Best American Wine
The USA is an amazing wine producing country with Napa Valley wine (made in Californa) being the most well-known; however did you know that wine is made in every US state? Other regions that play a big role in the American wine industry include Oregon, Washington, Virginia and New York.
We have some great American wines in store and online. As Carol explains, "We pick them so carefully as there are so many to choose from but like all wines it comes down to personal taste." Here are some of our favourites:
Hope Family 'Troublemaker' Red Blend, NV
Troublemaker is a Californian blend of Syrah, Grenache, Petite Sirah, Mourvèdre and Zinfandel. It has an opaque purple-black colour and is bursting with jammy black fruits like boysenberry and blackberry, along with a spicy raspberry note. The juicy fruit notes are accentuated by underlying tones of smoke, pink peppercorns, green tobacco leaves, dark roasted coffee and dark chocolate. Velvety tannins and balancing acidity bring out the vibrant fruit character of this complex blend.
As Carol says, "This wine does not take itself too seriously. It is punchy but not over ‘baked’ and is absolutely brilliant with full flavoured BBQ food."
Domaine Carneros Sparkling Brut, 2011
Made under the expert supervision of Taittinger in the Napa Valley, Domaine Carneros is a top quality new world sparkling wine. Lovely citrus and pear notes combined with a hint of apple pie baking make the 2011 Brut a classic charmer. The palate shows an array of fruit nuances highlighting pineapple and pear and this is a wine that is finely balanced with tiny bubbles, creating a creamy sensation on the palate and a rewarding finish.
As Carol adds, " The influence of Taittinger is clear in this sparkling wine. The quality of the wine-making shines through, it is a stunner and a great alternative to a traditional Champagne."
Carpe Diem Chardonnay, 2014
Grapes for the Carpe Diem Chardonnay are selected exclusively from the best vineyards in Northern California's cool Anderson Valley. This fog-shrouded region not far from the Mendocino Coast and the Pacific Ocean provides ideal growing conditions for these delicate grapes. Vinified under the meticulous supervision of Domaine Anderson's Winemaker Jerry Murray, Carpe Diem's philosophy is to offer the best of two worlds: the richness of California fruit and the elegance of a French wine.
As Carol concludes, "This is one of my favourite USA chardonnays. Although clearly an American rich fruit style, this wine has the restraint and minerality of a French burgundy. Delicious with oily fresh and herby chicken."
There are some truly great wines available from the USA so pop in to the shop on the High Street in Cobham and take a look. We're always on hand to help too!
