As the weather gets warmer we start thinking of lighter red wines with fresh acidity. Here are a few of our favorites. You can even put a slight chill on these for a sunny afternoon.
2016 Erste + Neue, Kaltereresee Leuchternburg $16
Schiava (Vernatch)
A light-bodied red with lots of cherry flavors and soft tannins from the German speaking part of the Tyrolian Alps. This is a single vineyard wine made from Venatsch (Schiava) the smaller berried cousin to the Edelvenatch.
2018 Contini, Tonaghe Cannonau di Sardegna $13
90% Cannonau, 10% other local red grapes
Cannonau, the islands version of Grenache, was brought to Sardegna by the Spanish. The Tonaghe is produced from vineyards in Ogliastra, Oliena and from the Sinis peninsula. It has aromas of ripe plums and blackberries. The palate has lovely grippy tannins; warm and full-bodied with blackberry notes and juicy, ripe plum flavor.
2017 Cesar, Langa Frenesi $13
35% Shiraz, 35% Garnacha, 15% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot
The Langa family owns more than 70 hectares of vineyards spread over two Biodynamic farmed estates. The Frenesi has a very minerally aroma with spicy notes such as clove, cinnamon, pepper and vanilla. It has s ripe, even jam-like black fruit, beautiful tannins, a silky and round, muscular body. Organic
2017 Corsini, Barbera d’Alba $16
From their estate vineyards Corsini’s Barbera d’Alba is a typical Piedmontese Barbera with fresh cherry fruit and a striking underlying acidity
2018 Tenuta Maiano, Brusco Toscano $16
Sangiovese
This bright, and energetic wine displays aromas of fresh cherry, strawberry, balsamico and herbs. On the palate, Brusco has a lively acidity with vibrant tannins that perfectly frame the wonderful concentration of fruit flavors. Organic
2018 Serafini & Vidotto Pinot Nero $12
From rocky mineral rich soil sin Veneto this Pinot Noir has fruity and floral notes of ripe raspberries, blueberries, wild strawberries, hints of violet and aromatic herbs and sweet tobacco. The flavor is mellow and warm with sweet tannins. It finishes with notes of cassis and sweet tobacco nuances. Was $24 now $12
2018 Domaine Dupeuble, Beaujolais $15
Gamay Noir
Imported by Kermit Lynch, the entry Dupeuble has attractive, bright strawberry and wild-raspberry aromas here with a gently savory edge. Smells very fresh. The palate has a super smooth and open-knit delivery of ripe blueberry and strawberry flavors.