What I’ve Been Drinking Lately

Well, lots… Happily, part of the occupational hazard of my work is that I taste up to 200 wines per week.  Now, I said taste, now swallow, but what have I been enjoying recently?  Well, I drink with the seasons.  This time of year, as I am constantly reminded when I walk outside without gloves, it’s COLD!  As the temperature drops, the alcohol content rises.  Higher alcohol wines are more full-bodied on the palate and generally will exhibit richer and more fleshy flavor profiles.  So, seek out wines from warmer climates as those wines will generally have more alcohol.

Lately, I’ve been tucking into many Zinfandels, specifically from the Dry Creek appellation in Sonoma.  Sporting lush, jammy fruit and wonderful balance, it is no surprise that, save for a break during a little thing called Prohibition, they have been a leader in Zinfandel production for over a hundred years.  For one of my favorites, be sure to check out the Dry Creek Vineyard, who have been producing outstanding wines in the region for decades.

If you prefer an earthier style of wine, head to the Old World.  Amarone, though its price tag can be hefty, boast alcohol levels of over 15%, and offers up layers of raison and port-like flavors.  Other Old World style wines that will be heavy on flavor include Chateauneuf-du-Pape, Cote Rotie, and many other fabulous wines from the Rhone Valley.

Oh, and Port, I’ve been drinking plenty of Port!