Disclaimer: Don’t drink if you’re under 21, don’t buy alcohol for minors and always drink responsibly
The holidays are here and if you are looking to celebrate, this week’s wine will bring you a taste of what great wines California has to offer.
Meiomi is a pinot noir from Sonoma County. While Sonoma is arguably most known for its white wine, this red wine offers a perfect blend between a traditional California pinot and a Sonoma chardonnay.
The flavor is smooth and buttery with a hint of nuttiness, rich cherry flavor and hints of raspberry and strawberry. The aromas coming out of the glass are dark red fruits, fresh berries and mocha.
Meiomi offers an interesting flavor profile, and combined with its medium to full body, it pairs well with turkey, salmon or beef dishes. Meiomi is also a wine that would suit people who are new to the world of red wines, but also those who are well versed in reds.
While Meiomi would pair well with an array of different dishes, it also works beautifully by itself.
As with many of the recommendations in this vineyard, you can get this at Total Wine & More in Sand City for only $17.97, which is a good price for the quality. You can also get it at your local Target, but for a few dollars more at $19.99.
Sonoma County is known for its wines, and their first planted grapes were by Russian colonists in 1812. Some 6% of the land in Sonoma has a vineyard, and it takes about three years from when a vineyard is planted until the first crop emerges.
There are over 60 grape varieties grown in Sonoma County, and in 2021 over 202 tons of grapes were harvested, according to Sonoma Wine’s website.
Since this is the last column before the holidays, I’ve created a list of my top three favorite wines that are almost guaranteed to be a success during the winter break.
#1 Meiomi – California Pinot Noir
This is a good wine that could be suitable for an American Christmas dinner whether you eat turkey or roast beef. It also gains a plus for working nicely by itself, and it’s very likely a wine that everyone in the family will enjoy.
#2 Tommasi Rafael Valpolicella Classico Superiore – Italy Valpolicella
I named this as an excellent all-around wine, which is why it comes in second place. This isn’t a bad choice if you want something that would pair well with pork dishes, spicy sausages, white meat or lamb.
#3 Caliveda – California Pinot Noir
I couldn’t make a list like this without including the number one wine of 2023 at Total Wine & More. It offers a nice, mellow taste of a good California pinot noir, yet at the same time is a good introduction to the world of red wines. This would pair with food, but might be best to enjoy in good company.
Cheers, and Happy Holidays!