This Saturday, January 28th marks Chinese New Year — and the start of the Year of the Rooster. For those who like to precisely match your wines to the occasion, rest assured that you now have at least three wines created with this exact event in mind.
Premium Yet Affordable
Iron Horse Vineyards 2012 Chinese Cuvee, $65: The high acidity level of Champagne makes it the perfect companion to the often-acidic seasonings used in Asian cuisine, from dumplings dipped in vinegar, to sweet-and-sour fish. Tasting notes include “baked apple, honey, toasted almond and orange zest. Rich and creamy mouthfeel.”
Ultra Premium (read: $$$$)
Castiglion del Bosco 2010 Zodiac Rooster Brunello DOCG, $1000: If you can get your hands on one of the lucky 688 magnums produced by Massimo Ferragamo (son of Salvatore), you will be rewarded with a wine made from a hectare of the most high altitude Sangiovese vines in Castiglion del Bosco’s Montalcino vineyards. (via The Drinks Business)
Lower Alcohol (and Extra Affordable)
Stella Rosa Chinese New Year Art Sleeves ($10-12): For the lightweights in Southern California, there’s always Stella Rosa, usually around 5% in alcohol. Technically, it’s not exactly a limited edition wine. Rather, it’s a red wine wrapped in a limited edition celebratory sleeve. But for the sake of celebrating Chinese New Year, it works, right?
Know of a Year of the Rooster wine that’s not on this list? Send us a comment and we’ll add it!