Egg nog. Christmas cookies. Peppermint-stick ice cream. If you're like me, you indulged in everything you could get your well-manicured hands on this holiday season…and after 2020 who could really blame you? And while it’s fun to enjoy your favorite foods during this festive time of year, this decadent tradition unfortunately usually relegates January to a month of restraint and, let's face it,...self-imposed misery.
That sure doesn't sound like a Happy New Year, does it?
But what if you didn't have to forego that glass of vino every night? What if there was a handy Waistline-Friendly Wine Guide that featured delicious wines that didn't sabotage your New Year's-inspired weight loss plans?
Fellow winelovers, I'm happy to tell you these wines DO exist and, in moderation, you can still indulge your vinous cravings without consuming oodles of pesky calories. But since a glass of wine can range between 100-300 calories, how do you know which wines have the least amount of calories? Here are 3 tips to consider when making your selections:
Go for Low Alcohol: While that juicy glass of Australian Shiraz might hit your palate’s sweet spot, it probably clocks in at around 16% alcohol. And since alcohol has almost twice the calories as sugar (yes, you heard right!), you've got a double whammy in that glass just waiting to haunt your midsection through bathing suit season. For optimal results, pick wines that are 14% ABV or less which, by law, must be clearly listed on a wine's label.
Dry over Sweet: Say buh-bye to wines with high levels of residual sugar ("RS" in wine lingo), including Port, Sauternes and late-harvest wines. The low-calorie wines you want to choose right now are bone-dry, crisp and refreshing. In general, if a wine you're drinking tastes overly fruity or sweet (even a supposed "dry" wine like White Zinfandel), banish it from your fridge until you've reached your desired goal!
Cool Climate is Key: The wine regions of Europe (aka the Old World) have much cooler climates than the rest of the world (aka New World) and grapes grown in cooler climates don't achieve the lush ripeness that those grown in warmer climates do. And since it's grape sugars that are converted into alcohol by the yeast during fermentation, cooler climate grapes produce wines that are lower in alcohol and, therefore, calories. So if one of your New Year's Resolutions is to explore a different wine region, this is the perfect time to explore the delightful wines of countries such as France, Italy, Germany and/or Spain!
SPARKLING WINES: Whether its Champagne, Cava or Prosecco, sparkling wines range from approximately 100-125 calories per 5 ounce glass and should generally be your FIRST waistline-friendly choice. Since they are usually served in a flute, there's also less variation in the size of the pour which provides reliable consistency. Look for the terms "Brut,""Brut Nature" or "Brut Zero" on the label to ensure there isn't excessive sugar added. So if you have any sparklers left over from the holidays - lucky you!
WHITE WINES: These wines should be your second choice when selecting a waistline-friendly bottle. You want to opt for lighter-bodied, unoaked white wines which are crisp, refreshing and bone-dry since they generally contain about 115-145 calories per 5 ounce glass. Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, dry Riesling and Albariño are great choices in this category, beware of big, full-bodied white wines such as Chardonnay and Viognier which can contain higher alcohol and therefore, more calories.
RED WINES: If you're a bona fide red wine lover, no worries! While red wines generally contain the most calories due to riper fruit and higher alcohol levels, there are lighter versions to be found that contain around 130-170 calories per glass. Opt for wines made from the Pinot Noir, Barbera and Tempranillo grapes from cooler climate regions in France, Italy and Spain respectively. In order to keep calories at a minimum, steer clear of ripe, fuller-bodied wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Malbec or Shiraz from warmer climates until you've reached your desired goals.
I recently had the opportunity to share some of my favorite Waistline-Friendly Wine recommendations with the fabulous John Favole of WPTV NewsChannel 5, our local NBC affiliate here in sunny South Florida. Please check out the video above for all the deets and I hope you enjoy our Waistline-Friendly Wine Guide and best of luck with your New Year's resolutions. If you've made any food and/or wine-related resolutions, I'd LOVE to hear about them. Please let me know in the Comments section below!
If you’re looking for the perfect bottle of bubbly to ring in the New Year, look no further! From Cava to Cremant and, of course, the all time classic Champagne I’ve done the research and am sharing six of my favorite sparklers at a variety of price ranges that are perfect for New Year's Eve.
In addition, I’ve also paired each sparkling wine selection with a timely toast. And after a crazy pandemic-ridden 2020, I think they are especially meaningful. So without further ado, here are my favorite splurges and steals:
Poema is a small-production Spanish wine producer in Spain’s Penedès region where the best vineyards are located. While Cava is made using the same method as Champagne, aka the Méthode Traditionelle or Método Tradicional, it incorporates the region’s three indigenous grapes: Parellada, Macabeo + Xarel-lo. It is made in a “Brut” style, meaning the wine is “dry” (not sweet!). This wine is clean, refreshing + mineral-driven with citrus-infused notes of green apple, toasted brioche, honeycomb + almond skin.
Toast: "In the New Year may your right hand be stretched out in friendship but never in want." ~ Traditional Irish Toast
Founded in 1818, Chateau Calvet is one of France’s oldest brands + while it was sold in 1882, a 6th generation descendent is now re-introducing the brand back to the U.S. markets. Like Champagne, this sparker is made using the Méthode Traditionelle (aka Méthode Champenoise) but it’s a blend of indigenous Bordeaux grapes: 70% Semillon + 30% Cabernet Franc. This cremant has a beautiful golden yellow color with fine bubbles + expressive notes of yellow apple, citrus + brioche accompanied by a fresh + lively acidity.
Toast: "May we live to learn well + learn to live well. May you live as long as you want + never want as long as you live." ~ Anonymous
Blanc de Noirs means "white from black" and as the name implies this sparkler from "America's House of Sparkling Wine" is predominantly Pinot Noir, made from 91% Pinot Noir and 9% Chardonnay. Schramsberg pioneered the Blanc de Noirs style in the United States, producing the first such American sparkler in 1967. This luxurious sparkling wine has a creamy texture of toasted brioche, vanilla, baked apple and hazelnut. While perfect for enjoying on its own it has ample body to stand up to dishes including macadamia-crusted halibut or roasted pork tenderloin.
Toast: "Here's a toast to the future; a toast to the past, and a toast to our friends, far and near. May the future be pleasant, the past a bright dream. May our friends remain faithful and dear." ~ Anonymous
Known as the Champagne that seduced the Royal Courts, Charles Heidsieck is definitely one of Champagne's best kept secrets. This House's non vintage offering is one of my personal favorites, representing a decadent blend of 1/3 each Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Meunier. The fact that it includes 40% reserve wine in the blend with an average age of 10 years, with some going back as far as 15 years, really sets this cuvée apart. The result is a toasty, rich, complex style of Champagne with notes of apricot, dried fruit and almonds that is ideal for ringing in the New Year.
Toast: "May you never lie, cheat or drink. But if you must lie, lie in each other's arms. If you must cheat, cheat death. And if you must drink, drink with all of us because we love you!" ~ Anonymous
Winemaker Francis Egly's wines are counted among the most well-respected "Grower Champagnes" and are made with the utmost of care from vines located in the Grand Cru villages of Bouzy, Verzenay and Ambonnay. This bright and refreshing Brut is a blend of 70% Pinot Noir and 30% Chardonnay that is not fined or filtered, allowing the terroir to shine through. Notes of warmed crepes drizzled with fruit compote; pink and white flowers; and a touch of vanilla are evident on the nose of this Champagne followed by flavors of black and red cherries, fresh ginger and white pepper. A special bottle for a special evening!
Toast: "For last year's words belong to last year's language, and next year's words await another voice. And to make an end is to make a beginning." ~ T.S. Elliot
Krug is known for its unrelenting attention to detail in producing one of the finest Champagnes in the world. Krug President Maggie Henriquez likens their portfolio of cuvées to haute couture due to the meticulous attention to detail involved in their production, and rightly so: the Krug Grande Cuvée, the house's flagship multi-vintage bottling, is a blend of 120 hand-crafted reserve wines from over ten different vintages. The full-bodied, opulent Grande Cuvée delights with enticing aromas of toasted brioche, marzipan, and complex flavors of citrus peel, hazelnuts and spice. An exceptionally elegant cuvée!
Toast: "Be at war with your voices, at peace with your neighbors + let every New Year find you a better man." ~ Benjamin Franklin
No matter which sparkler you select to enjoy on New Year's Eve I wish you a wonderful evening and all the best in the New Year ahead!
While the presence of Champagne at an event is usually enough to indicate a celebration is at hand, there's another way to kick it up a notch: the art of Sabrage.
Believed to have been invented by Napoleon during the French Revolution, Sabrage is the technique of opening a bottle of Champagne using a saber. Legend has it, as Napoleon and his troops returned home victorious from battle, the townspeople greeted them with bottles of Champagne to show their appreciation and gratitude. Because they were on horseback, it was too difficult to put down the reins to pop the cork, so they used their sabers and voila, the art of sabrage was born! Another version of the story involves the famed Widow (Veuve) Clicquot who possibly gave Napoleon's officers Champagne in return for protecting her land during this time of political unrest.
ME PERFORMING SABRAGE AT CAMP SCHRAMSBERG AT MEADOWOOD
Contrary to popular belief, Sabrage is not actually "chopping" the top of the Champagne bottle off. In fact, not much "muscle" is required to perform this technique which essentially utilizes the 6 atmospheres of pressure present in the bottle combined with a quick “whack” from the saber at the weakest point of the bottle, where the seam comes together at the neck. Although there are "Champagne sabers" made especially for this process, Laguiole makes a very nice one, you don't have to use one to perform this technique. The back of a Chef's knife works just as well, just be sure not to use the sharp end of the knife as you can damage the blade.
For a slow motion view of how Sabrage happens, please check out my video below. And while it may look really easy, there are some very important steps to follow in order to perform it safely. Unfortunately, I’ve seen some accidents happen when the bottle wasn’t prepared properly or the wrong motion was used to dislodge the cork from the bottle. One incident even involved stitches so please scroll down for all the important details.
Be sure the bottle of bubbly is VERY cold: If the bottle hasn't been in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours, you may want to rethink using it. Without a properly chilled bottle, you run the risk of the bottle exploding during the process and nothing puts a damper on a party like a shattered bottle of Champagne.
Find the bottle’s seam: Most green Champagne bottles (they are the best to use) have a seam that runs vertically from the neck to the bottom of the bottle where the two halves are joined together. You can easily find it by running your finger around the circumference of the bottle until you find the ridge. This seam is the guide your saber will follow along the bottle, making contact with the neck exactly where it intersects with the seam.
Adjust the wire cage and remove paper/foil from the neck of the bottle: In order to clear the runway for your saber or knife, you'll need to adjust the cage, the wire which surrounds the cork, up one notch so the blade of the saber hits the neck of the bottle cleanly. Simply untwist the wire, slide the cage up one notch to expose the neck, and twist to refasten it around the cork. Be very careful, however, because once the wire cage is loosened, the bottle is “live” and the cork can pop out at any time! You can remove the cage altogether but keeping the cage on not only makes the cork easier to find in an outdoor setting, but also make a nicer presentation. At this point, also remove any foil or paper around the neck so your saber has an unobstructed path to follow.
Hold the bottle properly: There are two ways to hold your bottle of bubbly for performing sabrage: either with your thumb in the "punt" (the indentation in the bottom of the bottle) and your fingers supporting the bottle from underneath, or by simply grasping the bottle around the base. Experiment with each and go with whichever one feels more natural and secure.
Point the bottle away from friends, family, pets, windows and other glass objects: Ideally sabrage is performed outside but when that isn't possible, be sure the bottle is aimed away from people, pets or anything breakable. In the video below, I didn't use as much force as I normally would because I didn't want to take out any ornaments on the Christmas tree, not to mention any of the windows.
Let 'er rip: When you're ready to go, hold the Champagne bottle away from you pointed upwards at a 45 degree angle to the ground and run the blade along the seam, taking a few practice strokes. Then, briskly slide the blade along the seam of the bottle with an "up and out" motion, following through and making good contact where the seam meets the neck of the bottle and the top should pop right off! In the event it doesn’t, regroup and simply try again.
Wipe off the neck of the bottle and serve: Once the deed is done and all the applause has quieted, it's time to enjoy the fruits of your labor! Luckily, the pressure inside the bottle ensures no glass falls into it, however, it's always smart to wipe off the top of the bottle with a kitchen towel just to be sure there's no glass fragments remaining. Then, you're free to serve your guests but no matter what you do, don't ever attempt to drink from a freshly sabered Champagne bottle! The jagged edges are extremely sharp and this gaff will take you from hero to zero (not to mention the emergency room) in seconds flat.
In case you're wondering what the process looks like, below is a video of me sabering a bottle of Taittinger Brut Rosé for our guests on New Year's Eve. As I mentioned previously, I didn't use as much force as I normally would in order to spare the windows and Christmas tree ornaments. I hope you have fun experimenting with the art of Sabrage and remember the immortal words of Napoleon, "In victory you deserve Champagne, and in defeat, you need it."
In the mood to spread some holiday cheer? Then this is definitely the post for you! Below are my 10 essential holiday gift picks for the 2020 holiday season. And whether you’re shopping for yourself or a loved one (or a little of both) I assure you, these items are guaranteed to delight.
The past year has really shown us the importance of not taking things for granted, especially time with our loved ones. Some of my most cherished memories of 2020 involve sharing a glass of wine or a meal with friends and family - socially distanced + safely of course - and I’m willing to bet if you’re reading this, you probably feel the same way. It makes giving food and wine related gifts this year seem especially apropos.
Simply scroll down for my 10 holiday essentials that I hope will inspire you and your loved ones to continue to come together over good food and wine - Happy Holidays! xo
Framed “Press for Champagne” Button ($135)
As seen in Veranda, Elle Decor, Style Me Pretty, Conde Nast + Glamour magazine not to mention my OWN home office (aka The Lady Lounge), this is the perfect gift for the Champagne lover with a flair for vintage glamour! It provides hours of enjoyment not to mention, delicious Champagne.
Hang anywhere a possible need for bubbles may arise, it is the perfect thing for the dreamer + bubbly lover. Each piece is made by hand by the House of Golightly in their Austin Texas workroom. The frames are individually molded of resin, gilded, antiqued + assembled.
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“Modern Comfort Food” by Ina Garten ($22)
Who better to school us on comfort food right now than The Barefoot Contessa herself?
From Lobster BLT’s + Ultimate Beef Stew to Creamy Tomato Bisque + Split Pea Soup with Crispy Kielbasa this all-new collection of soul-satisfying dishes is guaranteed to celebrate food’s magical way of comforting, soothing + bringing us together during these challenging times.
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Laguiole Champagne Sabre ($199)
Handcrafted in France, this special saber is used to perform the traditional ritual of Sabrage in which the top of a Champagne bottle is removed with the dull edge of the blade as it hits the neck of the bottle.
This saber comes in a beautiful display box + features a stainless blade complete with the "Laguiole en Aubrac" insignia + a beautiful buffalo horn handle.
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Kate Spade “I Need a Vacation” Flask ($30)
I’ve been a huge fan of Kate Spade’s whimsical, wine-inspired gifts for years + after 2020, I can’t think of a better time to indulge!
The “All That Glistens” Collection proves that it’s always a good time to add a little shine. This flask is crafted of durable stainless steel + features pale gold plating + detailing with the playful inscription, "I need a vacation."
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Stuart Gardiner “A Guide to Fizz” Tea Towel ($20)
Is it time to celebrate? Nothing makes events special like the pop of a champagne cork. Served in a flute or coupe, the fizzing bubbles sparkling in a glass set the tone of times to remember. The Guide to Fizz is an illustrated celebratory guide to the world's most celebrated bubbly from France, Spain, Italy, Europe + USA.
Full of helpful information, this is the perfect gift for you or the lover of fine Champagne, processco, cava or sparkling wine in your life!
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Zalto Denk'Art Set of 2 Bordeaux Wine Glasses ($120)
I am completely smitten with these gorgeous glasses that truly deliver an unparalleled flavor experience! They are Somm favorites + their long-stemmed glasses are made with a continuous piece of pulled crystal + are therefore more resistant to breakage.
The wide bottom opens the wine up quickly while the tapered, smaller opening at the rim focuses the aromas in the headspace of the glass where they can be readily appreciated + enjoyed.
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TRUFF White Truffle Hot Sauce ($34.99)
I couldn’t agree with Oprah more that this hot sauce is “positively sublime!” And if you haven’t treated yourself or a friend to this sophisticated + indulgent hot sauce yet - ‘tis the season!!!
Its glamorous, gold letter-embossed gift box makes it the perfect stocking stuffer this holiday season + it can truly be used to season anything from shrimp + lobster to veggies + chicken wings - YUM!!!
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Coravin Model Two Wine Preservation System ($210)
This revolutionary gadget is a MUST for every wine lover since it completely changes the way you drink wine! Coravin's Model Two is the company's most intuitive wine system that gives wine lovers the freedom to pour + enjoy a glass of wine from any bottle, at any time, without pulling the cork! Using Coravin’s proprietary technology, the new Model Two lets you taste, share, compare + explore wine like never before.
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“The Wine Bible” by Karen MacNeil ($18)
This book is a must for anyone interested in learning about wine! The Wine Bible grounds the reader deeply in vinous fundamentals while layering on informative asides, tips, amusing anecdotes, definitions, glossaries, photos (all new for this edition), maps, labels + recommended bottles.
Karen MacNeil’s information comes directly through primary research; for this second edition she has tasted more than 10,000 wines + visited dozens of wine regions around the world.
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Riedel Ultra Wine Decanter ($199)
In order to enjoy those big, bold red wines (or full-bodied whites) to the fullest, a decanter is essential + this beautiful crystal decanter from the legendary Riedel family is the perfect choice.
It holds an entire bottle of wine + is also easy to use + clean. Due to its shape it can also be used in conjunction with a Vinturi for extra aeration. Simply place the Vinturi aerator in the mouth of the bottle + pour away!
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PEOPLE WHO LOVE TO EAT ARE ALWAYS THE BEST PEOPLE.
Juicy, crispy-skinned turkey. Savory sausage stuffing studded with tart cranberries. Spicy, cherry-scented red wine to wash everything down. Once a year we all come together for this fabulous, food-focused holiday and while most of the dishes we serve are the same from year to year, pulling “The Thanksgiving Meal” together can be a challenge. That’s why having the right food and wine-related tools in your repertoire can truly make or break your hosting experience. Having been there many times myself, I’m thrilled to share my favorite, tried and true, “must have” Thanksgiving essentials with you!
First and foremost, pour yourself a nice glass of wine to enjoy while browsing this post - this will help with your planning process while also keeping the stress monster at bay! From the perfect roasting pan to easy to care for wine glasses, I have years of experience with all of these items and I personally stand behind every one. And while some are a bit of an investment, I promise you will use and rely on them for many years to come.
If you happen to be cutting it close time-wise, most items are available from Amazon Prime so you can receive them in plenty of time for the big day! And if you have questions about ANY of the items in this post, please feel free to e-mail me at Stephanie@theglamorousgourmet.com OR simply leave a Comment below and I’ll get right back to you. Otherwise, Steve and I would like to wish you and your family a very Happy & Delicious Thanksgiving.
(Some of the links below are affiliate links, which means that if you choose to make a purchase, I will earn a commission. This commission comes at NO additional cost to you.)
All-Clad 16"x13" Roasting Pan with Rack ($149)
A roasting pan is a MUST for your Thanksgiving turkey! It needs to be large enough to accommodate the entire bird + the rack allows the air to circulate around the bird, preventing the bottom from getting soggy. This is an important culinary investment you'll keep forever + rely on every year - I've had mine for 15 years + I don't know what I'd do without it!
And if you happen to be looking for a delicious Turkey recipe, please click here for two tempting options!
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Digital Instant Read Meat Thermometer ($18)
This handy piece of equipment is essential for Thanksgiving or any holiday gathering where you're cooking an unusually large piece of meat. Just imagine you begin carving your bird in front of friends + family only to discover it's still pink inside! Or slicing up a pricey beef tenderloin only to find out it’s overcooked.
Save yourself the trouble with this small + relatively inexpensive piece of equipment that will ensure your meat is perfectly cooked every time!
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Braun Immersion Hand Blender ($59)
While you definitely COULD puree that Butternut Squash Soup (click here for my favorite recipe) in your stand blender in batches + risk it exploding ALL over your kitchen (been there done that) - why on Earth WOULD you?!?
This super handy immersion blender will puree your soup to a silky consistency right in the pot you’re cooking it in. As if that weren’t enough, this amazing blender also comes with a handy whisk attachment too - SCORE!
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Metaltex Potato Ricer ($25)
For the silkiest, fluffiest mashed potatoes EVER you simply must use a potato ricer. While there are varying schools of thought as to whether a food mill or a potato ricer is better, let me just put it to rest.
I've been using my potato ricer since Martha Stewart recommended it in the late 1990's + my mashed potatoes have been a major HIT every year since.
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The One Wine Glasses - Set of 2 ($29)
If you're expecting a big group but don't have enough nice wine glasses to go around, these glasses are definitely for you!
Designed by my friend + Master Sommelier Andrea Immer Robinson, "The One" line of wine glasses features ONE glass for white wines + ONE glass for red wines. Period. End of story. No more purchasing a different glass for each grape variety + as an added bonus, they are dishwasher safe, break-resistant + reasonably priced. For help selecting wines for your holiday meal, check out these posts here and here.
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Riedel Crystal Wine Decanter ($54)
If you plan on opening any special bottles during the holidays, it's a great idea to have a decanter on hand. Decanters are perfect for taming the tannins in younger red wines or removing sediment in older bottles - for more info on decanting, please click here.
You don't need to spend a ton of money on an elaborately shaped one either, just a simple crystal decanter in a practical shape like this one works beautifully.
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Vinturi Essential Wine Aerator ($20)
I’m not a fan of many wine gadgets but I do highly recommend this one! For those nights when you don't want to drink an entire bottle of wine, you can decant a single glass with this handy tool that works like a dream.
The Vinturi infuses young tannic red wines with oxygen as you pour it through the funnel which instantly mellows its harshness. This handy device can also be set inside the mouth of a decanter to double the effect!
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STAUB Cast Iron Pumpkin Cocotte 3.5 quart ($199)
I am absolutely SMITTEN with this gorgeous piece that makes a fabulous statement on your holiday table! Use this cast-iron serving piece in conjunction with the small ceramic pumpkin cocottes below for serving Fall soups + stews.
While a tad pricey, this is the perfect vessel for your delightful butternut squash or pumpkin soup (see my favorite recipe here) + you’ll enjoy using it for years to come!
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STAUB Ceramic Petite Pumpkin Cocottes 5-inch ($29)
If you’re also smitten by these delightful, stylish cocottes they come in a petite size as well for individual servings. And whether you prefer burnt orange, matte black or rustic ivory there’s definitely a hue to suit your mood.
They are perfect for an elegant Thanksgiving gathering, I use them every year to serve my Butternut Squash Soup as a first course.
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WS Heirloom Pumpkin Mats + Tablecloths ($12-179)
I am OBSESSED with this harvest-inspired collection of kitchen accessories + tablecloths from Williams-Sonoma! The Autumnal pattern features beautiful heirloom pumpkins + squashes, apples, acorns + oak leaves in warm, golden colors.
Printed + tailored exclusively for WS by a heritage European mill, the smooth, durable cotton brings a festive note to family meals throughout the Fall season.
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This month I’m thrilled to focus on the wines of California’s Santa Lucia Highlands. This under the radar AVA (American Viticultural Area) is deserving of lots of attention (which is undoubtedly forthcoming after everyone reads this!) and is best know for it’s exceptional cool-climate Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. While it’s best known wines can be somewhat pricey, I’m thrilled to share the 2019 Morgan Winery Double L Vineyard Riesling, an incredibly pedigreed, small production gem from one of the region’s pioneering families that is definitely worth seeking out.
WHO IT’S FROM: In 1982, Dan and Donna Lee opened the doors of Morgan Winery. Since then, Morgan has become one of the Central Coast’s most recognized labels, earning “Winery of the Year” honors from Wine & Spirits in 1996 and from the San Francisco Chronicle in 2003. Able to pick and choose fruit sources from around the state, Dan eventually turned more of his attention to the Santa Lucia Highlands and single vineyard releases. Dan and Donna invested in their belief in the Highlands with the purchase of the Double L Vineyard in 1996. Today the Double L is one of the best known vineyards in California. Dan’s leadership and expertise in the district led to his being named the first Board President of the newly formed Santa Lucia Highlands’ winegrowers association in 2005.
Morgan Winery founder Dan Morgan Lee
WHERE IT’S FROM: The Double L Vineyard is at the northern end of the Santa Lucia Highlands. Here the ultra-cool climate and porous, mountainside soils provide ideal conditions for growing world-class Riesling.
THE GRAPE: Native to Germany, the noble Riesling grape is the basis of some of the world’s most prized and longest-lived white wines.
WHAT TO PAIR IT WITH: This delightful Riesling is a natural match for spicy Thai + Indian cuisine (like our Gochujang Roast Chicken with Honey Lime Potatoes), shellfish + lighter fish dishes as well as fresh chèvre + triple-cream cheeses.
2019 Morgan Winery Double L Vineyard Riesling
VINEYARD: Double L
CLONES: 17(198), 239
ALCOHOL: 10.9%
ACIDITY: 8.3 G/L
RESIDUAL SUGAR: 1.8%
COOPERAGE: 8 months ageing in stainless steel
PRODUCTION: 139 cases
RETAIL PRICE: $24
GG TASTING NOTE: This aromatic, dry Riesling delights with notes of lime, peach, honey + white flowers accentuated by a racy, vibrant acidity + a lengthy, refreshing finish.
When most people think of California wine country, Napa Valley is usually the first place that comes to mind. But would you be surprised to learn that roughly 200 miles south of the famed Napa Valley is a wine region that’s producing truly exceptional wines you definitely need to know about…especially if you’re a fan of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir.
Did I get your attention?
In fact, it was only a few short years ago that the Hubs and I found ourselves heading south on Highway 1 (aka the Pacific Coast Highway or “PCH”) towards the Santa Lucia Highlands - NOT north towards Napa. It was a strange feeling, however, we were meeting friends for a long weekend in Carmel-by-the-Sea and were looking forward to the adventure that also included winery visits as well.
The rugged California coastline was a beautiful sight to behold and definitely worth adding a little extra time to our drive (see photo above). When we arrived at our destination, we checked into the posh L’Auberge Carmel hotel, a Relais & Châteaux property, and it didn’t take long to completely fall in love with our accommodations as well as the quaint, charming town. And while many of the local wineries have beautiful, well-appointed tasting rooms conveniently located downtown, we wanted to experience the real thing. So the next morning, we headed towards wine country for our appointments.
Approved as an American Viticultural Area (AVA) in 1991, the Santa Lucia Highland’s 6,400 acres of grape vines are nestled along the eastern-facing slopes of the Santa Lucia Mountain range that measure 40-2,330 feet in elevation. Below, on the Salinas Valley floor lie expansive fields of vegetable row crops that are collectively referred to as “The Salad Bowl of the World.”
In stark contrast to chic Carmel-by-the-Sea, the pungent aroma of brassicas permeated the air while vegetable-laden trucks lumbered past us, kicking up plumes of dust on the the dirt roads. The change in ambiance confirmed we were getting close and we knew arrival was imminent when the dirt roads ultimately gave way to no roads and our cell service ceased altogether.
Our first appointment was a tasting of the Morgan Winery wines with winemaker Gianni Abate in the famed Double L Vineyard. The winery was officially founded in 1982 by Dan and Donna Lee who have done much to build the reputation of the Santa Lucia Highlands AVA. The Double L Vineyard was named for the Morgan’s twin daughters (Double Luck) and even today is widely regarded as the “crown jewel” of the appellation. We were situated at a picnic table under a solitary shade tree in the middle of the Double L and I gotta say, you just cant beat this special vineyard as the place to taste wines made from its hallowed fruit.
The bucolic beauty of the region was breathtaking and Abate was in great spirits having completed an early harvest a few weeks prior to our late October visit. He guided us through the flight of Morgan wines consisting of the Double L Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Syrah. Rows of vines surrounded us on all sides as the late morning sun provided ample light to evaluate the wines. The wines were truly sublime, demonstrating exceptional structure and depth of flavor across the board.
Following our wonderful tasting of the Morgan wines, we headed to our next stop, Pisoni Vineyards. The Pisoni family is another one of the area’s pioneering families who were farmers first before making the leap to wine and their influence on the Santa Lucia Highlands appellation cannot be understated. What followed at Pisoni was one wild ride - literally! Patriarch and Pinot Maverick Gary Pisoni hosted a delightful lunch for us which also included a tasting of the Pisoni’s wines (which include the Luli and Lucia labels as well), and a tour of the family’s legendary vineyards in Gary’s beloved 1966 jeep.
Our visit to Pisoni featuring from left to right: Jeff Pisoni, Gary’s wife Margeurite, Gary Pisoni, me + the Hubs
At Pisoni it’s very much a family affair with Gary’s sons Mark and Jeff Pisoni serving as Vineyard Manager and Winemaker respectively. And as if that weren’t enough vinous star power, Jeff’s wife Bibiana González Rave is also an accomplished winemaker in her own right. In addition to holding winemaking positions at Pahlmeyer and other prestigious labels, she also makes her own wine under the Cattleya label (scroll down for more information). Lucky for us, the entire family was in residence during our visit so it was a wonderful vinous experience - for more details, please click here.
Our visit to the Santa Lucia Highlands left me wanting to learn (and taste) more about this unique, under the radar region that’s been making wine since the 1790’s. It wasn’t until a small group of pioneering families behind the Hahn Estate, Paraiso, Sleepy Hollow and La Estancia labels united in the 1970’s that the region’s potential was truly discovered. Over the following 20 years, local ranching and farming families like the Pisonis, Franscionis, Manzonis and Boekenoogens joined in to develop this potential into what it is today.
In addition to these pioneering families, another important factor makes this region truly unique: location, location, location! In order for cool climate grapes like Chardonnay and Pinot Noir to truly thrive, a dramatic temperature shift needs to occur each day to shut down photosynthesis (aka the ripening process) and preserve the grapes’ acidity. The region’s close proximity to the Monterey Bay on California’s Central Coast allows the region’s legendary wind to blow the marine layer that’s created when the warm air mass contacts the cool water of the bay into the vineyards where it blankets the vines, providing the perfect cooling effect for these precious grapes after a day of ripening under the California sun.
During our visit, we were able to catch the marine layer blowing in off of Monterey Bay - what a beautiful sight to see!
In addition to moving the marine layer, the region’s winds serve another important purpose: to alter the composition of the grape skins. The ever present wind that has an average daily speed of 10-15 miles an hour with gusts of up to 25 miles per hour, actually increases the presence of phenolics in the grape skins which results in deeper flavors in the grapes and their final wines.
As we wound our way down to the valley floor after our visit, we actually got to witness the marine layer rolling in off the bay, cresting the peaks and unfurling down the slopes of the hills like a ethereal mist. It was magical and dramatic to watch and we were amazed at how the climate can change so quickly from warm and sunny to cool and foggy.
I hope you’re inspired to seek out the wines from the following fantastic families of the Santa Lucia Highlands:
Pisoni Vineyards
Inspired by a passion for Burgundy + Bordeaux he developed in college, Gary Pisoni asked his father to plant grapevines in addition to their many other crops. And while Dad initially said no, Gary finally won his father's approval by appealing to his vanity + asking, "Dad, have you ever been to a $250, black tie lettuce tasting?" Armed with his father's consent, Pisoni went on to overcome many challenges which included finding an adequate water source. After numerous, unsuccessful water studies over more than ten years, it was a Native American's uncanny talent with diving rods that finally located the spring which made Pisoni Estate possible. Today they produce some of the finest Chardonnay + Pinot Noir from the SLH AVA.
WINE TO TRY: 2018 LUCIA SANTA LUCIA HIGHLANDS CHARDONNAY ($45) This Chard delights with fragrant aromas of white flowers + spice while on the palate, decadent notes of baked apple tart + spiced pear are counterbalanced by lemon curd + wet stone. Complex layers continue to reveal themselves throughout the lengthy finish.
Morgan Winery
In 1982, Dan + Donna Lee opened the doors of Morgan Winery. Since then, Morgan has become one of the Central Coast’s most recognized labels, earning “Winery of the Year” honors from Wine & Spirits in 1996 and from the San Francisco Chronicle in 2003. Able to pick + choose fruit sources from around the state, Dan eventually turned more of his attention to the Santa Lucia Highlands + single vineyard releases. Dan + Donna invested in their belief in the Highlands with the purchase of the Double L Vineyard in 1996. Today the Double L is one of the best known vineyards in California. Dan’s leadership + expertise in the district led to his being named the first Board President of the newly formed Santa Lucia Highlands’ winegrowers association in 2005.
WINE TO TRY: 2019 MORGAN DOUBLE L VINEYARD RIESLING ($24) This aromatic, dry Riesling delights with notes of lime, peach, honey + white flowers accentuated by a racy, vibrant acidity + a long, lingering finish.
ROAR Wines
Gary + Rosella Franscioni started ROAR Wines with the knowledge that Pinot Noir had a shining future in the Santa Lucia Highlands, + a dream that their farming know-how would translate amazing grapes into amazing wines. Rosella’s Vineyard was planted on their home ranch in 1996, followed by Garys’ Vineyard in 1997 in partnership with the Pisoni family. The first vintage of ROAR was released in 2001, made from these two vineyards. Two more beautiful vineyards were planted about a decade later: Sierra Mar + Soberanes. Today, Gary + his sons continue to improve + innovate in the vineyards + winery to produce the best quality their land can create.
WINE TO TRY: 2018 ROAR SANTA LUCIA HIGHLANDS PINOT NOIR ($45) This wine entices with notes of red currant, cherry + pomegranate accentuated by leather + spice with supple tannins + a lively, food-friendly acidity.
HAHN Family Wines
Nicky Hahn’s commitment to the Monterey region began in the late 1970s. With a background in international business + a deep passion for wine, Nicky committed himself to making the Santa Lucia Highlands a beacon of world-class winemaking. He + his wife Gaby purchased what is now Hahn’s Smith & Hook Vineyards + produced their first vintage in 1980. In 1988, Nicky embarked on the multi-year process of submitting the Santa Lucia Highlands for AVA status — hard work that paid off in 1991. Nicky retired from day-to-day operations in 2007 and passed away in March of 2018. Philip Hahn, the son of Nicky + Gaby, returned in 2007 to take the helm as Chairman of Hahn Family Wines.
WINE TO TRY: 2016 HAHN SLH ESTATE GROWN ORCHESTRAL ($90) Alluring aromas of spice, earth + juicy red fruit provide a preview of the palate which is rife with opulent notes of red cherry, pomegranate, mocha + black pepper with a bright acidity + smooth, supple tannins.
Wrath Wines
Wrath produces site-driven Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Syrah, + Sauvignon Blanc from their estate vineyard + respected properties in the Santa Lucia Highlands. Their production is small, distribution is limited + their wines reveal attitude, passion + an inherent respect for what a vineyard can offer. For the ancient Romans, ira or wrath, was a tool of a god, an unstoppable anger driven by forces greater than man. One can argue that the team at Wrath see such fury in both the might of nature + the passion of art. Wrath also appears in the edgy power of Robert Plant’s voice + the raw wail of Eric Clapton’s guitar. It is frozen into Jackson Pollock’s violent splatters of paint. Wrath is also in the wall of maritime fog that rolls into the Salinas Valley + the relentless afternoon winds that scream through our grape trellises. Wrath wines represent a nexus of nature + an unbridled passion for winemaking.
WINE TO TRY: 2017 WRATH KW RANCH SYRAH ($39) Perfumey aromas of black fruit, violets + pepper lead up to a flavor explosion on the palate with robust notes of blackberry preserves, plum, cassis, leather, meat + black pepper framed by polished, yet bold tannins that will soften nicely with age.
Clarice Wine Company
Launched in 2019 by Adam Lee, legendary founder of Siduri Wines, Clarice Wine Company is a new + truly unique type of winery. Named for his beloved grandmother Clarice, the company combines aspects of an online wine community, a wine education website + a limited-enrollment wine club. Members of the Clarice Wine Community will have the opportunity to interact with 625 fellow members, sharing wine opinions + wine list guidance, as well as recommendations for wine travel, restaurants, hotels, events + more. Clarice Wine Community Members will also gain exclusive access to Wine Industry Leaders from all fields of the wine business, enjoying the opportunity to interact with them in a private + intimate forum.
WINE TO TRY: 2018 CLARICE ROSELLA’S VINEYARD PINOT NOIR ($90) Intense aromas of ripe black fruit, earth + spice are followed on the palate by notes of black cherry, roasted plum, blackberry tart accented, game + baking spices accompanied by a fresh acidity that unifies the flavors on the long, lingering finish.
Cattleya Winery
Having grown up in a country where vineyards were virtually non-existent, Bibiana González Rave wasn’t exposed to wine until she left her native Colombia + traveled to France where she trained as a winemaker in some of the country’s most revered wine regions. She ultimately moved to California in 2007 with the goal of making extraordinary wines + by the end of 2011, after many harvests perfecting her craft, she founded her Cattleya label which focuses on making wine in Sonoma County, Napa Valley + Santa Lucia Highlands. Her goal is to bring her soul + character into unique representations of terroir. Expect extreme purity, power + finesse in each + every one of her bottlings. The icon for her wines is an embossed Cattleya orchid flower, the national symbol of her native Colombia.
WINE TO TRY: 2018 CATTLEYA THE INITIATION SYRAH ($70) This full-bodied stunner unfolds with time in the glass + rewards with powerful notes of blueberry, cassis, licorice + bacon fat. Bright acidity + age-worthy tannins mingle with dark berry flavors to create a wine with immense aging potential.
J. Lohr Winery
J. Lohr Vineyards + Wines was founded more than four decades ago by Jerry Lohr + is still family owned + operated today. Even after almost 50 years of winegrowing + celebrating 80 years on the planet, Jerry is not slowing down. He continues to explore, learn + lead in all aspects of the industry + the many accolades he has received reflect the admiration + respect of his peers + are an acknowledgment of his place in California wine history. Today, J. Lohr crafts wines from its 4,000 acres of sustainably-certified vineyards in Monterey County's Arroyo Seco + Santa Lucia Highlands appellations, Paso Robles + St. Helena in the Napa Valley. Jerry’s hands-on partnership with his children and co-owners Steve, Cynthia + Lawrence ensures his legacy + one of America’s favorite wineries will endure.
WINE TO TRY: 2018 J. LOHR HIGHLANDS BENCH PINOT NOIR ($35) Heady aromas of red fruit, spice + black tea are followed on the palate by robust notes of strawberry, cherry + baking spices accentuated by a fresh acidity + dusty tannins.
Miner Family Winery
Miner Family Winery is a well-known, family-owned winery tucked along the eastern hills of the Oakville appellation in the heart of Napa Valley. Founded in 1998 by Dave + Emily Miner along with his parents, Ed + Norma, Miner makes reserve style wines using fruit from Napa Valley + other specially selected California vineyards. Well known for a powerhouse collection of red wines, Miner's portfolio is lead by The Oracle, an elegant Bordeaux-style blend. Each of the Miner wines is crafted to encapsulate the distinctive elements + the indelible fingerprints of their respective vineyards. This combination of excellent vineyard sites along with passionate + thoughtful winemaking injects the necessary components for creating profoundly enjoyable, joyful wines.
WINE TO TRY: 2017 MINER GARYS’ VINEYARD PINOT NOIR ($60) Redolent of ripe red fruit, spice + pastry this wine entices on the palate with opulent notes of juicy black cherry, raspberry tart + cranberry accentuated by baking spices + dried herbs. Firm tannins + a delightful acidity provide a fabulous frame for this stunner.
Talbott Vineyards
The renowned Talbott Vineyards crafts 100% estate-grown Chardonnay + Pinot Noir inspired by the traditions of Burgundy in one of Santa Lucia Highlands’ oldest + coldest vineyards. With two estate vineyards located in Monterey County, Sleepy Hollow Vineyard + Diamond T Vineyard, Talbott offers a portfolio of exceptional wines to enjoy. Their winemaking team is led by head winemaker David Coventry, who prides himself on putting the fruit first + maximizing vineyard expression in the wines he crafts. Planted in 1972, Sleepy Hollow is a Grand Cru vineyard that provides the perfect foundation for the winemaking team. For more than three decades, Talbott wines have consistently garnered praise from wine critics + enthusiasts alike.
WINE TO TRY: TALBOTT SLEEPY HOLLOW VINEYARD CHARDONNAY ($42) Fragrant aromas of tropical fruit, citrus peel + toasty oak are followed on the palate by lush yet lively notes of golden apple, honeyed citrus, pineapple, spice + vanilla accompanied by a zesty acidity + lengthy, pastry-tinged finish.
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