Here’s Your All-American Labor Day Wine List

Photo Credit: Lee Hnetinka 

There is something about this time of year, at least where I live. We are asked to get back into routine, pools close, bedtimes assume the early position.

But it’s still absolutely summer out there. Everything is in bloom, bursting with life, it’s greenhouse hot. It seems as if we cling to the idea of Labor Day as a last hot ‘n heavy hurrah. Let’s party. Amirite?

Labor Day is celebrated in the U.S. on the first Monday of September every year. It is a day set aside — officially designated as a national holiday in 1894 — to honor the American worker. Many are given the day off to rest and enjoy time with loved ones. It’s a long weekend that is often set aside for travel and parties.

For many of us, it’s also the ceremonial end to summer and a time to share outdoor meals with family members. And this requires wine, of course. (And this game that some people call cornhole — friends that aren’t from America, have you heard of this?)

Here are a few bottles that would be cool for Labor Day Weekend. Curious what you all will be drinking and pairing. Please let us know in the comments. 👇🏽

Raising a glass to all the workers that make the wine industry hum. Here’s to you!

Photo Credit: rawpixel.com 

Cline Ancient Vines Carignane 2017 (Contra Costa County |$15)

This isn’t a variety that you’ll find everyday, particularly from California. But Cline has a reputation for making it well, so here’s a chance to experiment and enjoy. Full of body and tannin for that meaty BBQ grill goodness.

FEL Pinot Noir 2017 (Anderson Valley | $40)

I’d love to try this with a seasonal berry pie with, why not, some garden fresh mint. I’ve been in the mood for all things Pinot Noir lately and this feels like a match for a super-savory crust, maybe with a sprinkle of sea salt, packed with summer fresh produce.

Abbot’s Passage Sightline 2017 (80% Chenin Blanc, 20% Verdejo | Clarksburg | $35)

Don’t even try to tell me that you’ve had a Chenin Blanc and Verdejo blend from Clarksburg on Labor Day. I won’t believe you. This is the kinda unique wine I love to serve when someone at the party wants to talk about wine, get a bit geeky. Whole cluster pressed co-fermented. Fresh, crackling and vivid.

J. Wright Vintner White Pinot Noir 2017 (Van Duzer Corridor | $40)

and

Left Coast White Pinot Noir 2018 (Willamette Valley | $24)

If you seek a white Pinot Noir from America, look to Oregon. This is, of course, a white wine made from a red-skinned grape. It’s a unique winemaking play that doesn’t play by the rules.  J. Wright is the winemaker at Left Coast Cellars and also the producer of a personal label. Enjoy both for a very cool tête-à-tête.