July Wine Club: It’s about getting the right blend

It’s our nation’s birthday, and we continue to be a melting pot nation.  Seems only fitting that to celebrate the occasion we do so with some impressive wine blends that are definitely greater than the sum of their parts.  No need to choose between Cabernet and Zinfandel. And that goes for the decision making of sorting between Chardonnay vs. Sauvignon Blanc.  These winemakers know how to bring varietals together somewhere in the middle and come up with blends that take the best of each and come out with real winners.  And, of course, that obviously makes us winners too.

2014 Duckhorn Paraduxx Proprietary Napa Valley Red Wine, California

Want an irrepressible, irresistible and utterly lavish Red to be just as spectacular as the grilled Porterhouse you are serving on July 4^th?  Then, this mix of 65% Cabernet Sauvignon, 30% Zinfandel and 5% Merlot is calling your name.  James Suckling has awarded this all-American red blend 93 points, and you’ll quickly see why. On the nose are cherry and ripe wild strawberry, combined with hints of wood smoke and toasted marshmallow from barrel aging. Follow on to the palate, and you will be treated to juicy layers of brambles, black cherry and nectarine supported by firm, yet refined, tannins and impressive weight. The Cabernet provides an excellent structure, drawing this wine to a full, rich finish.

2013 5OS (aka 5 O’clock Somewhere) Project White Blend, South Australia

Don’t let the quirky name fool you. It is clearly more a nod to the playful, yet dare we say, perfect summer quaff.  With 55% Sauvignon Blanc, 20% Chardonnay (both fermented in oak) and 25% Riesling (fermented in steel), this is a refreshing wine that appeals from the start with its green hues and slightly nutty nose with a bit of musk and a bit of lime and peach. Your palate then gets a sensory treat, sorting between flavors of lemon, pineapple, nougat and even licorice. This medium-bodied wine is fruit driven, and marvelous sipping on the screened-in porch at dusk as you wile away a happy hour with friends.  Equally enjoyable with a grilled chicken Caesar salad or freshly caught, pan-fried rainbow trout.