Cheers to you, past Presidents, for giving us a three-day weekend and for reminding us of both the values and mistakes of past administrations.
Here is a shortlist of wines I love that you can buy with one of the Presidents hanging out in your wallet. Since it is nearly impossible to procure high-quality bottles of wine for $10 or less in the US, I have had to exclude Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln and Hamilton. (Sorry, guys!)
Would love to hear your picks in these price categories in the comments section below or on social media. Happy Presidents Day!
What Andrew Jackson will get you (give or take a few Washingtons)...
Elio Altare | Dolcetto d’Alba 2017 | Piemonte, Italy
Love the energetic team behind this Dolcetto, which is all about juicy black cherries and refreshing acidity. A nice pizza wine.
Ryme | ‘Hers’ Vermentino 2018 | Carneros, California
Inspired by the Ligurian Coast, winemaker Megan Glaab creates a refreshing Vermentino from Carneros fruit. Exotic fruit, white flowers, and touch of ginger; Bright but with some body and texture.
Graci | Etna Rosato 2017 | Sicily, Italy
This may be my favorite rosato from Italy. Tart red fruit, blood orange, herbs with a minerality that tingles the palate.
What Ulysses Grant will get you...
Muscardini Cellars | ‘Tesoro’ Proprietary Red Blend 2015 | Sonoma, California
Perhaps my favorite wine of winemaker Michael Muscardini! Sangiovese, Cabernet Sauvignon and Syrah Blend; Big and bold, but nicely balanced. Lush cassis, violet, cedar and tobacco on the palate.
Heitz Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 | Napa, California
Deemed a modern classic by some in the wine world, this is a rich, well-balanced Cabernet Sauvignon coming from Napa; Expect deep, ripe blackberry fruit with baking spice touches.
Fitting that oenophile Ben Franklin affords special wines...
E. Pira & Figli | Cannubi Barolo DOCG 2013 | Piemonte, Italy
Chiara Boschis does it again! Nebbiolo tantalizes the palate with pressed rose, cherry, mint tea, a touch of spice, earthy undertones and integrated tannins.
Catena Zapata | Malbec Argentino 2015 | Mendoza, Argentina
Winemaker Alejandro Vigil creates a dense and rich Malbec from old vines, including some pre-phylloxera; Dark berries, mocha, and spice.