CHARLESTON MAGAZINE'S NEW ONLINE DINING GUIDE
The City Magazine Since 1975

White Hot

White Hot
January 2014
When the temps turn cool, most of us reach for warming, full-bodied reds. But Vonda Freeman, sommelier and wine director for the Indigo Road restaurant group, doesn’t dismiss lighter vinos during the colder months. “Seek out whites with spice, complexity, and texture,” she advises. Read on for three picks she’s sipping now


Under $25
Clendenen Family Vineyards Borgo Buon Natale Tocai Friulano, 2012 Santa Maria Valley, California

“Tocai Friulano, a grape from northern Italy, has found a new home in California thanks to producers like Jim Clendenen. With notes of pecan, apple, dried herbs, and baked bread, this wine suits the season.” Available at Southern Season, $23

Under $50
Domaine Weinbach Gewurztraminer Cuvée Théo, 2012 Alsace, France

“The grape may not be en vogue with many wine geeks, but I love a great Gewurztraminer. In its most beautiful form, it is exotic, spicy, fragrant, and dry. This version is brimming with white honey, anise, fresh ginger, and dried apricot. It’s simply gorgeous.” Available at Avondale Wine & Cheese, $47

$50 & Up
Maison Nicolas Perrin Condrieu Blanc, 2012 Rhône Valley, France

“A golden-hued pick made from 100 percent viognier grapes, this wine has a rich texture and weight. Pair it with dishes that will be complemented by flavors of fig, dried apricot, caramel, and a touch of citrus zest.” Available at Bottles, $70

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