A Toast to Summer Sports

A to Z Winery Willamette Valley Pinot Gris 2007
$15.99 a bottle, $163.08 for a case, or $13.59 a bottle as part of a mixed case

A terrific example of Pinot Gris from Oregon. This white wine is blended from over 18 lots of grapes from different vineyards all within the Willamette Valley. The wine has a creamy mouthfeel, yet still has bright acidity that balances the ripeness of the fruit. This is possible because the winemaker allowed only a small portion of the wine to undergo malolactic fermentation. Malolactic fermentation is what adds the creaminess. The wine was fermented and aged in stainless steel for six months, so the fruit is bright and crisp on the palate. It is just delicious and it really is a different white wine you must try!

Domaine Yves Martin Sancerre Chavignol 2007
$21.99 a bottle, $ for a case, or $ a bottle as part of a mixed a case.

This has become my "house" white and I just love it! It's from Chavignol within Sancerre and without a doubt is an incredible value!! Domaine Yves Martin is a family run estate, with Karine Lauverjat firmly in command. She is producing classic, medium weight Sancerre that strikes the perfect balance of citrus and melon. Made from 100% Sauvignon Blanc in a traditional Loire Valley style, the wine combines fruit with minerality beautifully. With a crisp, dry finish, it leaves you wanting more! This is a terrific summer wine to be enjoyed as an apperitif, with summer salads, seafood, goat cheese, and chicken, too.

Domaine de Triennes Ros� 2008
$16.99 a bottle, $173.28 for a case, or $14.44 a bottle as part of a mixed case

This ros� actually comes from two of Burgundy's greatest names, Jacques Seysses, founder of Domaine Dujac, and Aubert de Villaine, co-owner of Domaine de la Roman�e-Conti. They are the partners behind this pioneering property in Provence. This ros� is made from grapes pressed following only a very brief period of skin contact which results in a ros� of a very light pink color. An aromatic nose of red fruits is followed by a round, harmonious and seamless palate. This wine will seduce you by its freshness and elegance. It is crisp, dry, elegant and very refreshing.

Loios Vinho Tinto 2007
$13.99 a bottle, $142.68 for a case, or $11.89 a bottle as part of a mixed case

Loios is a red wine produced in the Alentejo region, located in southern Portugal. The Loios Vinho Tinto is a blend of traditional red varieties from this region; such as Aragon�s, Trincadeira, and Castel�o. After careful selection and pressing, the juice is fermented in stainless steel tanks, perfectly preserving the unique, fresh fruit character of each variety. This easy drinking red shows an intensely fruity aroma, jammy and meaty all at the same time. Soft and easy going, it is nevertheless able to complement all cuisines. Perfect with barbecue, tomato based pasta dishes, or even a pizza.

Lavradores de Feitoria Tres Bagos 2005
$19.99 a bottle, $203.88 for a case, or $16.99 a bottle as part of a mixed case

Named as one of the 20 "Best New Wineries" by Food & Wine Magazine in 2005, this winery continues to impress. This red wine is crafted from a blend of indigenous Portuguese grapes, including Touriga Nacional, Touriga Franca, Tinta Barroca, and Tinta Roriz (also known as Tempranillo). It is filled with rich red berries and cherries with spice on the finish. Nicely balanced, it will definitely delight throughout the summer. The spicy finish longs to be paired with delicious barbecue!