It’s Labor Day Weekend… Raise a Glass of Red, White, or Brut!

The Labor Day holiday is upon us – where did our summer go? For some, the three-day weekend is another reason to extend the fun with neighborhood barbecues, a last family trip to the lake or beach, or a quick trip to visit out-of-state friends. The true reason we have this special day may be an afterthought.

Intended to be an annual yearly national tribute to the social and economic achievements of American workers by the Central Labor Union, the first Labor Day holiday was celebrated on Tuesday, September 5, 1882 in New York City.  The union encouraged like-minded organizations in other cities to follow their example and two years later, the first Monday in September was selected as a legal holiday by an act of Congress. What would this country be without the strength and leadership of American workers? The traditional ideals of freedom, strength, and leadership have been propelled forward by the hard-working men and women in our great country. It’s only right that we honor them – not only this weekend, but each day.

Wherever your plans may take you during the course of the weekend, consider sharing the following wines, produced in the United States, with friends and family. Raise your glass to each winery’s team of hard working individuals who have crafted such exceptional wines.

Cheers to a Labor Day weekend of reflection and delicious sips of the red, white, and brut!

Murrieta’s Well The Spur 2014 ($30) – All of the grape varieties (45% Cabernet Sauvignon, 22% Petite Sirah, 14% Petit Verdot, 10% Merlot, 9% Cabernet Franc) were sourced from Murietta’s Well estate vineyards in Livermore Valley, California. All of the vineyards are farmed block by block in order to “ensure optimal flavor and fruit expression”. Each variety was fermented individually in stainless steel then pumped over several times daily; the purpose is to maintain fruit flavors and provide texture in the finished product. The blend was aged for 24 months in French oak. And the wine! Aromas and flavors of vanilla, blueberries, cranberries, pomegranate, rugged oak, and baking spice were lifted by a foundation of anything-but-shy tannins and bright acidity. Texture and structure were the words in this notably balanced wine that offered a persistent finish. Complement a juicy rib-eye, sizzling shish kebob, or roast beef with this memorable wine from Murrieta’s Well.

Bridge Lane Chardonnay 2016 ($15) – 100% Chardonnay from New York State is one of the many offerings of Lieb Cellars and its Bridge Lane label. Fermented in stainless steel, anyone who craves an unoaked Chardonnay will have more than one glass of this refreshingly crisp example. I noted intense aromas of juicy lemon, green apple, and a touch of dried herbs. On the palate, mouthwatering acidity, fresh citrus, lemon and lime peel, and minerality were prevalent…as was the snappy finish. Enjoy this balanced Chardonnay with appetizers, salads, and light pasta dishes.

Gloria Ferrer Brut Royal Cuvee 2007 ($27) – Oh my! Fit for royalty, Gloria Ferrer has been working with the Royal Cuvee since they served the first vintage to the King and Queen of Spain in 1987. The first press of select Carneros grapes is aged in the winery’s underground caves for over eight years; the blend is 67% Pinot Noir and 33% Chardonnay. I was mesmerized with the sparkler’s intense aromas of honey, green apple, pear, florals, and a touch of lightly toasted brioche. On the satin-like palate, lively acidity, minerality, juicy citrus, lemon, and apricot notes led to the crowning glory: a lingering finish that I never wanted to end.. Share a bottle of this exceptional bubbly with friends as you enjoy grilled shrimp tacos with peach salsa, soft cheeses and crackers, or a couscous salad with herbs.

Cheers! ~ Cindy