Leyda Sauvignon Blanc from Chile
Summer heat is sticking around, so now might be a good time to re-stock the white wine fridge. These wines have refreshing sensibilities (juicy, mouth-watering, mineral) but are also complex enough to please even the fussiest wine connoisseur.
Best Value: Limizzani Vermentino di Gallura DOCG 2021: Tropical lushness meets juicy freshness in this complex and delightful white wine made from 100% vermentino. The name refers to a mystical site in the region that ancient Mediterranean civilizations inhabited thousands of years ago. Fermented and aged in stainless steel, each sip finishes with a mouth-watering minerality. $16
Domaine du Nozay, Sancerre, 2021: This marvelously juicy (and certified biodynamic) sauvignon blanc enjoys the unique benefits of sound therapy (also referred to as Genodics or sonic stimulation) in the vineyards. Cyril de Benoist, Principal of Domaine du Nozay, notes that they are the only domaine using Genodics in Sancerre, and, he adds “I believe we’re the only one using this process throughout the Loire.” It seems to be working, as the textured palate reveals lemony richness, green apple and a hint of vanilla.
Santo Wines Assyrtiko Nykteri, 2021: Nykteri is a local expression that means “staying up all night,” a nod to the Santorini winemaking tradition of picking grapes in the early morning and then staying up all night pressing the wine. This one is a luscious juicy blend of Assyrtiko, athiri and aidani with tropical fruit notes and a zesty acidity. $33
Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc, 2022: A New Zealand standard bearer, Cloudy Bay has a long and storied history of crafting elegant, complex and textured sauvignon blanc wines. This one oozes with lime zest, ruby red grapefruit and a finishing note of lemon cream. $35
Simon Family Estate Tigress Rosé, 2022: Crafted from 100 year-old grenache vines, the fruit for this silky but delicate rose is highly concentrated and flavorful. Old vines yield complexity that cannot be achieved otherwise, which lends this rose a brilliant palate of wild strawberry and tropical fruits layered with savory notes such as orange peel and lemon zest. Juicy, rich, and refreshing. $45
Minus Tide Feliz Creek Vineyard Carignan Rosé, 2022: Crafted from 100% old vine carignan cultivated in the cooler climate of Mendocino. Mouthwatering notes of watermelon, white peach and citrus zest keep this one juicy and crisp in the glass. $27
Vina Leyda Reserva Sauvignon Blanc 2022: Viña Leyda pioneered the Leyda Valley — where the cool coastal climate and unique soil composition yield wines of uncommon freshness. Expect juicy notes of tart apple and grapefruit tempered with a softer note of citrus cream. $14.99
Santo Wines Assyrtiko Nykteri, 2021: Nykteri is a local expression that means “staying up all night,” a nod to the Santorini winemaking tradition of picking grapes in the early morning and then staying up all night pressing the wine. This one is a luscious juicy blend of Assyrtiko, athiri and aidani with tropical fruit notes and a zesty acidity. $33
