5 Wines to Keep Your Sanity During Isolation

Let’s be real, this is new to all of us and products are becoming more limited every day. So, here are 5 wines that are absolutely guaranteed to get you through an extended bout of social distancing. After all, wine has been my best friend for years and I’m doing just fine…

I tried to keep this list focussed on wines that are available in most markets and affordable. I tried… a key word. Feel free to substitute any of these with similar regional examples, but these are my top picks!

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5. Domaine Weinbach – Vin d’Alsace Riesling

Alsace is undoubtedly one of the greatest regions on the planet for white wines and Riesling is just the same as a grape varietal, yet both are notoriously underappreciated. Domaine Weinbach has been a major player in the region since the late 1800’s. This is their entry level dry Riesling. From organically and biodynamically certified vineyards and aged in very old large oak vats. Drink it on its own or successfully pair it with an outrageous number of dishes, this wine is a foodie’s best friend!

4. Chateau des Tours – Brouilly Vielles Vignes

If you aren’t already drinking copious amounts of Beaujolais, you need to get it together and catch up! I could have picked from a large pool of producers and any of the 10 crus, but this wine checks so many boxes and you should be able to find it without having to search too hard. From some very, very old vines planted on a natural amphitheatre surrounding the domain, this elegant yet structured beauty expresses all the cheer of Beaujolais with just enough power to accompany your streak if you want to get crazy. I will say this… if there was ever a perfect wine for BBQ, it definitely comes from Beaujolais!!!

3. Mayacamas – Mount Veeder Cabernet Sauvignon

Okay, this is where I failed to stick with “available and affordable”. This wine isn’t really either, sorry. If I am going to make a list of 5 wines you need to stay happy, I have to be somewhat selfish. This is one of the best Cabs in the world and considering that, it is still somewhat affordable. This is a throwback to the old school style of Napa Cab that was powerful and age worthy with big tannin and terroir that is absolutely precise. This wine will knock your socks off but keep you warm and cozy all at the same time. Their 2015 was awarded the #2 Wine in the World by Wine Spectator.

2. Elio Altare – Barolo

Barolo is always a necessary wine to have in your cellar in my humble opinion. The beauty of Altare is that his “new age” style that he brought back to Barolo in the 70’s and is now common throughout the region, allows you to enjoy these wines a little earlier without being worried that you are wasting your investment. Still a big and powerful wine, the focus is on elegance, finesse and balance and although they still sage gracefully, they can be enjoyed younger as well.

1. Champagne Drappier – Grande Sendrèe 2008

If you thought I was going to leave Champagne out, you clearly don’t know me. The most important cure for long term isolation has to be bubbles. This is the only wine that I specified the vintage and for good reason. The 2008 Grande Sendrèe is an example of what a great vintage means and unbelievably good value. These guys are also one of the only wineries on earth that are certified carbon neutral, they farm organically, still use horses and have used little to no sulphites since the 70’s. If you want to spend half the money and still get a delightful bottle, grab their Cart d’Or Brut NV!

By The Modest Somm TJ Harstine