Tag Archives: winemaking

April Sweet Club: Iowa

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Sweet Wine ClubPenfolds club reserve classic tawny wine bottlePenfolds
Club Reserve
Classic Tawny Port
Australia

NECTAR WINE STYLE

Tawny red-brown in color, the nose is fragrant and well-integrated, possessing aromas of raisined fruit, caramel, subtle vanillin oak and nutty aged complexity. The palate has a luscious fruit sweetness balanced by drier barrel-matured characters and subtle spirit. The wine has rich flavors of spicy dried fruit, butterscotch and walnuts before a long, lingering finish.

  • Varietal: Core selection of Mourvèdre, Shiraz, Cabernet and Grenache (but not limited to these varietals)
  • Analysis: 18% alcohol / volume
  • Acidity: 5.3 g/L
  • pH: 3.53
  • Last tasted: July 2010
  • Vineyard Region: South Eastern Australia – Penfolds Club Reserve is a multi-regional blend
  • Vintage Conditions: Multi-vintage blend with an average age between five and ten years
  • Maturation: Individual components are given extended maturation in very old hogsheads for five to ten years before blending to create a consistent style with each release.
  • Peak Drinking: With an average age of five to ten years, Penfolds Club Reserve Classic Tawny is blended to drink on release.
  • Food Matches: Cheese, Dessert

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing:
Try this Tawny Port wine with an aged gouda cheese. The salty, yet creamy and nutty notes of the cheese will help balance out the sweetness & barrel-aged notes of the wine. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

WINEMAKER NOTES:
Since 1985 Penfolds has been identifying the best barrels of Club Tawny and reserving them for additional maturation. These reserve barrels are then skillfully blended to create Penfolds Club Reserve Classic Tawny – with an average age of more than five years – in keeping with the Penfolds tradition of excellence. – Peter Gago, Chief Winemaker

ABOUT PENDFOLDS:
In 1844 Christopher Rawson Penfold planted vines on the slopes of Magill to produce fortified wines. Penfolds is now proud to present a range of fortified wines that is a continuation of over 165 years of winemaking tradition and represents the finest collection of wines of this style in Australia. Learn more about the winery here.

Information & Photos © Penfolds – All Rights Reserved

Candoni moscato wine bottleCandoni Family Wines
Etruscan Wine Collection
Moscato
Lombardy, Italy

NECTAR WINE STYLE

This Moscato is semi-sparkling, low in alcohol, very fruity and fragrant with an excellent balance of sweetness and acidity. It has aromas of lime, custard and dried flowers with no oak flavors.

  • Varietal: 100% Moscato Bianco
  • Analysis: 7% alcohol / volume
  • Region: Lombardy, Provincia di Pavia I.G.P., Italy
  • Food Pairings: Excellent as a dessert wine. It pairs perfectly with pastries, cakes, fruit salads, desserts, sushi, sashimi, and spicy dishes. This sweet Italian wine is also delicious with ice cream, or on its own as an accompaniment to conversation among friends.
  • How to Serve: In order to appreciate this wine at its best, the bottle should be taken out of the cellar and immersed for about half an hour in an ice-bucket. The ideal serving temperature is 42.8ºF-46.4ºF. The best glasses to use are clear, transparent crystal flutes.
  • Conservation: Should be aged and is best consumed young. The bottle should be stored horizontally in a cool, dark, damp cellar.

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing:
Pair with a creamy cheese such. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

ETRUSCAN WINE COLLECTION:
The joy of living and the art of winemaking is the inspiration behind the Etruscan Wine Collection. The Etruscans, who lived in Italy more than 2500 years ago, introduced the grapevine becoming the first winegrowers.  The richest source of information remaining are their paintings that depicted their daily life and feasting.  Candoni’s artfully painted bottles are inspired by their frescos and passion for life. Using a technique called serigraphy (method of melting natural ceramic colors on glass), Candoni has created a unique piece of art that can bring joy and tradition to your table.

VINEYARD & WINEMAKING:
Made from 100% Moscato Bianco grapes from Pavia, an ideal area to cultivate premium Moscato. The vines benefit from an excellent microclimate (thanks to the area’s proximity to the Po river), well-drained soils rich in clay and calcareous marl, and an exceptional terroir. The grapes are harvested and are softly pressed. The resulting must is put in temperature-controlled stainless-steel vats and cooled down to extract the best aromatic substances. The must is then clarified. The alcoholic fermentation is started using selected yeasts and is carried out at controlled temperature. The fermentation is stopped to keep the desired level of residual sugar. The wine is then racked. The natural bubbles are produced by a secondary fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless-steel autoclaves. The secondary fermentation is started using selected yeasts. The wine is then filtered, stabilized and bottled.

THE REGION:
Lombardy, situated in north-central Italy, is a renowned wine region, particularly for its Oltrepò Pavese area—named for its location “beyond the Po” in relation to Pavia. Winemaking here dates back to the Etruscan settlers along the Po River. The region’s climate varies due to its diverse landscape but is generally classified as a ‘cool’ continental climate. Several geographic influences shape its viticulture, including the Alps to the north, which provide protection from harsh cold and help retain warmth in the valleys, and the Po River, which defines much of Lombardy’s southern boundary. Additionally, the region’s stony vineyard soils absorb heat during the day and release it at night, creating ideal conditions for grapes to develop complex flavors over a long growing season. Oltrepò Pavese accounts for over half of Lombardy’s total wine production and two-thirds of its DOC-designated wines. It is particularly known for its sweet Moscato grapes and red varietals such as Pinot Noir and Barbera.

ABOUT CANDONI:
Candoni Wines is a family-owned winery with a rich winemaking history that began over 150 years ago, blending deep-rooted Italian traditions with a passion for innovation. Led by the Candoni De Zan family, the winery is dedicated to crafting high-quality wines that showcase Italy’s diverse regions and grape varietals. Emphasizing sustainability, Candoni Wines embraces eco-friendly practices, from vineyard management to packaging, ensuring a minimal environmental footprint. Learn more here.

Information & Photos © Candoni Family – All Rights Reserved

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April Bubbly Club: Iowa

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JC-Reserva-de-la-Familia-bottleJuvé & Camps
Reserva De La Familia
Gran Reserva Brut Nature
Cava
Penedès, Spain

Bubbly Wine ClubBUBBLY WINE STYLE

Brilliant yellow with golden highlights. Fruity on the nose, with fresh apple aromas, hints of white flowers, and Mediterranean herbs such as rosemary. Subtle notes of lightly toasted bread and nuts add depth. The brut nature style—without added sugar—highlights its fresh yet profound character, complemented by finely integrated bubbles.

Varietal: 50% Xarel·lo, 35% Macabeu, 15% Perallada
Appellation: Penedès, Spain
Analysis: 12% alcohol / volume
Vinification: Traditional Method
Minimum Aging: 36 months
Dosage: Brut Nature – No Dosage
Vineyards: Espiells, La Cuscona, Mediona
Soil: Loam-limestone, Clay-limestone
Viticulture: Organic Certification

Origin:
Crafted from the trilogy of white grape varieties native to Penedès. Xarel·lo and Macabeo are sourced from estates in Espielles and La Cuscona, with loamy limestone soils at altitudes of 200-250m. The Parellada is grown in Mediona, at 500-750m elevation with clay-limestone soils.

Viticulture:
The organically managed vineyards are surrounded by forests and hedgerows, fostering biodiversity and natural balance. Regenerative viticulture ensures optimal conditions with minimal environmental impact.

Winemaking:
The grapes are gently crushed to extract free-run juice. The must undergoes static settling at low temperatures. The first fermentation occurs in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks before secondary fermentation in the bottle. Aged for 36 months without the addition of expedition liqueur.

Vintage:
The 2021 vintage marks the onset of a drought cycle, yet water reserves helped vines produce wines with exceptional fruitiness, aging potential, and complexity.

About Juvé & Camps:
A family-owned winery in Penedès, Spain, producing premium Cava since 1921. Their flagship Gran Reserva Cavas, such as Reserva de la Familia, exemplify quality through organic farming and traditional methods. Learn more about Juvé & Camps

cremant-de-loire-blanc-brut-bottleLanglois-Château
Crémant de Loire Blanc Brut
France

Bubbly Wine ClubBUBBLY WINE STYLE

“The Langlois Crémant de Loire Blanc Brut is still our winery’s emblematic cuvée with freshness, balance, and elegance.”

Pale yellow in color, the nose is complex with white flowers, linden and hawthorn. The mouth is fresh, delicate and refined.

Varietal: Chenin Blanc (at least 50%), Chardonnay & Cabernet Franc
Terroirs: The grapes come from mainly Saumur terroirs but also from Anjou and Touraine: sand-limestone, clay-limestone & shale
Aging Potential: 3 to 5 years
Ideal Serving Temperature: 46.4ºF – 50ºF
Food Pairing: Its freshness, fine bubbles and elegance make Langlois Crémant de Loire Blanc Brut a reception wine par excellence, aperitif, and cocktail dinner. It will also accompany apple and pear pies, or even a pear-chocolate crumble.

Harvest:
Harvested entirely by hand in pierced crates. Pneumatic pressing a few hours after harvesting. Juice selection during pressing separating Cuvées from Tailles.

Vinification:
Vinification by grape variety and terroir in thermo-regulated stainless steel vats. Tasting of clear parcel wines to determine the blend. Maturing using the Méthode Traiditionnelle (secondary fermentation in the bottle). Aging on lees for at least 24 months.

About Langlois-Château: Founded in 1885, acquired by the Bollinger family in 1973, the winery now manages 95 hectares across Saumur, Saumur-Champigny, and Sancerre. Committed to sustainable viticulture, with 30 hectares in organic conversion. Learn more about Langlois-Chateau

Information & Photos © Juvé & Camps & Langlois-Chateau – All Rights Reserved

March Sweet Club: Iowa

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Sweet Wine ClubChocolate_Martini_bottleRancho La Gloria Chocolate Martini Chocolate, Real Cream, Agave Nectar Las Vegas, NV

NECTAR WINE STYLE
Feeling fancy? This chocolate martini is dressed to impress with smooth, creamy milk, notes of dark chocolate and a touch of agave. Black tie optional. Best served chilled.

Varietal: 100% Agave Wine Analysis: 13.9% alcohol / volume Accolades: 2024 Tag Global Spirits Competition – Double Gold

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: Try this chocolate martini with an aged gouda. A caramelized, nutty Gouda brings out the cocoa notes while adding a little crunch from its crystalline texture. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.
About Rancho La Gloria: Rancho La Gloria traces its origins to 1938 at the Rancho La Gloria Hotel in Rosarito, Mexico, where the Margarita cocktail was first crafted, forever changing the world of tequila. Building upon this rich heritage, Rancho La Gloria has evolved into a leading producer of premium agave-based beverages. At the heart of Rancho La Gloria’s offerings are their award-winning Single Estate Tequilas, made from 100% Blue Weber Agave. The agave is sourced from a single-origin field overlooking a historic Aztec temple, with each plant hand-selected and harvested at peak maturity, averaging between 90-110 pounds. Today, the brand continues to honor its legacy by offering a diverse range of high-quality agave-based products for every occasion. Learn more here.
Information & Photos © Rancho La Gloria – All Rights Reserved

Bartenura-Dolce-noir-bottleBartenura Dolce Noir Semi-Sweet Red Wine Italy

NECTAR WINE STYLE
This luscious, semi-sweet red wine is a delightful balance of fruity and earthy notes. The nose reveals aromas of ripe black cherry, raspberry, and plum. The sweetness is well integrated, with a lingering and satisfying finish.

Varietals: Cabernet Sauvignon and Barbera

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: Try this wine with a Gorgonzola Dolce, the creamy, slightly tangy blue cheese contrasts beautifully with the wine’s sweetness. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.
About Bartenura: Bartenura is an international wine brand renowned for its iconic blue bottle Moscato and a diverse portfolio of Italian wines. Since its introduction, Bartenura has become a prominent name in the wine industry, recognized as one of the most successful kosher Italian wine brands globally. Its offerings include a variety of wines such as sparkling Moscato, semi-sweet red wines, and innovative products. Learn more here.
Information & Photos © Bartenura – All Rights Reserved

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March Bubbly Club: Iowa

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Bubbly Wine Clubthe-duckhorn-portfolio-decoy-brut-cuvee-sparkling-wine-LCVBTBDecoy Brut Cuvée Sparkling Wine California

BUBBLY WINE STYLE
The debut Decoy Brut Cuvée is an enticing sparkling wine that offers alluring layers of baked apple, white peach and orange zest, as well as aromatic hints of honeysuckle and vanilla. On the palate, a delicate sweetness is perfectly balanced by bright acidity, which adds poise and energy to the lush, pure fruit flavors. The Brut Cuvée is crafted in the méthode champenoise tradition to ensure that your special moments truly sparkle.

Varietal: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier Analysis: 12.5% alcohol / volume Varietal-Composition-DuckhornpH: 3.00-3.20 Acidity: 0.7-0.9 g/100 ml Residual Sugar: 7 g/L Dosage: 0.5-1.0 g/dL Method: Méthode Champenoise (also know as the traditional method. The key element to this process is a secondary fermentation in the bottle) Fermentation & Aging: Dosaged with French oak barrel fermented Napa Valley Chardonnay Varietal Contributions:

  • Pinot Noir: Enhances body, structure & complexity
  • Chardonnay: Brightness, freshness, minerality, elegance
  • Pinot Meunier: Floral aromatics & rich, fruit flavors
About Duckhorn Portfolio: From its inaugural vintage in 1985 by legendary vintners Dan and Margaret Duckhorn as the companion label to Duckhorn Vineyards, Decoy has evolved to the perfect and comprehensive entry-level luxury brand for the entire Duckhorn Portfolio. It is a collaboration of all Duckhorn Portfolio winemakers that produces high-quality wines at remarkable prices. Its fruit is sourced from distinguished grower and estate vineyards, making approachable yet complex wines that are ready upon release. Learn more here. 
Information & Photos © Decoy & Duckhorn Winery – All Rights Reserved

LAM_Luminore_750MLLa Marca Luminore Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G. Brut Italy

BUBBLY WINE STYLE
La Marca’s finest sparkling wine. Hailing from the sun-drenched hills of Italy’s highest wine destination, Luminore is part of a prestigious segment of Proseccos with the designation D.O.C.G., meaning it’s one of Italy’s finest wines. Luminore sparkles with a pale, golden straw hue and lively bubbles, bursting in the glass. Delicate aromas of white flowers and stone-fruits complement the soft, creamy-texture. Subtle hints of fresh citrus, pear and nectarine round out the exquisite palate. Clean, crisp acidity balances a touch of sweetness and offers a light and refreshing style.

Varietal: Prosecco Pairing Suggestions: Perfect for any occasion. Savor it as an aperitif or pair it with flavorful dishes like grilled herb-seasoned chicken, tender pork, or an Italian-inspired dessert like panna cotta brightened with a twist of lemon zest.

Winery Notes: Luminore Prosecco Superiore begins with hand-selected Glera grapes from the iconic hillside vineyards of Conegliano Valdobbiadene, the crown jewel of Prosecco D.O.C.G. After harvest, the grapes are gently crushed and pressed to capture their bright, fresh character. The juice is carefully cold-settled before its first fermentation in stainless-steel tanks, where temperatures are expertly maintained between 59–64°F. To elevate its elegance, the wine rests on its lees, building layers of complexity before the final fermentation creates its signature refined finish.
About La Marca: Founded in 1968, La Marca has dedicated itself to serving as an ambassador for Prosecco and the Veneto region to the world, representing 5,000 local growers who share a pride and passion for growing Prosecco and sharing their exceptional sparkling wines with the world. Their wine region, just a one-hour drive from Venice, boasts views of the Adriatic Sea on one side and the Dolomite mountains on the other. La Marca brings a welcome taste of La Dolce Vita through lively sparkling wines, warm Italian hospitality, and approachable style. Learn more here. bottle of La Marca on a wine cart with glass of spritz and lemonsAmici Spritz Cocktail Recipe Toast the upcoming celebration of Spring with this Prosecco cocktail. Perfect for sharing with your besties, this spritz blends bubbly with the crisp notes notes of gin, all kissed with zesty lemon and a touch of sweetness from the honey syrup. Whether you’re lounging with friends or enjoying a sunny spring day at the lake, the Amici Spritz is the ideal way to spritz things up.  So grab your favorite glass, mix up this refreshing recipe, and enjoy every sip! Cin cin!
Ingredients:
  • 3 oz. La Marca Prosecco
  • 1 ½ oz. Gin
  • ¾ oz. lemon juice
  • ¾ oz honey syrup
Directions: Muddle the lemon slices and shake all ingredients except La Marca. Strain into a spritz glass while simultaneously pouring in your Prosecco. Garnish your gin cocktail with a lemon slice.
Information & Photos © La Marca – All Rights Reserved
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February Sweet Club: Iowa

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Heart-Castello-del-Poggio-Sweet-Red-bottleCastello del PoggioSweet Wine Club
The Secret Garden Collection
Sweet Red
Piedmont, Italy

NECTAR WINE STYLE

Tasteful and complex, with notes of rose petals, cheery and red berries. Perfectly ripe grapes highlight the soft fruit expression of this delightful Sweet Red blend, beloved for its notes of rose petals, cherry and red berries that lead to a smooth finish.

Analysis: 7% alcohol / volume
Varietal: Piedmontese Bonarda
Appellation/Region: Northern Italy
Winemaking: Stainless steel tanks
Serving Suggestion: Enjoy with spicy fare, grilled meats, cheeses and chocolate desserts

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: Try this wine with an Aged Gouda, its nutty and caramel-like flavors will pair well with the wine’s sweet profile. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cacao Raspberry Collins Cocktail Recipe

INGREDIENTS:

  • 2 oz. Castello del Poggio Sweet Red
  • ½ oz Tempus Frugit Cacao
  • ½ oz raspberry liqueur
  • ¾ oz lemon juice
  • fill to top club soda
  • garnish with raspberries

DIRECTIONS:

Add all the ingredients except the club soda into a shaker, add ice and shake. Strain into a highball, top with a club soda, gentle stir and garnish.  Or try their cocktail recipe for Sweet Coupe DeVille, with a few dashes of chocolate bitters.

About the Winery:
Castello del Poggio, located in the heart of Piedmont, Italy, has a winemaking heritage dating back to 1699. With a focus on crafting approachable and elegant wines, the estate blends tradition with modern expertise to highlight the unique terroir of its vineyards. Renowned for its signature Sweet Collection, including the popular Sweet Red, Castello del Poggio embraces a philosophy of creating wines that bring people together and celebrate life’s simple pleasures. From vine to glass, the estate is dedicated to sustainability, quality, and the joy of sharing exceptional wines with the world. Learn more about the winery here.

Photo and Information courtesy of © Castello del Poggio – All Rights Reserved

Heart-yalumba-antique-tawny-bottleYalumba
Museum Antique Tawny
South Australia, Australia

NECTAR WINE STYLE

Amber tawny in color with an olive green hue, exhibiting aromas of rich toffee and caramels, sweet figs, chocolate, caramel and licorice spices with elegant brandy spirit and hints of nutty wood aged complexity. The palate is richly flavored featuring caramel crème brûlée with fine spirit characters and lingering flavors of dried fruits and nuts. The texture is sweet and smooth with roundness from the wood maturation and brandy spirit filling out the middle palate, providing the firm, drying finish. This is an outstanding dessert wine.

Analysis: 19% alcohol / volume
pH: 3.5
Residual sugar: 198 g/L
Acidity: 6.4 g/L
Appellation/Region: South Australia, Australia
Fermentation: Stainless steel tanks
Malolactic fermentation: N/A
Type of Aging Container: Barriques and Hogsheads
Length of aging before bottling: 12 years
Pre-fermentation technique: Cold soak
Estate Owned by: Robert Hill-Smith
Winemaker: Louisa Rose
Total Acreage Under Vine: 650
Food Pairing: Serve with stilton or hard cheddar; baked figs and pistachio ice cream; or ginger flavored pudding

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: Pair with wine with a stilton or hard cheddar. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

Winery’s Notes:
This velvety wine is blended from antique barrels of Yulmba’s very best tawny, and laid down in their historic cellars over many years. The aging process evaporates a tiny angel’s share every year leaving a rich, concentrated wine with a nutty character. Made over five decades ago, the original wines were blended from old-vine varieties such as Shiraz, Grenache, Mourvèdre and Muscadelle.

Since 1985, the use of Portuguese fortified varieties Touriga, Tinta Cao and Tinta Molle have added complexity to the blend, bringing finesse and elegance to this wine. The grapes are crushed and fermented on skins for several days to extract the fruit flavors and to build palate texture. After draining and pressing off skins, the fermentation is arrested by fortification with brandy spirit. The vintage wines are then put aside into small oak barrels to mature over time, developing the classic tawny characters of chocolate, caramel and wood aged nuttiness. After many years of maturation, a selection of older and younger wines are judiciously blended to produce wines of complexity, balance of fruit and aged characteristics.

About the Winery:
Founded in 1849, Yalumba is Australia’s most historic family-owned winery, crafting exceptional wines in the Barossa Valley for six generations. The journey began at the Angaston winery, where the production of fortified wines became a key part of its history. Today, Yalumba upholds its reputation for premium fortified wines by releasing small parcels of show reserve stocks. With a deep commitment to sustainability, innovation, and tradition, Yalumba continues to produce a diverse range of wines that celebrate the region’s unique terroir and winemaking artistry. Learn more about the winery here.

Photo and Information courtesy of © Yalumba – All Rights Reserved

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January Sweet Club: Iowa

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Sweet Wine ClubEvolution-Riesling-bottleSokol Blosser
Evolution Riesling
Columbia Valley, Oregon

NECTAR WINE STYLE

Take in a nose-full of bright tropical fruit, citrus, and a hint of floral. This wine is bursting with mouth watering notes of lychee, lime, pineapple and peach.

Analysis: 12.5% alcohol / volume
Varietal: 100% Reisling
Appellation: Columbia Valley, Oregon
Winemaking: Stainless Steel Tanks
Serving Suggestion: Pair with pad see ew with prawns, chicken tikka masala, lobster with lots of butter, jambalaya and even kettle corn
Critical Acclaim:

  • 89 Points & BEST BUY – Wine Enthusiast, 2021
  • 95 Points & Best in Class – Savor NW

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: Pair with a stinky blue cheese to complement the fruity notes of this wine. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

Wine: With the touch of Sokol Blosser’s winemaking team and their adoration for food-loving wine, this Evolution Riesling is so zingy and bright that it will wake up your taste buds and brighten your day. They crafted a wine that will stand up to spicy curries and stinky cheeses. It’s not your grandma’s Riesling. It’s the wine for the daring wine lover. For the wine lover who likes to buck the norm and ignore the stereotypes. Like a stealthy wolf in sheep’s clothing, this Riesling is slightly sweet on the outside yet packs a punch. It has a core of acidity that grabs your attention and makes it food’s best friend.

About the Winery:
For over 50 years, the Sokol Blosser family has been putting passion into bottles at their winery in Oregon. Family owned since 1971, their story began when Susan Sokol and Bill Blosser first planted vines in the now-famous Dundee Hills of Oregon’s Willamette Valley.  As second-generation winegrowers, Alex and Alison Sokol Blosser are passionately committed to their family’s legacy of creating world-class wines.  In 1998, they poured their love for wine into Evolution – exceptionally food-friendly wines for exceptional people. Its fan base gives meaning to the word “loyal” and is spread all over North America, Europe and Asia. At the time, there were very few white blends on the market, and Evolution tapped into the niche that would become an important segment of the wine business. As word spread and Evolution made the rounds, it enjoyed extraordinary popularity. Learn more about the winery here.

Photo and Information courtesy of © Evolution by Sokol Blosser – All Rights Reserved

oreillys-salted-caramel-irishO’Reilly’s Country Cream
Salted Caramel Irish Cream
Ireland

NECTAR WINE STYLE

This wine-based salted caramel Irish Cream is made with real Irish dairy cream from Abbeyleix, the heartland of Ireland. Enjoy rich caramel and creamy toffee notes rounded off with a hint of sea salt.

Analysis: 13.9% alcohol / volume

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: Pair with a young or aged Gouda cheese. A young Gouda will bring out a mild sweetness, while aged Gouda offers nutty, caramelized flavors that mirror the Irish cream. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

Photo and Information courtesy of © Prestige Beverage Group and Point Wine & Spirits – All Rights Reserved

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December Sweet Club: Iowa

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Sweet Wine ClubSchloss-Vollrads_QbA_Riesling-BottleShot-bowSchloss Vollrads Estate
Qualitätswein Rheingau
Riesling
Oestrich-Winkel, Germany

NECTAR WINE STYLE

It doesn’t always have to be dry! This Riesling captivates the palate with its full fruit aroma of yellow apples, vineyard peach and white blossoms. With its well-balanced sweetness and acidity, this wine is a real pleasure to drink. Tastes great solo or with spicy, hot dishes.

Varietal: Reisling
Analysis: 9% alcohol / volume
Residual Sugar: 40.7 g/L
Total Acidity: 8.8 g/L
Quality Level: Qualitätswein b.A.
Region: Rheingau, Germany
Winemaker: Ralf Bengel and team
Vinification: 100% Stainless Steel Vinification
Serving Suggestion: A suitable complement to Spicy Asian dishes (soup meat or stir-fry). Well chilled, it also makes an excellent aperitif.

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: Pair with a mild blue cheese to complement the fruity notes of this wine. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

Terroir: The soil is a mixture of Taunus quartzite, argillaceous shale and calcareous loess soil. Their vineyard slopes are all south facing, allowing them to capture the best sunshine. The Taunus mountain range offers protection from the northern winds with its forests and creates the ideal conditions for their vines.

Vintage/Winemakers Notes: A great comeback of classic Rheingau Riesling. Schloss Vollrads were able to harvest twice in 2021, once in February and once in October. Sounds unusual but it was not due to climate change. It was due to the fact that they were able to conclude the 2020 vintage with an ice wine harvest on February 10, 2021, a chilly day with -9° C, the Riesling ice wine 2020 was harvested with a good must weight of 189 degree Oechsle. As the year progressed, the weather in 2021 turned out to be very capricious and unpredictable. After three exceptionally hot and dry years, it was finally humid and cooler in 2021. As a result, they had a long winter and a cool spring, which led to a late bud break in the end of April. Humid weather, frequent rain and only a few bright sunny days summed up the weather in summer. Vineyard employees were challenged, and through their enormous effort, they had ensured that losses due to mildew could be avoided. Due to the late bud break, ripening also began later than in previous years, in the last days of August. The grapes had taken their time and the harvest did not begin until October.  Which is a convenient time, because the ripening phase at cooler temperatures allows the Riesling grapes to develop a finely fruity aroma, and the wines can develop into the typical Riesling elegance and filigree.   With a hard-working harvest, the grape quality had developed to the ideal level of Kabinett and Spätlese. With a selective harvest technique, they were able to harvest the vineyards at the right time. The grapes from their prestige sites could be characterized with abundant and mesmerizing aromas, it was then, again with experienced harvest hands, the grapes were carefully selected and picked.

Photo and Information courtesy of © Schloss Vollrads Estate – All Rights Reserved

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November Sweet Club: Iowa

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Sweet Wine ClubRicco-Dolce-Semi-Sweet-Red-bottleCandoni
Ricco Dolce Semi-Sweet Red
Moscato
Veneto, Italy

NECTAR WINE STYLE

Ricco Dolce, meaning rich and sweet in Italian, is a blend of red grapes with fresh red berry flavors and soft rounded characteristics. The finish is seductively fruity, with balanced acidity, and a creamy mouthfeel with fresh flavors of cherry and strawberry. Serve slightly chilled.

Varietal: Estate grown Moscato
Analysis: 6.5% alcohol / volume
Type: Still
Farming: Sustainable

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: Try the Ricco Dolce Semi-Sweet red wine with a creamy Brie. Its buttery, yet mild flavors complement the wine’s sweet, fruit flavors without overpowering it. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

Ricco-Blueberry_bottleCandoni
Ricco Blueberry Semi-Sweet Red
Moscato
Veneto, Italy

NECTAR WINE STYLE

Ricco Blueberry is a sweet red, made from selected grapes. It is full of flavor, yet soft and deliciously sweet with an all-natural blueberry taste.

Varietal: Estate grown Moscato
Analysis: 6.5% alcohol / volume
Type: Still
Farming: Sustainable
Vinification: Stemmed grapes are placed in stainless steel tanks, where they are macerated oon the skins at 50 degrees Fahrenheit, which extracts the delicate aromas and color. The grape must is then separated and stored at 32 degrees Fahrenheit until bottling. Just prior to bottling, the must is allowed to warm, and the natural blueberry aromas are added. Once the desired alcohol and pressure level is reached, fermentation is halted, and the wine is filtered and bottled.

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: For the Ricco Blueberry Semi-Sweet red wine, try pairing it with a Gorgonzola. The bold, tangy, and slightly salty notes from the Gorgonzola will be a beautiful contrast to the sweet, blueberry notes of this wine. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

About Candoni Winery:
The Candoni De Zan family has a wine-making legacy that spans over 150 years, continuing today with Armando De Zan and Elviana Candoni, who emphasize quality in their wines. Both families, deeply rooted in winemaking since the late 1800s, gradually expanded their vineyards, including the Tenuta Polvaro Estate in Veneto, Italy. Elviana, daughter of Luigi Candoni, a celebrated avant-garde artist and dramatist, brings an artistic touch to the brand’s packaging. Armando and Elviana’s daughters, Barbara and Caterina, certified Sommeliers, now help lead the business, focusing on international sales. Candoni produces both conventional and certified organic wines, with a commitment to sustainability through a long-standing partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation, planting over 40,000 trees in the U.S. In 2021, the family launched Ricco Wines, a vegan and gluten-free collection of sweet, fruit-infused wines made from estate-grown Moscato grapes, perfect for enjoying alone or in cocktails. 

Photo and Information courtesy of © Candoni – All Rights Reserved.

Astoria-Extra-Dry-Rose-bottleAstoria
Extra Dry Sparkling Rosé
Veneto, Italy

NECTAR WINE STYLE

Astoria Sparkling Rosé showcases a delicate pink hue with fine, continuous bubbles. It offers fresh aromas of raspberry and strawberry, complemented by subtle white floral notes. Full-bodied and extra dry, this Rosé delivers a well-balanced finish, making it an excellent match for pasta, pizza, or grilled fish.

Analysis: 11% alcohol / volume

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: A wonderful cheese pairing for this Sparkling Rosé would be a goat cheese, such as a Chèvre. Its tangy, creamy texture would harmonize beautifully with the crisp Rosé, enhancing its strawberry and floral notes. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

About Astoria Wines:
Astoria Wines, founded in 1987 by the Polegato family, is a leading producer of Prosecco, renowned for its commitment to quality and sustainability. Located in the picturesque Prosecco Hills, which became a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2019, Astoria manages 40 hectares of vineyards at the Val de Brun Estate. The winery emphasizes environmentally friendly practices, having adopted the Vignes Fleuries protocol and earning the Italian National Integrated Crop Management Quality System (SQNPI) certification. Astoria is celebrated for its innovative approach, exemplified by its award-winning 9.5 Cold Wine, and actively engages in social issues, supporting sports initiatives and promoting equity through partnerships with organizations like Venezia Pride. With a focus on blending tradition with modernity, Astoria continues to create exceptional wines that resonate globally. Learn more here.

Photo and Information courtesy of © Astoria Wines & Luekens Wine & Spirits – All Rights Reserved

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October Sweet Club: Iowa

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Sweet Wine ClubRaimund-essence-riesling-2021-bottleRaimund Prüm
Essence
Riesling
Mosel, Germany

NECTAR WINE STYLE

Pale gold in color. On the nose, aromatic, with scents of apricot, green apple and peach. On the palate, fresh fruit flavors of pineapple and apricot are perfectly balanced by a racy acidity and mineral character.

Analysis: 10.5% alcohol / volume
Variety: 100% Riesling
Appellation: Qualitatswein, Germany
RS: 21.3 g/L
TA: 5.7 g/L
Serve: Enjoy on its own or with a range of light appetizers, seafood dishes, BBQ, perfect with Asian cuisine and all styles of spicy food.
Accolades: 91 point review Wine Spectator 2021

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: This wine, with its bright acidity and floral notes, pairs wonderfully with aged Gouda. The nutty and caramel flavors of the Gouda complement the wine’s fruitiness and balance its acidity beautifully. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

Winemaking: Grapes are hand harvested in mid-October and undergo a gentle crush. The juice is fermented for four weeks in stainless steel tanks then bottled under Stelvin closure to preserve its character.

About Raimund Prüm:
The Prüm family’s roots in the Mosel region of Germany date back as far as 1156, making it one the country’s preeminent winemaking dynasties. Their incredible Riesling portfolio reflects traditional winemaking practices with exceptional single vineyard designated wines in every style. Family-owned S.A. Prüm, founded in 1911 by Sebastian Alois Prüm, has been in the hands of Raimund Prüm, head winemaker and Sebastian’s grandson, since 1971. Under Raimund’s leadership the property has earned a reputation as one of the most successful wineries in Germany’s celebrated Mosel wine region.

Photo and Information courtesy of © Wine Quest – All Rights Reserved.

Luccio-moscato-italy-bottleLuccio®
Special Collection Moscato
Piedmont, Italy

NECTAR WINE STYLE

Fresh, fragrant, and frizzante with bright, floral aromas that give way to flavors of ripe stone fruit, tangerines, and honey.

Analysis: 5.5% alcohol / volume
Variety: 100% Moscato Bianco di Canelli
Region: Asti, D.O.C.G., Piedmont, Italy
Critical Acclaim: 

  • Double Gold – San Francisco International Wine Competition | 2022
  • Highly Recommended, Best Buy – Beverage Testing Institute | 2021
  • Highly Recommended, Best Buy – Beverage Testing Institute | 2020

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: This sweet and bubbly Moscato goes well with fresh goat cheese. The creamy texture and tangy flavor of the goat cheese enhance the fruity and floral notes of the wine, creating a delightful contrast. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

About Luccio Wines:
Luccio® wines are made and imported from the finest winemaking regions in Italy. Since 1994, Luccio has represented Italian passion in a bottle with offerings ranging from semi-sweet Moscato’s to a full-bodied Chianti. Learn more here.

Photo and Information courtesy of © Prestige Beverage Group – All Rights Reserved

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September Sweet Club: Iowa

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Sweet Wine ClubBlue-Riesling-Auslese-bottleSchmitt Söhne
Riesling Auslese
Mosel, Germany

NECTAR WINE STYLE

This Auslese (selected harvest) Riesling is produced from grapes that remain on the vine until extremely late in the year.  Individually selected overripe grapes result in a full-bodied, luscious wine with hints of apricot, nectarine and honey. It has intense flavors and a lingering finish.

Analysis: 8.5-9% alcohol / volume
Variety: Riesling
Appellation: Mosel, Germany
RS: 52-56 g/L
TA: 8-9 g/L
Pairing Recommendation: Enjoy with cheeses, fruits, richly seasoned foods and desserts. Or enjoy as a wine cocktail or sipping after a memorable dinner.
Serve: Chilled

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: A perfect cheese pairing for this wine would be Gorgonzola Dolce. Gorgonzola Dolce is a creamy, slightly sweet blue cheese that balances the wine’s sweetness with its mild tang, while the creaminess complements the wine’s rich texture. The fruitiness of the Riesling will also contrast beautifully with the savory elements of the cheese. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

Winemaking: Auslese is picked at ultimate ripeness, sometimes two months after harvest season has started. This allows the fruit flavors to develop and ripen.  During picking, the grapes are handled very carefully to avoid bruising, letting the natural sweetness shine through. Harvested in the cool early morning, the grapes are brought quickly to the winery, destemmed and placed in stainless steel tanks that help retain the Riesling’s crisp acidity. The wine is kept cool, between 50-65 ºF, during fermentation.

Vineyards:
Schmitt Söhne Auslese Riesling hails from select vineyards along the Mosel River in Germany. Mosel is regarded as the oldest wine-growing region in Germany, believed to have been established by the Romans around 50 AD. It is one of the most northernly wine regions in world. Mosel vineyards are famous for their steep south-facing slopes and blue slate soil, reflected in the balanced minerality of Schmitt Söhne’s Auslese Riesling.

About Schmitt Söhne Wines:
Family-owned and operated, over 200 years ago the Schmitt ancestors settled in the small village of Longuich, along the Mosel River, and began managing vineyards and producing wine. Now in the fifth generation, Schmitt Söhne is one of Germany’s largest and most successful wine exporters around the world. While they have continued to develop their winemaking techniques and technologies, the family has never lost sight of their traditions. Learn more here.

Photo and Information courtesy of © Schmitt Söhne– All Rights Reserved.

Pacific-Rim-Sweet-Riesling-bottlePacific Rim
Sweet Riesling
Columbia Valley, Washington

NECTAR WINE STYLE

This wine is wonderfully aromatic with notes of honey, pear and orange blossom. On the palate, it is sweet, with bright acidity, pineapple and white peach.

Analysis: 8% alcohol / volume
Variety: 100% Riesling
Appellation: Columbia Valley, Washington
RS: 73.3 g/L
TA: 7.2 g/L
Pairing Recommendation: Ideal with fiery fare – especially Thai, Szechwan, Mexican, Middle Eastern, and Caribbean cuisine. Or enjoy with one of their suggested recipes >

WineStyles’ Wine and Cheese Pairing: Sweet wines from our ‘Nectar’ section pair well with an herbal cheese, such as a gorgonzola. Learn more about our wine and cheese pairings here.

PRODUCTION:
The winery picks their Riesling grapes early (20-21 Brix). Using only native yeasts and fermenting at low temperatures in stainless steel tanks – there is no use of oak barrels or malolactic fermentation. They stop the fermentation at about 7% residual sugar, and clean the wine rapidly to retain as much freshness and fruitiness as possible. They leave a fair amount of natural carbon dioxide in the wine to create a lively mouth feel. 

 

ABOUT THE WINERY:
First released by Randall Grahm of Bonny Doon Vineyard in 1992, Pacific Rim Dry Riesling quickly gained a loyal following among Riesling lovers. Known for its fresh and bright characteristics, the wine was a welcome alternative to over-oaked, one-dimensional white wines. As the American palate evolved in recent years toward wines with greater complexity and crisper acidity, the popularity of Pacific Rim Dry Riesling grew. Demand and enthusiasm for Pacific Rim Dry Riesling continued to gain momentum — and the excitement around the wine inspired a radical idea… the creation a winery exclusively dedicated to Riesling. In August of 2006, a small band of Bonny Doon expats moved to the Northwest from California with a common desire to craft the best Riesling in America… thus, Pacific Rim became its own winery. Learn more about the winery here.

Photo and Information courtesy of © Pacific Rim – All Rights Reserved

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