Wines for the Equinox

I never did get around to showing you what was in my Easter basket. Suffice it to say I was quite pleased, and even though we missed Easter vigil and mass (I was working) I did get to celebrate the holiday with a few Spring surprises that were much more fun than dyed eggs. Does a case of Dr. Frank's finest selections convince you that the Easter bunny was very, very good to me this year?

Admittedly, I have never been much of a lover of white wines. But if there is going to be a time to indulge in something different, the Vernal Equinox and the transition from snow to daffodils are pleasant reminders that Spring is a time for change and new beginnings. I began with a rarity-a Ukrainian grape that I wasn't familiar with before, and have Dr. Frank to thank for the introduction. You may remember from my previous post that Dr. Frank emigrated from the Ukraine, so the planting of Rkatsiteli was a natural selection. It makes a unique wine that is loaded with tropical fruit and a hint of spice. It is ever so slightly sweet, with a pleasing, snappy finish that rounds it all out. A stand out wine that also makes a very special gift for a wine collector.

I was a bit stand-offish at first when it came time for the Riesling, as I am not a fan of sweet. Well, my hesitation was all for naught. This Riesling isn't sweet at all, and due to the unique terroir of the region it is packed with minerals and slate. Crisp fruit, refreshing acidity, and subtle floral notes make it a delightful accompaniment to Easter dinner (which should include a leg of lamb, by the way). And speaking of lamb, I find that the relatively low alcohol content (usually 12%) in Dr. Frank's portfolio make them excellent food wines. They compliment, but they never overwhelm. Even the dry rosé, which is rather tart, paired quite well with a vanilla custard. In fact, all of the wines paired well with all of the food I tried them with. But, if I had to pick an aperitif wine from the bunch (oh, how my arm hurts when it's twisted this way) I would choose the Gewurztraminer. It marries perfectly well with many dishes, and is often paired with spicy foods, but I prefer to enjoy it all by itself. Call it a time to stop and smell the roses, as this Gewurtz is elegantly abundant in rose, with characteristic flecks of minerals and spice. It is a sensual wine with a long beautiful finish that lasts all the way to April - though I doubt my case of Chateau Frank wines will last that long. I can always renew my supply, and so can you, by ordering from Vinifera Wine Cellars. Or, if you're in Manhattan, simply stop by and fill your basket at Vintage New York.