12
Aug
2012
0

Wines of the Week: Aug. 6-12

Everyday: I have a new favorite white grape. (I’m rather fickle that way.) It’s godello, and it finds phenomenal expression in the A Coroa Valdeorras Godello. At $19, this one barely ekes in under the “Occasion” category, and it certainly would fit with a great meal in or out, but it belongs here because I could drink it every single day. This pale gem reflects/embodies the slate soil in which the grapes were grown, and its layers of gorgeous melon and apple flavors glide firmly over the palate. The elegant finish is long and so clean it might could be mouthwash. Try it with any seafood, especially ceviche and sushi, or some fresh grilled summer veggies. Yum.

Occasion: It’s hard “” OK, almost impossible “” to go wrong with a Ken Wright pinot noir. But my favorite, year in and year out, is the Ken Wright Savoya Yamhill-Carlton District Pinot Noir ($50). It generally shows the best amalgam of earth and fruit, of boldness and silkiness, of all of this Oregon master’s classic pinots. With dark berries and a hint of smokiness playing off firm tannins, it’s a beautifully balanced bottle of wine. Roast chicken would sing with this beauty, but like most Oregon pinots, it also would cozy right up to salmon, especially grilled on a cedar plank.