Binny’s Joliet was the place to be for an exciting Holiday Tasting Showcase that featured more than 40 wines for that perfect celebration
More than 40 wines were presented with reps from a half dozen distributors presenting their latest release from. France’s Dom Perignon to Washington State’s Chicago. Ste. Michelle Gewurztraminer.
It was a great opportunity to make some new wine “friends” and to revisit old favorites in their latest release.
Lisa Ruzas of Samplers Marketing was the first to offer a pour of an old favorite, Duckhorn Cabernet Sauvignon 2023. It was a classic Napa Valley Cab with grapes sourced from local vineyards. Vintners are calling 2023 the “vintage of a lifetime.” With its long, mild growing season, the grapes were allowed to hang on the vine longer, developing more complexity and intensity. For those accustomed to paying $125 and up for a quality Napa Cab, the Duckhorn price tag at under$60 is a welcome surprise.
My most treasured reacquaintance was with Stags Leap Petite Sirah 2020, a mere $38. This was a fully developed, elegant wine that would grace any Holiday table. It has all of the full throttle Napa grape juiciness and that unique as spicy character that only Petite Sirah can deliver. Everyone raves about Pinot Noir, but my money is on Petite Sirah for some pleasant surprises.
I’m just beginning to rediscover interesting white wines. Perhaps my palate is becoming more refined or, it could be that wine makers are maki them more complex and expressive to match consumer demands for increasingly exotic pairings with a variety of international cuisines. There was a time when Sushi was considered exotic, but then I overheard someone asking a wine rep which of their wines went with caviar!
Speaking of the latter, I found a bargain priced sparkler that would pair perfectly. Bella Vista Franciacorta Brut at $33 had just the right amount of creaminess to smooth out the salty edges of a good American Osetra.
Fortunately, I saved room and my palate for as hearty sampling from the latest vintages Champagnes from the house of Moet Chandon, Veuve Clicquot and Dom Perignon. poured by my new BFF Jose Frausto.
Dom Perignon Vintage 2018 was a real scene stealer. At just $235 a bottle at Binny’s I’m sure it will Garner fans who will not bat an eye at the price tag. For those with a more adventurous palate the Veuve Clicquot La Grande Dame is a romp through the premiere Pinot Noir vineyards of Champagne, $179.
There is much to remember about the Holiday Tasting Showcase at Binny’s Joliet.
Drink Responsibly.
Dwight Casimere, TTW Food/Entertainment Reporter, @dwightwine
