Easter is upon us and this year I thought it would be fun to offer a few more choices in different categories. Hopefully you will see a few surprises.
WHITES
1. Vouvray: Les Lys Vouvray 2015
Made from 100% Chenin Blanc this is an off-dry white with notes of delicate perfume, stone fruit and tropical fruit, a hint of almond, and a pleasant dose of honey. It has low acidity and a soft, round finish. This wine pairs well with sweet and salty honey-glazed ham with a side of scalloped potatoes.
2. Riesling: Boundary Breaks Ovid Line North 2014
The nose on this Finger Lakes Riesling offers scents of honey, wax, and peach. This off-dry Riesling has fine texture and pleasant, lingering flavors and is very well balanced. This wine can easily take on not just salty-sweet ham, but smoked kielbasa, hard boiled eggs and horseradish.
3. Pinot Gris: Willm Pinot Gris Reserve 2014
The Willm Pinot Gris has a golden color with a very faint pink hue along the edges. This wine is juicy with pear, apple and peach notes with a bit of citrus and honey accents to compliment this off-dry white. A great option from the usual whites and can pair well with traditional Easter foods or seafood dishes if so desired.
REDS
1. Pinot Noir: Castle Rock Kristy RSV 2014
This Monterey Pinot Noir is somewhat earthy, but more about fruit and spice. Notes of black cherry, plum, vanilla spice and toasted cedar will draw you in and further flavors of chocolate and strawberry with hints of cinnamon will make this a treat whether you are having lamb, duck or Cornish Game Hen for Easter dinner.
2. Grenache: Domaine Lafage Nicolas 2013
This is a great value wine with wonderful notes of black raspberry, licorice and crushed violets. It is medium to full bodied and tannins are presents are present but not overbearing. This 100% Grenache is from Languedoc-Roussillon, France. This is perfect for those who opt for Leg of Lamb or Crown Roast for Easter dinner.
ROSES
1. Honoro Vera Rose
This medium-bodied Tempranillo/Syrah dry rose has crisp acidity and is very refreshing. The palate is full of cherry, strawberry and cranberry fruit. The finish is very smooth and citrusy. It's ready to take on Easter Ham.
2. Moraitis Rose 2016
From Greece this Light tomato colored rose is simply delightful. It has rich strawberry and cherry notes with a strong acidity and a sea salt presence. It is not timid and will work very with Ham or poultry. It will pair nicely with fresh fruit for Easter Brunch.
SPARKLING
1. La Marca Prosecco
This bright sparkling wine has white flower, peach and honey notes. It offers a touch of sweetness to emphasize the off-dry quality. La Marca is best on its own with Easter Brunch foods, but could certainly make a solid Mimosa.
2. Dibon Cava Brut
This is a great bargain from Spain that is becoming an Easter favorite. Nice apple aromas are elegant and not over the top, while the tangerine flavors zero right in. This Cava is a clean, crisp, tasty wine with no yeast or weightiness. This is a great alternative for those who don’t want to open expensive champagnes for Easter Brunch.