Beer: 1554. The year the city of Sao Paulo was founded. A fact that is unlikely you knew. But when you hear the number 1554 most people will think of New Belgium’s dark ale. And rightfully so. It has been a staple for them for many years. It survived the never-ending changes at the brewery. Aussie Aussie Aussie, Oi Oi Oi! Certainly my favorite of their lineup, it is light to medium-bodied. Drinks full flavor, feels light on the palate. At 6% abv it appeals to many, especially those who are not in a mood for a porter or a stout. For the whole month of March a 6pk bottles will be on sale for only $9.49. Now is the time you give it a try, if you’ve never had it before.