Phil’s Top Picks for Spring:
-Armas de Guerra Rosado (Spain)
-Mas de Gourgonnier Red (France)
-Espolon Bourbon Barrel Finished Anejo (Mexico)
*Armas de Guerra Rosado: This Mencia rose is the perfect wine for the coming warmer weather. It is bright and fresh with aromas of orange zest and berries, complimented by a subtle floral essence. On the palate there are notes of red currant and tangerine with a lingering dry, slightly spicy finish. Pairs well with light salads, pasta dishes and grilled chicken.
*Mas de Gourgonnier Red: This unfiltered Provençal red consists of Grenache, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Carignan. This Rhone style of blending creates a soft and smooth wine with subtle tannins and hints of black currant, white pepper and a silky finish. Pairs well with a multitude of dishes such as fish, pork, salads and softer cheeses.
*Espolon Bourbon Barrel Finished Anejo: The best of both worlds! Aged in white oak for 12 months, then finished for 2-3 months in heavily charred American Bourbon barrels, this tequila is definitely a winner. Smooth, smoky, with just a subtle hint of sweetness, this complex spirit is sure to be a crowd pleaser. Enjoy neat, on the rocks, or liven up a classic tequila cocktail. No matter how you have it, you will not be disappointed.
Edwin's Top Picks for Spring:
-La Mouliniere Rose (France)
-No Es Pituko (Chile)
-Russell's Reserve Bourbon 10yr (Kentucky)
*La Mouliniere Rose: This Bordeaux rose is made up of the Merlot grape varietal. On the nose you get hints of red berries and on the palate there is intense fruit but is well balanced by a crisp, dry finish. Pairs well with seafood, tapas and Italian antipasti.
*No Es Pituko Natural Chard: Being natural, this vivacious white hailing from Chile has a pale yellow and cloudy appearance with tasting notes of apples and pears and a creamy mouthfeel. It pairs well with seafood, grilled vegetables, and lighter pasta dishes.
*Russell’s Reserve Bourbon 10yr: Earning 95 Points in the Ultimate Spirits Challenge, this small batch Kentucky spirit aims to please. Aged in heavily charred virgin American oak barrels, this smoky yet sweet bourbon is intense with hints of spice, vanilla and honey and a smooth, lasting finish. Sip slowly neat or enjoy in your favorite whiskey based cocktail.
Allie's Top Picks for Spring:
-La Scolca Gavi di Gavi (Italy)
-Ja! Organic Red (Spain)
-Aviation Gin (Oregon)
*La Scolca Gavi di Gavi: Hailing from the Piedmont region of Italy, this white wine is bright and crisp with a nice balance of acidity and fruitiness. There is a slight nutty characteristic that can be sensed on the palate. Overall, a very vivacious and clean wine, with a semi-dry finish. Pairs well with seafood, light poultry dishes, and salads.
*Ja! Organic Red: From the Castilla La Mancha region of Spain, this Tempranillo has notes of cherries and blackberries with just a hint of licorice. It is a fruity wine with very soft, subtle tannins and a smooth but intense finish. A great wine for a great value.
*Aviation Gin: This gin is made in small batches in Portland, Oregon using botanicals sourced from all over the globe. It is a well balanced spirit with hints of cardamom, juniper, both sweet and bitter orange peel, as well as anise seed. Refreshing on it's own over ice or in a classic cocktail.
Staff Picks of the Season
