Social Distancing — the wine edition


Let's face it, we're going to be social distancing for a while, so we might as well make the most of it. Here are a few picnic-friendly favorites you can enjoy outside with or without a meal. So, grab a bottle and remember to sit at least six feet away from your drinking companions.


Barone Montalto Pinot Grigio, Terre Siciliane IGT
You can find this refreshing tipple for under 15 bucks a bottle. It is great on its own (although some goat's cheese and crackers would be an ideal picnic pairing.) Notes of peach, citrus and mango coupled with bold acidity and a clean kick of alcohol on the finish make this wine deliciously easy to drink. And drink. And drink. Chill before serving.


Bunan Moulin Des Costes, Bandol
I adore Bandol wines and I'll proclaim it to anyone listening. It's one of the most underrated yet quality-producing regions in France, which means you can actually still get a decent bargain for some stellar wines. This inky beauty exudes summertime, with bright red fruit and delicate floral high notes. Smooth tannins and a dark chocolate finish seal the deal. (Pair with some homemade quarantine sourdough.)


Yes, I dip my crust in ranch.
Art of Earth Montepulciano d'Abruzzo
Along with the Barone Montalto, this is another wine from the Mack & Schühle catalog. Based in Miami, they bring an impressive lineup of global wines to the US market, including this Italian stunner. Priced around the $15 mark, this organic choice features hints of anise and baking spices to complement the ripe red berries and slight vegetal notes. It's the ideal picnic pairing for a charcuterie plate or a pepperoni pizza.


Epiphany Petite Sirah, Santa Barbara County
I'm going back to Cali with this final heavy hitter. In case you're flighting, this one is the biggest of the selection and maybe a little posher than other picnic choices, but if we're going to be sitting outside all summer, it might as well be with a velvet goddess. Dark fruit, vanilla and leather welcome you into this wine, followed by a rich and lingering cocoa and cherry pie finish. I paired this with a Beyond Meat burger that I topped with blue cheese. I have no regrets.

What are you drinking while you try to stay sane but also safe? Be careful out there. (And please wear a mask.) xo

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