What to drink this July

By Glenn Bardgett
Posted On: 07/01/2009    

Here’s what sommelier Glenn Bardgett is drinking this month. Check your favorite liquor store or wine shop
for availability.

Evesham Wood ‘Blanc du Puits Sec’ 2008,
Eola-Amity Hills, Ore.

Le Puits Sec is the 13-acre vineyard of Russ Raney, the former St. Louisan who has been making superb wines in Oregon for the last 20 years. This blend of 85 percent Pinot Gris and 15 percent Gewurztraminer is made in the style of the amazingly complex whites of Alsace, France, and it delivers more than you would ever find in a comparably priced Chardonnay (about $15).

Nessa Albariño 2007, Rias Baixas, Spain

I have been trying Albariños since they first became trendy several years ago. Although they were generally good, crisp, citrusy whites that paired well with oysters or calamari, I found the $20-plus price tag to be a barrier to really enjoying them. But, at under $15, this beauty is one of the first to strut its stuff at a price worthy of interest. Order a dozen oysters on the half-shell or check out what this does to your favorite sushi.

Murphy’s Law White 2007,
Columbia Valley, Wash.

This label doesn’t even begin to tell you how much fun is inside. Seven grapes are playing together here, with Sauvignon Blanc (49 percent) acting like Fonzie on Happy Days and pushing its will over the other six. Almost all typical white descriptors fit here – basically this is a happy wine that is ready for anything from roasted chicken to Asian to Tex-Mex. At about $15, you can pour this for your friends and make them smile.

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