We know the phrase ‘don’t judge a book by its cover.’ The same principle applies to wine, yet many people choose wines based on the label design. While that’s not recommended, it’s challenging to select a wine if you’re not sure how. With more than 20 years of experience, from curating wine collections to consulting for hospitality leaders, I deeply understand wine and the people that enjoy it. I’ve paired my preferred autumn-inspired wines with four discerning recipients so that you can take the guesswork out of gifting to make a top tier impression. | Vinogal.com
Discover the full details behind Mira’s selections, from notes to finishes, on the @bedfordcitylifesytle Instagram throughout the month.
The Aficionado
Details count. This recipient desires rarity, family history, unique wine making skills, little known gems, and of course, mouthwatering taste.
White: 2002 Sine Qua Non Mr. K Strawman ($299, ackerwines.com) Aficionados are drawn to its limited-production and highly-acclaimed wines. The 2002 Sine Qua Non Mr. K Strawman shows a luscious and complex profile, with aromas of honey, apricot, orange marmalade, and tropical fruits. Red: Chateau Lynch Bages 2002 ($165, caskfinewine.com) Lynch Bages 2002 is known for its elegance and structure. On the palate, it displays a harmonious combination of fruit flavors, well-integrated tannins, and a long, lingering finish.
Steals: Crémant de Bourgogne, Dom. Collotte ($24.96)Made from the same varietals of grapes as Champagne. Brendan Stater-West Saumur Rouge 2021 ($32.00)Wine geeks love this under-the-radar bottle.
The Hostess
For a big party, I pick something “wine-friendly” for everyone to enjoy. For a small gathering, I consider food pairing or stand-alone sipping.
White: Hatzidakis Skitali 2021 ($69.99, wine.com) Assyrtiko is known for its high acidity, which gives the wines a crisp and refreshing quality. It exhibits citrus flavors as well as mineral notes. Red: CVNE 2014 Imperial Reserve (Magnum) ($105, caskfinewine.com) This wine comes from an iconic winery in Spain and is renowned for its elegance, balance, and aging potential. It’s great for a large party because as a magnum bottle, it’s really two bottles in one vessel.
Steals: Pierre Martin “les culs de beaujeu” Sancerre ($39.99, caskfinewine.com) A go-to for parties. Gehricke Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir 2020 ($29.99, wine.com) Always a crowd pleaser!
The Collector
Just as fashionistas instantly recognize designer names, wine enthusiasts hold top wine producers in high esteem.
White: Krug Brut 2006 ($499, wine.com) Krug is a world-famous Champagne house reputed for producing exceptional and age-worthy Champagnes. Krug Brut 2006 is loved for its complexity, depth, and aging potential. A collector will feel proud to feature “King Krug” in your collection. Red: 2018 Dugat-Py Charmes Chambertin ($549, ackerwines.com) Charmes-Chambertin is a Grand Cru vineyard in the Côte de Nuits subregion of Burgundy producing some of the finest Pinot Noir grapes in the world. This selection is complex, elegant and should age well.
Steals: 2018 Domaine De Montille Bourgogne Blanc Le Clos Du Chateau ($39.99, ackerwines.com) Lopez de Heredia - Vina Tondonia Reserva 2011 ($47.99, suburbanwines.com) Both must-try stunners.
The Someone Special
They’ll love these established labels that have stellar reputations.
White: 2004 Comtes Lafon Meursault Desiree ($259, ackerwines.com) Chardonnay wines from Meursault are known for their richness, complexity, and ability to age gracefully. Always a winner. Red: Heitz Cellar Martha's Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2017 ($329, wine.com) Produced in Napa Valley — thousands of miles from its namesake — using exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. The vineyard has unique characteristics which contribute to the distinctiveness of the wine. It showcases rich black fruit flavors, integrated tannins, and a persistent finish, and may also display notes of dark chocolate, tobacco, and spices.
Steals: Grgich Hills Chardonnay Napa Valley 2019 ($46.99, suburbanwines.com) Creamy texture and vibrant acidity. Paolo Scavino “Cannubi” 2015 ($105, caskfinewine.com) Known for power, elegance, and aging potential.
