Val’s August Blog
July was very busy. Warm but we also finally got those afternoon showers. We are now into August and about a month away from Labor Day. But still plenty of time to enjoy the outdoors. Some even call it “playing time”. School will start a week later. Which means extra time to do a hike or have a bike ride or simply walk outside and enjoy the sunshine. When we come home we want something light and easy drinking to finish off the day. Here are some suggestions that would do amazing for you.
Red Wine: Family-run for four generations now, Ca’ Del Baio has been making wines ever since the early 1900s. They produce high quality Barbaresco, which they are best well known for. But we will focus on another gem of theirs – Paolina Barbera d’Alba. Named after one of the daughters Paola, who struck me with her passion for wine when I met her. She is the master behind this silky and fresh wine, with a great balance between acidity and fruit. She told me Barbera is Italians’ first choice when it comes to pairing a pasta dish with a red wine. Well, this one is simply stunning, whether enjoyed by itself or with that pasta meal. Price tag is very fair too – only $17.99 a bottle. Come and check it out yourselves!
White Wine: Summer calls for clean, crisp, easy drinking wines. Today we will talk about a grape that has gained a lot more attention to itself in the last few years – Grüner Veltliner. It is mostly known to come from Austria, where it is the mostly planted grape variety. Almost all of it is grown in the northeast of the country, close to the most beautiful river Danube. Along with Riesling, it grows on steep terraces and results in a mineral-driven, lightly fruity and very food friendly wine. Salomon Undhof has been in the Kremstal area since 1792. Thus, it is one of the oldest privately owned wineries in the country. Their Hochterrassen Grüner Veltliner is elegant, with citrusy brightness and a juicy and clean finish. A wonderful quality for only $15.99 on the shelf. You’ve got to try it today!
Beer: Eddyline Brewery is located in Buena Vista, Colorado. Known for its high quality beers that come in 16 oz cans. I am a big fan of their lineup but one sticks out when we’re talking about summer – the Raspberry Wheat. They started it as a summer seasonal back in the day but it quickly became people’s favorite and is now available year round. On the nose – a vibrant aroma of the Oregon raspberries they use, on the palate – it is slightly tart, very refreshing and delicious. On sale this month too – so a 6 pack of 16 oz cans is only $9.99. I’ll see you at the store soon!