It’s becoming more and more difficult to keep up with the rising social media trends, especially on social media holidays (National Donut Day, anyone?). Here is one you will absolutely want to celebrate: National Wine Day. Who doesn’t love an entire day devoted to wine? While this holiday’s origins are unknown, the purpose is to “spread the love and health benefits of wine,” and that is something I think we should all be celebrating.
The potential health benefits of wine are noted as being plentiful, but none more than Resveratrol found in the polyphenols that reside in the skins and seeds of the grapes. They act as antioxidants, and because red wine has ten times more polyphenols than white wine, red wine is often referred to as “healthy”. Not all red wine has the same polyphenols, and typically one with higher tannins (i.e., Tannat) will have higher polyphenols. So we can confidently celebrate red wine because it has been shown by studies to help the heart.
To get you ready for this most sacred holiday, I have prepared a list of my favorite varieties. Let’s look at some wine from around the world that is worth cherishing on a day when we celebrate wine itself. Along with celebrating wine, invite your special wine buddies to savor along with you, because the best pairing for any glass is a friend to share it with. National Wine Day is not confined to American wine; let’s highlight some gems from both America and around the world.
Gran Moraine Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, or Rosé
Let’s start with a little appellation I love: the Willamette Valley. There is something special about Oregon. The people, the wine, the landscape — there is no better way to celebrate than with a crisp glass of rosé or pinot noir. If you haven’t yet given Oregon a try, this is a great way to kick off National Wine Day. Pinot Noir accounts for more than 60% of Oregon wine, but there are other varietals that shine. Look for Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc and Rosé.
Gran Moraine is a newer winery in the Jackson Family wine portfolio. Shane Moore, the winemaker at the helm, creates wines of elegance and vibrancy. Try the Rosé or the Pinot Noir. You won’t be disappointed. Also, go and visit when you have a chance!
McBride Sisters Black Girl Magic Riesling
The McBride Sisters are, in fact, sisters who were raised in California and New Zealand. Their vision “to transform the industry, lead by example, and cultivate community, one delicious glass of wine at a time” led to the sisters' success. So while you are sipping the crisp, delicious Riesling, give a shout out to these women who are making a name for themselves in the wine world.
Cloudy Bay
Cloudy Bay was one of the first wineries to put Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc on the international radar, and the result was a success. New Zealand is devoted to mostly white wines, with Marlborough being the largest wine-producing region. This classic shines with a citrusy, light herbal flavor that is a perfect way to celebrate a spring day and compliments whatever you have on the menu.
J. Hofstätter Pinot Grigio
There is a reason for Pinot Grigio’s popularity. This wine is refreshing and can be versatile in any scenario because of its neutral flavors. Pinot Gris and Pinot Grigio are the same grape which has a grayish-blue hue. Hofstätter Pinot Grigio is one of my favorites, consistently producing top-notch wine. You might be familiar with Pinot Grigio from Veneto, but the Alto Adige climate in Northern Italy does wonders for this grape. This region is close to the Austrian border, creating a crisp, quality drinking wine. Why not grab a bottle for drinks on the patio or grab a few friends for a picnic? This dry wine complements salad, seafood, or chicken, or can be sipped solo. Shop more Pinot Grigio here.
Bodega Numanthia
Spain is an exciting wine country offering diversity from light, dry white wines to big, bold red wines. Tempranillo, or Tinta de Toro as it is called in this region, is a classic wine grape. It’s about time that the world began to take notice. Toro is in Northwestern Spain, which is close to the Portuguese border. “Toro” means bull, which is a perfect name for these big, bold wines. Bodega Numanthia has long been known for quality wines, making this a perfect wine to celebrate National Wine Day.
La Celia Malbec
The Malbec grape has its origins in France, but Argentina has put Malbec on the map. Malbec has a distinct flavor and color and is perfect when paired with meat. The history of both Mendoza and the Malbec grape runs deep — this is a wine worth celebrating! La Celia was the first winery in the Uco Valley region of Argentina; their experience has led to some of the most exceptional and elegant Malbecs you can try. I recommend the Heritage expression; its complexity will delight even the most discerning connoisseurs.
In Closing
Today is a great day to celebrate wine. Whether you reach for bubbles, white, or red wine, try something new on this special day. Let me know if you try one of my recommendations and if you like it. Regardless of what you choose to drink, share a bottle with friends, and cheers to health, love, and wine!
"Accept what life offers you and try to drink from every cup. All wines should be tasted; some should only be sipped, but with others, drink the whole bottle." — Paulo Coelho
