Moderately Priced Wines from Australia — “Two Hands” and “Mollydooker”
Last week, I was on the road and tried very much to be satisfied with the wine offered in the hotel. I was out for five days in Philadelphia, and I could take it for only so long. I had enjoyed a good bottle with a dear friend at dinner one night, yet found myself longing for a richer and deeper expression of the grape. I found the wine store and set my sights on Shiraz. I do so knowing that an Aussie wine will be a big, lush and very approachable. I shy away from young cabernets, since they do need some time to unfold.
Zinfandel: Two Excellent Wineries
Zinfandel is widespread and well-known in California. In fact, a legislator in the Golden State once tried to have this lovely grape established as the state grape. While that effort failed, the value and quality of the varietal lives on. Its lighter tannic structure and jammy expression are perfect for many occasions. It produces big rich and luscious styles of red wines where the price point is always welcome.
I have found two excellent wineries that consistently deliver in quality and character with Zinfandel. They may be hard to find, yet I want to share them with you, so if you find them on a wine list or in a local store – do not hesitate. They are wines to enjoy that offer great fruit and depth. Below are excerpts from Wine Spectator describing recent releases from both of these wineries. I have bottles in my cellar from both wineries and have never been disappointed.
Exploring Wines with the Wine Consultant: A Special Place in Sacramento
If you want to get better, more informed, and have a richer and deeper experience of anything – you need a coach or a mentor. In my pursuit of wine knowledge, that person for me is Eric Stumpf. Eric and his wife, Renee, own a wine store in Citrus Heights, CA called “The Wine Consultant.” Eric has a vast knowledge and appreciation for wine. He has over 20 years experience and has traveled much of the world visiting wineries and meeting with wine makers, and then he shares his experience with his customers.
I first walked into his store about nine years ago, having just moved to Sacramento from Kansas City and in search of a fine wine connection. I have been visiting his store ever since. I would venture to say that there are few in the area who know more about wine than Eric. He has been a trusted advisor for me to grow and expand my palate and understanding of wine. What he knows is remarkable, and he’s willing to educate and share.