2020 Briedé Family Vineyards Brut Sparkling Winchester ($53)

From the Shenandoah Valley AVA, here is a wonderful sparkling wine!

Briedé Family Vineyards was established in 2013 in the Shenandoah Valley AVA in Winchester Virginia (just east of the Baltimore/Washington D.C. areas)

Approved in 1982, the Shenandoah Valley AVA comprises Frederick, Clarke, Warren, Shenandoah, Page, Rockingham, Augusta, Rockbridge, Botetourt and Amherst counties in Virginia, and Berkely and Jefferson counties in West Virginia. Covering 2.4 million acres surrounding the Shenandoah River, it is a major agricultural and viticultural area of Virginia and West Virginia.

Awards for this 2020 Sparkling Winchester include:

- Silver Medal winner in the 2023 Governor's Cup and the DENVER International Wine Competition 2023

- Gold Medal and 2nd in the Shenandoah Cup 2023, and in top 7 wines in the Shenandoah Valley.

This award-winning 2020 Briedé Sparkling Winchester is made from 100% Cayuga White grapes. Cayuga is a French-American hybrid grape variety, first bred and now found predominantly in the Finger Lakes wine region of New York State and vicinity. It was bred for its cold hardiness and produces both sparkling and still wines with good acidity and clean flavors.

On the nose, this Briedé Sparkling Winchester has notes of green apples, pears, and a bit of yeast. On the palate its bubbles are consistent and small with nice complexity and a lengthy finish,

This is a unique Shenandoah Valley sparkling wine that’s perfect as this week’s Behind the Cork™ Wine of the Week. Cheers!

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received this sample at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Media Sample Provided by Briedé Family Vineyards via Donna White Communications

2021 Elouan Chardonnay ($20)

In January 2014, Joseph Wagner formed Copper Cane Wine & Provisions. Elouan is the result of Wagner heading North to Oregon to create wines with depth of flavor, vibrancy and suppleness.

The grapes for this Chardonnay come from three regions - North Western Oregon, West-Central Hills and South Western Oregon.

Elouan means “Good Light” which is reflective of the abundant summer sunshine and cool temperatures in Oregon.

Elouan Chardonnay is barrel fermented in French oak (50% new) for 14 months with full Malolactic Conversion, the natural process of converting sharper malic acid into softer, smoother, creamy lactic acid.

This Elouan Chardonnay is medium gold in color with fruit aromas of baked apple and pear along with notes from the oak aging. On the palate it is soft, rich and creamy with the noted baked apple and pear flavors, medium acidity and a long, rich finish.

Elouan Chardonnay, from Copper Cane, is perfect for celebrating the holidays, or any time! A tasty Chardonnay like this one, at a great price, make this Elouan Chardonnay a perfect fit as a Behind the Cork™ Wine of the Week. Cheers!

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received this sample at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Media Sample Provided by Copper Cane Wines via CURICH | WEISS

Behind the Cork™ - Wines of Flat Creek Estate Winery & Vineyard

Great wines from Texas? Indeed! Flat Creek Estate Winery & Vineyard is located roughly 45 minutes from downtown Austin Texas on 80 acres. Their beautiful vineyards combine with an elegant tasting room, full-service restaurant, a covered pavilion and even a one-of-a-kind 18-hole disc golf course!

Located in Marble Falls Texas, the Flat Creek Estate was established in 1996 in the Texas Hill Country AVA. It is dedicated to creating artisanal, handcrafted wines drawing on Old World winemaking practices that accentuate their unique terroir.

Their winery has earned more than 400 awards and accolades, including multiple Double Gold Medals at the San Francisco International Wine Competition.

At the recent Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo International Wine Competition, this “Trilogy Pack” won big with the following awards:

2017 Super Texan ($48) - Double Gold Medal /Reserve Class Champion / Reserve Texas Class Champion

Elevate your senses with their iconic red blend of Sangiovese, Montepulciano, Petite Sirah and Primitivo has been the flagship of their estate for decades. Cloaked in a deep ruby robe, its complex bouquet entwines luscious black currants, succulent raspberries, and a whisper of exotic Sichuan pepper. With a balanced medium body, it’s your weeknight companion, offering black cherry and fresh plum flavors that dance effortlessly on the palate. A hint of vanilla bids adieu, leaving a soft, lingering impression.

2018 Buttero - Silver Medal

This Buttero (Italian Cowboy) Italian red blend (Sangiovese, Primitivo and Montepulciano)

(Coming Soon as part of the Trilogy Pack)

2018 Four Horsemen Red Blend ($45) - Silver Medal

This Estate Red Blend (Montepulciano, Primitivo and Syrah) is designed to showcase the results when exceptional Texas fruit is crafted with exceptional winemaking skill. This wine showcases their unique terroir and reflects the strength each of the four varieties contributes. The blend was created by choosing only the best barrels for each variety which were painstakingly combined to achieve a wine of supreme depth and balance. This wine was unfined and unfiltered to preserve every subtlety possible. Each limited installment will only be produced when the fruit demands.

This exclusive “Trilogy Pack” is available on their website at a discounted price for the 3-bottle pack.

Flat Creek Estate has been named one of Food & Wine’s top 50 Most Amazing Wine Experiences in America, stating “arguably Texas’s best wines [are] at this Hill Country estate.”

If you are in the Austin area, you need to check out Flat Creek Estate. With all they have to offer, you might even make it a full-day outing. Otherwise, check out Flat Creek Estate on-line. Texas is indeed making great wines! Cheers!

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received these samples at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Media Samples Provided by Flat Creek Estate Winery via CURICH | WEISS

Behind the Cork™ - Three Great Wines to Enjoy with Traditional Italian Christmas Meals

Riva Leone Gavi GOCG ($14.99) - From the Gavi area of Piedmont in Italy, this wine is produced from 100% Cortese grapes. Fermentation is carried out in stainless steel tanks and aged in steel for 2-3 months before bottling.

This Riva Leone Gavi is a very pale yellow-green in color with very delicate aromas of citrus, lime and green apple. On the palate, this light-bodied wine has flavors of light citrus and melon, bright acidity and a soft, light finish.

Gavi is a classic starter that is crisp and immensely fresh. The mineral and citrus notes allow it to pair well with seafood dishes, as it complement and accentuate the salty-mineral flavors of shellfish and seafood.

Riva Leone Barbera DOC ($11.99) - From Piedmont Italy comes another of the classic Italian wines - Barbera.

This Riva Leone Barbera is a medium ruby in color with classic aromas of cherry and dried herbs. On the palate, this medium-bodied wine has flavors of tart cherry, a hint of black pepper and good acidity that finishes with fruity zip.

Barbera pairs well with meat-filled pasta, the medium tannins and bright acidity will match with the richness of fresh pasta.

Acquesi Asti Spumante ($17.99) - This Italian sparkling wine is produced from 100% Moscato. It is a sweet sparkling wine at just 7% alcohol by volume and 95 g/L residual sugar making it a sweet sparkling wine.

Its pale gold color and greenish hue leads to complex floral aromas of fresh tree fruits, honeycomb and exotic spices. On the palate it is fresh, sweet and persistent with a lingering, sweet fruity finish.

While this can be enjoyed with cheese and spicy Asian foods, it is most classically paired with desserts such as pastries, fruit tarts, cakes and butter creams. A perfect way to end a wonderful meal!

Each of these wonderful wines is imported by Mack & Schuhle and widely available and, at these prices, are a great fit as Behind the Cork™ Wines of the Week. Cheers and Happy Holidays!

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received these samples at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Media Samples Provided by Mack & Schuhle

Behind the Cork™ - Albert Bichot Crémant de Bourgogne Sparkling Wines

In 1831, Bernard Bichot founded a wine trading business in his name in Monthélie, France. His son, Hippolyte, succeeded him and bought the first grape vines in Volnay, France. His son, Albert Bichot, the first to bear the name, gave the family business new momentum in the late 19th century and settled in the centre of Beaune (the center of Burgundy wine production ) once and for all in 1912. The Albert Bichot winery indeed has deep roots in France.

The notation on the label of these two sparkling wines of “Crémant de Bourgogne” indicates the appellation for sparkling white and rosé wines of Burgundy in France.

Sparkling wines labeled “Crémant de Bourgogne” must be produced from a minimum of 30% of any combination of Chardonnay, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris and/or Pinot Noir with no more than 30% Gamay included in any wine, and made in the methode traditionelle.

Albert Bichot Brut Rosé ($31)

This Brut Rosé is produced from Pinot Noir (80%), Chardonnay and Gamay (less than 10%) that are vinified separately and aged for 9 months. It is then stored on lees for 12 months with a dosage of 10 gm/L.

This Brut Rosé is medium salmon in color with delicate aromas of red fruit and citrus. It is very delicate on the palate with light strawberry and candied-cherry flavors, balanced acidity and a light finish.

Albert Bichot Brut Réserve ($31)

This Brut Réserve is produced from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Gamay and Aligote. Each varietal is vinified separately and aged for 9 months. It is then stored on lees for at least 12 months with a dosage of 7-8 gm/L. This sparkling Brut is pale copper in color with aromas of peach and citrus. On the palate it has delicate fresh fruit flavors, balanced acidity and a light finish.

These two Brut sparkling wines from Albert Bichot are perfect for celebrating the holidays, or any time! They are a great fit as this week’s Behind the Cork™ Wines of the Week. Cheers!

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received these samples at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Media Samples Provided by Albert Bichot Winery via IT Public Relations

2019 Flora Springs Napa Valley Red Blend ($95)

This is one of Flora Springs’ most popular holiday designs yet, their “Gnome Carolers,” spreading holiday cheer all around. The design is inspired by General Manager Nat Komes’ memory of his grandmother Flora, who loved to carol during the holidays. They are also offering special bottles with “Two Turtle Doves,” “Quail Greetings,” and “Happy New Year.”

Each bottle is meticulously etched and painted by hand, with capsules and back labels applied one-by-one. Each bottle is absolute perfection inside and out.

While these holiday bottles from Flora Springs are very beautiful, the wines are also exceptional. The 2019 Napa Valley Holiday Red Bordeaux Blend consists primarily of Cabernet Sauvignon, combining fruit from two outstanding, sustainably-farmed vineyard sources: the Komes Vineyard in Rutherford and Crossroads Vineyard in Oakville. It was aged 18 months in French (70%) and American (30%) oak barrels. And, with just 230 case produced, this is indeed a rare treat!

This Flora Springs Red Blend is deep ruby in color with beautiful aromas of black fruit, tobacco leaf and cedar. On the palate, this full-bodied wine has rich dark fruit flavors, wonderfully soft tannin, balanced acidity and a smooth finish that just keep on going. It’s so good you only need to pair it with a nice wine glass!

This exceptional Flora Springs 2019 Napa Valley Holiday Red Bordeaux Blend is a real treat for the holidays as this week’s Behind the Cork™ Wine of the Week. Cheers!

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received this sample at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Media Sample Provided by Flora Springs Winery

Domaine Bousquet is located in the Gualtallary Valley, a scenic, remote, arid terrain high in the Tupungato district of the Uco Valley in Argentina’s Mendoza region, close to the border with Chile. With altitudes ranging up to 5,249 feet, Gualtallary occupies the highest extremes of Mendoza’s viticultural limits. Having purchased the bare land in 1997, today, Domaine Bousquet has a striking modern winery, complete with a hospitality area and restaurant, and the property accounts for 667 acres planted under vine.

Domaine Bousquet is Argentina’s largest exporter of wines made from certified organic grapes. All wines are made from 100% certified organic fruit. They are known for producing a wide range of premium red, white and rosé wines, in addition to these two wonderful sparkling wines.

Méthode Traditionnelle Brut Rosé ($18)

This Brut Rosé sparkling wine is produced from 75% Pinot Noir and 25% Chardonnay (two of the traditional grapes used in Champagne). The grapes are manually harvested and undergo cold maceration for 24 hours before being fermented for 15 days. After six months of aging on lees, the second fermentation takes place in the bottle in the traditional method.

This sparkling rosé is pale copper in color with dusty aromas of tropical fruits and citrus. On the palate it is subtle grapefruit flavor, good acidity and so of a sweet/tart finish. ABV = 12%, Total Acidity = 8.75 g/L, pH = 3.05, Residual Sugar = 8.1 g/L

Méthode Traditionnelle Brut ($18)

This Brut sparkling wine is produced from 75% Chardonnay and 25% Pinot Noir, just the reverse proportions of the sparkling rosé. The grapes are manually harvested and undergo cold maceration for 24 hours before being fermented for 15 days. After six months of aging on lees, the second fermentation takes place in the bottle in the traditional method.

This sparkling brut is pale gold in color with faint aromas of yellow apple and almond. On the palate it has delicate flavors of tropical fruit, good acidity and a pleasant aftertaste. ABV = 12%, Total Acidity = 8.92 g/L, pH = 3.05, Residual Sugar = 8.1 g/L

These two sparkling wines from Domaine Bousquet are perfect for celebrating the holidays and affordably priced, making them this week’s Behind the Cork™ Wines of the Week. Cheers!

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received these samples at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Media Samples Provided by Domaine Bousquet and Origins Organic Imports

2020 TerraNoble CA2 Costa Carménère ($36)

The Carménère grapes for this wine were grown in the Lolol vineyard that is located in the Colchagua Valley in Chile. The Lolol vineyard is located 25 miles from the ocean in the Chilean Coastal Mountain Range.

This 100% Carménère was cold macerated for 10 days. Fermentation took place for 8 to 12 days, then a post fermentative maceration of about two weeks. The wine was racked directly into French oak barrels and untoasted foudres where it underwent malolactic conversion and 16 months of aging.

This wine is deep ruby in color with medium-high aromas of black fruit and green pepper. On the palate, this medium-full bodied wine has spicy and rich dark fruit flavor with subtle notes from the oak. It finishes smooth and easy.

2020 Montes Wings Carménère ($55)

The grapes for this wine were grown in the Colchagua Valley, at on the winery’s Finca de Apalta estate. The vineyard is located on steep slopes, 650 feet above the valley floor. Some areas show the pronounced influence of the nearby Tinguiririca River, while others are more alluvial, featuring eroded material from the mountain tops that ring the valley.

This wine is produced from 85% Carménère and 15% Cabernet Franc that were cool macerated for 5-7 days followed by 12-15 days of fermentation before aging for 16 months in new French oak barrels (80%) and second- and third-use barrels (20%).

This wine is deep ruby in color with rich and complex aromas of black fruit, subtle herbs and hints of oak. On the palate, this medium-full bodied wine has deliciously rich dark fruit flavors, great complexity, easy tannin and a smooth and lingering fruit finish.

These two wines are excellent examples of Carménère wines that are being produced in Chile and are this week’s Behind the Cork™ Wines of the Week. Cheers!

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received these samples at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Media Samples Provided by TerraNoble and Montes Wines

Carménère Wine of Chile (Part 2 of 3)

Carménère (kar-men-nair) is a wine grape whose name is derived from the French carmin (meaning crimson). It was a grape that was thought to be nearly extinct. In 1994, fewer than 25 acres of Carménère remained in France’s Médoc, Bordeaux. But that all changed when it was discovered that an estimated one-third of what had been thought in Chile to be Merlot was actually Carménère. Carménère rose from near worldwide oblivion following the phylloxera crisis that had swept through the Médoc to now representing a country on the global stage: Carménère became synonymous with Chile.

Here are two more very nice Carménère wines from Chile…

2021 Morandé Vitis Unica Carménère ($20)The grapes for this wine come from the San Bernardo estate, located in the Maipo Valley, Chile, and are planted on the north side of the river in a bed of pure gravel. This 100% Carménère was hand harvested, fermented in stainless steel tanks and aged in 80% French oak foundres and 20% new French oak barrels before being store for around 16 months.

This wine is medium purple in color with subtle aromas of red and black fruit along with a bit of pepper. On the palate, this medium-full bodied Carménère has fresh flavors of black cherry, medium tannin and an easy finish. (13.5% ABV, Total Acidity = 3.59 g/L, pH=3.42, Residual Sugar=2.74 g/L)

2020 Primus Carménère ($20)

The grapes for this wine come comes from Apalta in Colchagua Chile. It is made with organic grapes that are grown in granite-and clay-rich soils. The vineyards are surrounded by native forests, where the Andes and Coastal mountain ranges meet. The wine was aged for 12 months in French oak barrels, 18% of which were new. It is deep purple in color with aromas of black cherry and black plum with subtle herbal notes. On the palate it displays rich dark fruit flavors along with some pepper and herbs. It has medium tannin, balanced acidity and a long finish.(14.5% ABV, Total Acidity=4.94 g/L, pH=3.77, Residual Sugar=2.2 g/L)

(Imported by Gonzalez Byass)

Both of these lovely Carménère wines benefited by 30-60 minutes in a decanter. Again, Chile is producing very nice Carménère wines at great values that fit the mold as this week’s Behind the Cork™ Wines of the Week. Cheers!

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received these samples at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Media Samples Provided by Morandé Wines and Primus Wines

Carménère Wines of Chile (Part 1 of 3)

Carménère (kar-men-nair) is a wine grape whose name is derived from the French carmin (meaning crimson). It was a grape that was thought to be nearly extinct. In 1994, fewer than 25 acres of Carménère remained in France’s Médoc, Bordeaux. But that all changed when it was discovered that an estimated one-third of what had been thought in Chile to be Merlot was actually Carménère. Carménère rose from near worldwide oblivion following the phylloxera crisis that had swept through the Médoc to now representing a country on the global stage: Carménère became synonymous with Chile.

Here are two very nice Carménère wines from Chile…

Viña San Esteban In Situ Carménère Reserva ($13)

This In Situ Carménère comes from the slopes of Paidahuen hill (3000 ft above sea level) and from the riverbanks of the Aconcagua River, just north of Santiago in Chile. It is produced from 95% Carménère and 5% Cabernet Sauvignon. It was macerated for 18 days and then aged in 50% French and 50% American oak barrels for 12 months (well beyond the 6-month requirement for a Reserva wine). After the bottling, it was aged for at least 3 additional months before release.

This In Situ Carménère is deep ruby in color with aromas of deep red and black fruit with some herbal notes. On the palate this medium-bodied wine has rich black cherry and black plum flavors, and subtle oak nuances. The fruit of this wine is prominent on the front and easy on the finish. (ABV=13%, Total Acidity=5.42 g/L, pH=3.55, Residual Sugar=3.4 g/L).

Luma Chequen Gran Reserva Carménère ($17)

This Luma Carménère is from the dry Mediterranean climate of the Valle del Maule, which is 155 miles south of Santiago, Chile. The temperatures there are moderated by the proximity to the cool Pacific Ocean. It is produced from 100% Carménère that is cold macerated for 5 days, then fermented in stainless steel tanks for 10 days. It was then aged for barrel for 12 months.

This Luma Carménère is deep ruby in color with subtle fruit aromas and herbal notes of bell pepper and spices. On the palate, this medium-bodied wine has rich flavors of black berry and black plum, it has soft tannin and is well balanced. It has a nice lingering finish. (ABV=13.9%).

These are two nice examples of the Carménère being produced in Chile. And, at these prices, they are a great value! Hence, these two Carménère wines from Chile are this week’s Behind the Cork™ Wines of the Week. Cheers!

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received these samples at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Wines Provided by InVina Wines and InSitu Family Vineyards

2021 Art of Earth Cabernet Sauvignon by Mack & Schühle ($11.99)

One of the largest and most important viticultural groups in the world, the Mack & Schühle organization includes 29 cooperatives and around 5,000 winegrowers, managing more than 60,000 acres of vineyard plantings located throughout the top growing regions of Mendoza and San Juan in Argentina.

Art of Earth organic wines are true to their origins and winemaking traditions without the use of pesticides or herbicides. This Art of Earth Cabernet Sauvignon comes from Mendoza Argentina. The organic vineyards are located at 2300 to 2600 feet in elevation. The presence of the Andes Mountains, which act as a barrier to the humid winds of the Pacific, along with the distance to the Atlantic Ocean, generating ideal conditions for the cultivation of vines.

This Art of Earth Cabernet Sauvignon is produced with 100% Cabernet Sauvignon grapes that are both fermented and undergo malolactic conversion in stainless steel tanks - it sees no oak aging. It is medium ruby in color with black fruit aromas. On the palate, this full-bodied Cabernet has big red and black fruit flavors, firm tannin and balanced acidity. This young Cabernet Sauvignon should be decanted for a least an hour for best enjoyment.

This Mack & Schühle Art of Earth Organic Cabernet Sauvignon is available throughout most of the U.S. and, at $11.99, is a great value as this week’s Behind the Cork™ Wine of the Week. Cheers!

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received this sample at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Imported by Mack & Schühle

2022 Art of Earth Chardonnay by Mack & Schühle ($11.99)

One of the largest and most important viticultural groups in the world, the Mack & Schühle organization includes 29 cooperatives and around 5,000 winegrowers, managing more than 60,000 acres of vineyard plantings located throughout the top growing regions of Mendoza and San Juan in Argentina.

Art of Earth organic wines are true to their origins and winemaking traditions without the use of pesticides or herbicides. This Art of Earth Chardonnay comes from Mendoza Argentina. The organic vineyards are located at 2300 to 2600 feet in elevation. The presence of the Andes Mountains, which act as a barrier to the humid winds of the Pacific, along with the distance to the Atlantic Ocean, generating ideal conditions for the cultivation of vines.

This Art of Earth Chardonnay is produced with 100% Chardonnay grapes that are both fermented and undergo malolactic conversion in stainless steel tanks - it sees no oak aging. It is pale gold in color with subtle aromas of lemon, lime and tropical fruits. On the palate, this medium-bodied Chardonnay has bright flavors of citrus, yellow apple and pear with refreshing acidity on the finish.

This Mack & Schühle Art of Earth Organic Chardonnay is available throughout most of the U.S. and, at $11.99, is a great value as this week’s Behind the Cork™ Wine of the Week. Cheers!

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received this sample at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Imported by Mack & Schühle

2021 Flora Springs Napa Valley All Hallows’ Eve Cabernet Franc ($75)

Flora Springs has been producing one-of-a-kind Halloween-themed labels for quite some time and this year's All Hallows’ Eve Cabernet Franc is a limited-production wine that is a perfect sip as the changing weather creeps in, from Halloween movie marathons to autumn-inspired dinner parties.

This year, Flora Springs General Manager Nat Komes, the creative spirit behind this annual endeavor, worked with comic book illustrator, graphic novelist and digital comics pioneer, Steve Ellis, to develop this years’ label.

This wine is produced from 100% Cabernet Franc that was aged 18 months in French oak barrels. And it is special - only 350 cases of this wine were produced.

This Flora Spring Napa Valley All Hallows’ Eve Cabernet Franc is deep purple in color with aromas of rich dark fruit and a hint of jelly bean. On the palate, this full-bodied wine has delicious black berry and black cherry flavors along with ripe currant. The oak aging adds some subtle touches of brown sugar and vanilla. This wine is an interesting combination of being full-bodied yet delicate. It finishes beautifully -- long and super smooth.

Treat yourself this Halloween, or any time this Fall, with this delicious Flora Spring Napa Valley All Hallows’ Eve Cabernet Franc. It’s an amazing wine that is this week’s Behind the Cork™ Wine of the Week! Cheers!

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received this sample at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Sample Provided by Flora Springs via Forte Mare

Dogajolo Wines by Carpineto

Dogajolo (pronounced (Dog-ay-yolo) was launched in Italy in 1993 by Giancarlo Sacchet and Antonio Zaccheo Sr. of Carpineto.

"This is a momentous year as we proudly celebrate 30 years of our signature Dogajolo Toscano Rosso” said Antonio Michael Zaccheo Jr, the second generation of the Zaccheo family managing the Carpineto winery.

“At the time we launched Dogajolo, Super Tuscans were highly coveted but considered an expensive wine for special occasions, or to drink at the weekend paired with a special meal. We set about changing this by producing an accessibly priced, approachable wine that you can enjoy every day. In doing so, we like to proudly say that we invented the ‘baby’ Super Tuscan category.”

2022 Dogajolo Bianco ($14.99) - This wine is a high-quality white wine produced from 40% Chardonnay grapes blended with 30% Grechetto and 30% Sauvignon Blanc. It is pale gold in color with aromas of citrus and melon along with floral notes. On the palate it has unique characteristics of being smooth and rich provided by the Chardonnay along with having bright notes of citrus and grapefruit from the Sauvignon Blanc. This wine finishes with refreshing acidity. (13/2% ABV, 1.7 g/L RS, pH=3.56, Acidity=5.0 g/L)

2020 Dogajolo ($14.99) - This wine is produced from 80% Sangiovese and 20% Cabernet Sauvignon. It was fermented for 10-15 days in stainless steel tanks. The Sangiovese underwent full malolactic fermentation while the Cabernet Sauvignon only underwent partial malolactic fermentation. It was aged for 6 months in used French and American oak barrels & cement vats followed by 4-6 months in the bottle. It is deep ruby in color with aromas of black cherry and spice. On the palate it has the classic cherry flavor of Sangiovese with added depth associated with the Cabernet Sauvignon. (13/2% ABV, 1.7 g/L RS, pH=3.56, Acidity=5.0 g/L)

These two wines from Dogajolo are great for everyday drinking and very affordable making them a great fit as this week’s Behind the Cork™ Wines of the Week. Cheers!

Dogajolo wines are imported by Opici Wines & Spirits and available in all 50 States.

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received these samples at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Samples Provided by Carpineto Winery via Donna White Communications

Herminia Rioja Wines

Herminia Casas was the beloved wife of a winemaker in the early 1900’s in La Rioja, Spain. She was a pioneer in entrepreneurship and a champion of education access for women and children.

Her husband memorialized her legacy and their mutual life project by naming the winery for her.

These wines honor a woman, the feisty, nonconformist and determined Herminia. She labored tirelessly in favor of her community questioning and challenging the established norms of her time. Charismatic, committed, and a pioneer.

Now more than 70 years later, they continue to make modern, bold, and pioneering Rioja wines that represent Herminia's original project as they carry on her legacy.

Both of these wines are produced from 90% Tempranillo, the signature grape of Rioja, and 10% Garnacha which is a variety which complements Tempranillo due to its body and aromatic features.

Herminia Crianza ($16) - This wine is aged for 12 months in American and French oak before bottling and then spends 6 months in the bottle before shipping. It is medium ruby in color with aromas of red fruit and brown sugar. On the palate this dry wine (14% ABV) is medium-full bodied with flavors of black cherry, and light hints of oak. It has medium tannin and a nice, easy finish of dark red fruits.

Herminia Reserva ($22) - This wine is aged for 24 months in American, Hungarian and French oak before bottling and then spends 12 months in the bottle before shipping. This wine is deep ruby in color with aromas of black cherry, cigar box and leather from it oak aging. On the palate, this dry wine (14% ABV) is medium-full bodied with rich black cherry flavor and vanilla/brown sugar. It finishes long with nice fruit flavor.

These are a couple of really nice Rioja wines from Herminia that are also quite affordable, making them a great fit as this week’s Behind the Cork™ Wines of the Week. Salud and Cheers!

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received these samples at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Samples Provided by Herminia Wines via IT Public Relations

Alavida Organic Kosher Malbec ($19)

Alavida Malbec joins a very select group of wines: it is USDA-certified organic and kosher. Certainly, the first wine of its type from Argentina, Alavida is one of few wines worldwide to attain this unusual dual status. The 100% Argentine, reserve-level Malbec from Domaine Bousquet is also vegan, gluten- free, and Ecocert-approved.

The Alavida name means “To Life” (“a la vida”) in Spanish -- which is taken from the traditional Hebrew toast “L’chaim!” The Domaine Bousquet estate, high in Argentina’s Uco Valley, is owned by Anne Bousquet and her husband, Labid al Ameri. Anne Bousquet notes that “Argentina is a nation rich in diversity, and our own multi-cultural family has been making certified organic wines in Argentina since 1997.”

The winemaking process for Alavida is almost identical to that used in making a non-kosher wine, with two exceptions. Ingredients such as yeast must be kosher, and the wine must be physically made by a sabbath-observant Jewish team under the supervision of a rabbi.

This wine is aged with 90% of the juice in contact with used oak to retain the purity of fruit, and 10% is in contact with new oak.

This Alavida Malbec is deep purple in color with rich black fruit aromas and a hint of sweet tobacco. On the palate, this 100% Malbec is full-bodied and dry with black cherry and black berry flavors as well as a touch of cocoa on its nice finish.

This affordable, great-tasting Malbec, which is USDA-certified organic and kosher, is a great fit as this week’s Behind the Cork™ Wine of the Week. L’chaim and cheers!

For more information on kosher wines, see my recent blog.

ABV: 14.5%, RS: 1.52 g/L, Total Acidity: 5.77 g/L, pH: 3.68

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received this sample at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Sample Provided by Domaine Bousquet via Creative Palate Communications

Domaine Bousquet Virgen Red Wines

Virgen wines are the first Argentine no-sulfites-added USDA-organic-certified wines to launch in the U.S., from Uco Valley-based Domaine Bousquet, Argentina’s largest exporter of organically grown wines.

Named for the virgin land where the Bousquet’s built Domaine Bousquet, this wine is a nod to the continued commitment by the winery to protect and preserve.

Some may associate the natural, no-sulfites-added wine movement with small-production, impossible-to-find, cloudy, funky and inconsistent wines. But not so with this Virgen wine. It is balanced, fresh and approachable: vegan, no oak, and great value for the price!

“We only tackled this project once we were confident that we could manage the challenges of making top-notch organic, no-sulfites-added wines. We also wanted to make sure that these wines remained true to our house style: elegant, with bright, clean, fruit flavors.” – Domaine Bousquet co-owner Anne Bousquet

Virgen Natural Malbec ($13) - This wine is produced from 100% Malbec that is fermented with 50% indigenous yeasts and 50% selected yeasts for 10 days in stainless steel. It is medium purple in color with red-fruit aromas and a hint of herbs. On the palate, this medium-full bodied wine has fresh tasting fruit flavors of red plum on the front-end and blackberry on the back. It has very light tannin, good acidity and a nice finish.

Virgen Natural Cabernet Sauvignon ($13) - This wine is produced from 100% Cabernet Sauvignon that is fermented with 50% indigenous yeasts and 50% selected yeasts for 10 days in stainless steel. It is deep ruby in color with aromas of black cherry and green peppercorn. On the palate, this medium-bodied wine has fresh berry fruit flavors of blackberry, boysenberry and black cherry. It has medium tannin, nice acidity and a medium-long finish.

These wines are both USDA Organic, Vegan friendly, gluten free and have no sulfites added. And, a super value! This makes them a great fit as this week’s Behind the Cork™ Wines of the Week. Cheers!

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received these samples at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Samples Provided by Domaine Bousquet Winery via Creative Palate Communications

Sandy Giovese Vino Rosso ($35)

Amy Ezrin, the founder of Sandy Giovese wine was training to be an opera singer and ended up living in Italy for 8 years. She states she “…was an ‘okay’ singer, but I was really good at speaking Italian and tasting wine, so I became a wine importer. I often joked that my alter ego was Sandy Giovese, a play on the name of one of Italy’s greatest red grapes, Sangiovese.”

This Sandy Giovese Vino Rosso is…

Moderation Friendly - Want just a glass? No need to open a bottle. The box is fresh for 1 month or more

Better for the Planet - Bag-in-box is the lowest environmental impact. Just one-tenth the carbon footprint of one 750 ml glass bottle

Organically Farmed - Made from 100% organically-farmed grapes

Budget Friendly - 1 box = 4 bottles of wine. That’s the equivalent of just $8.75 per bottle. Comparable wines cost at least twice that in glass bottles!

This Sandy Giovese Vino Rosso is a blend of 85% Sangiovese (the classic grape used to produce Chianti wines) and 15% Trebbiano (a native Italian white wine grape that adds refreshing acidity). It is medium ruby in color with aromas of red fruit and herbal notes. On the palate it has the classic Sangiovese flavor of red cherries. It’s medium bodied with good acidity and finishes light and refreshing.

I said it before and I’ll say it again…If you are on the fence with respect to box wine, here’s your reason to hop off and pick one up! This makes the Sandy Giovese Vino Rosso a great fit as the Behind the Cork™ Wine of the Week. Cheers!

ABV: 12.35%, RS: 2.80 g/L, Total Acidity: 5.2 g/L, pH: 3.47

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received this sample at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Sample Provided by Sandy Giovese Wines via Savona Communications

2022 Domaine Bousquet Virgen Chardonnay ($13)

Virgen wines are the first Argentine no-sulfites-added USDA-organic-certified wines to launch in the U.S., from Uco Valley-based Domaine Bousquet, Argentina’s largest exporter of organically grown wines.

Named for the virgin land where the Bousquet’s built Domaine Bousquet, this wine is a nod to the continued commitment by the winery to protect and preserve.

Some may associate the natural, no-sulfites-added wine movement with small-production, impossible-to-find, cloudy, funky and inconsistent wines. But not so with this Virgen wine. It is balanced, fresh and approachable: vegan, no oak, and great value for the price!

“We only tackled this project once we were confident that we could manage the challenges of making top-notch organic, no-sulfites-added wines. We also wanted to make sure that these wines remained true to our house style: elegant, with bright, clean, fruit flavors.” – Domaine Bousquet co-owner Anne Bousquet

This Virgen Natural 100% Chardonnay is a beautiful deep gold color with aromas of yellow apple, apricot and pineapple. On the palate this wine has rich apple flavor and some notable minerality. For a wine that is produced in stainless steel, it has a surprising richness and moderate acidity that leads to a soft finish.

This is a very serious Chardonnay that also happens to be USDA Organic, Vegan friendly, gluten free and has no sulfites added. This makes it a great fit as this week’s Behind the Cork™ Wine of the Week. Cheers!

ABV: 13.5%, RS: 1.56 gm/L, pH: 3.28, Acidity: 5.77 gm/L

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received this sample at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Sample Provided by Domaine Bousquet Winery via Creative Palate Communications

Rosie Giovese Vino Rosato ($35)

Launched in 2021, Sandy Giovese wines are the creation of Amy Ezrin, accomplished entrepreneur, Italian wine expert and importer.

The brand name is a playful reference to her alter ego, Sandy Giovese, referring to the famous Italian grape Sangiovese which this wine is based on. Rosie Giovese is the ‘sister’ of Sandy Giovese.

Sandy Giovese’s commitment to raising awareness around environmental sustainability and the empowerment of women and girls is represented by the strong personality of their central character.

They have been practicing sustainable farming since 2016 when they converted their vineyards to organic farming, supported by a fully solar-powered wine cellar.

This wonderful Rosie Giovese Vino Rosato is a blend of 85% Sangiovese and 15% Trebbiano. It is produced in stainless-steel tanks to preserve its freshness with a seven-day maceration period for the Sangiovese and just four-hours of maceration for the Trebbiano.

This Rosie Giovese Vino Rosato is a beautiful salmon colored wine. On the nose it has strawberry and notes of candied cherry. On the palate it has delicate red-fruit flavors, refreshing acidity and a crisp finish.

This is not only a really good rosé wine, it’s also a tremendous value since one box is equivalent to four bottles of wine.

ABV: 12.35%, Residual Sugar: 2.80 g/l, pH: 3.47, Total Acidity: 5.2 g/l

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received this sample at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Sample Provided by Sandy Giovese Wines via Savona Communications

2020 Masciarelli Montepulciano D'Abruzzo ($15)

This Montepulciano wine from Masciarelli (Mass-shee-ah-RELL-ee) winery exemplifies the style, quality, and value associated with wines from the Abruzzo region of Italy. Masciarelli produced their first vintage in 1981, and to this date, all of their wines remain estate grown.

This wine is made from 100% Montepulciano grapes sourced from vineyards planted in calcareous clay soils. The cooling effect of clay helps preserve this wine’s bright acidity.

Designed to be enjoyed within a few years of release, these wines see no oak during the winemaking process, allowing their youthful freshness to shine.

This Masciarelli wine is produced from 100% Montepulciano D’Abruzzo grapes that were fermented and aged in stainless steel. It is deep ruby in color with nice aromas of black fruit and thyme. On the palate, this dry, full-bodied wine is big in flavor with rich blackberry fruit flavor, touches of spice and bold tannin. (Note: This wine was decanted for 1+ hours before serving)

This is a delightful Montepulciano D’Abruzzo from Masciarelli. It’s also quite affordable. This big Italian wine certainly deserves being called this week’s Behind the Cork™ Wine of the Week. Cheers!

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received this sample at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Sample Provided by Masciarelli Winery via Creative Palate Communications

2022 Masciarelli Colline Teatine Rosato ($14)

Mention the Abruzzo wine region of Italy to fellow wine lovers and chances are the conversation will swiftly turn to Masciarelli (Mass-shee-ah-RELL-ee). Few wineries have done more in recent decades to affect the Abruzzo wine industry, moving it into the 21st century, and shattering for good the stereotype of this southern Italian region as little more than a source of cheap, rustic wines and supermarket brands.

Masciarelli produced their first vintage in 1981, and to this date, all of their wines remain estate grown.

The Colline Teatine IGT, where the grapes for this rosato are grown, has a Mediterranean climate and breezes from the nearby Maiella mountains. Within the Colline Teatine, Masciarelli has plots in three areas:

- Casacanditella: At 1,247 feet, between the Majella Massif and the Adriatic Sea. Vineyards are planted with Montepulciano and protected from drought by cisterns.

- Bucchianico: In a landscape of Mediterranean scrub, Montepulciano and Trebbiano enjoy extra sunlight due to imposing gullies which reflect sunlight on vineyards planted at 1,181 feet.

- Ripa Teatina: The area, at 656 feet, is planted with Cabernet Sauvignon, Montepulciano and Trebbiano.

This Masciarelli Colline Teatine Rosato is produced from 100% Montepulciano D’Abruzzo grapes that are pressed with minimal contact with the skins to achieve this beautiful salmon color. It is fermented in stainless steel tanks to preserve its bright fruit flavors. It has subtle aromas of strawberry and cherry. On the palate it has delicate flavors of strawberry, candied cherry and citrus notes. It is light and refreshing with good acidity.

A delightful, refreshing Italian rosato like this one from Masciarelli, that is also quite affordable, certainly deserves being called this week’s Behind the Cork™ Wine of the Week. Cheers!

Disclosure of Wine Sample Submission: I received this sample at no cost for review. The opinions expressed are entirely my own.

Sample Provided by Masciarelli Winery via Creative Palate Communications