Between the Vines Ellen Landis, CS, CSW
Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery 2021 Reserve Gewürztraminer | Old Mission Peninsula Expressive citrus blossom scents drive you into the glass. Summer bliss melon, lychee, mandarin orange, hints of ginger snaps, and lemongrass engage the palate. A thread of minerality adds further dimension, and this gem remains bright and lively while heading to an unforgettable finish. SRP: $26 | Food pairing: Turkey wild rice soup | www.brysestate.com
Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery 2021 Reserve Riesling | Old Mission Peninsula Alluring on the nose, with notes of summer peaches and lime zest filling the senses. The palate unveils layers of succulent white peaches, nectarines, minerally notes, lemon verbena, and a subtle suggestion of sea salt wrapped around a core of brisk acidity, and the lingering finish is bright and energetic. SRP: $22 | Food pairing: Scallop avocado ceviche | www.brysestate.com
Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery 2020 Reserve Merlot | Old Mission Peninsula Warm berry pie and spice aromas rise from the glass. Sumptuous layers of blackberries, cocoa-dusted blueberries, hints of tobacco, dried herbs, and underlying oak (from 14 months French oak aging) sail effortlessly across the palate. Rich and velvety with balancing acidity and refined tannins, and the heavenly finish is persistent. SRP: $50 | Food pairing: Wine braised lamb shanks | www.brysestate.com
Aurora Cellars NV “Leora” | Leelanau Peninsula An energizing nose of fresh squeezed lemon and lime puts you in a celebratory mood with this sparkling Pinot Grigio. Bright citrus notes meld with flavors of flaky apple pastry, lemongrass, and a dash of spice. A delicate stream of bubbles and bracing acidity keep it balanced and lively through the perky finish. SRP: $26 | Food pairing: Smoked salmon salad | www.auroracellars.com
Aurora Cellars 2017 Cabernet Franc | Leelanau Peninsula Lovely floral and earthy notes on the nose make way for dark fruit at the core. Black plums, earthiness, black raspberries, a thread of graphite, spiced chocolate, and a touch of herbs tantalize the palate. Smoothly textured with well-integrated tannins, and the nice level of acidity balances the bold fruit through the long finish. SRP: $50 | Food pairing: Veal scallopini | www.auroracellars.com
Aurora Cellars 2020 Dry Riesling | Leelanau Peninsula Aroma of citrus blossom and slate rise from the glass. Sleek and vivacious, it hits all marks of a dry Riesling. Racy acids frame this delightfully dry wine as notes of green apple, stone fruit, minerality, and a striking burst of fresh squeezed lime enliven the palate from first sip through the persistent finish. SRP: $24 | Food pairing: Crab Louie salad | www.auroracellars.com
Chateau Chantal 2020 Johnson Vineyard Vin Gris | Old Mission Peninsula This remarkable Rosé of Pinot Noir shines with its energetic, fruity characteristics. The citrusy, summer fruit aroma opens the door to a palate brimming with flavors of fresh sliced watermelon, juicy Rainier cherries and mandarin oranges. Beautifully balanced with crisp acidity and the finish is ever so vibrant. SRP: $27 Food pairing: Thyme roasted chicken | www.chateauchantal.com
18 | MICHIGAN UNCORKED
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