Warm reds to survive this crazy winter!

When the temperature drops, evenings grow longer, and snow drifts past the windowpane, there’s nothing quite like a glass of rich, comforting red wine to warm both body and soul. Winter is the perfect season to explore full-bodied, flavorful reds that offer depth, structure, and pair beautifully with hearty, soul-satisfying meals.

Some of my go-to favorites for the icy months of January, February, and March include bold, robust, tannic Cabernet Sauvignons; plummy, velvety Merlots; and spicy, fruit-forward yet gentle Malbecs. These are wines every red wine lover should keep in their cellar, ready to pour when winter calls for comfort, warmth, and a touch of indulgence.

Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Sauvignon is known for its bold presence, depth, and structure. It often opens with aromas of ripe blackcurrant, blackberry, and dark cherry, layered with hints of cedar, tobacco, cocoa, and sometimes green bell pepper or fresh herbs. On the palate, it is full-bodied with firm tannins and balanced acidity, delivering both power and elegance. With age, Cabernet develops remarkable complexity, with leather, spice, and earthy notes woven into its dark fruit core. Celebrated not only for its intensity, it is also versatile and endlessly rewarding.

Some beautiful Cabs I’ve tasted recently include:

Château Ducru Madame de Beaucaillou 2023 – Bordeaux, France

This polished Bordeaux blend of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petit Verdot reveals layers of blackcurrant, ripe blackberry, and dark cherry, accented by whispers of cinnamon, white pepper, smoke, and tobacco. Medium-bodied yet concentrated, it delivers intensity and depth with precision. Fine tannins provide structure and support, guiding the wine to a vibrant, lingering finish that is both elegant and refined. $30

Matthews Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 – Columbia Valley, Washington

A masterful blend of 76% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Franc, 2% Petit Verdot, and 1% Malbec, this 2021 Cabernet opens with an intense nose of dark plum compote and bittersweet chocolate, on the palate, it is generous and concentrated, unfolding with waves of blackberry preserve, cassis, toasted cedar, and a touch of espresso. Supple yet structured tannins provide a seamless backbone, supporting abundant fruit and refined balance through a long, polished finish. $50

Merryvale Vineyards Cabernet Sauvignon 2021 – Napa Valley, California

A commanding blend of 86% Cabernet Sauvignon, 12% Petit Verdot, and 2% Cabernet Franc, this Napa Cabernet embodies strength wrapped in finesse. The bouquet opens with lifted violet tones, crushed graphite, and seasoned cedar. On the palate, well-integrated tannins provide shape and poise, supporting layers of cassis and black cherry that unfold gracefully. Beautifully balanced today, this wine has the structure to mature elegantly over the next decade or more, gaining complexity and refinement with age. $78

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Merlot

Merlot is celebrated for its smooth, approachable style and generous fruit character. It offers inviting aromas of ripe plum, black cherry, and blackberry, complemented by hints of chocolate, vanilla, and gentle spice. Medium to full-bodied on the palate, Merlot’s velvety tannins and supple texture make it easy to enjoy from the first sip. Known for its warmth and elegance, it balances richness with subtlety, finishing mellow and polished rather than overpowering.

And here are two I tasted recently:

Northstar Merlot 2021 – Columbia Valley, Washington

This 82% Merlot and 18% Cabernet Sauvignon blend captures the essence of Columbia Valley terroir. Concentrated aromas of black cherry and ripe raspberry are accented by fresh mint and subtle cream. The palate revealing layers of dark chocolate, graham cracker, and polished cedar that flow effortlessly. Lush but luminous, the wine’s velvety texture, harmonious structure, and enduring finish make it a pleasure to enjoy now, while offering the balance and complexity to age gracefully. $50

Famiglia Cotarella Montiano 2020 – Montefiascone & Castiglione in Teverina

Crafted from 100% Merlot grown on volcanic soils, this 2020 Montiano exudes elegance and depth. Hand-harvested grapes are vinified in stainless steel and aged 12 months in barriques, producing a remarkable red. The nose is opulent, with sweet, smoky blackberry, violet, and plum notes layered with subtle mineral undertones. On the palate, it is refined, combining intensity with a velvety texture. Silky, finely grained tannins glide effortlessly, lifted by vibrant acidity, leading to a long, persistent finish with hints of dark fruit, chocolate, walnut, and delicate florals. $75

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Malbec

Deep and expressive, Malbec is known for lush fruit and velvety texture. It opens with aromas of blackberry, plum, and black cherry, accented by violet, cocoa, and a hint of sweet spice and lanolin. Full-bodied and richly textured, it delivers dark fruit flavors balanced by supple tannins and a soft, inviting finish. Sun-soaked vineyards give Malbec warmth and intensity, while evolving notes of leather, vanilla, and smoke add depth and intrigue.

Aluvia Malbec 2022 – Gualtallary, Mendoza

From limestone-rich vineyards in Gualtallary, this 2022 Malbec is a striking expression of altitude and terroir. Aromas of dark plum, blackberry, elderberry, and blueberry mingle with violet, wild herbs, licorice, and subtle incense. On the palate, it is succulent, balancing juicy fruit with chalky minerality and finely structured tannins. A delicate veil of fruit carries through to a long finish, enriched by wild herb and limestone notes. $30

What a spectacular set of wines for winter! Hopefully, I’ve tempted you to try them soon. Until the next one, cheers! Silvina

#thoughtsoflawina #winterwines #bigreds

4 Fine Selections 4 Valentine's Day!

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, making it the perfect time to indulge in something truly luxurious. Whether you’re planning an intimate romantic dinner or a cozy Galentine’s gathering, these wines are crafted for moments meant to be shared. Elegant yet approachable, indulgent and unforgettable, each glass brings a touch of romance and sparkle. This Valentine’s season, celebrate love in all its forms with wines that turn every occasion into something truly special.

This carefully curated selection from Folio Fine Wine Partners features two exceptional value sparkling wines, a crisp and refreshing Grüner Veltliner, and a rich, flavorful red, all under $30.

Spellbound Incantato Prosecco Brut DOC NV | SRP $14
Produced from a blend of 85% Glera with 15 % Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, this refined sparkling wine offers a focused aromatic profile of white florals, highlighted by green apple, pear, and white peach. The palate is bright and lively, with well-defined acidity seamlessly balanced by layers of citrus fruit and a delicate mineral nuance. The finish is refreshing and persistent, defined by clarity, vibrancy, and freshness.

Piper Sonoma – Blanc de Blancs NV, Sonoma County | SRP $23
A blend of 75% Chardonnay and 25% Pinot Blanc, this Californian sparkling wine displays a bright, expressive profile of white florals, citrus peel, and crisp green apple. The palate is taut and finely textured, with well-integrated acidity providing balance and definition. Notes of fresh orchard fruit carry through to a clean, precise finish marked by subtle fruit expression and finesse. An excellent aperitif, it also pairs beautifully with delicate dishes and light cuisine.

Laurenz V. Singing Grüner Veltliner 2023 | SRP $18
Made from 100% Grüner Veltliner, this wine presents an inviting bouquet of apple, peach, and citrus, complemented by the variety’s signature spiciness and a hint of white pepper. The palate is soft, juicy, and elegantly supported by fine acidity, delivering a lively, expressive mouthfeel. Energetic and approachable, it finishes vibrant, refreshing, and uplifting.

Oberon Wines Cabernet Sauvignon Napa County 2023 | SRP $29
Sourced from premier sub-appellations, including Oakville and Yountville, this Cabernet Sauvignon reveals a complex aromatic profile of vibrant black cherry, candied blackberry, and dark chocolate, complemented by subtle spice and a hint of coffee. The palate is structured and layered, with silky, well-integrated tannins supporting concentrated, expressive fruit flavors. Fine-grained texture, balanced acidity, and enduring length highlight the wine’s richness and harmony. This vintage exemplifies a seamless mouthfeel, sophisticated complexity, and exceptional balance.

There you have it! Four incredible wines, try them for your Valentine’s celebrations and as always, tag me on Instagram if you do.

Cheers! Silvina

#valentine’s day #thoughtsoflawina #winesforvalentine's

Two Fantastic Champagnes to Bring the New Year!

As the clock inches toward midnight, a certain sparkle fills the air, a blend of excitement, hope, and celebration. Nothing captures the magic of that moment quite like the pop of true French Champagne, its dancing bubbles reflect the anticipation of a fresh new year.

Each New Year’s Eve, more than 360 million glasses of sparkling wine are raised around the world, a testament to Champagne’s enduring prestige, precision, and finesse. Traditionally made from Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, and Chardonnay, Champagne marries structural vibrancy with refined elegance, making it ideal not only for ceremonial toasts but also as a benchmark aperitif.

From iconic prestige cuvées to characterful grower-producer bottlings, there is a Champagne to suit every palate and every celebration. The two selections below highlight the region’s diversity and craftsmanship, and stand out as compelling choices for welcoming a healthy and prosperous 2026.

Champagne Pommery Apanage Brut NV blends 45% Chardonnay, 35% Pinot Noir, and 25% Pinot Meunier, and also benefits from four years of lees aging, adding depth and polish. Its nose is generous and inviting, showing baked apple, croissant, and subtle confectionary notes, brightened by tangerine and yellow plum. The palate is rounded and approachable, with flavours of pear, mandarin, and gentle spice, lifted by a light, refreshing salinity. The mousse is fine and creamy, giving the wine a smooth, seamless texture that enhances its elegance. The finish is long and satisfying, revealing touches of hazelnut, dried citrus, and a faint honeyed nuance. $59

Champagne Mandois Blanc de Blancs 2020 is crafted entirely from organic Chardonnay and fermented in a mix of stainless steel, older barrels, and concrete, giving it both freshness and gentle richness. After four years on the lees, it has developed a smooth, refined texture and subtle complexity. The aroma is bright and delicate, with notes of white flowers, fresh apple, and lemon zest, supported by soft hints of almond and light toast. On the palate, it is crisp and focused, offering green apple, citrus, and a clean mineral edge. The finish is refreshing, dry, and precise, with a persistent mousse that underscores its purity and finesse. $96.

So there you have it, two excellent samples to welcome 2026 with the grace and glamour that only Champagne can impart! Wishing you a brilliant New Year filled with joy, health, and exceptional bubbles. Cheers! Silvina

#thoughtsoflawina #champagne #newyear2026 #drinkupamerica

Holiday Sparklers under $25

It’s that time of year again — the holidays are finally here! Between the twinkle of festive lights, the rush of Black Friday deals, and the excitement of gift shopping, there’s one more reason to celebrate: Sparkling wines.

For me, it’s always about finding something special within my budget. Whenever I can, I treat myself to real Champagne it’s one of the few luxuries I never skip when ringing in the new year. But if Champagne isn’t in the cards, don’t worry! there are plenty of delicious and budget-friendly alternatives like Crémant, American sparkling wine, Italian Spumante, or Cava.

Many of these more affordable bubblies are crafted using either the Traditional Method (Méthode Champenoise), where the second fermentation,the one that creates the bubbles, happens in the bottle, or with the Charmat method, where it takes place in large pressurized tanks.

To add complexity and flavor, some producers also opt for extended aging on the lees (dead yeast cells), just like in Champagne. Others may go for shorter aging periods, resulting in fresher, fruitier styles.

Now, let’s explore my recommendations:

1)Crémant: Lucien Albrecht Crémant d' Alsace Brut $24

Crafted using the traditional Méthode Champenoise, this Crémant is vibrant and expressive, revealing delicate floral notes intertwined with fresh fruit aromas — crisp apple, juicy peach, and sun-ripened apricot. On the palate, it’s lively and fruit-driven, with a graceful maturity that adds depth. Ripe fruit flavors unfold in layers, leading to a clean, balanced, and satisfying finish.

2)California Sparkling: Piper Sonoma Brut $22

Also made using the Traditional Method, Piper Sonoma Brut is a dry, fresh sparkling wine primarily composed of mostly Chardonnay, with a touch of Pinot Noir. It opens with inviting aromas of citrus, green apple, and orange blossom. On the palate, it delivers crisp flavors of green apple and mandarin orange, layered with subtle notes of brioche.

3)Italian Spumante (sweet): Bartenura Moscato Spumante $18

Made from muscat grapes this pleasantly sweet sparkling wine shows delicate floral fragrances of honeysuckle with hints of raspberry. On the palate, Bartenura Spumante offers a sweet medley of strawberries and melon, making it a delightful choice to enjoy on its own or paired with fresh fruit.

4)New Mexico Sparkling: Gruet NV Brut $18

Aged sur lie for a minimum of 18 months, Gruet NV Brut offers richness and complexity typically found in higher-tier wines. This sparkling opens with bright apple notes and follows through with a silky, dense mouthfeel. The finish is long and refined, with a subtle touch of sweetness — perfect for celebrating special occasions or elevating everyday moments.

I hope you give them all a try soon! Cheers to bubbles, bargains, and a bright holiday season! Best, Silvina

#Thoughtsoflawina #holidaysparklingwines #holidays #christmas

Brunello di Montalcino: The Best Expression of Sangiovese

Not every appellation is blessed with the ability to produce extraordinary wines. But among the many, one stands out: Montalcino, a place where Sangiovese grapes can grow to perfection. I mean no disrespect to Chianti Classico, it, too, produces excellent Sangiovese, but the ripeness and complexity found in Brunello are unique to Montalcino.

The region benefits not only from a warmer climate than Chianti, but also from higher elevations, creating ideal conditions to grow this grape. Moreover, Brunello is made from a special clone, or group of clones, of Sangiovese, known locally as Sangiovese Grosso. According to Biondi Santi, the pioneering producer of Brunello, this clone was originally identified in Montalcino itself.

But where exactly is Montalcino? It’s located just south of Chianti and about an hour’s drive, in the very heart of Tuscany. Unlike Chianti, Montalcino is much smaller, with about 2,100 hectares dedicated to vineyards. Interestingly, the wines here vary depending on the soil type. Grapes grown in clay-rich soils tend to produce wines that are fuller-bodied, darker in color, and more tannic. In contrast, wines from grapes grown in galestro soils (a type of flaky marl or schist often containing limestone) are generally lighter, more floral, and more refined. These primary soil types are often interwoven with layers of volcanic material, schist, and abundant limestone, adding further complexity to the final wine. The climate in Montalcino is Mediterranean, but the varied altitudes, ranging from 150 to 650 meters above sea level, create a mosaic of microclimates.

By law, Brunello di Montalcino must be made from 100% Sangiovese. This strict regulation came under the spotlight in 2008 during what was known as “the Brunello gate”, a scandal, in which producers were accused of illegally adding international grape varieties to their blends to enhance their wines. Yields are also tightly regulated by law, to ensure quality: a maximum of 8 tons per hectare for Brunello and 9 tons for Rosso di Montalcino. These wines are built to age, and by law, Brunello di Montalcino Normale must age for a minimum of five years before release with at least two of them spent in oak and four months in a bottle. Riservas are aged for a minimum of six years, with two years spent in oak and at least six months in a bottle. Traditional Brunellos are aged in large botti, typically Slavonian oak barrels, which impart minimal oak flavor, allowing the purity of Sangiovese to shine. In contrast, more modern Brunellos are often aged in smaller, new French oak barrels, which lend additional tannin and notes of vanilla and spice.

And then there’s also Rosso di Montalcino, essentially the younger sibling of Brunello (some call it “Baby Brunello”). It is made from either younger vines, less prestigious vineyard sites, or lesser vintages. It requires only one year of aging and it is released as early as September 1st of the year following the harvest. For many producers, Rosso offers a way to generate revenue while waiting for their Brunellos (both Normale and Riserva) to mature.

Stylistically, Brunello shows a medium-plus body with vibrant acidity and firm structure. Its aromatic profile often includes fresh plum, black cherry, violet, and blackberry. As it ages, more complex notes emerge, think mocha, leather, chocolate, and licorice. The tannins can be quite pronounced in youth, softening gracefully over time into a supple, elegant texture. Compared to Chiantis, Brunellos are bolder, more concentrated, and have greater body and structure, while retaining remarkable elegance and depth. 

My Wine Recommendations:
Fattoi Brunello di Montalcino 2019, $65 (not pictured)
Armilla Brunello di Montalcino 2018, $48  (not pictured)
Castiglion del Bosco Brunello di Montalcino 2018, $65(not pictured)
Casanova Di Neri Brunello di Montalcino 2018,$70

Other recommended producers:

Allow me to say that Montalcino is one of these areas in which is going to be almost impossible to make bad wine, not only the quality standards are super high, but also because of the conditions, to my surprise wines from these wineries have received above 90 pts by most Wine magazines too!

Altesino, Argiano, Antinori,Biondi Santi, Caparzo,Castello Banfi,Castiglion del Bosco, Casanova di Neri, Fattoria di Barbi, Fattoi, Tenuta Luce, La Serena, Le Chiuse, Le Macioche and Poggio Antico.

A warning: Brunello isn’t a budget wine. But it’s a luxurious treat—and if you love Sangiovese in any form, it’s an experience you absolutely owe to yourself! Cheers! Silvina

#thoughtsoflawina #brunellodimontalcino #italy #italianwines#sangiovese