Gretchen Roberts has passed the introductory course at the Court of Master Sommeliers and is studying for her sommelier certification this fall. With just a week to go until Memorial Day, here are five more wine steals for party hosts and guests.
5. Mirassou Pinot Grigio 2007 ($9). Ripe with oranges, peaches, nectarines and hints of spring flowers, this deliciously inexpensive Pinot Grigio got a surprise 90 rating from Wine Enthusiast.
4. Barefoot Riesling NV ($7). Slightly sweet and tasting simply of green apples and peaches, Barefoot Riesling is a good choice if you like riper, sweeter wines.
3. Hosmer Cayuga Lake Dry Riesling 2007 ($12). Dry and mineral on the nose, the Hosmer Riesling is tart with lemons, limes, green apples and white peaches -- lovely if you like bracingly dry whites. It made Wine & Spirits magazine's "100 Top Values of the Year" list in the June 2009 issue and is one of my absolute favorite New York State Rieslings.
Two more -- including a $7 vino -- after the jump.
2. Ladybug Red NV ($12). This organically farmed red blend of Zinfandel, Carignane, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon is rich with Zinfandel's signature jammy fruit flavors and Carignane's fruity spice, but balanced out with the structure of Merlot and Cabernet. Even though it's intended as a casual table wine, Ladybug Red has the weight to stand up to a grilled steak.
1. Fortant Malbec 2008 ($7). From the South of France, this Malbec is less lush than Argentine versions, tasting of violets with a whiff of gaminess (sounds bizarre, but it works.) The Fortant reds are unoaked, leaving only good acidity and a light freshness. This inexpensive Malbec is perfect for casual burgers.
What are your favorite value picnic and barbecue wines? Spill in the comments!
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