Fall Wine Sale Catalog Recommendations

Félines Jourdan Picpoul de Pinet 2009

In Southern France, along the coast of the Mediterranean, is the wine region of Languedoc. Historically overshadowed by the acclaimed regions of Burgundy, Bordeaux, and Loire, this up-and-coming area is producing some little known, yet delicious, wines such as Picpoul de Pinet. The Picpoul grape is known for its refreshing acidity and literally means “lip-stinger” but when supported by great fruit flavors, can be an excellent wine! The Felines Jourdan Picpoul de Pinet 2009 has delicious aromas of apple, pear, and minerality. On the palate this Picpoul is dry and true to its name as refreshingly acidic and has dynamic flavors of lemon and fresh herbs. Seafood is a classic pairing for this wine but I prefer a nice creamy cheese to compliment the wine’s bright flavors. Try this wine as a pairing for your cheese plate with one of my favorites, Bent River Camembert from Mankato. As a lesser know region, this wine provides a great value and as we come into fall and away from the summery Sauvignon Blancs, Picpoul is a refreshing change! Enjoy!

Château Bellevue Peycharneau 2006

This delicious full-bodied Bordeaux red wine is one of my favorites and a great value for this region. Château Bellevue Peycharneau has consistently been an award winning winery and year after year they produce exceptional wines. A blend of 65% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon and 15% Cabernet Franc, this wine has great tannic structure to support its array of complex flavors. Many Bordeaux wines have bold fruit in the aroma and palate and this wine is no different, with flavors of cherries and blackberries. Beyond the fruit, my favorite element is the comforting spiciness of cloves, anise and nutmeg. As I am a long-time enthusiast of bold, spicy wines, this is a natural wine to love! It is also a great food paring wine and begs for a lamb dish with cherry glaze. A great addition to any cellar collection, I would lay this down for 8-10 years or give it a good couple hours of decanting before drinking. I’d love to have a bottle every year to see how this beautiful wine develops! Enjoy!