From Chile, a red and a white for Dad

Dad’s sock drawer is full. But there’s always room in the house for wine.

Pop will likely be delighted if you show up for the Father’s Day cookout with a bottle in each hand, a red and a white. Here are two great choices from Vina Ventisquero, a leading producer of estate and single vineyard wines from Chile’s most prestigious growing regions.

image005Queulat Single Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc 2012 is pale green to the eye and fruity on the nose, with tropical aromas of grapefruit, lime, pineapple and pear. This isn’t one of those wimpy, flowery Sauv Blancs. It has a pleasingly acid taste, with a slightly flinty finish. Serve this with the salad course or with grilled swordfish.

Ventisquero’s 2011 Pinot Noir Reserva is a gorgeous color, deep ruby tinted with violet. It’s velvety and fruity, with notes of strawberries and sour cherries and gently spicy tones of vanilla. I’d chill it slightly to about 55 degrees and pour it with pork tenderloin or grilled chicken.

Both wines have an MSRP of $17.99, offering both the quality and value we appreciate in Chilean wines. Plus, Dad won’t worry that you are spending too much money on him. Or if he thinks you spent more, that’s OK, too. After all, Dad is worth it.