The Season's Bouquet

THE SEASON'S BOUQUET
MASTER WINE CONNOISSEUR DEVIN BOUTON POURS ON THE BEST WINES
FOR THE BLOOMING SEASON

Springtime makes me think of bright, fruit-forward wines with a light, fresh mouth feel. As the weather
warms and the flowers bloom, try a bottle of Pinot Noir or Sauvignon Blanc with a light lunch or a healthy
dinner. These delicate grapes work wonders with lighter foods and will pair with a wide array of cuisines.

AFFORDABLE WHITE
Under $10 a bottle, the 2005 Chateau Haut Rian is a true steal. This white Bordeaux (Sauvignon Blanc-based) provides loads of citrus flavors with an amazingly smooth finish. $9.99, www.garyswine.com

Another phenomenal value is the 2005 Crossings Sauvignon Blanc. This New Zealander packs in flavors of melon and passion fruit with just enough acidity to keep it balanced. $9.79, www.canalsliquors.com

For those who like to stick to American vino, try a bottle of the 2004 Chateau St. Jean Fume Blanc La Petite Etoile. So smooth and rich, you will not believe that this is a Sauvignon Blanc-based wine. Lemon and spice give way to a creamy vanilla finish. $14.99, www.wine-searcher.com

SPECIAL OCCASION WHITE
The 2005 Spootswoode Sauvignon Blanc displays beautifully integrated flavors of lemon zest, melon, and honey. Although limitedly produced, it is well worth seeking out if you are looking for one of the best Sauvignon Blancs the United States has to offer. $34.99, www.wine-searcher.com

AFFORDABLE RED
A consistently great red to look for is the 2005 Argyle Pinot Noir. This yummy wine provides flavors of cherries, strawberries and a hint of spice. With over 18,000 cases produced, finding a bottle at the local shop should be no sweat. $17.99, www.shoppersvineyard.com

If you are searching for an easy drinking, full flavored pinot that won’t break the bank, try the 2005 Kim Crawford Pinot Noir. This readily available New Zealander offers cherries and plums on the palate along with a charming vanilla finish. $12.89, www.canalsliquors.com

Another New Zealand value wine is the 2004 Matua Pinot Noir. Offering nice, dark berry flavors and an elegant finish, this Pinot is not to be missed. Enjoy it now or cellar for a couple of years to reveal more of its tasty fruit.
$11.99, www.wineaccess.com

SPECIAL OCCASION RED
Siduri has long been one of my favorite American makers of Pinot Noir. The 2005 Siduri Garys’ Vineyard Pinot Noir has convinced me that they are the benchmark for American Pinots. This powerhouse delivers complex characteristics of blackberry, cassis, cinnamon, and oak. Decant for an hour and enjoy or cellar it for a decade. $49.99, www.wine-searcher.com