Featured Wines for February – 2021 Colimoro Pinot Grigio, & 2020 Colimoro Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, Italy

Wines for February are new to our shelves. From time to time we like to replace old “standards” with wines from different producers. The February wines are Italian and carry a Colimoro label. Colimoro is a collaboration between the Opici family and some of Italy’s oldest producers. Together, they are creating wines that reflect the character of the region from which they derive. Opici Family Distributing, is one of our distributors.

Opici considers these 2 wines to be easy-drinking, approachable wines intended for every day consumption. 2020 Colimoro Montepulciano d’Abruzzo is made from grapes sourced from the hillsides of Abruzzo, located east of Rome. The distinct microclimate between the Apennine Mountains and the Adriatic Sea, characterized by moderate temperatures and low humidity, provides excellent growing conditions for this varietal. 2021 Colimoro Pinot Grigio is produced in the northeastern Italian region of Alto Adige – the premier location for the cultivation of this varietal

2021 Colimoro Pinot Grigio, Italy $15

This Pinot Grigio has flavors of white peach, honeysuckle, and ripe melon perfectly pair with the refreshing acidity. It is full-bodied with great balance, length, and a sliced green apple finish. Pour this wine for all occasions, especially whilst enjoying salads, seafood, creamy pasta dishes, and, of course, amongst friends. Serve well chilled. Alcohol: 12.5%

2020 Colimoro Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, Italy $15

This Montepulciano d’Abruzzo is bursting with aromas of dried cherries accented by a hint of spice. Medium in body, this is a fruit-forward wine balanced by moderate acidity and soft tannins. Aged in large Slavonian oak casks for 6 months, this is an easy-drinking wine best enjoyed young with everyday meals Alcohol: 12.5%

January Wines – Peirano Estate Vineyards, Heritage Collection Viognier (2020) & Peirano Estate Vineyards, Heritage Collection Old Vine Zinfandel (2019), California

This month’s selection takes us back to California and to the Peirano Estate Vineyards. In 1992, Peirano Estate Vineyards began bottling and selling wine using their estate grown grapes. Until this point, Lance Randolph, fourth generation Peirano, produced wine simply for his enjoyment and that of his close family and friends. The rest of the grapes were sold to winemakers across the country. Their vineyards are located in the Central Valley in the Lodi region.

The white is Peirano Heritage Viognier (2020.) The red is Peirano Heritage Old Vine Zinfandel (2019.) The Viognier may remind you of a buttery Chardonnay. Even if you are not a buttery fan, you should enjoy this wine since it is lighter. Viognier grapes were first grown in France but now their are grown in many wine regions where weather and terrior give it different qualities. You will find the Zinfandel lush, all purpose wine for winter meals. If you remember the Terrilogio Primitivo pairs well with spicy Italian dishes, this Zinfandel will do as well.

Peirano Estate Vineyards, Heritage Collection Viognier (2020), California $14

This is a wine for poultry and fish that are mildly prepared. It has Aromas of honeysuckle, guava and butter are complemented by a hint of toasty brioche. On the palate, lush flavors of fresh ripe apricots, lychee, vanilla and floral are balanced by flavors of peaches and butter. For buttery Chardonnay lovers, this Viognier is for you. Alcohol: 14.8%

Peirano Estate Vineyards, Heritage Collection Old Vine Zinfandel (2019), California $14

This wine has a beautiful burgundy color. It has seductive aromas of spiced blackberry, plum, dried cherry and baking spices. On the palate, the initial sensation is that of luscious, juicy, freshly-picked ripe blackberries lightly spiced. The second sip explodes with moderate tannins and juicy acidity. Great with burgers and spicy dishes. Alcohol: 14.8%