I tend to get a little pushback when I introduce a new varietal or blend to my friends. We all know people who only drink Chardonnay or insist that Cabernet is too bold and assertive for their liking. Getting out of your wine rut can be hard but tasting out of your comfort zone can be liberating and rewarding. If it’s only Chardonnay you drink, be bold and reach for an aromatic Viognier (vee-own-yay) or creamy Chenin Blanc from France. If Cabernet is too bold, try a rich and velvety Aglianico (olli-yawn-nee-ko) from Italy or a savory Malbec from Argentina. These wines will surprise you and change the way think about buying and drinking wine.

TASTING NOTES
Comfort Zone is medley of Chardonnay, Chenin Blanc, and Viognier. Often overlooked and underappreciated, Chenin Blanc is one of the most versatile and balanced grapes in the world making it the true workhorse in this blend. The Viognier fills the glass with perfumed aromas of fruit cocktail filled with peaches, pears, pineapples and honey while the Chardonnay adds a refreshing and slightly creamy note on the mid-palate. A delicate sip with a hint of sweetness that pairs beautifully with creamy burrata cheese, or pasta primavera.