Easter Sunday is nearly upon us, and for many that means a traditional lamb — or ham! — supper. And nothing compliments a holiday meal like a great glass of wine.
We talked to James Zecca of Varmax Liquor Pantry about which red and white wines, at varying price points, will pair spectacularly with your Easter feast.
WHITES
1. Cantine Lunae Vermentino Colli di Luni 2015 – Liguria, Italy, $17.99
With a hint of creaminess and a lingering, mineral finish, this wine is sure to please both the palate and the wallet. “It shows an enticing mix of white peach, apple, white pepper and coriander notes with brisk, tangy acidity,” Zecca said.
2. Penner-Ash Viognier 2015 – Oregon, $29.99
Coming in with notes of tangerine, mango, and hints of nutmeg, this floral white stands out with a balance of natural acidity and oily, weighted texture.
3. Domaine Weinbach Gewurztraminer ‘Cuvee Theo’ 2014 – Alsace, France, $39.99
Looking to spend a little more? Then this French import is bound to impress. “This choice is very clear and fresh on the nose with coolish, flinty aromas and just a hint of rose petals and limes,” Zecca said.
REDS
1. Perfection Zinfandel ‘Russian River Valley’ 2012 – Sonoma County, California, $13.99
This easy-on-the-wallet choice does not disappoint in flavor. “There is an abundance of fruit along with a balanced acidity that carries its lushness through to an extremely balanced finish,” said Zecca.
2. Montessu ‘Isola dei Nuraghi’ Red Blend – Sardinia, Italy, $21.99
A blend of Carignano, Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc and Merlot, this choice includes notes of Asian five spice powder and cherry blossom alongside flavors such as black raspberry preserves, bresaola, and cured tobacco leaf. The wine, notes Zecca, is long and supple and presents a mineral-tinged finish.
3. Robert Sinskey P.O.V. Red Blend 2012 – Caneros, Napa Valley, $35.99
“This wine begs for a seat at the dinner table,” said Zecca. With that introduction, how can we say no? Berry flavors backed by bay leaf and fennel seed notes, along with just a hint of fine oak barrels and acidity, make for a mouth-filling wine with a long finish.
