Groom
2006 Shiraz

This wine is poised to become Australia’s next cult Shiraz. (No surprise that it is made by the man responsible for producing Penfolds’ Grange from ’84-’90.) A nose of black cherry, currant and cocoa precedes a bowl of black fruit flavors, dusty tannins and pleasantly biting acid. Restrained by Aussie standards, underlying leather and anise keep the Shiraz grounded. 

Two Wives
2006 Pink

Its no wonder that the most balanced and beautiful rose that I’ve tried of late is made by two women. (The winery was founded by a pair of women as the name implies). Pink addresses a largely ignored sector of the wine market: the call for high quality, sweet roses. Raspberry and strawberry flavors dominate with just a hint of tropical fruit coming through. It is the sort of wine to serve with Thai food.

Summerland Winery
2007 Central Coast Zinfandel

Summerland’s just-released Zinfandel is the kind of red that calls for sunshine and BBQ. Although it isn’t the most complex of Zinfandels, what it lacks in body it more than makes up for in price. Unlike many burly Central Coast Zins, this is a medium bodied wine with pretty cherry notes and a nice kick of white pepper and clove.

Drylands
2007 Dry Riesling

The kind of wine that quenches thirst on a hot summer afternoon, Drylands offers grapefruit and tart lime flavors combined with attractive minerality. Delicate honeysuckle aromas make it an alluring aperitif or try it as a complement to something spicy.

Westport Rivers
2003 Brut Cuvee RJR

A blend of 63% Pinot Noir and 37% Chardonnay, Cuvee RJR is a fine expression of the quality of New England fruit. (Yep, this bubbly is made in the Bay State). Bright fruit, lively acidity and a mere hint of toast make RJR the sort of wine you don’t want to put down. It would be a welcome addition to breakfast, brunch, dinner or lunch. And with a price point under $30, RJR is a wine you can afford to serve at any and all occasions.

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