Wine Picks: Chilled Out Reds

People are often asking us: "What is the next big thing in wine?  What are guests asking for?  What are you excited to pour for someone?"

  We, at Calissa are chillin’…our red wine, that is.  A chilled glass of red wine is a wonderful thing in the warmer months, and all year long.  A slight chill brings out the fresh fruit notes in many red wines.  Make sure you pick a bottle that is low in tannin and oak, as these will be intensified with a chill.  Here are some of the lovely, fresh and fruity reds we are chilling:

Chateau Cambon

This Beaujolais shows notes of cherry, raspberry and wet stones.  It is a completely natural wine made with minimal Carbonic Maceration (that distinctive flavor that many Beaujolais possess that is reminiscent of the lollypops one gets from the doctor office).  A perfect pairing with Charcuterie. 

Thymiopoulos Young Vines

This Xinomavro from Naoussa in Northern Greece is young and jammy, with notes of cranberry, pomegranate and sour cherry with a bright, tart acidity on the finish. Lower in tannin than most Xinomavros. Enjoy this with Octopus or Chicken Under a Brick.

COS Frappato

The native Sicilian grape, Ceresuolo di Vittoria, makes up half of Sicily’s only DOCG wine.  On its own it shows as young and expressive, with wild strawberries, fresh flowers and wet stones.  Its pleasant tartness pairs well with richer pasta dishes, such as the Lobster Pasta.