Best Wine Picks of 2019 by Michael Sobol
Michael enjoying a glass of wine in Nantucket on family vacation
My dad, Michael Sobol, is what I would call a wine aficionado. He’s spent a lot of his life tasting and collecting wine. Growing up we always had a wine cellar in our basement where he would house all of the wine that he collected…this also served as one of my parents hiding spots for Christmas gifts. I always looked here first :)
He’s always my go to whenever I’m looking for a wine to pair with a meal and has the best recommendations! I’ve grown to love and appreciate wine because of him. Every year he puts together a list of his top wines to share with friends and family. Katie and I thought why not post this coveted list on the blog?! If you have any questions about wine he’s your guy.
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This year a closer look at bubbly is in order, a recent interview with a 108 year old tippler in the U.K. claims Champagne is the secret to a long life!
Most pricing and availability is from Binny’s
Bubbles
Schramsberg Blanc de Blanc - California classic, crisp and long finish, served at the re-emergence of China Dinner at the White House in 1972. Available in Magnums for Holiday events. Price: $34.00
Roederer Estate Brut - This champagne is great value for the price. Roederer is one of the oldest Champagne houses, this is their California bubbly. Price: $24.00
Pol Roger Extra Cuvee Reserve - This is a classic! Winston Churchill’s fave bubbly…When Churchill was posted to the trenches in 1916 he arrived with several cases of Pol Roger! Price: $45.00
Whites/Rose’s
Cave D’Esclans Whispering Angel 2018 Rose’ - Was formerly a Summertime quaff, now a year-round go to. This is also a FF fave. Price: $18.00
Emile Beyer Riesling 2017/2018 - Alsace at its best, with apple, lime, juicy peach accents. Great with roasted salmon and has a zesty finish. Price: $ 20.00
Reds
Patricia Green Oregon Pinot Noir Reserve 2017 - Excellent soft fruit, awesome nose and long finish. Price: $27.00
Lopez de Haro Reserva 2014 Rioja - This wine always satisfies, versatile and food friendly. A favorite of mine. Rioja is still overlooked and under-appreciated. Price: $14.00.
Cotes Du Rhone Guigal 2015 ( 2016-17 also good years) - A great intro to French wine-making, this Syrah based wine has fruit, spice and violet toned accents. Warm and smooth, perfect for this early snowy season! New to the list also a steal for the price. Price: $15.00
Dessert Wine (Bonus Pick)
Chateau Coutet Barsac 2015 375 ml (half-bottle) - Almond, nectarine white peach finish, rated 94-97. A great example of decadent French desert wine. Serve very chilled, amazing! Price: $25.00.
Enjoy, and a ta Sante’!