The ladies are quacking their way to your front door. The kitchen is immaculate, the plastic baby toys are hidden, your husband’s workout gear is in the closet, the stunning appetizers are artfully arranged or ready to come out of the oven (thank you, Pinterest), the wine glasses sparkle, and you are ready to fling open the door and begin another girls’ night out. This time, the revelry starts at your house and you, m’lady, have been designated as the wine procurer for pre-gaming before the night on the town gets in full swing.
Luckily, you are an avid reader of
Grape Experiences and know just what to purchase. Affordability and taste are paramount in this situation and you want to ensure that your gaggle of girlfriends has a memorable evening with plenty of choices to satisfy everyone’s palate. Smart one, you, to serve these six satisfying selections. It’s no wonder you are the most awesome member of the group…
Mionetto ‘il’ Prosecco (sample) – Considered a “Best Buy” by Wine Enthusiast Magazine, this Prosecco from the Veneto region of Italy will kickstart the evening into high gear! I loved the fruity aromas of pear and citrus with a touch of floral. The bubbles are gentle and with tastes of green apples, melon, and ripe peaches this should be the first wine of the night. Drink on its own or add it to your favorite punch concoction. Get ready to sparkle! Cost is $13.
Little Black Dress Divalicious Pink Pinot (sample) – Who doesn’t love wearing a little black dress…with a touch of pink of course?! From Mendocino County in California, the grapes in this wine are 75% Pinot Grigio, 13% Muscat, 10% Chardonnay, and 2% Viognier. Considered Diva material (like many members of your group…) the aromas of strawberries and cherries lead to a rather sweet taste with ripe berries. Cost is $11.
Van Duzer Pinot Noir Rosé 2013 (enjoyed at a trade tasting) – Served perfectly chilled, this rosé from Oregon’s Willamette Valley is priced just right for your girls night out soiree. Ripe strawberries and raspberries with a touch of grapefruit tickled my nose and my taste buds loved more of the same. Lively with the perfect amount of acidity, this anytime sipper begs for another pour… And don’t you just love the label? Cost is $17-$20.
Brancott Flight Song Sauvignon Blanc 2013 (sample) –
20% fewer calories than Brancott Estate regular Sauvignon Blanc? Yes, please! From New Zealand’s Marlborough region, aromas of bright citrus, grapefruit, and minerality tantalized my nose and the tastes of intense grapefruit and lemon with a racy acidity are food friendly. And honestly, I couldn’t taste the fewer calories… You may want to pair this with barbecued shrimp and a light sauce. Cost is $12.
Kendall Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay 2012 (purchased) – Sure to please all of your Chardonnay loving ladies, this wine glistened lemon and gold in the glass. Aromas of green apple, pear, and melon wafted from the glass. Balanced with tastes of citrus and hint of tropical fruits, Kendall Jackson has done it again with this crisp and flavorful wine that not only pairs with food but with plenty of good gossip. Cost is $14.
*Stlto Merlot 2012 (
sample) – From Abruzzo in Italy this 100% Merlot was deep ruby in the glass. Aromas of dark fruit including blackberries and plums led to tastes of spice and more dark fruits. Medium tannins with a moderate, fruity finish, this wine revealed more on the palate once it had been opened for thirty minutes. This wine will sure to satisfy those red wine drinkers who may or may not be wearing stiletos! Cost is $10.
Have fun, ladies! Now (gracefully) step into the limo and enjoy your night! ~ Cindy
