Sip Through the Seasons with Jacqueline Coleman: Wine & Port Maven Behind Luxury Guide’s 2024 Taste and Travel Extravaganza
As Featured in Luxury Guide 2024 Print Edition
SIP THROUGH THE SEASON: A Journey into Wines for Every Time of Year
As the seasons change, so do our tastes and preferences. Join us on a delightful journey through the world of wines, exploring the perfect bottles and regions to savor each season—from the crisp whites of spring to the heartwarming reds of winter. Whether you’re lounging on a summer patio or cozied up by the fireplace, we have the perfect wine selections to enhance your seasonal experience.
Selections Curated By: Jacqueline Coleman
Instagram @historyandwine
Presenting Jacqueline Coleman, a versatile luminary in the realm of wine and travel. She’s a published wine and travel writer, a respected podcast host, a discerning wine judge, and a seasoned consultant – all of which make her an invaluable presence in the industry.
Jacqueline’s remarkable journey in the world of wine and travel starts with her pivotal role in Luxury Guide magazine. Contracted to curate our 2024 ‘Taste of All Seasons’ feature, she delves into the world of wines and ports, offering selections suitable for all seasons and budgets. What’s more, Jacqueline takes readers on a journey, suggesting the best travel destinations for wine enthusiasts throughout the year.
Beyond Luxury Guide, she’s the celebrated monthly “Vino” columnist for the Biscayne Times newspaper, where she opens the world of wine for readers. Her expertise shines as she takes on the role of a regular guest host on Linda Gassenheimer’s podcast, “Food, News, and Views,” where she delves into the captivating realm of wine and drinks.
Jacqueline’s influence in the wine scene extends further as she co-edits WineGuideMiami.com, providing invaluable insights into the wine landscape. Her dedication to wine knowledge is truly impressive, holding prestigious certifications from the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET) Level 3 Award in Wine, International Sommelier Guild (ISG), U.S. Sommelier Association, and FIU Institute for Hospitality and Tourism Wine Program. Notably, she is a Certified Sherry Wine Specialist (CSWS) through the Wine Scholar Guild, showcasing her deep understanding of the diverse world of wine.
SPRING SPLENDOR: Light and Refreshing Wines from the South of France
Spring bursts forth with renewed energy, and our wine choices reflect the desire for something light and invigorating from the South of France. These white wines from Provence can be sipped in style all season.
A Taste of St. Tropez: La Fête du Blanc, 2021 ($24)
La Fête wines are an ode to St. Tropez and a party anyone can join and celebrate. These wines are produced in partnership with the winemakers of Château Saint-Maur, one of only 18 Cru Classé estates in the Golfe de Saint-Tropez. The Blanc is expressive and bright with flavors of citrus and apple and a clean, refreshing finish. A wine fit for a South of France fête!
The Ultimate Mediterranean White: Domaine Tempier Bandol Blanc, 2022 ($59)
Domaine Tempier is the heart of this Mediterranean region, and Tempier wines exude the soul of Bandol. This wine is a blend of classic southern French grapes: Clairette, Ugni Blanc, Rolle, Bourboulenc and Marsanne. The aromas and flavors of spring flowers and citrus, along with fresh minerality, make this an ideal wine for a seafood feast.
Provençal Living: Château La Coste Les Pentes Douces Blanc, 2021 ($27)
Château La Coste celebrates art and wine in this golden, rich and alluring Provençal white. The wine expresses energetic flavors of citrus, peaches and pears and a rounded mouthfeel, finishing with a touch of salinity. Serve with a spring lunch of asparagus and seared shrimp.
Travel and Taste:
Live the luxurious Provençal lifestyle at Villa La Coste in Provence. Immerse yourself in the world of refined French wines, impressive art, modern architecture and relaxation in the heart of the vineyards.
Experience the French art de vivre of the Languedoc and the enchanting world of Gérard Bertrand through dry rosés. Each bottle transports you to the South of France through flavor and freshness.
The World’s Most Expensive Rosé: Clos du Temple, 2022 ($195)
This is a rosé of a lifetime! Perfect for pairing with a meal or on its own, Clos du Temple is an iconic wine from the birthplace of rosé in the heart of the Languedoc. This emblematic bottle and the exquisite wine inside will surely impress and excite anyone who has the opportunity to enjoy it.
Special Occasion Sips: Ballerine Brut Etoilé Rosé, NV ($49.99)
A sparkling rosé from the Limoux wine region, where sparkling wine production dates back to 1531. This Crémant is a blend of Chardonnay, Chenin and Pinot Noir and is inspired by the sunset seen from the rooftop of the Paris Opera. Graceful and delicate, like a dancer’s pirouette, Ballerine is a nod to precision and perfection in a rosé.
Rosé Every Day: Source of Joy, 2022 ($19.99)
Everyone needs a little joy in their lives. Source of Joy offers just that with a return to nature and earthly wonder. The bottle shape evokes elegance, and the wine mirrors that sentiment. It’s fruity but complex, with flavors of red fruits and citrus and an enduring freshness in a medium-bodied everyday rosé.
Travel and Taste:
To enjoy all the captivating wines of Gérard Bertrand, plan a visit to the South of France. Consider a stay at the five-star wine resort Château L’Hospitalet among the vines of the Languedoc wine region. A stunning place representing the true French art de vivre.
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SUMMER VIBES: Chill Under the Sun While Livin’ La Dolce Vita in Italy
Summer’s heat calls for these Italian wines that refresh and rejuvenate, whether at a beachside picnic or a barbecue gathering. Delight in bubbles from Prosecco and beyond. These are some of Italy’s most sought-after bottles from top producers across several sparkling regions.
Trentodoc: Ferrari Trento Brut, NV ($30)
Made in the traditional method with 100% Chardonnay grapes, Ferrari Brut is a lively sparkling wine that rivals any in its category. The grapes come from the slopes of the mountains of Trentino in northern Italy. Aged for 24 months on lees, the result is a well-balanced wine with ripe fruit-like apples, citrus and hints of fresh brioche.
Franciacorta: Barone Pizzini Bagnadore Riserva, 2015 ($80)
Franciacorta is a region that also produces sparkling wines made in the traditional method with primarily Chardonnay and Pinot Nero grapes. The grapes for this wine come from a single vineyard and production is small. Aged for over 60 months before release, Bagnadore Riserva is an exceptional wine for an exceptional seafood-based—ceviche, crudo or oysters—meal.
Prosecco: Bottega Gold Prosecco DOC, NV ($30)
Not only is this bottle a showpiece, but the bubbly inside is sure to get the party started. Fresh and bright with fruit flavors of pear and apple and a touch of delightful sweetness, this is a sparkling wine for dinners with friends that turn into endless summer parties.
Travel and Taste:
You don’t have to be a character in The White Lotus to enjoy the fruits of Sicily through these Donnafugata island wines that are perfect for those long summer days that melt into warm summer nights. Plus, you know you’re in good company with a Dolce & Gabbana wine collaboration.
Daytime Pink Rosato: Donnafugata and Dolce & Gabbana Rosa, 2021 ($50)Elegance in a bottle! With a bouquet of jasmine, rose and delicate fruity flavors, this Italian rosato is a stylish complement to any summer day. It’s made from Nerello Mascalese and Nocera grapes, which are uniquely Sicilian specialties.
Summer Nights with Vino Rosso: Donnafugata and Dolce & Gabbana “Tancredi” Terre Siciliane IGT, 2019 ($50)
Tancredi is inspired by one of the protagonists in the novel and film The Leopard, and the wine encompasses the charm of the Sicilian character for whom it is named. The label designed by Dolce & Gabbana pays homage to the film and the contrast between tradition and modernity. The integrated, full-bodied wine (Cabernet Sauvignon, Nero d’Avola and Tannat) is full of ripe black cherry and plum, as well as hints of spices and tobacco.
After-Dinner Sweet Passito: Ben Ryé Passito di Pantelleria DOC, 2021 ($50 for 375ml)
A sweet treat made of the Zibibbo grape (Muscat of Alexandria), Ben Ryé is a wine of the ages. Passito is a winemaking style where dried grapes are added to the fresh must for extra sweetness and aromas. The resulting wine is intense with rich notes of apricot, yellow peach, candied orange and tropical fruits. On the palate, it has a sweet, honied texture with a fresh, persistent finish, just like those beautiful summer nights.
Travel and Taste:
Visiting the vineyards and properties of Donnafugata in Sicily offers an opportunity to discover new wines from this unique volcanic terroir through themed tastings.
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AUTUMN ELEGANCE: Embracing Richness and Warmth in the Pacific NorthwestAs leaves turn and temperatures drop, our palates seek wines with more body and complexity to accompany heartier dishes. Dive into the world of earthy Pinot Noir and crave-worthy Chardonnay from Burgundian-inspired Résonance Winery in Willamette Valley, Oregon. Wines from select single vineyards and regional favorites are ideal complements to a meal on a cozy autumn night.
Single Vineyard Pinot Noir: Découverte Vineyard, 2018 ($80)
Découverte Vineyard is in the heart of the Dundee Hills and is home to organically farmed vines on volcanic soils. Pinot Noir from this location shows lots of fresh red fruit character with a vibrant complexity, a touch of chocolate and savory spice that keeps the wine singing long after it is sipped.
Single Vineyard Chardonnay: Découverte Vineyard, 2021 ($70)
Résonance’s Chardonnay leans more Burgundy than California and offers sophistication with clean minerality in the palate. Lemon zest, orange blossom and jasmine show on the nose, and fresh apples and pears greet the mouth for a Chardonnay that shines solo or complements an autumn feast.
The Heart of Oregon Wine Country: Willamette Valley Pinot Noir, 2021 ($40)
A wine that showcases the best of the Willamette Valley, this Pinot Noir is a fall staple. With expressive red fruits like strawberry and cherry, along with a hint of cedar and umami, this is a graceful regional wine with a unique character that leaves the drinker reminiscing about the brilliance of Oregon Pinot Noir.
Travel and Taste:
For bottles that will warm your heart, look to Washington reds for the richness to celebrate the season. These wines are perfect for family gatherings or simply sitting by the fireside with someone you love.
Washington specializes in bold Cabernet Sauvignon and stunning Syrah.
Washington’s Icon Red: Quilceda Creek Cabernet Sauvignon Columbia Valley, 2019 ($250)
Quilceda Creek produces some of Washington’s most collector-worthy wines, and this one is no exception. The 100% Cabernet Sauvignon is aged 20 months in new French oak for a complex, layered wine with bold, seductive flavors. Don’t miss the chance to experience this wine, which consistently scores in the high 90s by critics.
Dinner Party Syrah: Valdemar Estates Walla Walla Valley Syrah, 2020($70)
High altitude grapes make for a high value washington syrah. Walla Walla is one of the top emerging regions for wines fit for the worlds stage. It is here that the Valdemar Family excels with a remarkable showing of Washington’s best. Mulberry compote, violets, blackberry, cocoa and dried herbs complete the picture for a wine that satiates and heartens as the weather turns colder.
Comfort in a Bottle: DeLille Cellars “Doyenne,” 2021 ($50)
Doyenne combines Bordeaux and the Rhône Valley with grapes from Columbia Valley for a blend that inspires even in the depths of a moody fall week. Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Grenache and Mourvèdre unite to create an intense yet energetic wine that is structured and fruity with a long-lived finish. It’s comforting when it all comes together deliciously.
Travel and Taste:
Your table awaits at Valdemar Estates Walla Walla Winery & restaurant. Valdemar Estates is the first internationally owned winery to open in Washington state and was built from the ground up with extensive accessibility measures to ensure that guests of all ages—regardless of ability—enjoy their visit.
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WINTER COMFORT: Cozy Reds and Intimate Moments with Wines from Portugal
Winter invites us to cozy up indoors, enjoying wines that provide cheer and warmth during the coldest months. Portugal offers some of the greatest value for quality when it comes to wine. Cozy up to these bottles from the northern Douro Valley to the southern region of Alentejo.
Premium Portuguese Red: Casa Ferreirinha Quinta Da Leda, 2018 ($80)
The Douro is not only home to fortified Port wines but also exquisite dry reds from the same Portuguese grapes. Casa Ferreirinha is one of the top producers of wines in this style. Quinta Da Leda is a distinctive and complex wine with rich, dark fruit flavors and spice. It is an ideal accompaniment to a meat-based meal on a cold winter night.
The Star of Alentejo: Esporão Reserva Red, 2021 ($25)
Esporão is a classic producer in the Alentejo region, which has been making Reserva wine since 1985. This blend of Alicante Bouschet, Touriga Nacional, Aragonez, Trincadeira and Cabernet Sauvignon is aged 12 months in oak. The finished full-bodied wine shows flavors of blackberries and plum, along with baking spices and licorice.
Winter Day Drinking: Esporão Colheita Red, 2022 ($18)
For everyday warmth, the Esporão Colheita Red is a vibrant wine with notes of red berries and spice. Colheita is 100% organic and made with nature in mind. Pair this with a meal of lamb and vegetables like eggplant and bell pepper, or simply sip while enjoying the freshness of a sunny winter day.
Travel and Taste:
Herdade do Esporão, located in Portugal’s Alentejo wine region, offers guests incredible vineyard tours with wine and olive oil tastings on the historic property. The winery is home to the Michelin-starred Herdade do Esporão Restaurant, which earned a “Green Star” for working with local products and zero-waste practices.
Explore the world of Port with a trip to the enchanting Douro Valley. Taylor Fladgate, one of Portugal’s oldest premium Port houses, offers a taste of elegance in these iconic fortified wines.
A Port Like No Other: Taylor Fladgate “Golden Age” 50-Year Tawny ($300)
Established luxury in a bottle, this impressive wine has 50 years of history. Now showing its “golden age” of maturity, the Tawny Port is a perfect gift for someone celebrating a milestone.
Impress Your Guests: Taylor Fladgate Vintage Porto ($100+)
Vintage Ports are only produced in the best years. These exclusive bottles are reserved for those seeking to understand and enjoy an exact moment in time. Though they reflect a single harvest year in the Douro Valley, their legacy is how and where they are enjoyed by the one opening the bottle.
Weeknight Delight: Taylor Fladgate 10-Year Tawny ($30)
Port should not be reserved just for special occasions. Taylor’s 10-year Tawny is an affordable wine that can be integrated into life’s ordinary pleasures. It still offers a fully matured, aged Tawny with classic nuttiness, a touch of butterscotch and dried fruit. Silky smooth in the palate, the elegant fig and nutty finish will be long remembered.
Travel and Taste:
Experience the charming city of Porto and the story of Taylor’s Port by staying at the luxurious wine hotel and spa, The Yeatman. Enjoy a room with spectacular, unmatched views of the Douro River.
