Winter gives us the perfect excuse to open up those big, bold reds we’ve been storing in our wine racks all year. There is nothing better than your favorite comfort foods served up with great comfort wines.  As with any comfort food, we expect the same pleasure from our wine: passionate bold flavors, deep warmth and smooth texture.

There are wines in every price range that will keep you warm this winter. Chile offers many options in the under $20 price range and they produce a much better quality wine than the price reflects. Our favorite is Estampa Malbec-Petite Syrah.

The richness of flavors in this wine is reminiscent of a more expensive Argentine Malbec, but has a unique smooth finish attributed by the Petite Syrah.  This blend is a nice medium weight wine and is perfect for those who like to enjoy more than one glass. 

A heartier wine offering a more sophisticated palate is Abstract by Orin Swift, Napa.  Although I refrain from writing about pretentious wines from Napa, there are some that stand out as exceptional wines and should be mentioned.  Abstract is a blend of Grenache, Petite Sirah and Syrah from Napa, Sonoma and Mendocino.

The color is dark inky purple with scents of blackberry and sage. The palate boasts full bodied flavors of roasted plums, mulberry, black tea and even dark chocolate. The tannins are surprisingly smooth and it’s not over-powered by oak. Swift allowed 10 months aging in French oak which allows for the fruit flavors to shine. Try pairing this wine with grilled lamb chops, pork roast or even beef stew. Depending on whether you find this wine in your favorite wine shop or in a restaurant, pricing should be under $50. Yes, $50. I did mention it was from Napa!

Another Napa wine that is perfect for winter is Trinitas 2007 Cabernet Sauvignon . The release of this wine was held until this past year so that it is perfect to drink right now. Trinitas was aged for 18 months in mostly French oak allowing intense flavors of cherry, espresso, chocolate and caramel to develop. The structure is full bodied and the finish is smooth and lengthy. This is the wine to pair with your filet mignon or prime rib and grilled vegetables.

The ultimate winter warmer is sipping port in front of a glowing fire.  Since Valentine’s Day is right round the corner, why not surprise your special someone with Chocolate Raspberry Port from Siesta Key Wines. Made with Belgian Chocolate and Raspberries, our specialty port has been a local favorite for over 10 years. Enjoy it in a glass by itself or try drizzling it over cheesecake or vanilla bean ice cream for a decadent dessert.

Stop by when you’re in town and browse our unique selection of imported and local wines. Until then, keep warm! Cheers!

Siesta Key Wines
5138C Ocean Blvd.
Siesta Key, FL 34242

941-552-9105
http://www.siestakeywines.com/