It’s A Wrap

It’s hard to believe that another year has nearly slipped away - one unlike any other in recent memory. A witch’s brew of virus, toxic politics and quarantines that we can happily consign to the rear view mirror and look forward optimistically to a New Year full of promise. Let’s start with the scene above of a fresh blanket of pure white snow backed by sparking holiday lights as we look forward to spending time with family. (The picture was taken today in Franklin, Pennsylvania just as a storm was gathering force).

Rather than our usual wine of the week format, we thought we’d share some last-minute gift ideas for that special wine drinker, just in case you haven’t finished your shopping.

• For the serious wine lover, why not a great wine read? Here are some of our favorites, best enjoyed with a glass of good wine in front of a fireplace on a cold night.
  • Adventures on the Wine Route, Kermit Lynch. This is a classic, providing a fascinating tour of French wine regions, vineyards and some notable wine characters.
  • The History of Wine in 100 Bottles, Oz Clarke. An entertaining book that explores the “100 bottles” of wine that have had the most impact on the evolution of the industry. The book contains a series of stories – many from a time well before bottles were actually invented -- about wine, its history and culture.
  • The World Atlas of Wine, Hugh Johnson and Jancis Robinson. This is one of our go-to reference books, with detailed maps, pictures, and comprehensive information on the world’s many wine regions. A must-have for folks exploring unfamiliar wine regions.
  • The Widow Cliquot: The Story of a Champagne Empire and the Widow Who Ruled It, Tilar Mazzeo. A fascinating story of the history of Champagne, the widow who contributed much to that history and the process of making Champagne wine.
• Then again, there's nothing wrong with a great glass of wine all by itself. Someone recently asked me what single bottle I’d like to see under the Christmas tree with my name on it. After much reflection, weighing price, quality and my personal preferences, my answer is:
  • Red: Château Pichon Longueville Comtesse de Lalande (around $200 retail). This is a Bordeaux “second growth” produced in Pauillac. If that’s too pricey, try the Château’s “second wine,” the “Reserve de la Comtesse” (about $40 retail).
  • White: Olivier Leflaive Puligny-Montrachet ($90+) or Chassagne-Montrachet ($80+). Wonderful Chardonnays by one of my favorite producers from the southern portion of the Côte de Beaune.

And that's it for our last blog of the year. Cheers and best wishes for a Happy and Healthy New Year for everyone!