Things are finally heating up in South Texas. Summer is just around the corner and it gets hot here pretty quickly! My always dependable wine aficionado, Ralph Cortez, has your monthly dosage of wines just right for the current weather.
We’re thinking mostly whites — like this limited edition Chardonnay out of the Russian River Valley, Manuscript. It’s medium-bodied, well-balanced with flavors of pear, lemon and pineapple. A slightly buttery, elegant selection that’d go swell with any salmon, seared scallops or lobster. $17
Our next suggestion is a Fumé Blanc from Dry Creek Vineyard of Sonoma County. These guys share the same grapes as the Sauvignon Blanc, so they’re essentially interchangeable. If you’re looking to lighten up your cuisine, it can be the perfect companion with any white fish, roasted asparagus or salad. You’ll taste lemon, hints of lime with a nice grassy, mineral characteristic. A worthy choice for our weather right now at $13 a bottle.
Our third option makes me laugh…but doesn’t skimp on quality! Girly Girl Merlot of the Columbia Valley in Washington is medium to full bodied with flavors of red cherry, black pepper and just a hint of vanilla. Merlots coming out of Washington have garnered a lot of big buzz lately…and usually underpriced for their value. This particular Merlot begs for an NY Strip or perhaps lamb with mint jelly. And there you have it!
Remember to mix or match a 6 pack and receive an additional 10% discount on total purchase. Cheers everyone! For more delicious recipes and fun food and wine pairing ideas, subscribe to my newsletter.
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