Five for Friday: Cool Climate Sips and Springtime Standouts
From vibrant Viognier to a bold Virginia red blend, this week’s picks deliver freshness, finesse and a few surprises worth savoring.
This week’s Five for Friday is a celebration of balance, brightness and bold character. The lineup leans white, but don’t mistake that for sameness, these wines are anything but predictable. From Washington’s Columbia Valley to Virginia’s rolling hills, this collection highlights the diversity and nuance that can be found in well-crafted whites and rosé.
A floral and fruit-forward Grenache Rosé from Browne’s Bitner Estate opens the set with energy and elegance, while Wente’s “Pacific Mist” Pinot Grigio delivers crisp citrus and a whisper of savory complexity. Bricoleur’s Viognier from Sonoma’s Kick Ranch brings a cool-climate twist to a classically lush grape and Charles Krug’s Sauvignon Blanc showcases Napa’s knack for fresh green fruit layered with tropical charm.
And then there’s the red—a Virginia blend from Early Mountain that pulls together Cabernet Franc, Merlot and Tannat into a rich, full-bodied bottle that’s both structured and generous. With notes of dark chocolate, plum and spice, it’s the kind of wine that lingers and earns its place in a lineup built to surprise and impress.
Bricoleur, Viognier – Kick Ranch, Sonoma County, California, 2024 ($40)
With white flowers lifting from the glass, this Viognier immediately charms. On the palate, honeysuckle, ripe peach and green pear form a vivid, expressive trio. A cool-climate edge gives the wine precision and freshness, offering a modern take on a traditionally lush varietal. It’s a sleek, stylish Viognier that’s as refreshing as it is aromatic.
“Viognier is one of the most aromatic and textured white varieties we grow, but also one of the most challenging,” said Tom Pierson, Associate Winemaker. “At Kick Ranch, the warm days and cool nights give that rare balance—tropical fruit, floral intensity, and freshness. Our goal is always to let the grape speak for itself.”
Browne, Bitner Estate Rosé, Grenache – Columbia Valley, Washington, 2023 ($20)
This medium-bodied rosé opens with an inviting floral nose, leading into a vibrant blend of pink grapefruit, watermelon and dried apricot flavors. These elements deftly circle a tart, refreshing finish. It’s an enticing rosé that defies expectations, delivering a unique and engaging profile that sets it apart.
Charles Krug, Sauvignon Blanc – Napa Valley, California, 2023 ($18.99)
A burst of fresh green fruit—passion fruit and green apple—greets the nose with vivacity. On the palate, crisp Granny Smith apple takes the lead, sharpened by subtle undertones of fresh-cut grass, lemongrass and a touch of pineapple. Balanced body gives this Sauvignon Blanc a welcoming, expansive finish without sacrificing its bright, zesty core.
This reporter is looking forward to a conversation with 3rd Generation Co-Proprietor Peter Mondavi, Jr. next month.
Early Mountain, “Novum” (43% Cabernet Franc, 30% Merlot, 27% Tannat) – Virginia, 2022 ($60)
This quintessential Virginia red blend offers aromas of dark chocolate, plum and bay leaf. Rich and full-bodied, it unfolds with generous layers of dark fruit and spice. The finish reaches a satisfying crescendo with lingering notes of dusty dark chocolate, delivering depth and finesse.
The wines from Virginia continue their upward trajectory. This is another made in a compelling style with loads of character.
Wente “Pacific Mist,” Pinot Grigio – Central Coast, California, 2024 ($18)
A crisp trio of lemon, lime and pear defines this lively Pinot Grigio, with each note cleanly articulated. A delicate hint of pine nut on the finish adds just enough intrigue to elevate its refreshing character. It’s a bright and easy-drinking white with a subtle edge.
