Decks, Grills and the Jersey Shore

Because we've been gaining readers recently, it's time for the reminder about seasons. Craft beer seasons run ahead of the actual seasons by about 2 months. That's why we featured mostly summer seasonals in yesterday's Craft Beer Corner. We've also noted that our rose wines have been arriving in force; they are best enjoyed in the warm weather. To get the best choice of summer-friendly craft beer and wine, we recommend you shop at Joe Canal's soon!

Today, we'll take a look at some of the newest seasonal products to arrive, as well as some standard items.

Domaine La Colombe Coteaux Varois en Provence Rose 2015. We've carried this wine for a while, as a Provence rose is tough to beat. This is light-colored, with a very expressive nose, fruity on the palate, and possessing great finesse. Goes well with fish and grilled meats. It is also often appreciated as a delightful aperitif. 50% Grenache, 30% Syrah, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon.

Only $9.96 in the Bottle Club®.

Lagunitas Equinox. A creamy, pale oat ale hopped up with a huge charge of Equinox and Simcoe hops for a piney, eucalyptus, cedar, sprucey, forest blast. First brewed in 1995...brewed today in a time of change. 8% ABV, 50 IBU's. Available in 22oz bottles only.

Chateau Fontenil Fronsac 2005. 92 points from Wine Advocate. Their review: "From the home estate of Dany and Michel Rolland, the 2005 Fontenil has an opaque, thick ruby/purple color. Dense plum, black cherry, blackberry and cassis fruit jump from the glass of this full-bodied, terrific Fronsac, which is one of the appellation’s stars of the vintage. Long, rich, young, and capable of lasting another 15-20 years, this is one of the candidates for Wine of the Vintage in Fronsac. This wine actually needs another several years of bottle age."

A blend of 90% Merlot and 10% Cabernet Sauvignon, the WA team tasted this wine in 2006, 2008, and 2015. They rated it consistently, going from an initial 90-92 points, to 90+, and finally ending at 92. Also rated 91 points by Wine Spectator. Only $25.99 in the Bottle Club® .

Weyerbacher IPA Project #1. The first IPA release of this series, IPA #1, features a blend of classic hops, Centennial and Cascade, along with new varieties, Calypso and Equinox. This 5.5% ABV IPA has citrus and floral notes that meld into citrus and tropical flavors with an herbal undertone that ties it all together. Very limited availability.

Chateau Grand Mayne St.-Emilion 2010. 92 points from Wine Spectator. Their review: "A dark, lush, enveloping style, with flavors of fig paste, blackberry preserves and hoisin sauce forming an impressive core, while smoldering tobacco and charcoal notes entwine themselves around it. The finish is long and fleshy. Best from 2015 through 2027. 4,500 cases made."

This also rated 94 points from Wine Enthusiast, 92 from James Suckling and 90 from Wine Advocate. $45.99 in the Bottle Club®.

B. Nektar Stupid Man Suit. A limited availability mead.

Appearance - Ruby red, bright & clear with a slightly fizzy, off-white head that lingers on the rim.
Aroma - Sweet & bold, ripe berries complimented by crisp, tart apples.
Experience - Crisp apple and cherry forward. The sides of the tongue garner the tartness of dry apple and unripened berries while a mild sweetness rounds and balances. Medium body with a dry, refreshing finish.

Pair with cheeses like gouda and chevre, pork chops, chicken salad, mushroom risotto and light pasta dishes.