Uncorked

Perfect for the Patio

Missouri’s climate does not allow a long season of eating outside. Soon the bugs and heat start driving people back inside, so you hate to waste any of that time fumbling around with your wine.  This is the perfect season for screw top wine, which makes picnicking much easier. Screw tops have been around for years, but were relegated to the likes of Boones Farm and Annie Green Springs. However, New Zealand producers have almost single-handedly brought the Stelvin closure (screw top) to the higher quality wine market.

The wines that seem best suited to the screw top are those that are full of bright fragrances. My new favorite white, Torrontes, is one such wine. Relatively new to this market, the Torrontes grape originates in Argentina and its juicy acidity and good fruit make it a great picnic wine.

Sauvignon Blanc is a dry white alternative, whose profile runs from herbal to citrus grapefruit. With great acidity, it helps break through the summer heat and pairs well with the more subtle flavors of lighter foods.

If you are looking for red wine I suggest the stepchild of Burgundy, Beaujolais. This wine, made with the Gamay grape, is all about freshness. With lively flavors of red berry, this wine is the quintessential summer red, great for grilled chicken or fruit salad. Keep an eye out for the label because purchasing a vintage before 2008 can be a little suspect.

I’ve recommended a few wines here, but you should also visit with a knowledgeable wine seller who can steer you to the best wines with the convenience of a screw top.

Eve Chardonnay, Washington 2010

Kim Crawford Sauvignon Blanc, New Zealand 2011

Skyleaf Riesling, New Zealand 2009

Whitehall Lane Sauvignon Blanc, Napa 2010

Sensual Torrontes, Argentina 2010

Torii Mor Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley 2009

Plungerhead Old Vine Zinfandel 2009