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Sam's Pick
DOMAINE DE BERNIER
CHARDONNAY
Can one be right and wrong at the same time? I was after I tasted this intriguing white for the first time. My immediate first impression was a Pouilly Fume from the Loire Valley because of the fruit flavors of lemon/lime and melon with a slight creamy texture accompanied by bright acidity and minerality. The uncertainty surfaced after my second taste. As the wine began to open it revealed notes of pear and apple with a steely backbone. Now I'm thinking this could be a Chablis. I had to know if I was correct in my assessment. Voila!! I soon discovered I was drinking a Chardonnay from the Loire Valley. I like to refer to this as an albatross because of its uniqueness. When you start to list all the white varietals from the region, Chardonnay most likely would be at the bottom, if at all. You see less than 3% of the 185,000 vineyard acres in the Loire Valley are dedicated to Chardonnay, and most doesn't leave the country. Needless to say this wine left a large impression, and one that I like to recommend. Pair this delicious and incredible value with pan seared scallops, salmon, swordfish, roasted chicken, goat cheese, salads or as a summer sipper.
Joey's Pick
VIGNOBLE DUFFOUR
COTES DE GASCOGNE
Gascony lies southeast of Bordeaux. It's the land that inspired such characters d'Artagnan and Cyrano de Bergerac, as well as the origins of Armagnac. We are pleased to offer this affordable Old World alternative to Sauvignon Blanc. Vines on the Duffour estate date back to the 1960s and have been farmed organically for much of that time. Fragrants of melon, zesty citrus, green apple, peach and fresh cut grass lift from the glass to present an inviting greeting. Light to medium body with crisp acidity will have to start to question whether this could be a Sauvignon Blanc. Another sip or two will reassure you that in fact it is not partly due to the slight herbaceous note and pleasingly clean dry finish. Pair this deliciously refreshing white with your spring and summer favorites including brie, chevre, white fish, seafood, chicken, salads and certainly as an aperitif. Hope you enjoy as much as we do.
Jimmy's Pick
CASA MEXICO
BLANCO
JALISCO HIGHLANDS
If you’re looking for a good quality tequila that’s ideal for your favorite cocktail as well as sipping and at a reasonable price then consider Casa Mexico. The matured blue agave pinas that make this blanco are cooked for two days and double distilled. On the nose you’ll get sweet citrus, pear and anise. Your first sip is smooth that reveals earthy agave and light black pepper. It finish starts sweet but ends with a hint of spice.
Bryan's Pick
TOX
SUMMER FUGU 6% ABV
Tox Brewing's Summer Fugu is a hazy, hop-forward IPA that embodies the essence of a Connecticut summer. Brewed with a blend of Citra, Cashmere, and El Dorado hops, it delivers a vibrant aroma and flavor profile. Expect notes of earthy citrus, papaya, grapefruit, and a subtle hint of watermelon, all balanced by a crisp, dry finish. The beer's medium body and moderate carbonation provide a refreshing mouthfeel, making it incredibly drinkable. With an ABV of 6%, Summer Fugu offers a perfect balance between flavor and sessionability. Whether you're enjoying a beach day or a hike through the woods, this IPA is a delightful companion for any summer adventure.