Fiori di Clara C Blanc de Blancs NV
Origin: Italy
Retail: $16.95 | Sale: $15.25
A Blanc de Blanc from Italy? Yep. For $17? You bet. This is not a cremant and not a prosecco- it’s something beautiful in between. Soft, creamy bubbles and an “extra-dry” (read: very slightly sweet) profile are indicative of the name, but fruit and minerality on the palate immediately gives Italy away. Refreshing, easy to pair, and budget friendly- it hits all the marks.
Thistledown Wine Company “Gorgeous” Grenache Blanc 2024
Origin: Australia
Retail: $19.95 | Sale: $17.95
Grenache is considered to be the flagship grape by most Australians, but Grenache Blanc is much more rare than its red counterpart. The current owner of the winery describes this plot as “previously unloved,” but much has been done to create this serious but not-too-serious textured white. Minerality, lime, and white flower create a soft but aromatic approach, but the palate takes you by surprise. Lime zest and salt are quickly followed by an obviously purposeful texture bomb (with some weight to boot).
Mary Taylor “Cristophe Avi” Agenais 2024
Origin: France
Retail: $16.95 | Sale: $15.25
Mary Taylor has an incredible success story, landing her the title of largest female importer in America. Not only is her palate incredible, but she is remarkable in her ability to find true-to-form wines that are incredibly budget friendly. For this reason, her chosen wines are typically named after the appellation where they are made, this particular rosé yielding from Agenais in Southwest France. This blend of Cabernet Sauvignon and Cabernet Franc was vinified by Christophe Avi and is a favorite at the Locke Store. While presenting as a Provence style wine, it trades the clean and easy-going style for a fruitier and more textured experience. Bright cherry and watermelon notes are perfectly captured in the round body of this wine.
Tinto Pesquera Crianza 2021
Origin: Spain
Retail: $40.95 | Sale: $36.85
As is true of all red wines from the Ribera del Duero region, this varietal is 100% Tempranillo and 100% delicious. Tinto Pesquera began producing its first wines in 1975 with the aim of highlighting the value of the Ribera del Duero terroir, putting their appellation on the map and lending a hand in the Designation of Origin achievement in 1982. Deep layers of vanilla and earth rumble from the base in the aromatics, and soft oak and fruity acidity collaborate to create a balanced, cohesive red wine.