Why is it that in all the marketing blitzkrieg for Father’s Day we only see Cabernet Sauvignon recommended, as in “Cabs for Dads”? It does have a ring to it, and the varietal is certainly masculine in most versions, but for those dads that may want something different, here are a few options:
Bonterra Syrah 2005, Mendocino County $14.99
This juicy red is made with 100% organically grown grapes, so this would be the “green” choice. It is vibrantly fruity with black cherry, blackberry, and mulberry and has a side note of vanilla. Visit www.bonterra.com
Campus Oaks Old Vine Zinfandel 2006, Lodi $11.99
This small-production wine is produced by the Gnekow family using 90-year old vines. This is a rich, spicy Zin that would be terrific with a juicy grilled steak. It is also an excellent value. Visit www.gnekowwinery.com.
Dutton Goldfield Morelli Lane Vineyard Zinfandel 2006, Russian River Valley $40
This vineyard was planted over 100 years ago, and the wine has that added intensity and complexity without heft. It is ravishingly fruity with raspberry and cherry notes, and has backnotes of nutmeg and caramel. This is another excellent choice for anything off the barbie. Visit www.duttongoldfield.com.
Charles Krug Sauvignon Blanc 2007, Napa Valley $18
Chill out with this clean, tropical white. It is unoaked and has notes of lemongrass, white peach, lilikoi, lime, passionfruit, herbs de provence and verbena. It is really refreshing and easy to enjoy, and a nice new release from Napa Valley’s first winery.
Happy Fathers Day!
As a sommelier in Honolulu at a beach front restaurant my biggest problem was keeping my guest’s wine cool enough, especially the reds. Ice buckets were on every table no matter the type of wine. Where was Ravi then? This cool little handheld gadget has an internal tube made of inert stainless steel. After freezing the cartridge for a recommended six hours, you simply insert it into the bottle’s neck. Cover the tip with your finger while tilting down to pour, release, and voila, out comes chilled wine! An informative service video is available at www.ravisolution.com. $49.95