Palate Worthy, Wallet Friendly Wines

Even without a worldwide recession, many of us feel a pinch in our wallets in January. Not only do we spend more then usual in December, but most of us make less!  It's bad enough that business seems to come to a standstill during December, but it never seems to truly wake up until March. With the economic forecast looking glum, Small Lot Wine Tours wants to make sure you do not compromise your quest to drink wines from small producers while looking for a wallet friendly wine.

This Month's Tour: Varietal is the Spice of Life!

I grew up a Navy brat.  Being a military brat almost always means an adventure.  One such adventure that I had as a Navy brat was the opportunity to live in the Philippines for three years. We lived on Subic Bay Naval base where I went to school on the base from 4^th through 6^th grade.  One thing sailors are known for is picking up wives during their travels.  Therefore my class was filled with kids whose mom's were from all over:  Italy, Korea, Japan, and of course, the Philippines.  Not only were there kids from all over the world, but from all over the US;, Virginia Beach, Seattle, Pensacola...anywhere with a coast.   My three years in the Philippines were some of my happiest.  I was exposed to different foods, fruits, languages and fortunately for me, I had parents who taught me to not only accept these new and different things, but to embrace them.   I was raised by parents who truly believed that variety is the spice of life.  This month I honor my parents by celebrating variety in wine.  Believe it or not, there is more to Napa Valley then just Cabernet Sauvignon.  And as wonderful as Cab is, there are some equally wonderful and interesting wines in this valley.  Please come on a journey with me as we discover them.

Tour This Month's Wineries:

Graeser Winery

Verismo

Buoncristiani

Charbay

Check out food pairings with this month's wine:

Varietal is the Spice of Life Cheese Pairing

Grilled Peaches wtih Prosciutto, Burrata and Honey

Grilled Pepper Crusted Flank Steak with Salsa Verde

Piedmont Stuffed Peppers

Chocolate Tart

Urban Wines

Most people when they think of Napa think of big vineyards, large estates, stunning views and, of course, wine.  Very few people come to Napa and think, “I think I’ll hit the warehouse district.”  This months goal is to put that very thought in your head.  The gateway to Napa (that area between American Canyon and Napa proper) is very industrial.  But what we have to remember is that wine is Napa’s industry!  Those “scenic” industrial parks are full of wonderful wineries.  So before you venture out into the country side, spend a little time in “urban” Napa Valley.  You won’t be disappointed.

Compassionate Wines

Every year wineries in Napa Valley give and spend millions of dollars for charity. At just about every fund raiser in Napa you will find donations from a variety of wineries. From local elementary schools on up to Auction Napa Valley, wineries and their owners show a beautiful spirit of generosity. However, there are a small number of wineries that make wine or products specifically for charity. In this month's tour we feature wines that have programs where by buying their wines a portion of the profit goes to certain charities. All these wines are delicious, making them the perfect gift. During this season of giving why not give gifts that give twice?