Cosmic Rhino

My friend Jeff, who knows volumes about wine, asked me a very good question - he asked me why I was picky about quality fruits, vegetables, oils, meats, etc., but just drank the wine that was on the shelves at Trader Joes. My excuse was my complete lack of knowledge. His recommendation?  Just go to the stores that carry the quality wine and ask them for help. That’s why they’re there.

So I did and am very fortunate to have a great wine store very close by: The Wine Country. They were so nice, helpful and happy to point me in the right direction. They also were great about working within my wine budget. I also got some help from my friend JV, who rules. Anyway, I came home with:

Les Heretiques ($9.99) - First of all, I’d probably buy anything named The Heretics, just because that’s a cool name. But alas, I tried this one out and yum, yum, yum! It’s a red table wine that is very drinkable and holds its own.

Cerdon du Bugey ($17.99) - I think they have a couple bugeys and both are great, but I’m really enjoying the one imported by Louis Dressner. It’s sparkling rosé but not too sweet and truly delicious, especially right now when it’s extremely warm outside. Plus, the color itself is gorgeous. I could drink this every day.

Clos de la Briderie 2008 Touraine-Mesland Rosé ($13.99) - Another lovely rosé, not too sweet (the way I like it) from the Loire region of France. What I would do to have a glass right now!

So that’s it - go buy some good wine and support our local wine merchant, The Wine Country. The really are worth the trip.