File this in the category of why being an Insider is so much fun. Last Friday, we ducked out of our cubicle early to stop by the New Hampshire Liquor and Wine Outlet on Storrs Street to sample wine. Best of all, we didn’t get into any trouble for it.
We were there to try the Inscription Limited Edition Old Vine Zinfandel and Petite Sirah – two varieties blended exclusively for New Hampshire by well-known vintner Michael Mondavi. Mondavi is the first vintner selected for the “Winemaker Edition Signature Reserve series,” an initiative of the liquor commission’s Inscription brand. In 2007, Inscription was created, and New Hampshire was the first state to launch its own signature line of wines.
The first wine we tasted was the Old Vine Zinfandel – a medium-bodied red with notes of black fruit and spice. We found it to be very smooth and drinkable and suspect that even white wine drinkers may enjoy it. According to the bottle’s description, the Old Vine Zinfandel pairs nicely with foods from the grill. Although we didn’t have a grill there to fire up, we agree with this assessment. There was something distinctively summery about this wine.
The Petite Sirah, however, had a little more bite. Don’t let its name fool you, this varietal is known to have big taste. Like the Old Vine Zinfandel, this particular wine was also medium-bodied with dark fruit flavors, but has a hint of caramel and spicy finish. You may still want to brush off the grill though, when drinking this wine. It pairs well with roasted or grilled meats and vegetables.
Both wines cost $12.99 and can be found at the Storrs Street store. Don’t forget, it is limited edition, so pick up a bottle soon. Who knows, maybe your boss will also let you leave work early to shop for wine!
