HAPPY JULY!!!
Domaine La Nouvelle Don(n)e ‘Nouvelle Vague’
- Producer: Domaine Le Nouvelle Don(n)e
- Winemaker: Wilfried Walt
- Varieties: Carignan, Grenache, Mourvèdre
- Region: Calce, Roussillon, France
Domaine de la Nouvelle Donne is located in the Rousillon region of France. The Rousillon wine region is situated in the southern part of France, bordering Spain, and is known for producing a range of high-quality wines.
At Domaine de la Nouvelle Donne, the winemakers focus on crafting wines that reflect the unique terroir and characteristics of the region. The vineyards are typically planted with grape varieties that thrive in the Mediterranean climate, such as Grenache, Syrah, Carignan, and Mourvèdre, among others. They employ traditional winemaking techniques combined with modern practices to create wines that express the flavors and aromas of the grapes and the region. Nouvelle Vague (which translates to “New Wave” in English) is an easy-drinking yet complex red wine with a bouquet of ripe dark fruit, like blackberries, black cherry, and plum with a touch of dried herbs and black pepper. Ripe black fruit flavors dominate, accompanied by nuances of blackcurrants and dark chocolate! The wine exhibits a medium to full body with well-integrated tannins that provide structure and a velvety texture. This red blend combines the power and fruit-forwardness of Carignan, the richness and generosity of Grenache, and the structure and depth of Mourvèdre. The result is a well-rounded and complex wine that pairs beautifully with hearty dishes, grilled meats, stews, or aged cheeses. Serve chilled or just slightly cooler than room temp. Sánte!
Le Coste ‘Rosso di Gaetano’
- Producer: Le Coste
- Winemaker: Gianmarco Antonuzzi and Clementine Bouveron (Proprietors and Winemakers)
- Varieties: Sangiovese, Syrah, Merlot
- Region: Lazio, France
Le Coste is a renowned winery located in the Lazio region of Italy. It is situated in the rolling hills near Lake Bolsena, in the town of Gradoli. The winery is known for its commitment to organic and biodynamic farming practices and its focus on producing natural wines that express the unique terroir of the area! The winery is owned and operated by Gianmarco Antonuzzi and Clementine Bouveron. They both have a deep passion for the land and vineyards, and their dedication to sustainable viticulture is evident in their approach. They cultivate their vineyards without the use of synthetic chemicals or fertilizers, allowing the vines to grow in harmony with nature. Le Coste primarily focuses on indigenous grape varieties that are traditional to the region, such as Aleatico, Procanico, Malvasia, and Moscato. These grapes are carefully harvested by hand and fermented with native yeasts, ensuring minimal intervention in the winemaking process. The wines are often aged in large oak barrels or clay amphorae to preserve their freshness and purity. "Rosso di Gaetano," named after Gianmarco Antonuzzi's grandfather, is one of their signature wines. This red wine is made from a blend of local red grape varieties and showcases the rustic and authentic character of the Lazio region. They have gained international recognition for its high-quality natural wines, which exhibit a sense of place and reflect the dedication of the winemakers. They exemplify a commitment to organic and biodynamic farming, as well as crafting distinctive natural wines that capture the essence of their vineyards. Rosso di Gaetano is an easy-drinking red wine with plenty of red cherry, earth and bitter herbs, while remaining incredibly light on its feet! Serve slightly cooler than room temp or proper chilled and enjoy life to its fullest! xo
Kunoh Wasurenagusa ‘Forget Me Not’
- Producer: Kunoh Wines
- Winemaker: Yuki Nakano (Proprietor and Winemaker)
- Varieties: Pinot Noir, Riesling
- Region: Upper Moutere, South Island, New Zealand
Yuki Nakano, the winemaker behind Kunoh Wines, is a former sommelier from Kyoto with a strong focus on how wine works on the palate. He maintains his tasting skills by eating only Japanese food, which he believes keeps his palate in top form! The name Kunoh comes from Yuki's maternal grandfather, and he decided to keep it alive in the name of his wine. Before moving to New Zealand, Yuki made wines in Japan and the Barossa Valley in Australia. He is a passionate jazz music lover and enjoys playing the guitar. He is also a semi-professional dart and tennis player! What can’t this man do? Yuki’s wines are crafted to be paired with food, drawing inspiration from his experience as a sommelier in Kyoto's fine dining restaurants. Yuki's wines reflect the umami flavors and culinary traditions of his native Kansai region in Japan. They reflect his unique and specific palate, shaped by his family's preference for fish and his inability to eat raw vegetables.
Despite not having formal winemaking training, Yuki possesses knowledge of microbiological and chemical processes and employs precise techniques in his cellar work. He gained experience at various renowned wineries, including an internship at Poggio Scalette in Chianti and working at Smallfry in the Barossa Valley (we love Smallfry!). Currently, Yuki is based in Tasman, New Zealand, where he works as a full-time assistant winemaker/grower at Kindeli estate and tends to his three hectares of organic vines. He also oversees wine production in Japan for friends and his own brand. ‘Forget Me Not’ is Pinot Noir dominant with a touch of Riesling. Please clock the color of this wine in your glass! A vibrant ruby red color with hints of garnet at the edges! Gorgeous! The nose reveals enticing aromas of ripe red berries, such as cherries and raspberries, complemented by floral notes and a subtle hint of citrus zest. On the palate, you’ll experience a harmonious blend of red fruit flavors, showcasing the characteristic depth and complexity of Pinot Noir. The ripe berry notes are accompanied by a touch of sweetness from the Riesling, adding a delightful freshness and hint of citrus. Serve slightly cooler than room temperature or go ahead and chill it all the way! It’s summertime baby!
Selects Red Wine
- Producer: Roni Selects x Fres.Co
- Winemaker: Jack Sporer
- Varieties: 75% Petite Sirah, 25% Cortese
- Region: Livermore & Clarksburg, CA
Selects is a collaboration between Roni Selects and their wonderful winemakers. Each year, the plan is to work with a different producer to create wines that tell the story of a place and a moment in time. It’s meant to be consumed emphatically - with friends around a table as a vehicle for celebrating the occasion of being together. This year Roni worked with the illustrious Jack Sporer of Fres.Co to bring you two wines: a skin contact cortese and a light, chillable red that’s a blend of quickly pressed petite sirah and some cortese. This chillable red is light, fruity and easy with a dry finish. It’s meant to served chilled without taking up too much space in your head. Don’t deep it! Just gather your favorite snacks and friends and ENJOY THE MOMENT. Enjoy! xoxo