It’s time for another wine round up and this time the focus was on Italy, Slovenia and California. Overall this was a group of well-priced (all under $15), well rounded and very drinkable wines. In fact, of the nine wines that I tried, I’m reviewing seven.
Wines Under $15
California
- 2011 Backhouse Pinot Grigio — notes of apple, nectarine, lime and apple.
- 2012 Pepi Pinot Grigio – Nice acidity, tropical fruits with guava and pineapple, notes of pear. I’m not usually a fan of non-Italian pinot grigios, but I really enjoyed this wine.
- 2012 Pepi Sauvignon Blanc – notes of grapefruit, lemon grass and citrus. Very quaffable and a great summer wine.
Chile
- Con Carne NV Sauvignon Blanc – grapefruit and green pepper with notes of citrus.
Italy
- 2011 Banfi San Angelo Pinot Grigio – lots of minerality with notes of pear, banana and honey.
- 2011 La Quercia Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, part of the Small Vineyards portfolio, was one of the favorites of the tasting. Black cherries, plum, mocha and herbs. Perfect for your Tuesday pizza line-up.
Slovenia
- 2011 Giocato Pinot Grigio Goriška Brda – lots of apples, lemon, almonds and notes of floral with a nice balance of minerality. This wine surprised me and I’m looking forward to trying more from the region.
I think you’d be satisfied for any of these wines by the pool or for Tuesday pizza wines. Give them a try and let me know what you think.
