Whether you follow fiercely-guarded family fishing principles or hunt down the latest tactics on the forums, there’s a ton of angling advice out there. What bait to use, where to cast, how early or late to set out, and of course what beer to bring along. But it’s rare to get pointers on what to do after you’ve hauled in a net-full. Where’s the tackle box of wine pairings for that mess of fried, smoked, pan-seared pescatarian perfection?
Well surprise, surprise — it’s right here! Enjoy your favorite fresh catches through the lens of a spot-on wine pairing and take your fish-whispering to the next level.
90+ Cellars California Pinot Noir
This wine is a great entry point for Pinot appreciation, but we’ve found it actually speaks to a wide array of red wine drinkers. If you describe your ideal wine as “smooth,” “juicy,” or “not-bitter,” you need to check this one out. An expressive blend of California fruitiness and finesse at a killer price, it brings dark and red fruit tones with a touch of spice that appeals to richer red blend fans without any clunky notes dragging it down. Silky smooth wild strawberry and cherry, soft cinnamon and a touch of vanilla come together on a plush finish.
Sainte-Anne Pinot Noir
Hailing from the Pyrenees foothills in Southwestern France, Sainte-Anne’s grapes enjoy prime ripening conditions and the limestone and clay soils which help make French Pinot Noir so unique. Very evocative of the best things about fall — cranberries, crunchy leaves, cinnamon sticks — Sainte-Anne still boasts a juicy core and a touch more integrated tannins than many bottles in its price category. Certainly a cheery bottle to carry into autumn, don’t overlook this bad boy’s easy affinity for summer grillables, charcuterie spreads, and any type of al fresco dining. Its deep notes of cranberry and cherry are lifted by black raspberry, bramble, Herbes de Provence, and a dusting of cinnamon and nutmeg.
90+ Cellars Collector’s Series Fort Ross-Seaview Pinot Noir
Of all the Sonoma County subregions focusing on Pinot Noir, Fort Ross-Seaview is one of the most ideally positioned to cultivating that prized but fussy varietal. A geographic dollop within the greater Sonoma Coast AVA, it is defined by its elevation above the fog line, providing gobs of sunshine and cool nights perfect for gradual and balanced ripening. With native yeast fermentation and a gentle 12-month oak aging, you wind up with a wine bursting with character. Pronounced aromatics of rose potpourri, warm cedar, and orange oil unfold as you sit with the glass, its palate taught with crunchy pomegranate, deep cherry, Cara Cara orange, allspice berry, and silky clove-steeped tannins.
-Aimee Hutchinson | Wine Manager Top Ten Liquors