- Home
- Staff Picks
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
CANTINA AZUL
BLANCO
Carefully crafted tequila created by two passionate industry professionals from Connecticut. With over 50 combined years’ experience crafting quality spirits and beverage programs coast to coast, Brian Williams and William Driggs were looking to bring a quality product to market that was both attainable and versatile. Cantina Azul offers character without sacrifice. Using modern distilling practices, it is tequila-forward with no additives. It has a long flavor with lingering notes of fresh agave, black pepper, nutty undertones with a fresh captivating aroma. Great choice for cocktails or on its own…your choice.
Bryan's Pick
URBAN LODGE
UCONN TERRITORY
A bold and flavorful brew that captures the essence of Connecticut's craft beer scene. With a balanced blend of malt sweetness and hoppy bitterness, this beer offers a rich and satisfying experience from start to finish. The golden amber color and slightly hazy appearance gives a nod to traditional brewing techniques, while the hop profile brings forward citrusy and piney notes that add a refreshing twist. Its medium body and smooth mouthfeel make it approachable yet complex, ideal for both the casual drinker and craft beer enthusiast alike. At 5.3% ABV, UCONN Territory strikes a perfect balance between drinkability and flavor. Whether you're cheering on the Huskies or relaxing with friends, this brew is a perfect companion for any occasion.