Wine values for Valentine's Day and beyond

Written by on in General Wine
Segura Viadus Brut Cava is a sparkling wine that sizzles for $7.95.
Segura Viadus Brut Cava is a sparkling wine that sizzles for $7.95.

Here are some recent tastings which should be considered for Valentine’s Day purchases.
• Segura Viudas Brut Cava, $7.95 — Here’s a sparkling Spanish party wine that also goes well with all kinds of food. Guests will thrill at the dry, crisp citrus tastes and aromas. Why spend more for champagne when this cava is   available on store shelves?

True Myth Chardonnay is a vibrant, refreshing California wine.
True Myth Chardonnay is a vibrant, refreshing California wine.

• 2010 William Fevre Chablis, $24 — If you’re thinking about buying a Chardonnay in this price range, try this vibrant, elegant version from France. Full pear and apple aromas carry over from the glass to the palate. A splendidly clean mineral finish separates this from the buttery class.
• The Beach House 2013, Sauvignon Blanc, $11.99 — Lemon ice cream without the sugary sweetness. That’s what the first, cool sip tastes like from this nice South African wine. Agreeable yet slightly watery on the finish.
• Guenoc Sauvignon Blanc 2012, $10.99 — Pour it into a glass, close your eyes and let the mellow “grassy” smells remind you of spring and summer. Yes, “grassy” isn’t a bad aroma. California sunshine turns this wine into an appealing grapefruit/pineapple flavor feast. Good value.

William Fevre Chablis is a distinctive, quality wine that is well worth the price.
William Fevre Chablis is a distinctive, quality wine that is well worth the price.

• Paso a Paso V Tempranillo, $8.29 — Eating Mexican fajitas, tacos or burritos, this 100 percent Tempranillo is your guy. A bit of oak aging smooths out the berry taste.
• Cotes du Rhone Saint-Esprit 2011,  $8.99 — Could anything this cheap from France be worth drinking? Yes. The first sip was tight and it needed 10 minutes in the glass before delivering nice cherry/strawberry flavors. A food wine, it goes well with grilled meats and wasn’t bad with chicken either.
• True Myth Chardonnay 2012, $15.99 —  Winemaker Christian Roguenant, who visited Lowell two years ago, has achieved remarkable results with this Edna Valley, California wine. The citrus fruits are bursting with freshness and aging in toasted French oak barrels adds a sweet, vanilla component. It’s creamy and yet clean tasting. Wine Enthusiast awarded this version 91 points, making it a worthy value at this price.