As the snow melts away and the flowers begin to bloom, wine enthusiasts can look forward to the arrival of new wine releases in the spring. This time of year is always exciting as winemakers unveil their latest creations, showcasing the unique flavors and aromas of the new vintage. Below are some of the top wine releases to watch out for this spring from our recent findings throughout the west coast, including Oregon with our California Classics.
Cabernet Sauvignon is one of the most popular luxury wines, known for its rich flavor and full-bodied taste.
Pinot Noir is another classic wine that has a loyal following among wine connoisseurs. Pinot Noir is known for its delicate, yet complex flavor, and is often aged in French oak barrels to enhance its unique taste.
Chardonnay is the white wine that is perfect for springtime sipping. This year, many wineries are releasing their 2021 and 2022 vintages, which have been carefully crafted to showcase the delicate flavors and aromas of the grape.
In addition to the classic luxury wines, there are also several lesser-known varieties that are worth exploring this spring. Here are three wines to add to your list:
Tempranillo is a red wine that is native to Spain and is becoming increasingly popular among wine enthusiasts. This wine is often aged for several years, giving it a complex and sophisticated flavor. Tempranillo pairs well with hearty meat dishes, such as roasted lamb or beef stew.
Petite Sirah is a bold and full-bodied red wine that is perfect for those who love a strong and robust flavor. This wine is often aged in oak barrels, which adds hints of vanilla and spice to its flavor profile. Petite Sirah pairs well with rich, flavorful foods such as barbecue or grilled steak.
Zinfandel is a classic California wine that is known for its bold and fruity flavor. Zinfandel is often aged in American oak barrels, which gives it a unique flavor profile that includes hints of vanilla and cinnamon. This wine can pair well with spicy foods, such as Cajun or Mexican cuisine.
March 2023 Wine Features
2018 Sodaro ‘Felicity’ Cabernet Sauvignon Coombsville, Napa Valley
Why We Love This Wine:
Luxury wines are the result of elaborate artistry, an unending dedication to the winemaking craft. They are tales of age-old soil, lilting hillside and a tender breeze. To capture the novel of nature’s harmony inside a glass…this is what it means to make luxury wine.
Sommelier Tasting Notes:
Jeb Dunnuck called this a great value at full price – imagine what he’d think about this deal! 91% Cabernet Sauvignon meets 9% Petit Verdot for an impressive, Bordeaux-like red. It opens with blackcurrants, dark chocolate, scorched earth and graphite aromas. The palate is full-bodied and rich, with the signature purity of the vintage and terrific depth. As Dunnuck says, “It’s certainly a serious, outstanding wine.” Coombsville’s reputation as the next great Napa Valley sub-appellation rests on thoughtfully crafted, premium gems like this one.
2018 Hyde Merlot, Carneros Napa Valley
Why We Love This Wine:
Located in the heart of Carneros, Hyde Vineyards sits in the coolest region of Napa Valley influenced by the cooling effect of the Petaluma Gap. Morning fog and cool breezes in the afternoons allow for warm days and cool nights resulting in a long growing season. Through years of extensive research and experimentation, Larry Hyde has planted a unique variety of clones while carefully orienting the row directions to suit the rolling hills. His tireless work has resulted in a tapestry of vineyard blocks with over ten different varietals planted covering the unique terroir of Hyde Vineyards.
Sommelier Tasting Notes:
Dark and concentrated with aromas of blackberry, black currant, ripe fig, cocoa, and tobacco leaves. Pure complexity, vibrant, and focus with layers of lush dark fruit, the finish is juicy and succulent, the refine young tannins ensure long healthy aging.
This was a cooler year with abundant rain in February followed by endless sunny days which produced bud break in the first and second week of March. The mild temperatures allowed for slow ripening-perhaps the longest duration we’ve had in a long time. This factor helped encourage even cluster development, strong yields, complex flavors, high acidity and excellent quality that will help contribute to the longevity of this vintage.
2016 Fisher Vineyards Mountain Estate Cabernet Sauvignon, Sonoma County
84% Cabernet Sauvignon, 7% Merlot, 5% Petit Verdot, 4% Cabernet Franc
Following more than four decades planting vineyards and adapting farming practices to the mountain climate and terrain around the winery, we launched our Mountain Estate Vineyard, Cabernet Sauvignon. The core of this wine is Cabernet Sauvignon grown on steep, west facing terraces that rise above the winery, reaching a towering elevation of 1,400 feet. Other contiguous vineyard blocks yielding fruit of mature character and balance incorporate a great diversity of soils and exposures, providing additional complexity and unmistakable mountain terroir.
The 2016 Cabernet Sauvignon Mountain Estate Vineyard is a dark, brooding wine. A terrific example of Sonoma Cabernet, the 2016 possesses superb textural richness and intensity to match its dark, somber profile. An infusion of inky dark fruit, gravel, smoke, iron, game, dark spice, leather and licorice runs through this super expressive, rugged Cabernet Sauvignon from the Fisher family’s Mountain estate.
In conclusion, while the classic luxury wines are always a great choice, it’s also worth exploring some of the lesser-known varieties this spring. Whether you’re in the mood for a bold and robust wine like Petite Sirah, or a fruity and refreshing option like Zinfandel, there is sure to be a wine that suits your taste. Don’t be afraid to try something new and discover your new favorite luxury wine this season.