2021 Trincadeira, St. Jorge, Lodi $40

Trincadeira or Tinta Amarela is an ancient Portuguese varietal grown in the Douro and Alentejo regions. A mere 5 acres are grown in California, all in Lodi. Aromatics of Italian herbs steeped in black tea tease the senses and beg for extended sniffing before sipping. On the palate it is juicy and lively with mixed jellybeans mingling with cotton candy meeting a fleshy cocoa character tinged in balsamic. The finish is the best part, it’s like a good first impression, it keeps you reminiscing about it. Pair with paella, sauced polenta, cheesy grits, creamy risottos, paprika chicken, pates, and salami laden charcuterie. In cheese, think soft, like Brie or a creamy Jack.