Staples for the Cookout (Episode Eight)
Happy Thursday, friend!
I know, it’s been a minute since I’ve blessed your timeline with a new episode of #ThirstyThursday, but June was jam-packed with all of the things! I’m stoked to bring y’all new tastings this month and the months to come.
It is officially #CookoutSZN, and while it may look differently this year, I did want to give y’all a few sips that would go perfect with whatever you choose to throw on the grill this long, holiday weekend.
Get into the full video with tasting notes below and I’ll “see” you next week!
WINE #1 - 2019 Los Vascos Chardonnay
For the sake of making a cookout appearance, this unoaked Chardonnay comes from the Casablanca Valley, which sits on the coast of Chile, a cool climate that is known for its lighter bodied white wines.
ON THE NOSE: Citrus and tropical fruit - think lemon zest, pineapple, banana and peach. Your’e also going to get some steel or mineral qualities, with a strong saline and floral undertone.
ON THE PALATE: This wine is dry and high in acidity - so pucker up! It’s also light in body, with a salty texture and minerality. I also pick up some tropical fruits like melon and starfruit as well as citrus fruit like lemon and grapefruit. 100% Chardonnay, this one has a deliciously long finish.
PAIRS WELL WITH: Pretty much everything, but since we’re talking about cookout foods - a tangy cabbage slaw, grilled lemon pepper wings, grilled salmon, shrimp kabobs, and a really cute charcuterie board with salty cheeses, olives and meats.
PRICE: $11.99
WINE #2 - 2017 Bottega Vinaia Pinot Noir
This Pinot Noir from Northern Italy - which makes it a cool climate wine. While you can drink it all year round, this is one is going to be extra special with all of that grilled deliciousness you’re going to fire up this weekend.
ON THE NOSE: Lush with ripe red fruit - cherry, plum and raspberry. There are notes of vanilla, smoke, tobacco, cedar, and even a hint of cocoa. For a light-bodied red wine, this one has a round-mouth feel that feels like velvet.
ON THE PALATE: Mouthwatering, fresh acidity, juicy red fruit flavor - cherry and raspberry, medium tannins, EASY DRINKING - one that could even have a little chill put on it. 100% Pinot Noir.
PAIRS WELL WITH: All of the meats! But seriously – anything that you’re going to throw on the grill: steak, chicken, pork; tofu - this wine will taste delightful with it all.
PRICE: $17.99
