Wine Styles

We just got back from another Napa trip!  As you can see, we love that place.  Its a quick jaunt from OC and the views, food and {of course) the wine are top shelf!  It was definitely a nice early Valentine’s Day treat.  

I knew it was going to be chilly up in Northern California so I brought my trusty hat along.  This tan color matches with just about everything so I’m planning to take this along everywhere all the way to Spring.  It transitions flawlessly from airport style to wine country chic.  

Its obvious now that the hubbs and I love wine, and we’ve done our fair share of tasting. So I thought I would share the top 5 Napa wines we discovered and loved during our trip.  Each vintage and varietal brings it own character, and let’s face it, after a couple wineries and a few glasses, almost everything tastes the same.  But I find that your general palate usually stays constant and we usually end up with a bottle, or two {..or five!} to bring home.

1. 2012 Cakebread Applebarn Vineyard Pinot Noir – One of my favorite wineries.  The pinot especially is my fave.  I love a good easy drinking wine.  Great with food {BBQ or stew} or just a glass on its own.  Light and delightful!

2. 2011 B Cellars Stagecoach Sangiovese – I usually like lighter red wines like pinots {see above}, but sangiovese is one of those wines that are on the cusp.  Light enough to please the picky palate and bold enough to satisfy the cabernet connoisseur.  The B Cellars Sangiovese is especially flavorful.  Amazing with bold pasta like Pici Pasta with garlic sauce and black truffles {Ymmm…drooling now!}.

3. 2012 Frog’s Leap Rutherford Merlot – This was a favorite of the hubbs.  He loves the cinnamon and earthly flavors.  

4. 2013 Venge Juliana Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc – I love the nose – it smells sweet and of florals.  It’s fresh and reminds you of long sunny days at the beach.  Great wine for summer BBQs.  

5. 2012 Pine Ridge Luminary – Another favorite of the hubbs.  If you like wines with bold velvety tannins and dark fruity flavors, this is one is for you!