Here are some ways to enjoy wine on the Shamrock holiday:
Broadbent Branco Verdelho 2021, Madeira, Portugal — Verde means "green" referring to the early ripening of the fruit, and this Verdelho is a greenish-yellow hue, making it a fun choice to drink on St. Paddy’s Day. Verdelho is grown worldwide, but 75% of it is grown in Portugal on the island of Madeira. Light to medium in weight — similar to a young Chardonnay — Verdelho hits the palate with a wealth of tropical flavors, including guava, paw paw and pineapple, but despite this flavor profile, the wine tends more towards the dry end of the spectrum than the sweet. Fresh citrus and tropical fruit, sea breeze and mineral notes. Refreshing acidity. Blend: 91% Verdelho, 9% Arnsburger (a crossing of two Riesling clones). 12.24% ABV. $24.99/8.50
Hill Family Estate Carly’s Cuvee Chardonnay 2022, Napa Valley, California — Potatoes are a cornerstone of Irish cuisine, and potato soup is a top choice in the comfort food department, and more than welcome since many areas in the northern hemisphere experience chilly conditions in mid-March. A hearty potato soup is best served with a textured and balanced Chardonnay. Named for the winemakers’ daughter, Carly’s Cuvee Chardonnay presents fresh and bright aromatics of tropical fruit, melon, and hints of fig. The entry is honeyed with ripe citrus, light peach, and well-integrated nuttiness and a touch of mineral. A rich, full mid-palate with balanced acidity draws out into a long finish. Made in a partial-malolactic style, with only light oak influence. 14.4% ABV. $35.50/12
Chateau La Font du Loup Les Demoiselles Châteauneuf-du-Pape 2022, Rhône Valley, France — It doesn't get much heartier than beef and Guinness pie. The Irish version makes use of stout beer to add some richness. The remaining ingredients are standard for meat pie fillings and a flaky crust contains it all, making for a wholesome meal to keep you full throughout your St. Patrick's Day celebrations. To match this weighty dish, a bold red wine is a natural pairing. Châteauneuf-du-Pape is a small region in France's Southern Rhône valley known for its complex wines. This CNDP features bright, spicy red-fruit aromas with flavors of raspberry and cream, a lush texture, ample weight, and a long-spice-driven finish. It offers an easygoing mouthful of fruit, rewarding early consumption Blend: 80% Grenache, 20% Syrah. Rating: 91, Jeb Dunnuck. 14.5% ABV. Regularly, $48.50/16; now $40/13.50
See you Friday for this special tasting!