Springtime Wines

Spring is just within our reach and, if you’re like us here at Vine & Olive, than so is your trusty corkscrew.  As we prepare to welcome back the sunshine and all the glorious colors that return with it, we must see to it that our supply of springtime wines is ample and suited for the resurrection of warmer weather and patio play dates.

Here are our suggestions for getting back into character with a full embrace of the season’s most beloved varietals…

Sauvignon Blanc – This lip-smacking varietal is, perhaps, the flagship of springtime wines.  The best expression of this varietal will always come to us from the Marlborough region in New Zealand, though there are several Napa and Russian River Valley labels, as well as terrific values from Chile, that will certainly put a smile on your sun-kissed face.  Sauvignon Blanc pairs best with tuna, spanakopita, and falafels. 

Albarino – Spain’s crisp, zesty, and most citrusy of varietals offers consumers a food-friendly wine that mirrors the true essence of springtime.  Try this light white wine with ripe fruit flavors alongside sushi, sesame noodles, or during an afternoon of gardening.

Pinot Grigio – Often thought of as more of a summertime wine, Pinot Grigio is that versatile white varietal that appeases just about every season’s climate.  Crisp, clean, and refreshing, Pinot Grigio’s native soul fairs best in Italy, though California and Oregon have been producing excellent expressions of this varietal for years now.  Enjoy this wine with citrus salads, cod or haddock, and Greek salad.

Unoaked Chardonnay – Typically more lean and minerally than the big, buttery style of this varietal, unoaked Chardonnay offers consumers a lighter expression that smacks of tropical fruits and butterscotch.  You’ll want to side this wine with leaner appetizers, zucchini salad, or bay scallops.

Pinot Noir – One of the most passionate and seductive varietals in all the world, Pinot Noir thrives best in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, as well as the Carneros region in Napa/Sonoma, and in the cool climates of New Zealand.  For springtime, Pinot can be versatile and enchanting, complementing cozy date nights on the patio or enlivening tasty cuisine like pad Thai, salmon, and wild mushroom pizza.

Montepulciano – Here is one of the most conversant and rewarding wines on the planet.  Italy’s Montepulciano is a showcase for round, fresh fruit and spice flavors that play nice with so many different moods and foods, you’ll want to be sure to have plenty on hand all season long.  Try this pliable European varietal with lamb, souvlaki, lasagna, or grilled eggplant.

~ John Thomas Hoty, V&O wine buyer