Five Wines to Try in 2009

The start of the New Year always seems to be about making lists. For some it’s a list of New Year’s resolutions, for others a fresh start to the seemingly never ending “to do” list. And for people like me, it’s a list of places to see, things to do or new things to try in the coming year. This year I decided to make a list of wines that I want to try in 2009. I find that I get stuck in a rut always returning to wines made from my favorite varietals or wine growing regions. So here is my “Top Five Wines to Try in 2009” list. Try making your own list and push yourself to explore varietals you may not normally think to drink or a wine from a wine region that you’ve never had before.

Gruet Brut NV – I’m definitely not one to limit myself to only drinking bubbly on special occasions. And while I’m a fan of expensive champagne and sparkling wines, I like to find a good deal. I’ve recently heard about a sparkling wine made by the Gruet family in New Mexico (yes, that’s right, they make wine in New Mexico) that is a great value at $14. www.gruetwinery.com

Ravines Dry Riesling – I have to admit that I don’t know much about the Finger Lakes Wine Region so I’m kind of taking a stab in the dark with this particular vintner. But since Finger Lakes Riesling is on my list of wines to try and I’ve heard good things about Ravines, they made my list. This boutique winery is located on the eastern slopes of Keuka Lake and its name comes from the fact that vineyard is situated between two deep ravines. This dry Riesling retails for about $17. www.ravineswinecellars.com

Poesia Torrontes – Torrontes is a great value white wine from Argentina with an extremely aromatic and fresh taste. I think the varietal will become one of my favorite summer wines this year and I’m going to start by seeking out the Poesia Torrontes. I’ve heard it’s a great deal at $13 a bottle.

Lange Twins California Merlot – Lodi often gets a bad rap compared to other winemaking regions in California, but the Lange Twins know what they are doing. They’ve been farming grapes in Lodi since 1916. As an added bonus, they incorporate sustainable farming methods into their growing practices. Their Family wines retail for about $15 and I’m looking forward to seeking out their Merlot in 2009. www.langetwins.com

Boudreaux Cellars Cabernet Sauvignon – I’ve spent a good deal of time drinking Washington State’s Rieslings, but I haven’t put much focus on their red wines. This wine has been getting a lot of good press lately and comes from a small, boutique winery located in Washington’s Cascade Mountains. The fruit comes from some of the most coveted vineyards in the state including Champoux, Klipsun, Sevin Hills and Bacchus. It’s predominately Cabernet Sauvignon (about 90%) but winemaker Rob Newsom blends in a little bit of everything else – Merlot, Cab Franc, Malbec, Petite Verdot, Syrah and Sangiovese. Retails for $50-60. www.boudreauxcellars.com

Written by Linzi