The last thing we’d ever do on a day like today is leave you reeling for an alcoholic new taste sensation. So we’ve gone ahead and rounded up some of the most exciting recent developments in wine for you. You didn’t have to ask.
2016 Cooper & Thief Tequila Barrel-Aged Sauvignon Blanc: Here you have a Sauv Blanc that’s seen 3 months aging in former Casa Noble Añejo tequila barrels. Part of the brand’s experimental Cellarmaster series, the resulting wine carries agave-like notes of spice and citrus, with vanilla from the barrel and an acidic backbone and delicate heat that will make it ideal for the first beach bonfire of the season. $29.99
V Marion Blackberry Sangria: Vintage Enoteca recently closed its doors after several years of serving Hollywood with distinction and renown. The partners’ newest venture is V Sangria, a wine-bar-veteran-driven sangria blended by a boutique winemaker, in this case Napa's Leonard Wine Company, who attentively veered away from the sweetness found in so many commercial sangrias. $11.99
Lasorda Family Wines: Who better to produce bold reds than a passionate Italian who lead the Dodgers to two World Series wins in the 1980’s? That’s right. The legendary Tommy Lasorda has his own wine label. With both a Northern Cali Chardonnay and a Paso Robles Cabernet that come in sexy bottles bearing the discreet outline of a baseball diamond on them.
Barossa Valley Estate Cabernet Sauvignon: Think Cabernet and Napa, Tuscany and Bordeaux probably come to mind. But Cabernets from Australia’s small, red clay-soiled Barossa Valley are increasingly available in the U.S. A more subtle, gentle style that doesn’t embrace the aggressive oak, high ABVs and tannin your expected Cabs, putting the focus on the liveliness of the fruit. $15.99
Societé: This is not a wine exactly. As in one wine. This is a yearly society that only allows in 1,000 people. Once chosen, they pay for the benefits of a bottomless, often limited edition rosé supply meant to last through the summer season. Intrigued yet? $350
2017 Domaine de Cala Rosé and 2017 Domaine de Cala Prestige Rosé: And speaking of rosé, legendary LA chef Joachim Splichal has his own new wine label, called Domaine de Cala. The label’s latest introductions are these two rosés, both using grapes grown on his own family-owned and operated winery in Provence. Available across the country, the roses are each resplendent with floral and citrus notes, backed by a light spice. Yes, resplendent. $15.95 and $25.95.
