Now that it’s nearly summer, we can all look forward to the warmer weather and sunshine of the months to come. And what better way to compliment these lovely days ahead than with a nice cool glass of white wine.

We continue (also check out Part 1 and Part 2) to share some recommendations for first-class bottles that make an ideal aperitif on a warm evening or can add a little life to Sunday brunch.

Here is the next group: an assortment of 6 variates from the familiar to the rare.

 

Yarden 2009 “Galiee” Viognier

Grape(s):  100% Viognier

Region: Golan Heights, Israel

Price: 20-25

Review:

Aromas of peach and apricot combine with suggestions of white-blossoms and minerals on the nose. Flavors of peach, pineapple, and apricot mingle with notes of honey and spice on the palate.  A rich, crisp wine with a lively mineral backbone, fans of brighter Viogniers will enjoy this bottle.

Rating: 89

 

Puma Road 2011 Gewurztraminer

Grape(s):  100% Gewurztraminer

Region: Monterey County

Price: 20-25

Review:

Aromatics of apples and pears mingle with orange blossoms and nutty suggestions of the nose. A sip reveals flavors of apple, pear, and citrus fruits accented by notes of white-blossoms and nuts. A fairly bright, floral white, it’s sure to bring to life to a summertime Sunday brunch. 170 cases produced.

Rating: 88

Puma Road 2011 Pedregal Vineyard Chardonnay

Grape(s):  100% Chardonnay

Region: Monterey County

Price: 20-25

Review:

Aromas of pear and red apple mingle with suggestions of sweet spice on the nose. Flavors of pear and apple emerge on the palate with notes of vanilla lingering in the background. An approachable, bright wine that’s well suited for fans of Chardonnay with a little more zip.

Rating: 86

Laraneta 2009 Cameo

Grape(s):  100% Vernaccia

Region: Paso Robles

Price: 20-25

Review:

Not yet a recognized variety in America, this wine made from the Tuscan grape Vernaccia offers a bouquet of green apple and citrus fruit. The palate unfurls flavors of apple, grapefruit, and melon accented by suggestions of honey and minerals.  A mouth-filling wine, with a welcoming acidity, it falls somewhere between a Viognier and Pinot Grigio and will definitely hit the spot on a warm afternoon.

Rating: 88

Holman Ranch 2011 Sauvignon Blanc

Grape(s):  100% Sauvignon Blanc

Region: Monterey County

Price: 15-20

Review:

Notes of citrus fruits and green apple rise up from a glass. A sip reveals flavors of lime, grapefruit, and apple with a slight accent of minerals. A refreshing wine with a nice tart character, fans of crisp, lively whites will enjoy this bottle.  It’s ideal for a a summer seafood cookout.

Rating: 87

 

Holman Ranch 2011 Pinot Gris

Grape(s):  100% Pinot Gris

Region: Monterey County

Price: 15-20

Review:

Citrusy notes combine with suggestions of honeydew and minerals on the nose. Flavors of lemon, lime, and melon emerge on the palate along with accents of honey. Fruit driven with a balanced acidity, it makes for a lovely, lively summer sipper.

Rating: 88