Top 7 Wines for Dad

Father's Day is right around the corner.  That means it is time to grill.  Think steaks, hamburgers, lamb chops...  Dad needs wine to wash down all of that delicious red meat.  What are you doing for Father's Day?  Have you got a gift?

Famiglia Bianchi Cabernet Sauvignon:  My hubby (AKA:  Top Dad) loves a bold Cab. This is a classic Cabernet Sauvignon that can compete with the best from around the world, this wine displays a deep ruby color and great “legs.” Spicy and complex aromas of black pepper, licorice, toasty coffee grinds and hints of fresh mint mingle with cassis and wild berries. Ample and persistent in the mouth, with a harmonious structure that highlights its personality and pedigree.  I'm thinking this will go great with a big juicy rib-eye.

Ironstone "Old Vines" Zinfandel:  Grown in vineyards that are over 45 years old, this medium-bodied Zin has exceptional varietal character with lovely aromas of dark fruit and blackberry. Subtle pepper spice mingles with richly concentrated fruit flavors of blackberry, ripe plums and fresh red raspberries. Barrel aging created its smooth, silky finish and unprecedented depth.  I'm serving this with the cheeseburgers.

Ironstone Reserve "Ancient Vines" Zinfandel:  Rich and supple, this generous Zinfandel offers aromas and flavors of ripe blackberries, pepper and chocolate, finishing with well-rounded tannins and a lingering dark fruit finish.  This is my type of wine.  I'll try to save a sip for Dad.

Luca Bosio Vineyards Barolo DOCG 2013:  Garnet red in color, this Nebbiolo shows an incredible variety of aroma due to the grape’s natural characteristics and long aging period that add complexity, body and class. It has great structure and big tannins, that smooth out during the aging process, with a structure that perfectly matches with its massive aromas. Barolo is the best expression of the Piedmont region.  My dad met me in Rome back in 2001.  I know he'll love this wine.  Now we need to get to Piedmont to visit Luca Bosio.

Henry's Drive "H" Syrah:  Henry’s Drive “H” Shiraz 2014 is a more contemporary version of the classically vibrant Padthaway Shiraz. It is very aromatic, with a nose reminiscent of elderberry, rhubarb, and pink peppercorns. On the palate, one detects notes of plum, olive, and sage—all of which intermix with a delicate structure. The flavors linger and the wine finishes with delicate, fine tannins.  I'll make some Italian sausage to go with this wine.

Famiglia Bianchi Malbec:  A deep red color, with vivid purple highlights, Valentin Bianchi’s Famiglia Bianchi Malbec has luscious fruit aromas, with hints of ripe plums and cherries, combined with subtle spicy touches. Aromas of chocolate, roasted coffee, mocha cream and vanilla are also present. The strong fruit flavors come through on the palate, with an intense, persistent and round mouthfeel, showing sweet and ripe tannins and good structure, with the fruit carrying through to the long, lasting finish.

Famiglia Bianchi Nebbiolo Malbec:  Deep red with purple shades in color, this wine displays red fruits and aromas of cherries on the nose. There is a complex and endless fruit including red currants, raspberries, pomegranates, truffles, ripe plums and violets. It has an extraordinary presence in the mouth-feel, spicy notes, powerful with a stronger sense of tannins with a concentrated and elegant sense of acidity.

Happy Father's Day to all the dads!