2007 Ginglinger Pinot Blanc  $17.50
Before we even opened, one of the first people to come through the door of our shop was a charming young French man named Jean-Paul who introduced himself as one of the sons of the Ginglinger estate in Alsace. We were still working on the interior of the shop, and all the dust and paint fumes forced us to taste out front. The sun was shining and the wines were all exceptional, and have been some of our favorites ever since. Located in Alsace, a region of France bordering Germany and Switzerland, the Ginglinger whites are remarkably full flavored but always crisp and balanced with acidity. This is a tiny, family-owned and run estate; they don't even have a website. Pinot Blanc is a genetic relation to Pinot Noir, and Pinot Blanc is one of the few grapes allowed to be blended in Champagne. The Ginglinger Pinot Blanc is fresh and lively, with nectarine and mellowed-citrus notes up front, which carry through the full bodied and mineral-laden finish. Incredibly versatile, this is a superb wine to have on a winter's night with soups, take-out Thai food, pizza, or pasta.

2007 Kermit Lynch Cotes du Rhone Cypress Cuvee   $16.70
Kermit Lynch made himself famous when he published the book, Adventures on the Wine Route, which vibrantly describes both the intricacies of French wine and also his love for it. Since then, Lynch has been a top notch importer and retailer, so when he gets into making and blending his own French wine, the results are excellent. For the Cypress Cuvee Lynch hired Louis Barroul, who is also famous for creating the St. Cosme Cotes du Rhone - another shop favorite. Barroul's style is a nod to the darker, more powerful styles of the Southern Rhone, like Chateauneuf-du-Pape or Gigondas. The aromas of violets mixed with dark berries are a delightful prelude to the main body of the wine: exceptionally smooth black plum has touches of earth and a remarkably plush mouthfeel, the floral notes linger on the finish. An incredibly elegant bottle of wine.
Suggested Pairings: Try some ravioli filled with butternut squash for a unique pairing; this also goes well with winter stews and soups.