The Erbaluce came recommended by the wine shop owner having remembered a few whites I had previously bought. He made an excellent choice with this wine. It was just what I was looking for. The other wine I choose was not as good as I was hoping for but for the price it was worth a try.
Cieck Erbaluce di Caluso, 2020 DOCG
DOCG is the highest classification that Italian wines can be awarded, and it represents the best of Italian wines. This classification indicates that there are controlled production methods (controllata) and guaranteed wine quality (garantita) with each bottle.
This wine comes from San Giorgio Canavese, Piedmont, and is made of 100% Erbaluce and aged in steel for 4 months. Erbaluce is derived from the words “erba” (dawn) and “luce” (light), and its name alludes to the striking copper color the grapes assume as the sun hits them on traditional pergola-trained vines.
The wine has a straw-yellow color with characteristic notes of rose and melon. It has a velvety smooth mouthfeel with a solid structure, elegance, flowery notes, and fresh and crisp acidity. The finish is slightly tannic, which lingers and fades nicely. $24
Little Sheep Sauvignon Blanc, 2022 – New Zealand·Marlborough
It appears that Touton has monopolized the “Little Sheep” brand for Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon from California, New Zealand, and France. What I liked most about this wine was the label, I just wish that wine had had the same playfulness on the palate.
This wine has a light, pale yellow color that is almost clear, with notes of melon and pineapple adding a bit of freshness to its aroma. It has an initial taste of citrus, with a light finish and an alcohol content of 12%. This makes for an easy-drinking summer wine that provides decent value for the price. $16.