Ah, summer! That is to say, it’s grilling season, and time for that special pairing of Barbecue Reds. So fire up the BBQ and bring out your favorite red wines. For example, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Malbec, Syrah and Bordeaux-style blends complement ribs, juicy hamburgers or steaks. Likewise, don’t forget the reds such as Pinot Noir that pair so well with salmon, halibut or swordfish barbecued on cedar planks. For example, here are some BBQ Reds that we’ve tasted recently from Washington, Oregon and California. Further, we also enjoyed some other tasty reds from around the world.
Category Archives: Argentina
Gems of the World
We recently tasted four unique wines imported by Kobrand Wine and Spirits. These wine gems of the world differed by variety, location and price point. For example, the brands include a Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, a red blend and a Fiano from Italy, and an Argentinian Malbec. In addition, their price points range from $19 (Malbec) to $50 (Cab Sauv). Above all, despite these disparities, the wines have one thing in common – we recommend all of them. Read on for details.
Montes and Kaiken Wines
We recently tasted three different releases of Cabernet Sauvignon and a Bordeaux blend from Montes Wines and Kaiken Wines, which we discussed during a Twitter chat with founder and winemaker Aurelio Montes Sr. — considered to be a founding father of the modern Chilean wine industry. Prior to the Twitter event, we enjoyed three other Montes wines that were sent to us in time for Thanksgiving. See below for details.
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Seasonal Wines from $18-$40
It’s that time of year when the calendar calls it spring but the cold nights make it seem like it is still winter. This means it’s a perfect time for winter reds that also drink well during spring weather.
Thanks to Kobrand, we received samples of wines that fit both seasons. You might not have heard of all of them, but don’t let that stop you. These are good wines!
BARDA By Bodega Charca 2015 ($29.99)
BARDA is a beautiful, balanced, smooth and 100% certified organic Pinot Noir from Argentina. This medium-bodied wine features red fruits, vanilla and spice. It’s also very food-friendly, which means you can try it with pasta, roast beef or salmon.
Agricola Punica Montessu Isola dei Nuraghi 2014 ($30.99)
This Italian beauty is primarily made from Carignano, a Spanish variety found in Sardinia, and blended with 10% each of Merlot, Syrah, Cabernet Franc and Cabernet Sauvignon. Rich, silky, and intense depth with flavors of black fruit and hints of caramel, consider pairing it with tomato-based pasta dishes, lamb or pork.
St. Francis Winery and Vineyard: Reserve Merlot 2014 ($39.99)
The Reserve Sonoma Valley Merlot is rich and velvety with lush texture and flavors of blackberry, dark chocolate, spice and cassis. This wine will pair well with steaks or other meat dishes — on cooler nights, crisp spring evenings, or at summer barbecues — and you can also try it with dark chocolate brownies for dessert.
Masi Agricola Campofiorin 2012 ($18.99)
This easy-drinking, good-value wine features tart black cherry, licorice and dark chocolate on the palate, with vanilla, cinnamon and spice notes. Its versatility means it will complement lasagna and other pastas with rich sauces, beef dishes, and mature cheeses.
Tenuta di Salviano Lago di Corbara 2013 ($17.99)
A blend of Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot, this full-bodied wine is the described as the Umbrian answer to the Super Tuscans. A great value for all this richness in a hearty wine, which will pair well with pizza, grilled meats, risotto or hard cheeses.
So what are you waiting for? We recommend that you give these wines a try!
Cheers,
Margot and Dave