All three of these are perfect right now, whether you’re in the mood for a rich white wine, a well-evolved red, or a beer that drinks as well on its own as it does with the heartier foods of the season.
Laguna Chardonnay “Laguna Ranch Vineyard” 2010, Russian River Valley
Aromas of creamed pear and financier mingle with hints of white tea and vanilla oak spice that promises to integrate further with some more time in the bottle. Even given its youth, this boasts a very appealing nose, powerful and elegant all at once. On the palate, sweet, ripe fruit--pear, a bit of persimmon--are still sweet and kissed with smoky vanilla notes from oak, but balanced and well-integrated into a wine of both exuberance right now and promise for evolution in the cellar. Drink now - 2019.
Spellwine “Severed Head Red” 2006, Napa Valley
(Cabernet Sauvignon 76%, Syrah 14%, Merlot 10%)
Black and red currant aromas, as well as slightly dried black and red raspberry, are joined by a beautiful range of supporting notes, including cherries, sandalwood, licorice, sage, and coffee grounds. Very enticing, indeed. Flavors of currants, dried cherries, vanilla, cedar, sandalwood, cigar humidor, and licorice powder follow through to a long finish that lingers with ample acidity and flecks of black peppercorn. Very well-balanced. Drink now - 2018.
Narragansett Porter, Rochester, NY
Beautiful cafe-mocha-colored head, dense and well-delineated. Aromas of coffee grounds, baker’s chocolate, and biscuits turn to flavors of toast, biscuits, smoke, espresso, and cafe mocha. Rich and yet still relatively light on its feet, despite its 7% alcohol. Lovely porter; very well-crafted. This is an absolute steal for the money.