What to drink with Easter dinnner? If you're like me, the "wino" in your family, it's always my duty to choose what to serve. My family like to be introduced to new wines all the time, but I have to keep in mind that it has to appeal to all palates, and not all are alike. Some people like big, bold wines, but those are not always ham- and turkey-friendly. Most people prefer fruity wines, not austere or earthy and I try to avoid wines with obvious tannins. My choices this year - 2008 Frog's Leap Merlot from Napa and 2009 Mer Soleil Chardonnay from the Santa Lucia Highlands.
The Frog's Leap is as fruity and pretty as can be with aromes of cherries, wild strawberries and plums. There's a green tea note and some chlorophyll which brightens the red fruit flavours. The tannins are virtually non-existant, like satin on the tongue. Super fruity and bright. One of my favourite wines.
The Mer Soleil is an elegant take on Central Cali fruit - from the Monterey area, the Santa Lucia Highlands. The Wagner family of Caymus fame produce this wine and it has the Caymus hallmarks - lush, tropical fruit flavours, elegant use of oak which adds spicy nuances to the wine; and a balanced resonant finish. The flavour profile is pure California sunshine.
What are you serving?
Have a great weekend,
Chris McLean.
