Reds | Bottle | $20-$22 | Liquid Assets (Ocean City) I went to dinner at 94th Street Liquid Assets in Ocean City, and saw the name of this wine on the list of available wines-by-the-glass. I had to try it since Kay is my mother-in-law’s name. On the menu, it was described as an Italian red blend, but the wine came across to me as very California in style. Dark red in the glass, with aromas of juicy dark fruits. And the same fruit forward taste. I’ve since learned it’s a Cabernet Sauvignon blend with grapes from Lazio, Italy. It paired well with my adult grilled cheese made with fresh mozzarella, tomato and arugula. I think it would go really well with grilled meats, pizza and tomato-based Italian foods.
Still completely missing the euphemism of the name of this wine (close your eyes and say the name quickly out loud), I asked my server if I could buy bottles to take home with me. She told me right where they were in the wine shop, and I went there to buy a bottle to take to my mother-in-law. Then I saw the bad-ass label, and the name immediately hit me. I debated taking one to Kay, but decided, “why not?” and bought two more bottles as well. Proving that labeling works.
I did a little more research and found out this wine comes from the duo behind Hundred Acres Wine, Cherry Pie and Layer Cake brands. Robert Parker says of the main winemaker, Jayson Woodbridge, “his wines are among the most individualistic wines in California.”
I’d rate this wine “bottle” because, at $20-22, it’s a little pricey. However for conversation’s sake alone, well worth the price, and it’s a very good wine. I assert this is the best wine name and label ever. EVER.
Reds | Bottle | $11 | Boarman’s Market (Highland, MD) | So here’s the thing: Yes, Napa Valley cabs are more expensive, but, yes,they also taste better. So here’s the other thing: This Central Coast cab is remarkably good, especially when you consider from wherest it came (and what it cost).
Bubbles | Bottle | $14 | Pine Orchard | My business partner, Lynne D’Autrechy, and I recently had an impromptu proposal win celebration. We raided her wine cellar and picked a Caposaldo. It was quite good. Not too sweet or dry. Just right for a winning bid and/or a summer afternoon.
Reds | Case | $11 | Banks Wine and Spirits (Millville, DE) | Admittedly, I bought this wine on a whim because it has a bicycle on the label, but also because I’m a huge fan of the values to be had in wines from South America. This wine did not disappoint. It’s dark red in the glass, with glimpses of purple, a real beauty. Fruit on the nose, with hints of currants and spice. The wine is very drinkable, fruit-forward and well-balanced. It benefitted from some time airing out as it became more rounded over the evening after we opened the bottle. I’m enjoying this wine with grilled burgers tonight, but I could see it pairing well with pizza, BBQ and maybe even lamb.
Reds-Case (if money were no object) | $52/bottle (Iron Bridge) or $40/bottle (Total Wine – but without the Iron Bridge’s excellent beef tenderloin) | Iron Bridge | Total Wine | This has been a consistent favorite of mine. Used to be from Orin Swift but I’m told it was sold—it’s still a great wine though. Wine Advocate (90 points) says “Its deep ruby/purple color is followed by a big, peppery, meaty, Rhone-like bouquet with hints of bay leaf, unsmoked cigar tobacco, black currants and sweet jammy cherries.” I’ll go along with that!
