Out with the old, in with the new—bottles, that is! The New Year isn’t just about making (and breaking) nagging good-for-you resolutions (eat less carbs; do more cardio), it’s also about hitting “refresh” on your entire life. Perhaps you’ll buy those fabulous new shoes, start an exciting new job or take on that stimulating creative project that’s been kicking around your imagination for far too long. When it comes to wine, shake up the routine and live a little! Go for these bright new bottles, courtesy of Paso Robles Wine Country’s best wineries. You’ll feel renewed in body and spirit. Cheers to the new you.
1. 2017 Either Side of the Hill – Paix Sur Terre
Crafted from some of the best Syrah vines planted at Glenrose Vinyard 26 years ago, this totally enlightened offering is elegant, ethereal, and an absolute pleasure to sip with new friends. With an artistic label showcasing the stunning work of mixed media artist Jonathan Blythe, this extremely drinkable bottle will make for an excellent conversation starter (and if not completely consumed you’ll want to put it in your fridge to slow down its oxidation….it will look lovely in your new wine fridge). Wait, you didn’t buy yourself a new wine fridge over the holidays? Better get on that.
For mapping and directions to Paix Sur Terre click here
2. 2017 Picpoul Blanc – Rails Nap
Get back to a state of balance. A firm mouthfeel and dry finish make this acid driven, white variety from the South of France a great accompaniment to light, healthy options like Chinese chicken salad, sautéed fish, calamari, and raw oysters—all of which you should eat more of in the New Year. Allow the beautiful aromas of apple blossoms and citrus to wash away any negative juju leftover from 2019. Why burn sage when you can sip instead?
For mapping and directions to Rails Nap click here
3. 2016 Mega Focus – Scuplterra Winery
Who doesn’t want more focus in 2020? It takes two hours to decant, but we promise—it’s worth the wait! Zero in on this ravishing red, which displays mesmerizingly pure aromas of raspberry, dried herbs, cherry, cigar box and pepper. The wine is fresh, the flavors are refined, and the finish is long. Perhaps you’ll even quit multitasking and start savoring one thing at a time.
For mapping and directions to Sculpterra click here
4. 2017 Pinot Noir Rosé – Hoyt Vineyards
Say farewell to winter woes and look forward to the first blush of spring (even if it’s farther off than we’d really like to admit). This sophisticated, complex rosé crafted from estate grown pinot noir perks up the senses with strawberry-citrus joy. Sun-drenched picnics and blooming wildflowers will be here before you know it. Be prepared and pick up a case!
For mapping and directions to Hoyt Family click here
5. 2017 Mr. Nibbles – Chronic Cellars
A nimble wine that leaps into the New Year with notes of lush raspberry, plum, black cherry, leather and vanilla, “Mr. Nibbles” is more robust than its name suggests. Mediums tannins lead to a lasting finish of bold red fruit flavors, perhaps foreshadowing what’s to come in 2020. We like the taste of that.
For mapping and directions to Chronic Cellars click here
This blog is written by flavor fiend Hayley Cain. Follow her @flavorslo on Instagram or at astoldbyhayley.com.
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