Tackle your cool weather cravings with this selection of Fall wines that go with the season. This trio offers more complex flavors and lovely colors to adorn your bar.
When hosting guests for the weekend, it pays to have a few selections on hand. I chose these three bottles for their taste and beauty to include in my Weekend Holiday Comfort hosting plan, which includes clever recipes that can be re-purposed over the three days. See the entire plan here.
[1] Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2015 The latest vintage from the winery known for putting New Zealand Sauvignon Blancs on the map. Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc is a zesty and refreshing wine that is perfect for the crisp fall months. TASTING NOTES: mouthwatering notes of grapefruit, lemongrass, supported by subtle tropical notes. The racy acidity levels pairs best with seafood and fall green veggies such as kale, chard and Brussel sprouts. $28. cloudybay.co.nz
[2] Applewood Winery Naked Flock Cider Original Naked Flock has a trio of true Hudson Valley Hard Ciders, for those who crave unique flavor and are on the hunt for quality. Fresh Hudson Valley Apples keep their intense flavors, because there is no added water or grape spirits, flavorings or colorants. The Original Cider is fermented with Champagne yeast and sweetened with a touch of local honey. $10. applewoodwinery.com
[3] Chateau d’Eclans Rosé Wines Chateau d’Esclans is located on an ancient vineyard near the Mediterranean coast where the majority of Provence AOC rosé is produced. The original château—of which now only the cellar remains—dates back to the 11th century. The château is known for its ancient Grenache vines, some as old as 90 years. One of the estates most prestige offerings is the 2013 Les Clans, reminiscent of a white Burgundy. It is very light and nearly transparent in color, full of red berry aromas and toasty hazelnut notes. Ripe pineapple and ginger is also evident with notes of black licorice on the finish. Full-bodied, yet elegant. $65.
If you would like to treat your guests to something special, the 2013 Garrus is touted as the most exclusive rosé in the world, known for its creaminess and lush mineral finish. Extremely transparent and pale in color, with concentrated aromas and flavors of dried citrus, this wine is uncommonly elegant and has achieved cult status among wine connoisseurs. It is also regarded for its unique ability to be aged–previously unheard of for rosés—and is a perfect food pairing with dishes such as poultry, fish and hearty mushrooms. Made in limited quantities. $100. esclans.com
See the entire plan and recipes for hosting weekend guests with panache in 20 Holiday Comfort
