Spier 2025 Signature Chenin Blanc, South Africa ($14.99, #659037) Admittedly, a little late to the party with this one. Turns out International Drink Chenin Blanc Day was celebrated June 13. But no bother, this crowd-pleasing white can be celebrated throughout the summer. It’s certainly not shy: Expressive tropical and orchard fruit aromas kick things off in this fruit-forward, easygoing wine that finishes with a lingering tickle of freshness. The ample fruit, complemented by good texture and a foundation of acidity, make this polished white a
fantastic partner for the grill, so bring on the souvlaki, satay, or even a whole grilled salmon. Bottom line: B. Solid value blanc sipper. Fondo Antico 2024 Grillo Parlante, Italy ($26.99, #668403) Good wine is always meant to represent the place it’s from, in essence this is the concept of the French word terroir. But some wines are much more successful at this than others. This bottle of Grillo certainly lands in the “win” category. From its vibrant yellow-gold with greenish hues to the lively
floral, herbal, and lime zest tones, cracking it open is like being transported to the crashing seashore of Sicily. Indeed, there’s almost a saline quality to this energetic, organically-grown Grillo that finishes balanced and fresh. Fish or seafood are the obvious pairing partners, be it grilled prawns or herb butter-sautéed clams.
white wine, Chenin Blanc, Grillo, summer sipping, Spier 2025 Signature Chenin Blanc, Fondo Antico 2024 Grillo Parlante, South Africa wine, Italian wine, grill pairings, seafood pairing
Chenin Blanc day was June 13? So basically I missed my wine holiday already lol.
Grillo sounds fancy but $26.99 is not bad. If it’s “saline” does that mean it tastes like ocean water or like… salt air?
I don’t really get the whole terroir thing, like isn’t all wine just grapes. But they said it’s organically grown and finishes fresh so I guess I’ll believe it. Also why are they calling it a “white wine” when it’s yellow-gold? That feels contradictory.
I only read the part about “worth the chill” and then I’m like yeah, just keep it cold. Chenin Blanc for $14.99 is the move, especially if you’re grilling salmon (or whatever). Kinda funny it says it was late to the party like wine has a calendar. I’d still drink it anyway.