Mencia Robles's 2015 Luis Varela Alvarez De Toledo Bierzo
Red Wine on the Month
# 8 on wine enthusiasts top 100 values
El Bierzo is a land of grapes and wine. It’s a vine-covered region full of tradition, history, culture and over 2000 years of wine production. The Alvarez de Toledo family has roots in the region since the early 1500’s.
This wine has Welcoming aromas of berry with a bit of oaky support. A full palate, right acidity and slightly edgy tannins make for a fun ride. Plum, currant and juicy berry flavors are choppy on a fresh, bold finish.
Mencia Roble stands out because of its strong fruity character bringing out all the characteristics of the Mercia grape variety. The time spent in oak barrels accentuates these qualities by providing subtlety, elegance and complexity. On the palate it is silky, fruity, and a persistent length.
At around 10.00 a bottle it’s no wonder this gem makes it onto wine enthusiasts top 100 best value list. I plan on keeping a couple in my collection.
Chartron La Fleur
White Bordeaux
Sauvignon Blanc 2019
White Wine of the Month
I enjoyed this wine last evening with a lightly seasoned pork chop and salad. It was delicious! A very pale yellow straw color, and clear as the day. On the nose it is nicely aromatic, both florals, fruity and very inviting. The palate finds it pleasant, dry, fresh, as well as lively. It has a savory finish that is well balanced and elegant.
I would serve this wine as an aperitif, or with fish, seafood or light meat. One thing is certain....I will definitely serve it.
Downeast
Brew of the Month
We have not met a Downeast blend we haven't loved. We haven't had all of them yet, but we are committed to that goal! There are four core flavors that are available year round - original, double, white, and blackberry. Their seasonal flavor includes pear, pineapple, pumpkin, and winter.
Of those we have tried (what's pictured and the blackberry), we love the crisp flavor. They are sweet, but not over the top. These would be great around a bon fire, at a cook out, or after yard work this spring.
When drinking an unfiltered cider, we recommend gently rotating the can (if you're drinking from the can) before drinking it to ensure there's nothing left in the bottom of the can or pouring it into a chilled glass.Please, never shake a carbonated drink if you don't want to create a mess. Cheers!
The Tax Lawyer
Cocktail of the Month
Taxes may be due later this year than the usual April 15, but you can still enjoy the tax lawyer cocktail this month (and year round). It may be the best part of tax season.
Ingredients:
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Ice
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1 1/2 ounces Genever
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3/4 ounce sweet vermouth
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3/4 ounce dry vermouth
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1/2 teaspoon Fernet-Branca
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1/2 teaspoon fresh orange juice
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1 orange twist, for garnish
Directions:
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Fill a pint glass with ice. Add all of the remaining ingredients except the garnish and stir well. Strain into a chilled coupe and garnish with the orange twist.
Tax-Free Day
Mocktail of the Month
Ingredients:
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Ice
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1 1/2 ounces chilled chinotto (see Note)
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1 1/2 ounces fresh orange juice
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2 dashes of aromatic bitters (optional)
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1 or 2 mint sprigs
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1 or 2 mint sprigs, for garnish
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1 orange twist, for garnish
NOTE: Chinotto is a citrusy, cola-colored Italian soda made from a small sour orange of the same name. Check Italian and specialty grocery stores for this item.
Directions: Fill a chilled highball glass with ice. Add the chinotto, orange juice and bitters and stir gently. Garnish the drink with the mint sprigs and orange twist.