Even an experienced wine drinker enjoys a little guidance from the pros now and then. This month, we asked a few of our favorite bars and eateries to weigh in on five fine wines perfect for a connoisseur as well as a novice. Indulge with these picks on turkey day or savor all month long.
1 | BETTER WITH AGE.
Hailing from the Carneros region of Napa Valley, this Chardonnay has a bouquet brimming with vibrant tropical fruits like cantaloupe and pineapple. Richness comes to those who wait; it develops flavors of fig and apricot as it matures. No wonder it's a personal favorite of Dans co-owner Bill Woolworth. Rombauer Chardonnay, $79 per bottle, Dans at Green Hills, 2444 Morgantown Rd., Reading, 610.777.9611. dansatgreenhills.com
2 | SILK AND SPICE.
How do we love thee? Let us count the ways. The nose is deep and complex, with blackberry, woodsy notes and spice. The palate is rich and silky, heaped with ripened fruit and wildflowers. Perfect with wood fire grilled steaks and mushrooms, baguettes, dark chocolate and aged cheddar. Stratton Lummis Cabernet Sauvignon, $49 per bottle, ViVÁ Bistro & Tapas Lounge, 901 Hill Ave. and N. Park Road, Wyomissing, 610.685.5299. vivagoodlife.com
3 | WHY SO SERIOUS?
Earnest wine enthusiasts be warned: this wild red may capture the carefree days of your youth with Gamay grapes harvested just 6 to 8 weeks before arrival. “It's that fun, fresh and fruity red delight,” says winedown owner Ben Franco. Expected on shelves Nov. 21, just in time for the Thanksgiving feast. Beaujolais Nouveau, price TBA, winedown cafe & winebar, 622 Penn Ave., West Reading, 610.373.4907. winedowncafe.net
4 | VINO ITALIA.
Just one whiff will make you feel like you've been transported to Tuscany. This intensely aromatic young wine has a playful mix of fresh fruit and floral notes, topped off by a well-rounded and rich palate. Supple tannins lend a bit of bitterness to the finish. Santa Cristina Sangiovese, Toscano Italy 2010, $30 per bottle, $17 for a carafe, and $8 by the glass, The Hitching Post, 2747 Bernville Rd., Wyomissing, 484.671.2347. thehitchingpostpa.com
5 | DIRECT FROM NAPA.
For two years Judy’s on Cherry has sent bar manager Amanda Brooks to Napa Valley to hand select wine offerings, and this was among her favorites. “It is a medium bodied Sauvignon Blanc with a hint of honeysuckle, grapefruit and lemongrass,” Brooks says. A crisp white delight! Honig 2011 Sauvignon Blanc from Napa Valley, $38 per bottle, Judy's on Cherry, 332 Cherry St., Reading, 610.374.8511. judysoncherry.com
