As I Cee It

I started drinking wine a few years ago. At first, I would only drink moscato. The sweeter, the better. I moved on to Rieslings not too long after, and now I dabble in Pinot Grigios. However, when I really want a glass of wine, I reach for a bottle of Riesling. I’ve had good ones and I’ve had bad ones, I’ve had some that I don’t remember the name of, and some that I can’t find anymore. I continue to try new Rieslings and below, in no particular order, are a few of my favorites.

Basignani Winery
I discovered Basignani Winery when Jennifre and I won a tasting and tour at a silent auction. We invited some of our favorite ladies and had an AMAZING time, which JK documented beautifully in photographs. I’ve since been back to Basignani at least 3 times. They are constantly hosting events there, including outdoor movies in the summer (I think it was last summer when we went to watch Music & Lyrics there – AWESOME). The owners are sweet and it’s a really fun place to be. They have several sweet wines, like the Monkton Sweet Delight and the Vidal, but I tend to purchase their Riesling more than any other wine they have. I would also like to note that they make the best Chardonnay I’ve ever had… and this is from someone who hates Chardonnay. If you’re in the area in the summer, you should definitely visit.

Chateau St. Michelle Harvest Select Sweet Riesling
I generally see Chateau St. Michelle on the menu as a (chain, mostly) restaurant’s option for Riesling. I’d had it several times and was never quite a fan. One day, I noticed the Harvest Select at my local liquor store (yes, liquor store. It has a surprising amount of wine there and it’s cheaper than the fancy wine store) and decided it was worth it to try. I’m so glad I didn’t give up on Chateau St. Michelle! It’s usually about $10, which works for me.

Dr. Loosen
Ok, here’s where I ask you not to judge me. For my birthday about two years ago, my sister had different Rieslings sent to me for about three months. I. Loved. That. Gift. Right up there with the wine refrigerator my mom bought me. (Do you see a theme here?) Dr. Loosen is the one that stood out to me as the best. Why would someone judge me for that, you ask? Because they sent more than one and I have no idea which one I liked! I added a wine here that I don’t remember the name of! But I loved it so much. I’m thinking of hunting this wine down and trying several until I figure out which one it was. It’s a tough job, but somehow I’ll muddle through.