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sauvignon blanc

Wine Spotlight: Zesty Elegance – South African Sauvignon Blanc Brilliance

Interested in making South African Sauvignon Blanc? Give us a call at 877-812-1137 to speak to a winemaking representative about your order. Cheers!

Appearance:

In the glass, South African Sauvignon Blanc presents a pale straw color with a hint of green, reflecting its youthful and vibrant nature. Its clarity and brilliance invite anticipation for the refreshing experience that lies ahead.

Aroma:

A symphony of citrus and tropical fruit aromas greets the nose, revealing the varietal’s signature characteristics. Notes of zesty lime, ripe grapefruit, and a touch of passion fruit dance harmoniously, creating an enticing bouquet. The aroma is clean, bright, and promises a burst of freshness with each sip. (yeast suggestion: R2, 71B, QA23, VIN13)

Palate:

As the wine touches the palate, it delivers a burst of invigorating flavors. Crisp green apple and lively pineapple take center stage, accompanied by hints of freshly cut grass and a subtle herbal undertone. The wine’s vibrant acidity adds a refreshing zing, creating a palate-cleansing sensation that lingers into a clean, lingering finish.

Flavor Profile:

This Sauvignon Blanc is a true expression of South Africa’s wine region terroir. The fruit-forward profile is complemented by a minerality that adds depth and complexity. The judicious use of stainless steel and glass in winemaking allows the purity of the fruit to shine, resulting in a wine that is both lively and elegant.

Pairing Suggestions:

The bright acidity and crispness of this Sauvignon Blanc make it an ideal companion for a variety of dishes. Pair it with fresh seafood, goat cheese salads, or herb-infused chicken for a delightful culinary experience. Alternatively, enjoy it on its own as a refreshing aperitif on a warm day.

Overall Impression:

South African Sauvignon Blanc is a testament to the region’s ability to craft wines that balance freshness and flavor. It captures the essence of the grape with precision, offering a sensory journey that captures the spirit of South Africa.

Interested in making South African Sauvignon Blanc? Give us a call at 877-812-1137 to speak to a winemaking representative about your order. Cheers!

Unveiling the Artistry Behind Chilean Wine: A Toast to Excellence

In the world of winemaking, few regions can boast the combination of unique terroir, skilled artisans, and a rich cultural history quite like Chile. Nestled between the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, this South American gem has been quietly gaining recognition as a powerhouse in the global wine industry. Let’s embark on a journey to discover why making Chilean wine is nothing short of an art form.

The Terroir Advantage:

Chile’s diverse geography, ranging from the arid Atacama Desert to the cool, maritime-influenced climate of the coastal areas, provides winemakers with a canvas of terroirs. The result is a wide spectrum of flavors and aromas that make Chilean wines unique. From the robust reds of Curico Valle, each sip reflects the character of its terroir.

 

Sustainable Practices:

Chilean winemakers have embraced sustainable and organic practices, aligning their craft with environmental consciousness. Many vineyards prioritize biodiversity, water conservation, and minimal chemical intervention. This commitment not only preserves the pristine landscapes but also enhances the purity and authenticity of the wines produced.

 

Iconic Grape Varieties:

Chilean winemaking is defined by its dedication to traditional grape varieties, with a particular focus on Carmenere, often referred to as Chile’s signature grape. This once-forgotten Bordeaux varietal found its new home in Chile, producing wines with luscious dark fruit flavors and a distinct spiciness. Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sauvignon Blanc also thrive in the fertile soils, contributing to the country’s diverse wine portfolio.

 

Innovation and Modern Techniques:

While honoring tradition, Chilean winemakers are not afraid to embrace innovation. State-of-the-art winemaking facilities equipped with modern technology allow for precise control over the winemaking process. This fusion of tradition and innovation ensures the consistency and quality of Chilean wines, earning them accolades on the international stage.

 

In the world of winemaking, Chile stands as a testament to the perfect marriage of nature’s gifts and human craftsmanship. The artistry behind making Chilean wine is a celebration of terroir, sustainability, iconic grape varieties, and a commitment to excellence. So, the next time you uncork a bottle of Chilean wine, savor not just the liquid in the glass but the story of a nation passionate about producing wines that captivate the senses.

 

Interested in making South African or Chilean Wine? Give us a call at 877-812-1137 to speak to a winemaking representative about your order. Cheers!

Chilean Wine Notes

Why make wine from Chile? Because it’s like bottling up sunshine and smiles!

Picture this: rolling vineyards nestled between the Andes Mountains and the Pacific Ocean, where grapes bask in the perfect blend of cool coastal breezes and warm, sunny days. Chile’s diverse terroir makes it a winemaker’s paradise, offering a kaleidoscope of flavors just waiting to be uncorked.

CHILEAN WINE NOTES

Cabernet Sauvignon:

A flagship for Chile, their Cabernet Sauvignon impresses with its deep ruby color and complex aromas of blackcurrant, cherry, cedar, and tobacco. On the palate, it’s rich and full-bodied, with well-integrated tannins and a long, lingering finish.

 

Cabernet Franc:

Cabernet Franc from Chile offers an elegant expression of the varietal. With aromas of red berries, violet, and herbs, it’s vibrant and aromatic. On the palate, it’s medium-bodied with silky tannins and a fresh, persistent finish.

 

Carmenere:

Chilean Carmenere showcases the best of Chile’s signature grape. With deep purple color and aromas of blackberry, plum, and spices, it’s captivating. Lush and velvety on the palate, with flavors of ripe fruit, chocolate, and a touch of smokiness.

 

Malbec:

A standout example of great winemaking grapes, the Chilean Malbec boasts intense aromas of blackberry, plum, and violet, with hints of vanilla and spice. On the palate, it’s full-bodied and expressive, with ripe tannins and a long, smooth finish.

 

Merlot:

Chilean Merlot offers aromas of ripe plum, cherry, and spices, with subtle hints of chocolate and vanilla. Medium-bodied and smooth on the palate, with soft tannins and a lingering finish.

 

Pinot Noir:

The Chilean Coastal Pinot Noir exhibits delicate aromas of red fruits, flowers, and earthy notes. Light-bodied and elegant, with vibrant acidity and silky tannins, it’s a perfect expression of Chilean terroir.

 

Syrah:

Syrah from Chile showcases the richness and depth. With aromas of blackberry, blueberry, and pepper, it’s intense and alluring. Full-bodied and velvety on the palate, with layers of dark fruit, spice, and a long, lingering finish.

 

Chardonnay:

From the cool-climate region of Chile, Chardonnay offers aromas of tropical fruits, citrus, and vanilla. Medium to full-bodied, with a creamy texture and balanced acidity, it’s a delightful expression of Chilean Chardonnay.

 

Pinot Grigio:

Pinot Gris from Chile showcases fresh aromas of green apple, pear, and citrus, with floral undertones. Crisp and refreshing on the palate, with lively acidity and a clean, mineral-driven finish.

 

Sauvignon Blanc:

Chilean Sauvignon Blanc has aromas of grapefruit, lime, and herbs. Crisp and vibrant on the palate, with zesty acidity and a refreshing finish.

 

Viognier:

Viognier from Chile displays enticing aromas of apricot, peach, and orange blossom, with hints of honey and spice. Medium-bodied and luscious on the palate, with a smooth, lingering finish.

 

Interested in making Chilean Wines? We have the grapes and juices! Give us a call at 877-812-1137 to speak to a winemaking representative about your order. Cheers!

Cheers to Spring Winemaking Adventures!

spring wine season

Hey there, fellow vintners and grape aficionados,

As the frost thaws and the vines awaken from their winter slumber, can you feel that excitement bubbling up like a well-aged Cab Sauv? That’s right, it’s time to dust off those barrels, polish those glasses, and get ready to dive headfirst into the spring winemaking season!

Whether you’re dreaming of crisp Chardonnays, robust Merlots, or something in between, now’s the time to get those orders in. From grapes, juices, fermenting tanks, corks, and everything in between, we’ve got you covered. So, why wait? Let’s uncork the magic of spring together!

 

2024 Spring Grape Offerings:

Chile: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Carmenere, Malbec, Merlot, Petite Verdot, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, and Viognier

 

2024 Spring Juice Offerings:

South Africa: Shiraz, Merlot, Pinotage, Cabernet Sauvignon, Semillon, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Chenin Blanc, and Sauvignon Blanc.

Chile: Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Carmenere, Malbec, Merlot, Petite Verdot, Pinot Noir, Syrah, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, and Muscat.

 

Crush/Destemm will be back!

We will be crushing and destemming again this year! However, there is a minimum order of 24 cases of Spring grapes. This will give you 6 pails of must, and about 20+ gallons of juice to work with.

 

Winemaking Classes:

Check out Musto Wine Grape & Frank Renaldi’s online classes via our sister site WinemakingInstructions.com.

 

Winemaker Hours:

Winemaker Sam Lee will be in the store and available for questions on Tuesdays and Fridays from 8:00AM-4:00PM. If you want to speak to a winemaker in person, make sure to stop by and see Sam! You can also email him at slee@juicegrape.com.

 

March Store Hours:

Mon-Fri: 8:00AM-4:00PM

Sat-Sun:  Closed

Ready to take your winemaking to new heights? Simply shoot us an email or give us a call, and we’ll make sure you’re all set to rock this winemaking season.

Here’s to the grape adventures ahead!

Popular White Grapes for Home Winemakers

Fiano

Ever consider making white wine at home but needed some advice on what grapes to use? Here’s the list of the most popular white wine grapes you’ve been looking for to help you get started.

Try these four white wine grapes:

Chardonnay

Sauvignon Blanc

Muscat

Riesling

Why these grapes? Here are some reasons for choosing these white grapes to try in your home winemaking cellar:

Chardonnay – One of the world’s most popular grapes and ages for 5-10 years made in a wide range of styles from lean, sparkling to rich, creamy white wines aged in oak. It’s primary flavors include: yellow apple, pineapple, vanilla and butter with a taste profile that makes it a dry, medium bodied wine with medium acidity and 13.5–15% ABV
Sauvignon Blanc – Loved for its “green” herbal flavors and racy acidity; ages 3-5 years and has primary flavors of gooseberry, honeydew, grapefruit, white peach and passion fruit and makes a dry medium to light bodied wine with high acidity and 11.5–13.5% ABV
Muscat – This grape is available in many styles, from dry to sweet to still, sparkling, and fortified, ages 3-5 years with primary flavors including orange blossom, Meyer lemon, Mandarin orange, pear and honeysuckle that produces an off-dry light bodied white wine with medium to high acidity and under 10% ABV
Riesling – An aromatic white variety that can produce white wines ranging in style from bone-dry to very sweet; ages over 10 years. Its primary flavors include lime, green apple, beeswax, jasmine and petroleum and produces an off-dry wine with a light body, with high acidity and under 10% ABV

Which white wine grape will you try this season? We’d love to hear your experience with these popular grapes.

Email sales@juicegrape.com or call  877-812-1137 to order or discus making wine from home!

 

 

Sources
Written by Michelle Griffis aka the Nutmeg Nose from MWG

1ST WHITE WINE GRAPES TO BE HARVESTED AUGUST 30TH

king's riverg_14_albarino

(Pictured above Albarino from King’s River Ranch at 20.5 Brix)

Albarino, French Colombard, Muscat, Fiano, Sauvignon Blanc, and Vermentino will be some of the first white wine grapes coming off the vine very soon. Coming in at Brix 22.5 – 24.0, they should be harvested around August 30th and in Hartford, CT by September 7th.

This season’s wine harvest is fast approaching. Download our Harvest Menu to check out what we will be offering this season. Please email sales@juicegrape.com or call 877-812-1137 to order.

Sauvignon Blanc Paired with Mexican 7 Layer Dip Recipe

Pairing Sauvignon Blanc and 7 Layer Mexican Bean Dip-1

Who doesn’t love a good Sauvignon Blanc? Whether it’s from California, France, Chile, South Africa, or New Zealand you can always count on it being fresh and crisp. The perfect pairing with Ashley’s favorite 7 layer bean dip recipe. It’s the ultimate combination of Mexican flavors including refried beans, guacamole, sour cream, cheese, tomatoes, green onions and black olives. It’s super easy to make and can be made ahead of time, stored in the refrigerator and served cold or at room temperature.

7-Layer-Bean-Dip-4-wine-pairing

What you’ll need:

  • Refried beans
  • Taco seasoning
  • Guacamole
  • Sour cream
  • Shredded cheddar cheese
  • Tomatoes
  • Black olives
  • Green onions
  • Lime
  • Salt & Pepper

How to do it:

  • In a bowl, mix the refried beans and taco seasoning together.
  • Spread the refried beans onto a casserole dish.
  • On top of the bean spread, add your layer of guacamole. Add some salt & pepper and squeeze a lime over to get the extra flavor packed in.
  • Add a layer of sour cream.
  • Add a layer of diced tomatoes.
  • Add a layer of sour cream.
  • Top with your sliced olives and green onions.
  • If you’d like the extra kick, add some chopped jalapeños.
  • Cover and pop in the fridge! Easy peasy.
  • When it comes to serving, it can be served chilled or at room temperature with a bowl of tortilla corn chips.

As always, adding wine make everything 10 times better – A gutsy, grassy white wine like Sauvignon Blanc will go with the crunchy corn tortillas, while the melted cheddar cheese will harmonize with an easy going wine like Grenache.

Notes from our Winemaker Frank Renaldi about the Chilean Sauvignon Blanc: Primary Fermentation

Notes from our Winemaker Frank Renaldi about the Chilean Sauvignon Blanc:

Primary Fermentation

“Wine fermenting for 7 days slow and steady. Down to 4 brix. Nice nose and color as we wind down. Wine did get near 65F. I wet a bed sheet twice a day with cold water and wrapped around stainless tank. This helped keep the temp at 60F – nice and cool for a white wine.  Too hot and you will blow off the nose.”

Don’t forget to sign up for the Spring Bootcamp with winemaker Frank Renadli! Learn how to make great wine at home in just 5 weeks!

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Notes from our Winemaker Frank Renaldi about the Chilean Sauvignon Blanc: After the Press

Notes from our Winemaker Frank Renaldi about the Chilean Sauvignon Blanc:

After the Press

“Adjusted Brix to 21.5 (11.8% alcohol). Adjusted with Tartaric Acid to get pH = 3.24 and TA = .60. Will have to acidify after fermentation. Could have adjusted further, but ta would still be low (desired .7 – .9). Used Vin13 yeast – Very slow start. Took over 24 hours to get started. Still at 58 degree with a slow cool fermentation. No big nose yet. Looking forward to reporting more on the results once fermentation has completed.”

Don’t forget to sign up for the Spring Bootcamp with winemaker Frank Renadli! Learn how to make great wine at home in just 5 weeks!

sauvignon blanc_chile_musto wine grape_winemaker_winemaking

 

Notes from our Winemaker Frank Renaldi about the Chilean Sauvignon Blanc

Notes from our Winemaker Frank Renaldi about the Chilean Sauvignon Blanc

“Good day, Grapes looked really good. No mold, clean, juicy. Let set with enzyme for 5 hours. Good press. Tomorrow will measure, adjust and add goodies and pitch yeast.” – We are sold out of the white grapes but still have some reds grapes and white & red juices available Give us a call at the office to secure your order!

Don’t forget to sign up for the Spring Bootcamp with winemaker Frank Renadli! Learn how to make great wine at home in just 5 weeks!

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