I felt a definite chill in the air tonight, on this first day of fall, as I walked my dog, Yoda, after work. While it thrills me that fall has arrived, and events like football and hockey season have kicked off, it makes me sad to see the fun summer days of 2009 drift by.
However, knowing Texas, I have a feeling today’s chill will be gone soon, and at least one or two warm weather days will hit us again. And when they do here are a few ideas for sipping that will pair well with the end of summertime sun:
Dobbes Family Estate Pinot Gris– I just discovered this winery last week in Willamette Valley, OR and was so pleased that we stopped in to this boutique winery for a visit. Pinot Gris has proven to be one of the best varietals to grow in Oregon, especially well in the Willamette Valley. Dobbes does it exceptionally well, with a wine filled with zing created by hints of lemon zest, green apple and hints of sweet spice with a mouthwatering finish that calls you back for more.
Bennett Lane Maximus White Wine – named after the Roman, Maximus Caesar is a white feasting wine perfect for sharing with friends on a patio. Filled with 87% Sauvignon Blanc, 11% Chardonnay and a hint of Muscat it is a very easy drinking wine with balanced acidity, hints of honey, pear, white peaches and orange peel with a creamy, lingering finish.
Chateau St. Jean La Petite Etoile Vineyard Fume Blanc – Made from grapes farmed by Chateau St Jean for over 30 years in the Russian River Valley of Sonoma, this Sauvignon Blanc is barrel fermented for 9 months in new French oak giving depth and refinement to the wine. Filled with lemongrass, melon and tropical fruit like pineapple and kiwi this elegant wine.
Miner Family Vineyards Viognier – Consistently one of the best wines in Napa for the price. Citrus fruit and honeysuckle aromas waft with every sip. A great food wine filled with tropical and stone fruit like banana, peaches and apricot flavors in this elegant, concentrated fruit wine.
