Wine of the Week: Il Forte Gavi DOCG — Sometimes You Just Grab a Bottle and Go

 Sometimes the best wine pairings are the ones you don’t think too hard about.

As summer winds down, Paul and I headed over to The Dock in West Wildwood to support one of our former employees, Monica, who is working there for the season. It was great to see her—and we managed a wave to Mike (also a former employee), who was buried in the kitchen.

Neither of us had been to The Dock before, and, I didn’t really study the menu before we left. I knew it was BYOB, so I opened the refrigerator, grabbed the first bottle of white wine I saw, and off we went.

That bottle happened to be Il Forte Gavi DOCG.

Then we got there and saw the menu: tacos, oysters and ceviche.

Hmmmm.

Was Gavi going to work with all of that?

We were about to find out.

First, About Gavi

Gavi comes from southeastern Piedmont in northern Italy, close to the Ligurian border. The wine is made from Cortese, a native white grape that is known for producing crisp, refreshing wines with bright acidity, citrus and orchard fruit flavors, and a distinctive mineral character.

Il Forte Gavi DOCG is produced by Produttori del Gavi, a cooperative whose history dates back to 1951. Il Forte is 100% Cortese, grown in the Gavi area at elevations of roughly 200 to 300 meters. The vineyards for this wine are planted primarily on red clay-based alluvial soils, and the vines average about 30 years old.

The wine is fermented at cool temperatures and then spends at least three months in stainless steel on its fine lees before a short period of bottle aging. No oak here, which helps keep everything fresh, clean and focused on the fruit and minerality.

And Then Came the Jam Jars

When our server brought over the wine glasses, I had to laugh.

They were jam jars.

But then I thought about it. Is drinking wine from a jam jar really that different from drinking it from a stemless wine glass? 

We opened and poured the Il Forte and rolled with it.

The wine showed lovely fresh minerality with hints of lemon and pear. It was crisp and refreshing, with a nice balance between the fruit and acidity.

What I liked most was how easy it was to drink. Just a fresh glass of wine that seemed perfect for one of those final summer evenings at the Shore.

But Did It Work With Dinner?

Paul ordered the oysters and ceviche, while I went with the chicken tacos.

This was where my random refrigerator grab was put to the test.

Paul thought there was plenty of acidity in the Gavi to work with both the oysters and ceviche. That makes sense because Gavi is a natural partner for seafood. Its freshness and acidity can handle those briny, citrusy flavors without overpowering them.

And the tacos?

They were okay!

Would I have chosen Gavi if I had studied the menu beforehand and planned the pairing? Maybe, maybe not.

Not every bottle needs 20 minutes of analysis before you pull the cork. Sometimes you open the refrigerator, grab a bottle and see where the evening takes you.

In this case, it took us to oysters, ceviche, chicken tacos, jam-jar wine glasses and a beautiful West Wildwood sunset.

Il Forte Gavi DOCG is a terrific wine to have chilled and ready to go. Made from 100% Cortese, it's fresh, mineral-driven and bright enough for seafood, yet versatile enough to handle quite a few other dishes.

Try it with:

• Oysters
• Ceviche
• Grilled shrimp
• Clams
• Light seafood pasta
• Fresh cheeses
• Grilled chicken
• Fish tacos
• Mildly spicy dishes
• Or whatever happens to be on the menu when you grab the first bottle from the fridge

Wine of the Week: Pierre Sparr 2022 Riesling — A Little Alsace in Your Glass

 

I’m a little late with Wine of the Week this week, but for good reason. I was traveling to visit a friend I grew up with, and then came home to babysit my three-year-old granddaughter. Sometimes life gets in the way of wine — although I’d argue wine fits rather nicely into life.

So here we are, a few days late, with a bottle definitely worth waiting for: Pierre Sparr 2022 Riesling from Alsace, France.

And if you haven’t explored the wines of Alsace, you really should. I think Alsace is one of France’s best-kept wine secrets.

A Little About Alsace

Tucked into northeastern France along the German border, Alsace sits between the Vosges Mountains and the Rhine River. Its location tells you a lot about its wines.

The Vosges Mountains create a rain-shadow effect, helping make Alsace surprisingly dry and sunny. That combination of sunshine, relatively low rainfall and a patchwork of soils gives the region’s grapes plenty of opportunity to ripen while retaining the freshness and acidity that make its wines so distinctive.

And white grapes rule here.

Riesling is one of the stars, along with Gewürztraminer, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc and Muscat. Unlike the sweeter style some people automatically associate with Riesling, Alsace Riesling is traditionally known for being dry, crisp, mineral-driven and incredibly food friendly.

If you’re someone who says, “I don’t like Riesling because it’s too sweet,” Alsace is a very good place to challenge that assumption.

Pierre Sparr 2022 Riesling

This Riesling will put a smile on your face. It did for me.

The first thing that caught my attention was the aroma. There are soft petrol notes beginning to emerge, accompanied by a delicate touch of floral character.

And yes, I said petrol.

That aroma can sometimes scare people when they first hear it used to describe wine, but in Riesling it can be a fascinating part of the grape’s evolution. Riesling can develop those distinctive petrol or kerosene-like aromas as it ages. They can also show up in younger Rieslings depending on factors such as growing conditions — but that's a wine-geek rabbit hole for another day.

Here, the petrol note isn't overpowering. It's soft and integrated, adding another layer of complexity to the wine.

In the glass, the Pierre Sparr 2022 Riesling is bright, crisp and dry, with beautiful mineral notes running through it. Ripe nectarine brings a lovely juiciness to the palate, followed by subtle citrus on the finish.

Just delightful.

What to Pair With It

The beauty of dry Riesling is how easily it moves from the porch to the dinner table.

The bright acidity and mineral character of this wine make it a natural with oysters, clams, mussels and scallops. I'd also happily pour it alongside grilled shrimp or a simple piece of flaky white fish with lemon and herbs.

But don't stop at seafood.

Try it with roast chicken, pork tenderloin, sausages, schnitzel or a savory onion tart. Riesling's acidity is wonderful with richer foods because it helps refresh your palate between bites.

For a cheese board, think goat cheese, Gruyère or Comté.

A Wine for the Sunset

As much as I love finding the perfect food pairing, not every bottle needs dinner.

Some wines just need a chair, a glass and a sunset.

This is one of them.

The Pierre Sparr 2022 Riesling has that combination of brightness, minerality and ripe fruit that makes it refreshing enough for the last days of summer, while those developing aromas and extra complexity give it just enough depth for the cooler evenings ahead.

Pour yourself a glass, find a good spot to watch the sun go down and discover one of France’s wine regions that deserves a little more attention.

Alsace may be one of France’s best-kept secrets — but I’m perfectly happy letting you in on it.

Wine of the Week: Regueiro Trajadura/Alvarinho Branco 2024

A Portuguese White Made for Summer — and Maybe Thanksgiving 

If you love Albariño, let me introduce you to Alvarinho.

Actually, you may already know it.

Albariño and Alvarinho are the same grape. Cross the border from Spain into Portugal and Albariño becomes Alvarinho. And if you enjoy the bright acidity, citrus and mineral character of Albariño, Portuguese Alvarinho should definitely be on your wine radar.

This week's Wine of the Week, Regueiro Trajadura/Alvarinho Branco 2024, takes Alvarinho and blends it with another Portuguese white grape, Trajadura, creating a light, refreshing wine that's pretty darn perfect for these hot August days.

In the Glass

This is one of those wines that doesn't need an occasion. Chill it down, pour yourself a glass and enjoy.

The Regueiro Trajadura/Alvarinho Branco 2024 is light-bodied with really nice acidity. On the nose, I picked up hints of straw and slate, which immediately had me expecting that mineral character to carry through to the palate.

And it did.

There's a lovely streak of minerality along with lemon and citrus notes that keeps everything bright, crisp and refreshing. It's the kind of wine that makes you want another sip.

Trajadura helps soften some of Alvarinho's acidity and brings a little more roundness to the blend, making this an incredibly easy-drinking white.

From Northern Portugal

Quinta do Regueiro is located in Côto, Alvaredo, in Melgaço, right in the heart of the Monção e Melgaço subregion of Vinho Verde in northern Portugal. This is prime Alvarinho country.

The winery's story began in 1988 as a small family project with the planting of its first Alvarinho vines. After years of learning, growing and making wine initially for their own consumption, the family registered the Quinta do Regueiro brand and released its first commercial vintage in 1999.

One of the things that makes this area particularly interesting for Alvarinho is its terroir. Quinta do Regueiro's vineyards include higher-elevation sites planted on granite soils, conditions the winery credits with contributing pronounced acidity, minerality and the ability of its Alvarinho wines to develop in bottle.

And that mineral personality certainly came through in my glass.

What's for Dinner?

Seafood immediately comes to mind with this wine.

I'd pour it with clams, especially clams steamed with garlic and herbs, or a beautiful plate of scallops. Its citrus and acidity would also work nicely with chicken or turkey.

Which got me thinking...

Thanksgiving.

Yes, I know it's August.

But hear me out.

We always spend so much time thinking about Thanksgiving reds, but a bright, mineral-driven white can be wonderful with turkey and many of the dishes that end up on the Thanksgiving table. The acidity helps keep your palate refreshed through all those rich sides, while the citrus and mineral notes won't overpower the food.

So maybe you don't buy just one bottle of this.

Pick up a few.

Drink one now while you're sitting outside trying to survive the summer heat — and tuck another couple away for November.

See? I'm just helping you plan ahead.

Wine of the Week: Mas Macià Xarel·lo

 

If you've ever enjoyed a glass of Cava, chances are you've tasted Xarel·lo—even if you didn't realize it.

Xarel·lo is one of the three traditional grapes that form the backbone of Spain's classic sparkling wine, alongside Macabeo and Parellada. It brings structure, freshness, and the ability to age gracefully, making it indispensable in quality Cava. Yet, despite its importance, it's surprisingly rare to find Xarel·lo bottled on its own as a still wine.

So when I spotted Mas Macià Xarel·lo, I didn't hesitate. It was coming home with me.

A Hidden Gem from Catalonia

Mas Macià is located in Penedès, Catalonia's premier wine region and the heart of Cava production. While sparkling wine may be what the region is famous for, many producers have been showcasing just how expressive the area's native grapes can be when allowed to shine on their own.

Xarel·lo thrives in Penedès' Mediterranean climate, where warm sunny days, cooling evening breezes, and limestone and slate-influenced soils help preserve the grape's naturally bright acidity while developing wonderful complexity.

As a still wine, Xarel·lo reveals a completely different personality than it does in sparkling wine.

In the Glass

The first sip offered a beautiful slate minerality that carried through the finish. Bright Meyer lemon notes added freshness without becoming overly tart, while the wine remained light, crisp, and incredibly refreshing. It isn't flashy—it doesn't need to be. Instead, it's elegant, balanced, and quietly confident.

Tasting Notes

• Slate minerality
• Meyer lemon
• Crisp citrus
• Fresh, clean finish
• Light-bodied with lively acidity

Porch Wine...Until Mother Nature Had Other Plans

This bottle was opened on our front porch, one of my favorite places to unwind with a glass of wine during the summer. We watched dark clouds roll in as a summer storm slowly approached. At first, it was relaxing, the distant thunder, and a refreshing glass of Xarel·lo.

Then the weather became a little more exciting than expected.

That relaxing summer storm quickly escalated into a tornado warning, which convinced us it was probably time to move the evening indoors.

The storm eventually passed, and we finished the bottle safely inside, grateful that the only thing swirling in our glasses was the wine.

What to Pair with Xarel·lo

Its vibrant acidity and mineral character make Xarel·lo an excellent food wine.

Try it with:

• Grilled shrimp or scallops
• Grilled chicken with lemon and herbs
• Goat cheese
• Summer salads
• Vegetable tarts
• Paella
• Simply grilled white fish

Wine of the Week: Freixenet Elyssia Gran Cuvée Cava

If you had asked me years ago what I thought of Freixenet, I probably would have smiled and pictured that familiar black bottle of Cava sitting on the liquor store shelf. It was inexpensive, reliable, and, let's be honest, one of those bottles many of us picked up when you were young and broke.

So when I received a bottle of Freixenet Elyssia Gran Cuvée as part of my Certified Cava Educator course, I had to admit I was a little skeptical.

My first thought?

"Well...it has to be good if they included it in the certification program."

I tucked the bottle away until a weekend trip to Plymouth, Massachusetts, to visit my high school friend Sharon. Mother Nature had other plans for us that Saturday. Rain kept us indoors, so we decided to make the best of it by baking a blueberry galette and, of course, popping the cork.

A Different Side of Freixenet

This wasn't the Freixenet I remembered.

Elyssia is produced as Freixenet's premium expression of Cava, and the name itself sets the tone. Derived from the Latin word Elysium, Elyssia means "a state of absolute happiness" or "paradise." After tasting it, I'd say the name fits beautifully.

The wine is a blend of:

• Macabeo
• Parellada
• Chardonnay
• Pinot Noir

This combination gives the wine both traditional Cava character and a bit more richness and elegance than many people expect from the brand.

In the Glass

Freixenet Elyssia Gran Cuvée pours with a lively, persistent stream of tiny bubbles and offers an inviting floral bouquet.

On the palate it was surprisingly elegant, featuring:

• Creamy mouthfeel
• Acacia blossom
• Bright citrus fruit
• A delicate hint of strawberry
• Fresh acidity that keeps everything balanced

The wine spends a minimum of 10 months aging on the lees, giving it that lovely creamy texture while still maintaining freshness and vibrant fruit.

Pairing It with a Rainy Afternoon

Our homemade blueberry galette made for a wonderful rainy-day project, and the Cava paired nicely with it.

That said, I couldn't help thinking the wine would have been even better alongside a peach galette or one featuring red fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or cherries. Those flavors would have echoed the wine's subtle strawberry note and allowed both the dessert and the wine to shine a little brighter.

Of course, sitting in the living room catching up with a lifelong friend may have been the best pairing of all.

Wine Facts

Wine: Freixenet Elyssia Gran Cuvée Cava

Region: Penedès, Spain

Classification: Cava

Grapes:

• Macabeo
• Parellada
• Chardonnay
• Pinot Noir

Aging: Minimum 10 months on the lees

Tasting Notes:

• Acacia blossom
• Citrus fruit
• Hint of strawberry
• Creamy mouthfeel
• Fine persistent bubbles

Food Pairings:

• Peach galette
• Strawberry tart
• Triple cream cheeses
• Roast chicken
• Seafood paella
• Grilled shrimp
• Brunch favorites

Wine of the Week: Fjord Vineyards 2025 Hudson River Region White Gamay Noir

 There's something special about ending the day on my front porch with a glass of wine in hand. This summer, my porch has become my favorite tasting room. It's the perfect spot for people-watching, enjoying the evening breeze, and admiring my hydrangea bush as it slowly begins to wind down for the season.

This week's wine fit that moment perfectly.

The 2025 White Gamay Noir from Fjord Vineyards is one of those wines that makes you stop and think, "Wait...this is made from the Gamay Noir grape?"

Most people associate Gamay Noir with the light, fruity red wines of Beaujolais. It's known for bright red berry flavors, lively acidity, and easy drinkability. But here, winemaker Matt Spaccarelli takes the grape in a completely different direction.

Instead of allowing the juice to spend time on the skins—as is done for red wine—the grapes were whole-cluster pressed directly into stainless steel tanks. Because the juice never had contact with the skins or seeds, it extracted virtually no color or tannins. After aging for one month in stainless steel, the wine was filtered and bottled, resulting in a beautifully fresh and expressive white wine made entirely from a red grape.

It's a reminder that winemaking is just as much about technique as it is about the grape itself.

In the Glass

On the palate I found:

• Crisp pear
• Bright lemon zest
• A delicate floral note
• Distinct slate minerality
• Refreshing acidity that keeps you reaching for another sip

The stainless steel fermentation preserves the purity of the fruit while allowing the mineral character to shine through. It's clean, energetic, and incredibly refreshing.

Food Pairings

Its bright acidity and mineral backbone make it a versatile food wine. I'd pair it with:

• Grilled shrimp or scallops
• Goat cheese
• Summer salads with citrus vinaigrette
• Lemon herb chicken
• Simply grilled vegetables

Or do what I did—pour a glass, head to the porch, and enjoy it without any food at all.

About Fjord Vineyards

While their tasting room is temporarily closed as construction continues on a beautiful new facility, you don't have to wait to enjoy their wines. This White Gamay Noir is available for purchase directly through the winery's website.

I can't wait to visit once the new tasting room opens, but until then, this bottle brought a little piece of Fjord to my front porch.

Wine of the Week: Château des Antonins Bordeaux Blanc 2023

With temperatures soaring last week, I started digging through the fridge looking for something crisp and refreshing. I came up with a 2023 Château des Antonins Bordeaux Blanc. We have to remember that Bordeaux isn't just about red wine.

Wait... Bordeaux makes white wine?

When most people hear Bordeaux, they immediately think of Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot.

But Bordeaux also produces some outstanding white wines that deserve far more attention than they receive.

Most dry White Bordeaux wines are blends of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon, combining the bright citrus and freshness of Sauvignon Blanc with the richer texture and roundness of Sémillon. The result is a wine that's balanced, elegant, and incredibly food-friendly.

If you've tried New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc and found it a little too grassy, too herbal, to racy, or too intense, don't give up on Sauvignon Blanc altogether.

Instead, find a bottle of White Bordeaux.

In the Glass

The Château des Antonins Bordeaux Blanc 2023 is composed of 80% Sauvignon Blanc and 20% Sémillon, a classic Bordeaux Blanc blend.

The wine opens with fresh aromas of citrus and tropical fruit before leading into flavors of:

• Lemon zest
• Tropical fruit
• A hint of straw
• Beautiful minerality

Rather than being loud or aggressively citrus-driven, this wine is refined. The Sémillon softens Sauvignon Blanc's sharper edges, creating a wine that's refreshing without being overly racy.

On a hot summer afternoon, it absolutely hit the spot.

Food Pairings

This is one of those wines that seems to pair with just about everything.

I'd happily serve it with:

• Grilled shrimp
• Goat cheese
• Summer salads
• Grilled chicken with herbs
• Fresh seafood
• Lemon pasta
• Roasted vegetables
• Mild cheeses

It's also perfectly enjoyable all by itself while relaxing on the porch—which is exactly what I did. (We have a great front porch)

Final Thoughts

White Bordeaux may not receive the same attention as Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand but perhaps it should.

It offers freshness without overwhelming acidity, complexity without heaviness, and versatility that makes it one of summer's most underrated wines.

If you're looking to expand your wine horizons—or simply want something refreshing that isn't another glass of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc—pick up a bottle of White Bordeaux.

This bottle price was under $15. A steel!

Wine of the Week: Ronchi Di Cialla Schioppettino 2021

 

One of the things I love most about wine is that every bottle tells a story. Sometimes that story begins in the vineyard. Sometimes it begins during a conversation with a winemaker. And occasionally, it begins by simply standing in the right place.

A few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of interviewing Francesca Mecchia of Vigna Petrussa in Italy's Friuli-Venezia Giulia region. We spent our conversation discussing one of the region's most treasured native grapes—Schioppettino. Her passion for this historic variety was contagious, and by the end of our interview, I promised myself I would find a bottle.

As it turns out, I didn't have to look very far.

Last Thursday, I was in New York City and scored reservations at Ci Siamo (thank you very much Zach). While we were waiting to be seated, I found myself standing right next to the wine cellar. I started scanning the bottles, the way you do, and there it was. A bottle of Ronchi Di Cialla Schioppettino 2021, just sitting there like it had been waiting for me.

There wasn't even a decision to make. I hadn't looked at the dinner menu yet. I had no idea what I was ordering. I simply knew that bottle was coming to the table.

Everything Francesca Described Was in the Glass

The first sip immediately reminded me of everything Francesca had explained during our conversation.

Schioppettino is unlike many Italian red wines. Instead of being big, heavy, and tannic, it is elegant and energetic. The wine opens with aromas of blackberries, raspberries, currant, before finishing with the grape's unmistakable signature cracked black pepper spice.

That peppery finish is one of Schioppettino's defining characteristics, and Ronchi di Cialla captured it beautifully.

Despite being a red wine, it felt surprisingly light on its feet, making it an excellent choice even during the warmer months of summer.

 Gnocco Fritto and the Caramelized Onion Torta

A Nearly Perfect Food Wine

Our meal turned into an unexpected lesson in just how versatile Schioppettino can be.

It paired beautifully with the warm goat gouda cheese-filled puff pastry appetizer Gnocco Fritto and the Caramelized Onion Torta (that they are known for) we shared. The bright acidity and peppery spice balanced the richness perfectly.

My daughter ordered ravioli, another excellent match, as the wine complemented the pasta without overpowering it.

I ordered a delicate olive oil poached orata, and admittedly, I was a little concerned. Would a red wine work?

While it wasn't the perfect pairing, it was surprisingly enjoyable. Because Schioppettino is lighter-bodied with fresh acidity rather than heavy tannins, it respected the fish more than many red wines would have.

That versatility is one of the grape's greatest strengths.

olive oil poached orata

ravioli

What to Pair with Schioppettino

One reason I enjoyed this wine so much is its flexibility at the table.

Try pairing Schioppettino with:

• Charcuterie and aged cheeses
• Mushroom dishes
• Onion tarts and savory pastries
• Ravioli or mushroom-filled pasta
• Roast chicken
• Herb-crusted pork tenderloin
• Duck breast
• Grilled sausages
• Wood-fired pizza

Worth Seeking Out

Restaurant wine lists often make wines seem expensive, but this bottle was surprisingly reasonable in New York City. It was $68 and personally, that is not bad.  I'd expect to find it retailing somewhere around $25–30, making it an excellent value for anyone looking to explore beyond the usual Cabernet Sauvignon or Pinot Noir.

If you're someone who enjoys discovering lesser-known grapes, Schioppettino deserves a place on your list. It's distinctive without being intimidating, elegant without being overly serious, and offers something just a little different from the wines most of us reach for.

My conversation with Francesca introduced me to Schioppettino. (You can find the conversation here)

Finding a bottle by chance in New York City allowed me to experience firsthand everything she described.

Sometimes that's exactly how wine works. You learn about a grape, you become curious, and then one day, when you least expect it, it finds you.

And when it does, don't hesitate.

Order the bottle.

Wine of the Week: Avinyó Gran Reserva Cava La Ticota Selecció 2017

Some corks are pulled on an ordinary day. Others mark a moment you'll be talking about for the rest of your life. This week's bottle falls squarely into the second category. 

On June 17, 2026, our grandson made his grand entrance into the world — 8 lbs 10 oz, 21.5 inches of pure perfection, and (as two completely unbiased grandparents will tell you) absolutely the most handsome little guy ever to arrive on this planet. Looking just like his dad too! (parents won't let us post pics of their children...sorry)

We popped the cork on the Avinyó Gran Reserva Cava "La Ticota" Selecció 2017, and it did not disappoint.

In the Glass

This Cava is made from 100% Xarel.lo and aged for 72 months. From the moment the cork was eased from the bottle, a steady stream of fine bubbles rose through the glass, creating an elegant, persistent mousse.

The nose opened with fresh Macintosh apple aromas, while the palate delivered crisp orchard fruit flavors layered with complexity gained from extended aging. A subtle note of lime rind emerged on the finish, adding brightness and freshness to a wine that balanced maturity with vibrancy.

The wine felt refined without being overly serious, a perfect combination for a celebration centered around family, joy, and new beginnings.

What Makes a Gran Reserva Cava Special?

While many wine drinkers are familiar with Champagne, fewer understand the quality levels within Cava.

Cava is Spain's traditional-method sparkling wine, produced using the same secondary fermentation in bottle that creates Champagne's signature bubbles. The difference lies in the grapes, terroir, and aging requirements.

A standard Cava must age a minimum of nine months on the lees (spent yeast cells).

A Reserva requires at least 18 months of aging.

A Gran Reserva must spend a minimum of 30 months aging on its lees before release.

The 2017 Avinyó Gran Reserva had ample time to develop these characteristics aging for 72 months, resulting in a wine with elegance, depth, and remarkable balance.

Food Pairing Suggestions

Although we enjoyed this bottle as a celebratory toast, Gran Reserva Cava is exceptionally food-friendly.

Consider pairing it with:

• Complex dishes
• Roasted meat and chicken
• Oysters
• Thai dishes
• Aged cheeses
• Creamy dishes

Final Thoughts

One of the things I love most about wine is its ability to become part of our memories.

Years from now, I may not remember every tasting note from this bottle. But I'll remember sitting with Paul, raising a glass, and celebrating the arrival of our healthy grandson.

Wine of the Week: Vale do Homem Loureiro 2022 Vinho Verde DOC

When most people hear the words Vinho Verde, they often think of an inexpensive, slightly fizzy white wine that appears at summer picnics and backyard barbecues. While that's not entirely wrong, Vinho Verde is so much more than that. This week's Wine of the Week, the Vale do Homem Loureiro 2022 Vinho Verde DOC, is a perfect example of why this region deserves a closer look.

On a recent hot evening, I pulled this bottle from the refrigerator looking for something crisp, refreshing, and easy to enjoy. What I found was a wine bursting with personality, vibrant acidity, and a hint of spritz, making it incredibly refreshing.

In the Glass

The nose opens with aromas of citrus blossom, green apple, pear, and fresh lime zest. As the wine opens, subtle floral notes emerge, characteristic of the Loureiro grape.

On the palate, the wine is light-bodied and lively, showing flavors of lemon, green apple, pear, and a touch of white peach. A subtle mineral note runs through the wine, adding complexity and balance. One of the hallmarks of many Vinho Verde wines is a slight natural effervescence, and this wine delivers a gentle spritz that enhances its refreshing character without overpowering the fruit.

The finish is crisp, clean, and mouthwatering, making it nearly impossible to stop at one glass. And we didn’t, we had two bottles. No judging.

Understanding Vinho Verde

Vinho Verde is not a grape variety. It is a wine region located in the northwestern corner of Portugal, known for its lush green landscapes, Atlantic influence, and cool climate.

The name "Vinho Verde" literally translates to "green wine," but it refers to the wines’ youthful style rather than their color. The region produces white, rosé, and red wines, though white wines are by far the most widely recognized internationally.

The region is divided into nine sub-regions, each with its own unique growing conditions. This wine comes from the Cávado Sub-Region, located between the Cávado and Homem rivers. The area's proximity to the Atlantic Ocean contributes cooling breezes that help preserve acidity and freshness in the grapes.

Decoding the Label

Portuguese wine labels can sometimes feel intimidating, but once you

understand them, they tell you a great deal about what's inside the bottle.

Vale do Homem – The producer.

Vinho Verde DOC – Indicates the wine comes from the protected Vinho Verde Denomination of Origin.

Sub-Região do Cávado – Identifies the specific sub-region within Vinho Verde where the grapes were grown.

Loureiro – The grape variety used to make the wine.

Unlike many New World wines that prominently display the grape on the front label, Portuguese wines often emphasize the region first. Learning to identify names like Loureiro, Alvarinho, Arinto, and Trajadura can open the door to discovering some of Portugal's exciting wines.

The Grapes of Vinho Verde

One of the fascinating aspects of Vinho Verde is the wide variety of indigenous Portuguese grapes grown throughout the region. Some of the most common white varieties include:

• Loureiro – Aromatic with floral, citrus, and stone fruit notes.

• Alvarinho – aromatic white grape known for its crisp acidity, bright citrus and stone fruit flavors. Called Albariño from neighboring Spain.

• Arinto – Known for vibrant acidity and citrus character.

• Trajadura – Adds softness and fruitiness to blends.

• Avesso – Fuller-bodied with tropical fruit notes.

This bottling highlights Loureiro, its fragrant aromatics and refreshing acidity. It is one of the signature varieties of the Lima and Cávado areas and shines particularly well when bottled on its own.

Food Pairings

The bright acidity and slight effervescence make this wine incredibly food-friendly.

Perfect pairings include:

• Fresh oysters

• Steamed clams

• Shrimp cocktail

• Grilled scallops

• Sushi and sashimi

• Fish tacos

• Summer salads

• Goat cheese

• Grilled vegetables

• Lemon herb chicken

Its refreshing character also makes it a wonderful aperitif on a warm afternoon, enjoyed simply with good company, by the pool, ocean, on the boat, just anywhere.

Wine of the Week: Pajzos 2022 T-Furmint – A Dry Taste of Hungary

When a friend brings wine to dinner, I'm always excited to see what appears on the table. This week's wine was especially exciting because it checked two boxes for me.

First, my family owned vineyards in Hungary dating back to 1707 (that's a story for another day). Second, I happen to be a big fan of the Furmint grape.

So when Cathy and Michael arrived with a bottle of Pajzos 2022 T-Furmint from Hungary's famous Tokaj region, I couldn't wait to open it.

For many wine lovers, the mention of Tokaj immediately brings to mind the region's legendary sweet wines. Tokaji Aszú has long been considered one of the world's great dessert wines and was once known as "The Wine of Kings and the King of Wines."

But Tokaj is much more than sweet wine.

Today, many producers are showcasing Furmint in dry styles, revealing a side of the grape that is fresh, vibrant, and incredibly food-friendly.

About the Furmint Grape

Furmint is Hungary's most important white grape variety and the backbone of the Tokaj region. Its naturally high acidity makes it ideal for both sweet and dry wines.

When made in a dry style, Furmint often displays flavors of orchard fruit, citrus, stone fruit, and mineral notes. It has enough body and texture to stand up to food while maintaining refreshing acidity.

It's a grape that deserves much more attention from wine lovers looking to explore beyond Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, and Chardonnay.

Tasting Notes

The Pajzos 2022 T-Furmint pours a pale straw color in the glass.

On the nose, aromas of white peach, citrus, and tropical fruit immediately jump out.

The palate is crisp and refreshing with flavors of juicy white peach, lemon zest, and hints of tropical fruit. A backbone of bright acidity keeps everything lively, while a subtle minerality adds complexity and length to the finish.

This is the type of wine that makes you want another sip.

Clean, bright, and refreshing, it is exactly the kind of white wine I reach for during the warmer months.

Food Pairings

The vibrant acidity and fruit-forward profile make this wine incredibly versatile at the table.

Try pairing it with:

• Grilled shrimp
• Seafood salads
• Lemon-herb chicken
• Fresh summer vegetables
• Goat cheese
• Sushi and sashimi
• Grilled fish
• Light pasta dishes
• Pork schnitzel

Its crisp character also makes it perfect for enjoying on the deck, at the beach, or with friends on a warm summer evening.

About Pajzos Winery

Pajzos Winery is located in the heart of Hungary's Tokaj region and is recognized for producing wines that reflect the unique volcanic soils and historic vineyards of the area. The winery balances traditional winemaking practices with modern techniques, focusing on expressing the distinctive character of Tokaj's indigenous grape varieties, particularly Furmint.

While the winery is well known for its sweet Tokaji wines, bottles like this dry T-Furmint demonstrate the versatility of both the grape and the region.

Final Thoughts

One of the things I love most about wine is how a single bottle can spark memories, conversations, and curiosity.

At under $20 a bottle, the Pajzos 2022 T-Furmint is an affordable introduction to one of Europe's most exciting white grapes.

Thank you, Cathy and Michael, for sharing this wonderful wine.

Have you tried Furmint? I'd love to hear about your experience.

Wine of the Week: Elena Walch 2024 Rosé

 

There’s something about that first truly warm spring day that immediately makes me reach for rosé.  serious. That’s exactly what happened when I pulled a bottle of Elena Walch 2024 Rosé from the fridge.

I was first introduced to Elena Walch through our Winephabet Street episode, which featured Karoline Walch discussing Lagrein. One conversation was all it took for me to become intrigued by the winery, their philosophy, and the wines coming out of Alto Adige. I enjoyed the wines so much that I eventually carried both their Lagrein and Rosé at Trio North Wildwood.

Now that we are entering full-on rosé season, opening this bottle felt like the perfect way to welcome warmer weather.

In the Glass

The name alone tells you something about the precision behind this wine. "20/26" refers to the winemaking process itself: grapes are harvested at 20 degrees Babo (a measure of sugar concentration at peak ripeness), and fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks at a carefully controlled temperature of 26°C. 

The blend is Lagrein, Pinot Noir, and Merlot. Lagrein, Alto Adige's red grape, brings structure and depth. Pinot Noir contributes elegance and aromatic lift. Merlot rounds out the midpalate with gentle body and fruit. The winemaking uses the classic saignée method: the grape must sits briefly in contact with the skins, then the rose-colored juice is drawn off without pressing. This produces color, concentration, and texture without heaviness.

On the nose, fresh strawberry and raspberry aromas jump from the glass alongside hints of watermelon and delicate floral notes.

The palate is crisp, refreshing, and incredibly easy to drink. Bright red berry flavors lead the way with touches of citrus and a subtle minerality that keeps everything balanced and lively. There’s a freshness here that makes you immediately want another sip.

What I really enjoy about this rosé is that it manages to be refreshing while still having personality. 

What I’d Pair It With

This is the kind of rosé that belongs on the porch, by the grill, or at the beach.

Perfect pairings include:

• Grilled shrimp
• Summer salads
• Charcuterie boards
• Prosciutto and melon
• Grilled chicken
• Tuna poke
• Goat cheese
• Simply sipping it outside with friends

Honestly, this is the style of rosé that reminds you wine doesn’t have to be complicated to be memorable.

Sometimes all you need is a warm day, a chilled bottle, and good conversation.

About the Winery

Elena Walch is one of the benchmark producers of Alto Adige, located in Italy’s northernmost wine region near the Austrian border. The winery is known for combining tradition with innovation while focusing heavily on sustainability and expressing the unique alpine terroir of the region.

What makes the story even more interesting is that Elena Walch herself came from an architecture background before marrying into a wine family and eventually transforming the winery into one of Italy’s most respected estates. Today, the winery is run alongside her daughters Julia and Karoline Walch, continuing the family’s commitment to quality winemaking.

Alto Adige’s dramatic mountain landscapes, cool nights, and sunny days help create wines with vibrant acidity, freshness, and purity — qualities that absolutely shine in this rosé.

Wine of the Week: 2022 Immel Biowein Weissburgunder Trocken

 It was one of those beautiful spring days, this spring Mother Nature isn't sure what season it is, so I had to take advantage of the nice weather. The sun was shining, the seagulls were loud, and my lettuce garden was practically begging for its first harvest. So naturally, lunch became a fresh garden salad and a bottle of wine pulled straight from the fridge: 2022 Immel Biowein Weissburgunder Trocken.

Now, before your eyes glaze over at the German label, let’s decode it together because German wines are not nearly as intimidating as they sometimes seem.

• Weissburgunder = Pinot Blanc
• Trocken = Dry
• Biowein = Organic Wine

So what you have here is a dry, organically grown Pinot Blanc from Germany. Simple, elegant, and as it turns out — absolutely delicious with a garden salad.

See, we already survived German wine terminology.

The winery itself has a fascinating history. The Immel family’s roots in the Rhine region stretch back more than 700 years. Their story includes everything from patricians in Worms to mayors in Oppenheim and wealthy landowners in Westhofen. It was in Westhofen — surrounded by the rolling chalky hills and some of the region’s most prized vineyards overlooking the Rhine River — where the Immel family settled and purchased land back in 1754. You can feel that long connection to the land in the wine itself.

What sets Immel apart is their genuine commitment to certified organic viticulture, bearing the EU Bio seal. Organic farming isn't just a quality parameter — it's a promise to future generations. The young team is dedicated to preserving the green hills of Rheinhessen for generations to come.

Wine Details

• Wine: 2022 Immel Biowein Weissburgunder Trocken
• Region: Rheinhessen, Germany
• Grape: Weissburgunder
• Style: Dry White Wine
• Tasting Notes: Lemon, green apple, apricot, chalky minerality
• Perfect Pairing: Fresh salads, seafood, grilled chicken, spring afternoons, and gardening victories
• Price $16

If you’ve been hesitant to explore German wines beyond Riesling, let this be your sign. Pinot Blanc — or Weissburgunder — might just become your next warm-weather favorite.