Last week we told you about some of the Mrs. Claus’ favorites wines, however we only got a few countries covered. We did Canada, the United States, Chile, and Argentina. Now it’s time to go across the pond and tell you about Mrs. Claus’ favorite wines from a few other places. Let’s travel to New Zealand, where they are famous for Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir.
Above is the Saint Clair Sauvignon Blanc, and like all Sauvignon Blancs from New Zealand, this is a beautiful crisp white wine, with refreshing acidity and loaded with flavors of citrus and a hint of tropical flavors. This is Mrs. Claus’ all time favorite wine with a salad, and it goes great with Sushi as well. The next one is Kim Crawford Pinot Noir. Kim Crawford Winery has been winning awards for their Pinot Noir wines and Sauvignon Blanc wines, and is one of Mrs. Claus’ favorites vineyards in New Zealand. Many wine critics are saying New Zealand Pinot Noir can compete with the best from Burgundy, France. Mrs. Claus likes the vibrant fruit flavors with spicy and herbal notes. She thinks it’s one of the best wines that go with most dishes she serves the jolly red fellow.
When Santa leaves New Zealand, he usually heads to Australia, and while’s he’s there he knows he better pick the Mrs. up a bottle of wine from Wolf Blass. Wolf Blass has been make great wines since 1966, and if the truth be known, Mrs. Claus has a little crush on Wolf, rascal that he is.
Most places around the world, people leave out milk and cookies for Santa. Wolf knows to leave out a bottle of his Platinum Label Shiraz for Mrs. Claus. A great representation of the terroir, Mrs. Claus loves the big bold flavors of blueberries, spice, dark chocolate with a hint of coffee. I have a feeling this will be on many people’s Christmas list this year, it’s spectacular.
Santa heads up to France, never forgetting to pick up a special dessert wine from Sauternes. After a big meal, sometimes Mrs. Claus doesn’t want a big heavy dessert, but loves this 2007 dessert wine from Chateau de Myrat. Luscious full-bodied flavors of apricot, toffee and a slight raisin flavor makes this wine of her favorites. And he also treats her to a Bordeaux, from Pomerol on the Right Bank of Bordeaux. This Christian Mouix Pomerol has gorgeous plum flavors and good structure. It’s a good value for a Bordeaux wine from the region of Pomerol, some of thse can get quite expensive.
And last but not least, on his stop in Italy, he picks up a Masi Amarone. Mrs. Claus just loves the rich, opulent, mouth-watering feel of a good Amarone. Dried fruit, cinnamon, and cherries on a full-bodied palate with a great finish. This is one of Santa’s favorites with pasta.
Well, Santa gets pretty tired after all his travels on Christmas Eve. And while he rests, Mrs. Claus tries to decide which wine to open first.
Merry Christmas everyone, and please drink responsibly this holiday season. A cab is the easy way to go.
Cheers, Darlene
Wine-It’s Just My Opinion 