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Perfect Wines for Summer

Story Created: Aug 16, 2010 at 8:57 AM CDT

Story Updated: Sep 13, 2010 at 10:44 AM CDT

Hello, thirsty Springfield Moms! Are you feeling a wee bit worn and ragged ferrying the little ones to and fro to baseball, basketball, soccer and scores of other activities? It’s never-ending, isn’t it?

I see no better time than the present for you dedicated ladies, tirelessly trudging away at the hardest job in the world (we all know it’s true), to pour yourself a glass of wine, reflect on the day and simply just…be.

In accordance with wine etiquette and law, we will begin with White Wines.

  • Gazella Vinho Verde – Portugal , $5.99. Uncomplicated and made for casual quaffing, this low alcohol slightly sparkling white blend has been zooming out the door as quick as it arrives. Light-bodied and perfect for the boat or pool, it shimmies on your palate with fresh squeezed lime and lemon. Think lemonade at the State Fair with just an extra oomph!
  • 2009 Barnard Griffin Rose, $11.99. Are you on the rose train yet? If not, hop on board. This is the brand spanking new vintage from one of our fave stalwart wineries in Washington state. Spilling over with red fruit flavor in every corner of your mouth, it conjures up images of ripe luscious, strawberries and jolly ranchers from back in the day. But don’t worry, it’s still quite dry. From now till September it’s rose season, revel in it!
  • 2009 Indaba Chenin Blanc – South Africa, $9.99. Fresh, crisp and defined by a lush style, it unleashes notions of citrus, melon, and apple amplified by sure-fire, snap acidity accented by a just a whisper of sweet. Pair with sushi, salads, Asian, mild cheeses or sip while updating your Facebook page or perusing the fun-filled activities on SpringfieldMoms.org.
  • 2008 Palazone Dubini Bianco – Italy, $9.99. Dubini and The Corkscrew go way back…to the old store on Montvale, and we’re thrilled about its return. Light to medium-bodied, dry and crisp, it’s a strong candidate for your summer sipper, and, yes, it’s ready and willing to pair with your grilled chicken, pork chops or seafood.
  • 2008 Barnard Griffin Riesling, Reg: $12.99, On sale for $9.99. Radiating floral aromas, this Washington State wine is anchored by an assortment of summer fruits, including apricot, pear and a twist of orange zest. While maintaining a discernible element of sweet, its finish is decidedly dry, a perfect compromise for those on the fence, don’t you think? Too tired to cook, grab this bottle and head to the Magic Kitchen for Thai.
  • 2009 Capucine Marsanne, Rousanne and Sauvignon Blanc – France , $9.99. Fragrant, refreshing and dry, this delightful blend from the South of France screams summer sipper! Yes, warm weather has returned and what better way to say hello than with this French aperitif. Pink grapefruit and lemon aromas wrap around flavors of orange peel, apple and freshly peeled tangerine. Can’t you just taste it with sea bass or scallops?

 Now let’s make way for the Reds!

  • Castello Delle Regine Sangiovese – Italy, $11.99. Loosely translated, this means “Castle of the Queens.” Framed by approachable tannins and invigorating acidity, the flavor profile unfolds with spring berries, gentle spice, bing cherry and a scant hint of vanilla. A natural with pasta or pizza, it would also partner well with grilled meat this summer.
  • Malma Pinot Noir – Argentina, $13.99. At a recent staff meeting, this silky, suave pinot was the hands-down favorite. Flavor wise, it suggests candied fruit, dark bing cherry, and vanilla laced together by soft tannins and…surprisingly this wine see no oak, just the pure expression of pinot noir. Expressive and beautiful, the Malma is a steal for pinot. Pair with soft cheeses, grilled pork chops, salmon or chicken.
  • 2008 Morse Code Shiraz. Shiraz is the quintessential grape varietal for grilled meats, BBQ, Brats and, of course, burgers. If you’re not a red meat eater, try chicken burger stuffed with blue cheese, you won’t regret it. This smart drop featured dark cherries and strawberries on the palate accented by gentle spice, pepper and licorice. While not overly complicated, the wine is exceptionally well-balanced and fruit-forward.
  • 2006 Falernia Carmenere/Syrah – Chile, $9.99. One glass of this flavor-filled blend and you will be hooked on Chilean reds. Enticing as can be, there's aromas of tobacco leaf, baking spices and white pepper wrapped around heaps of black fruit, plum, and subtle spicy notes. This is shockingly good for a paltry price. Spot- on with back-wrapped fillets or BBQ pork.
  • 2006 Vega Sindoa Cabernet/Tempranillo – Spain, $12.99. Made by revered female winemaker Concha Vecino, this medium-bodied blend represents the best of both worlds: mighty muscle and tannin from the cabernet married to the finesse of native Spanish varietal Tempranillo. Revealing generous portions of dark cherries, herbs, red licorice and currants, this is a natural with grilled steak or hard cheeses.

Submitted by Michael DeBeaulieu, our local wine guru with Springfield Moms sponsor The Corkscrew. Check out our coupon for a free Saturday tasting in our Mom’s Choice Directory.
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