The changing of the “seasons” in Arizona can often take us from drinking a bold cabernet in the winter to having rosé all day in the spring. If you’re looking for lighter, more refreshing wines to drink this season (and gift to Mom on Mother’s Day), below are a list of some of my favorites:
2017 Burgans Albarino ($16.99)
This is a very versatile, crisp, clean Spanish wine that you can drink anytime. It has a fruity aroma with a well-balanced taste. While it has hints of apricots and peach, it is off-dry on the palate with a mineral finish. This is my go-to varietal when I’m not sure what to do with a food pairing. Like a good rosé, it can pair well with just about anything.
Get the 2017 Burgans Albarino at your local AJ’s Fine Foods.
2017 Carlson Creek Vineyard Rosé ($23, pictured)
Speaking of rosé, our newly released vintage was long-awaited after quickly selling out of our first vintage. It is the ultimate spring wine that features a nose of strawberry, green apple and spun sugar followed by flavors of golden raspberry and pineapple with a soft banana finish. This is a limited edition at only 104 cases produced so you’ll want to grab a few bottles before they’re gone.
Get the 2017 Carlson Creek Vineyard Rosé at any of their three tasting rooms (in Scottsdale, Cottonwood or Willcox) or call 480.947.0636 to have it delivered to your door.
Lucian Albrecht Cremant de Alsace NV ($23.99)
It’s a good rule to always have bubbles on hand and a Cremant is a great option that is generally half the price of Champagne. It’s made the same way, with the same grapes – just from the region next door, which is what allows for more affordable pricing. This particular Cremant has notes of ripe apple on the nose and palate with a light-bodied, creamy finish.
Get the Lucian Albrecht Cremant de Alsace NV at your local AJ’s Fine Foods.
2017 Carlson Creek Vineyard Chardonnay ($25, pictured)
We call this the chardonnay for non-chardonnay drinkers. It’s not too dry or too buttery. Aged in stainless steel and neutral French barrels, this is a low-oak, crisp chardonnay that you’ll still be able to enjoy on Arizona’s warmest days. It features hints of citrus on the nose, with a nuttiness under baked pear on the palate.
Get the 2017 Carlson Creek Vineyard Chardonnay at any of their three tasting rooms (in Scottsdale, Cottonwood or Willcox) or call 480.947.0636 to have it delivered to your door.
2017 Gainey Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc ($18.99)
From my favorite California wine region, this central coast sauvignon blanc is a refreshing pick for spring sipping. The region’s cool evenings and warm days allow for a full ripeness of the fruit (think grapefruit and guava flavors) with a nice balance and crisp finish. Overall, a solid sauvignon blanc for a reasonable price.
Get the 2017 Gainey Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc at your local AJ’s Fine Foods.
Carlson Creek Vineyard just received gold and silver medals in the 2019 World Wine Championships, with their wines being rated between 85 and a whopping 95 points per varietal!
For more information on Carlson Creek Vineyard, visit www.carlsoncreek.com. –Robert Carlson III, co-owner/winemaker of Carlson Creek Vineyard
