La Purisima Consentido Monastrell Barrica

Monastrell is one of Spain’s true gems. Otherwise known as Mourvedre in other parts of the world—particularly the Southern Rhone in France—it is often used as a blending grape, though more and more producers are creating high-quality single varietal expressions. Monastrell is known for its full body, rich texture, and earthiness. This one is no different, with ripe black fruit flavors, a hint of herbaceousness, and rich texture. Pair me with spicy, salty, rich foods like barbecue or other hearty meat dishes.

Txakoli Primo Zarautz

When we saw we could nab a Txakoli for this month’s wine club, we absolutely couldn’t resist. Not only is Txakoli a staff favorite, but it’s cemented a reputation as one of the most exciting, off-the-beaten-path white wines around, particularly for summer. Txakoli is grown in Basque Country, in northern Spain (just a thirty minute drive from the Spanish/French border). The wines are known to have a slight spritz, with an impressive mineral backbone and ripe citrus fruit flavors. It’s customary to pour these wines hard, so as to “break the bubbles,” and release the flavors. Perfect with seafood.

Casa Primicia Rioja Crianza

Rioja. Need we say more?

Though often associated with the vintage, savory Gran Reserva wines, Rioja comes in a multitude of styles and flavor profiles. Legally, different wines from Rioja must undergo different periods of aging in order to be labelled as a specific “level.” This one, a Crianza, is smack in the middle, and enjoys both the young, ripe fruit flavors of Tempranillo, with some of those earthier, more savory notes of the older styles. Blueberries, plums, baking spices, smoke, and a hint of tobacco. Did somebody say pork chops?

Latium Valpolicella

While wines from Valpolicella can be intense, dark, and austere, this expression from Latium offers up a fresher style more suited to these warm, spring days. A bright ruby in the glass, with vibrant red fruits and a bit of earthiness on the palate. A fuller body and structured tannins lead to a well-balanced, rich and delectable wine. Perfect to serve with heartier pasta dishes and lean proteins.

Piccolo Ernesto Gavi

Gavi is, in our opinion, a criminally underrated region. Made from the Cortese grape, Piccolo Ernesto’s Gavi showcases white pears, lemons, and refreshing acidity. A perfect wine for Pinot Grigio drinkers looking for a bit more depth and complexity, without sacrificing leanness. Very versatile, great with seafood and vegetarian dishes.

Colle Manora Barbera di Asti

Barbera is the perfect wine for those cools spring nights, known for ripe red fruit flavors, high acidity, and a touch of oak influence. This one from Colle Manora is no different, while also dishing out notes of purple flowers, tobacco, and cocoa. Perfect with red sauce, pizza, or on its own.

Red 1 — Chateau de Virecourt Bordeaux

While some Bordeaux blends can be austere and dark, this almost 50/50 blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon showcases a fresher, more approachable side of the famous French appellation. The wine showcases fresh red fruits and vanilla, with good structure and a round mouthfeel. The vineyard is tended to through sustainable practices.

Red 2 — Domaine Grange des Moines Costiéres de Nîmes

This soft, yet deep expression of Syrah, Grenache, and Marselan shows off what the Costiéres de Nîmes is known for; delicious wine, and a great value. The soils of Grange de Moines are similar to those of the infamous Châteauneuf-du-Pape, littered with large stones, and help produce these wines with deep blackberry and plum notes, and a touch of baking spice. Perfect for cold nights, and luxurious proteins like duck or tender beef.

WHITE — Mary Taylor/Olivier Gessler Cotes de Gascogne

The Cotes de Gascogne is located in the southwest of France, and is known for fresh and approachable reds and whites. One of the prominent grapes, Colombard, is often used in the production of Cognac, but also produces delicious and vibrant still wines.This blend of Colombard, Ugni Blanc (AKA Trebbiano), Gros Manseng, and Sauvignon Blanc is no exception the the rule, with notes of bright lemon, white flowers, minerals, and a rich texture.