Gañeta Txakolina (shown below)
Txakoli (pronounced "chah-koh-lee") is a unique and refreshing white wine that originates from the Basque Country in northern Spain. It’s often associated with the coastal regions of Getaria, Bizkaia, and Araba. Txakoli, also known as Txakolina, is made primarily from the indigenous white grape varieties Hondarrabi Zuri and Hondarrabi Beltza. Gañeta is a family-owned winery located in the renowned wine region of Getaria in the Basque Country, Spain. Known for its picturesque coastal setting and rich winemaking traditions, Getaria has gained recognition for producing high-quality wines, particularly Txakoli! It’s the perfect summer JAM because of its vibrant and lively characteristics. Enjoy a bouquet of crisp citrus fruits, such as zesty lime, lemon, and hints of grapefruit on the nose. One of the distinctive qualities of Txakoli is its slight effervescence or natural spritz. When poured into a glass from a height, it creates a delightful frothy foam that adds a playful and fizzy sensation to the wine! Gañeta Winery takes pride in crafting exceptional Txakoli wines that showcase the unique terroir and indigenous grape varieties of the region. The winery is committed to preserving the traditional winemaking techniques while embracing modern advancements to produce wines of exceptional quality and character.
The winery is situated in close proximity to the Cantabrian Sea, and this coastal influence plays a significant role in shaping the style of Gañeta wines. The maritime climate, with its mild temperatures, ample rainfall, and the cooling effect of the sea breezes, creates an ideal environment for grape cultivation. The vineyards benefit from the proximity to the ocean, which contributes to the distinctive freshness and salinity found in their wines.
Serve chilled and pair this Txakoli with seafood, grilled fish, pintxos, and other traditional Basque dishes! Let’s go on vacation! Salud!
- Producer: Gañeta
- Region: Getariako, Spain
- Varieties: Hondarribi Zuri
- Alcohol: 11.5%
Les Vignerons d'Estézargues Carambouille VDF (shown below!)
Les Vignerons d'Estézargues is a cooperative winery located in the southern Rhône Valley of France, in the village of Estézargues. This cooperative, often referred to as "LVE," stands out for its unique approach to winemaking and commitment to producing high-quality wines that showcase the character of the region. What sets Les Vignerons d'Estézargues apart is their philosophy of "vin naturel" or natural wine. The cooperative comprises a collective of passionate winemakers who embrace organic and sustainable practices in their vineyards. They prioritize minimal intervention and aim to allow the grapes to express themselves fully, capturing the authentic flavors and essence of the terroir. The cooperative operates on a small scale, enabling each winemaker to have a hands-on approach to their vineyards and wines. The grapes are carefully hand-harvested and sorted, ensuring that only the best fruit is used in the winemaking process. This attention to detail and dedication to quality is reflected in the wines produced by Les Vignerons d'Estézargues.
Carambouille is a wild, refreshing chillable red that can and SHOULD be enjoyed with an assortment of your favorite soft, mild cheese (like Brie), charcuterie, salted Marcona almonds, pickles and caviar. Make it special! Made from a blend of 53% Cinsault, 43% Grenache and 4% Counoise for a light yet punchy expression of how effortless wine can be. Notes of cherry soda pop and cranberries with a balanced texture that hits the palate just right! Serve chilled (like ice cold!) and enjoy any night of the week!
- Producer: Les Vignerons d'Estézargues
- Region: Rhone Valley, France
- Varieties: 53% Cinsault, 43% Grenache, 4% Counoise
- Alcohol: 13.5%
Joé Chandellier “Costal” Syrah VDF (shown below!)
This Syrah is unlike most other Syrahs you have ever enjoyed. And it’s because of Joé and his approach to winemaking. Joé is a fierce advocate of organic farming and natural winemaking, with an intense focus on creating well-made, delicious wines. Lucky for him, he has access to 90-year-old vines - so rare! The age of these vines enables Joé to take his hand-harvested Syrah fruit to the next level. Costal showcases a deep, dense color that captures the eye with its inky ruby hues. Rich and seductive, it exudes a symphony of dark fruit aromas! You’ve been warned: this is a sexy wine! The blackberry and black cherry notes take center stage, intertwining with hints of blackcurrant and black plums. These opulent fruit characteristics are accompanied by nuances of spices, such as black pepper, cloves, and a touch of dried herbs!
What sets Costal apart is its remarkable depth and complexity, attributed to the vine's age and the terroir of Languedoc. The region's diverse soils, combined with a Mediterranean climate, lend a unique character to the wine. The hot, sun-drenched days and cool nights impart a remarkable balance to the grapes, resulting in wines of great depth, concentration, and elegance.
This old vine Syrah is an exquisite testament to the power and beauty of aged vines. It embodies the mastery of winemakers who have nurtured these vines throughout the years, capturing the essence of the terroir and expressing it in every sip. It is a wine that speaks of history, showcasing the richness and complexity that can only come from vineyards rooted in the land for nearly a century. Serve slightly cooler than room temperature but no need to chill (unless you just really want to!). Enjoy!
- Producer: Joé Chandellier
- Region: St. Côme à Maruéjols (Languedoc, France)
- Varieties: 100% Syrah
- Alcohol: 13.5%
Vinca Minor Carignan Rosé 2022 (shown below!)
Vinca Minor is a family owned and operated winery based in Berkeley, CA. Winemaker Jason Edward Charles has dedicated a significant portion of the last twenty years immersing himself in a rich educational journey across various corners of the globe. Following his college years, Charles ventured into capturing the essence of life through his camera lens, documenting the vibrant scenes of Mexico City and the breathtaking landscapes of Spain. Seeking new experiences, he then settled in New York, where he joined the restaurant industry and served tables with an enthusiastic community of wine connoisseurs. Surrounded by these passionate experts, his curiosity for the art of winemaking was ignited! Driven by his newfound fervor, Charles seized the opportunity to expand his knowledge by embarking on a harvest internship in Northern California. Working diligently in the vineyards, he dedicated himself to mastering every intricate facet of the winemaking craft. Eager to delve deeper into his studies, Charles set his sights on France, where he pursued advanced education at the esteemed Chateau Haut Goujon in Lalande de Pomerol. Enriched by the wisdom of the land, the grapes, and the generous sunshine, he returned to the United States. Back in Napa Valley, Charles's expertise blossomed as he honed his skills at renowned wineries, nurturing his passion for winemaking. In 2013, he took a decisive step by officially establishing Vinca Minor, a testament to his unwavering commitment and dedication to his craft.
This rosé is their flagship wine. One bottle will never be enough! Upon your first sip, the wine reveals a harmonious balance between vibrant acidity and delicate flavors! Flavors of luscious watermelon and tangy cranberries dance on your taste buds. These lively fruit tones are elegantly complemented by a touch of minerality, adding depth and complexity that keeps you coming back for more. Serve chilled and enjoy with pretty much everything from fish tacos to broiled salmon or fried chicken. We love the way this rosé is drinking - it’s never been better! Cheers!
- Producer: Vinca Minor
- Region: Mendocino, California
- Varieties: 100% Carignan
- Alcohol: 11%