by Jade Palmer - Wine Buyer at Hop City Krog Street
Did you make a resolution to step outside of your comfort zone this year? Maybe travel more? Well, we’re not selling plane tickets, but we do have a few bottles of wine that will transport you all around the world. Not only are these wines new to our shelves, but they’re also from some lesser-known regions that are waiting to be discovered…by you! From the heart of the Finger Lakes to the warmth of McLaren Vale, please enjoy this itinerary we’ve chosen for you!
Zaha Calcaire Blanc de Blancs - $19.99 (krog)
Have you ever had bubbles from Argentina? Now is your chance! This sparkling wine is bright and fresh with notes of crisp citrus fruits, minerality, and a hint of yeastiness. A perfect pairing for seafood! It’s also incredibly affordable while still delivering the highest quality.
Cleto Chiarli Vecchia Modena Lambrusco - $18.99 (krog)
We love a great Lambrusco! This one is loaded with notes of juicy strawberries, raspberries, tart cherries, and orange peel. A refreshing and juicy Lambrusco that can pair with everything from Margherita pizza to strawberries and cream.
Hermann J Wiemer ‘Flower Day’ Riesling - $34.99 (krog)
The Finger Lakes region is producing some of the most outstanding domestic Riesling and this bottle is a clear example. The fruit is sourced from two biodynamically farmed vineyards at the estate: the HJW vineyard and a block from Standing Stone, Wiemer’s sister property just across Seneca Lake. The result is a Riesling that is full of flavor - think peach, apricot, lemon zest, yellow apples, and a bright, lengthy finish.
d’Arenberg ‘Stump Jump’ Cabernet Sauvignon - $13.99 (krog)
If you like a big, juicy Cabernet Sauvignon, look no further. This wine, sourced from the estate’s old bush vines in McLaren Vale, is d’Arenberg’s answer to a California Cab. It’s packed with flavors of juicy black fruit - cherries, berries, and currants - accompanied by hints of dried herbs and eucalyptus. Try this one with a New York strip or lamb chops; it’ll also pair beautifully with flavorful cheeses like Parmesan and Gorgonzola.
Bonnet-Cotton Beaujolais “Bas Les Masques” - $31.99 (krog + west end)
The Bonnet-Cotton wines are some of the finest examples of Beaujolais to hit the market. They’re all farmed organically and made without added sulfur, allowing the grapes to express the beauty of the terroirs of Beaujolais. This wine has notes of crunchy red fruits, light baking spices, and a lively natty edge to the finish. These wines are incredibly limited, so come by and get them before they’re all gone!
