It is the start of summer and time to pick the perfect Napa summer wines. I had the chance to sample some of the latest from Napa and here are my pics for the perfect wines this summer in no particular order.
2018 Eleven Eleven Destin Vineyard Rose of Syrah: $28
Scents of citrus and berries with flavors of dry peaches. Would pair perfectly with grilled chicken or seafood. If you want to go on the sweet side you can rock it with a berry tart.
Patel 2017 Sauvignon Blanc Napa Valley: $60
I can’t put it better than what winemaker Julien Fayard said “An elegant wine with aromatics of sweet white flowers, this expression of Sauvignon Blanc is powerful, and anything but typical. Barrel fermentation and aging lends a touch of sweetness, textured mouthfeel and a dry finish, while weaving an intricate and seductive blend of herbs, ripe white peach, and a touch of pineapple. Aging for 14 months in 100% French Oak makes this Sauvignon Blanc rich and pleasing to the palate, with a smooth creamy texture balanced with a hint of spice and refreshing acidity."
The quality of this expression is top notch. It’s smooth acidity and texture would pair well with some pan seared Chilean Sea Bass.
Alpha and Omega 2014 Chardonnay: $78
Ultra balanced on the palate. Viscous with pineapple lingering on the finish all day. Would go great with some mozzarella on a crostini.
Inglenook 2016 Blancaneaux: $65
A white Rhone blend of 36% Viognier, 32% Marsanne, 32% Roussanne. The minerality is what shines through the most. Flavors of citrus and vanilla and creaminess on the finish. Would go great with roast pork.
Tor 2017 Beresini Vineyard Chardonnay: Sold Out
All about honeysuckle on this one. A true expression of the Carneros region. Rich on the palate with full acidity. Notes of smooth tangerine. Perfect with some goat cheese.
Strala Vineyards 2015 Brut Rose: $50
A gorgeous dry Brut Rosé. Strawberries on the nose with flavors of raspberries and balance acidity. Gotta throw it down with some fresh strawberries
Lewis Cellars 2018 VIN GRIS SYRAH: $25
One of the most unique wines of the bunch and brilliantly priced at $25. 100% Syrah grapes. Pungent notes of delicious strawberries. This is definitely the summer sipping wine while you’re waiting for the food to come off the grill. Outstanding!
Monticello Vineyards 2017 Rosé of Pinot Noir: $32
Some spicy strawberry on the nose. On the palate the wine is elegant; balancing ripe, light red-berry fruit and vibrant, crisp acidity. On the palate it checks all the boxes you want in your rose. Crisp and with a bright finish. Perfect with some oysters or grill shrimp.
Made from Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon. It is hard to find and yummy AF. I have to get back to Napa ASAP so I can try the rest of their portfolio.
Mathew Bruno 2017 Sauvignon Blanc: $29
This one screams notes of guava and tropical fruit. Crisp finish and this would rock with some fresh ceviche.
Cakebread Cellars 2017 Sauvignon Blanc: $26
Another wine with guava on the palate, balanced acidity and minerality. Lovely expression of Napa Sav Blanc. Perfect with some Stone Crab claws.
Somerston 2016 Sauvignon Blanc:
Very limited production. This has intense notes of mango, grapefruit, and citrus. On the palate, delicious flavors of vanilla and grilled citrus. I had it with a grill chicken Caesar Salad.
For more info on Napa and all the wineries you have to taste and visit head on over to the Napa Valley Vintners website!
