I went through my wine stock in search of some pleasant white vinos to saturate my thirst on the warm and sunny afternoons
Well, many people are telling me that summer is just around the corner. Others seem convinced that summer is already here. However, judging by the weather in Jerusalem over the past couple of days, it may seem that neither is correct and we still have a few chilly weeks ahead.
Nevertheless, during last week’s mini-heat wave, I went through my wine stock in search of some pleasant white vinos to saturate my thirst on the warm and sunny afternoons.
This is what I came out with:
Recanati, Yasmin, White, 2011 – Primarily Chardonnay with some Sauvignon Blanc added to the mix. Light and refreshing with very pleasant fruity (lemon, apple, pear) aromas and flavors. A bit short on the finish but at NIS 30-35 per bottle, this is among the best wines in its price category. Serve chilled on a warm summer afternoon.
Sito, Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, 2011 – A new project by Elchannan Shor of the Arza Winery and winemaker Patrick H’babo who basically commissioned kosher private label wines from wineries in Spain (Rioja), Italy (Chianti), France (Boudreaux) and New Zealand (Marlborough). The wine is light and refreshing, with plenty of tropical fruit (passion fruit, lychee), citrus and lemony notes, good balance and supporting acidity followed by a clean though slightly bitter finish.
I first tried this wine about a year ago and picked up a couple of bottles at the time. When reviewing my tasting notes, I noticed that not much has changed. Tulip, White Franc, 2010 is a semi-dry blend based on 65% Cabernet Franc and 35% Sauvignon Blanc. Bronze with orange reflections, the wine suggests aromas and flavors of strawberries, raisins, summer fruits and citrus blossom. Personally I would have preferred a bit more acidity for balance, but putting this aside, it is a fun, easy drinking and tasty wine that will definitely go well with the hot Israeli summers.
The Alma label is probably my favorite label produced by Dalton. Good-well made and enjoyable wines, and also important to note that they are relatively reasonably priced. Dalton, Alma, White Blend, 2010 – 60% Viognier and 40% Chardonnay, medium bodied, good and not overly ripe fruit (yellow grapefruit, honeysuckle, flowers and tart white peaches) and good structure coming together nicely and leading to a pleasant yet slightly sweet finish. The winery suggests serving alongside onion tart or pasta in cream sauce.
L’Chaim!
