March 2026 Wine Notes

Pressed for Thought, Maria Chiancola, March 1, 2026

March issues in Spring. (Yes, full disclosure, this is I an exercise in Manifestation.)  Fair enough, the solstice doesn’t come until the 20th, but there is a quality to the air that indicates that Mother Nature issurely teasing out Spring.  For me, it starts with a particular color of the sky, which is a distinctive blue that suggests that we can put sandals on or discard that extra layer, but I know better after fifty-five years in the Northeast. (Okay, truth be told, I only learned last year.) You know this blue, somewhere between cobalt and royal, it invokes the speckled blue eggshells of rare heritage chickens, or more often candied chocolate eggs. Surely it is the angle of the sun that produces this inviting blue that calls me like a sparkling ocean pool each spring, telling me to put on my sandals and go boldly out for a walk.  It is so pretty, I don’t even mind being misguided. Naturally, I freeze, but there is the promise of spring that keeps me warm!

I hear the birds chirping happily, and I find myself smiling, imagining these birds gathering bits to start building their nests.  It is as if the air is wrapping itself around me.  It is both cooling and warming, the balance of light and dark, and the aroma of petrichor alights my senses.  The air is heavy with the smell of fertile earth, as if the wet winter water is evaporating directly into that blooming hellebore. Well, I suppose it is.  Anyway, it is all so intoxicating and it makes me hungry for new flavors and wines to pair with them.

Winter has prepared the earth for new beginnings, and I can taste it.  It tastes of stone, water, earth, with just a hint of sweet fruitiness.  I am thinking about oysters and other shellfish, while still enjoy the root vegetables available.  Last week, I got some fresh beets at the Farmer’s Market in Nyc, and we just mandolined (yes, I am in the mood for making up words, too!) those beauties over some fresh lettuces, which gave the most lovely sweetness to contrast the bitter and delicious chicories.  

It is with these flavors that we selected the March wines, so they contribute to the light and dark flavors of (dare I say it?) early spring. If that isn’t manifestation, I don’t know what is!

Cheers,

Maria

2024 Matthiasson Rosé

This is one of our all time favorite rosés. The 2024 Matthiasson Rosé dances in the glass with a light, almost ethereal feel and a delicate coral hue. On the nose and palate you’ll find bright citrus and subtle red fruit — think grapefruit zest, strawberry and raspberry — lifted by refreshing acidity and a clean, salty minerality that keeps it lively. The texture is light‑bodied and effortless, with just enough fruit presence, finishing crisp and dry. It’s wonderfully versatile at the table, pairing beautifully with fresh salads, seafood, spring vegetables, lamb or simply enjoyed on its own on a warm afternoon. This is worth keeping around until the weather turns!

2022 Goldschmidt Reserve Singing Tree Chardonnay

The 2022 Singing Tree Chardonnay offers a bright, inviting expression of Russian River fruit with a lively yet balanced profile. Aromas of very ripe yellow pear, peach, citrus blossom and subtle tropical notes lead into a palate that feels crisp and energetic, with flavors of nectarine, lemon zest and baked pear and butterscotch framed by a hint of flinty minerality. The acidity is fresh and clean, giving the wine great lift, while a touch of creamy roundness adds texture without heaviness. It finishes with a clear, refreshing line that makes this Chardonnay great on its own or paired with shellfish, roasted chicken or creamy pasta dishes.

2024 Casa Do Valle Branco

The 2024 Casa Do Valle Branco Seco Vinho Verde opens with a pale straw hue that practically invites you to take the first sip. On the nose there’s a lively, bright perfume of citrus — think lemon zest and green apple — layered with delicate floral aromas and just a whisper of tropical fruit. On the palate it feels light-bodied and energetic, with a crisp, clean acidity that gives it that classic Vinho Verde drive. Flavors of grapefruit, lime, and subtle tropical hints take over the palate, finishing dry and refreshing. It’s elegant without being fussy — perfectly suited to shellfish, light salads, or simply sipping in good company on a sunny afternoon.

2023 Chateau La Rose Bois Montet

The 2023 Château La Rose Bois Montet Côtes de Bordeaux is a classic, easy-to-enjoy Bordeaux that balances ripe fruit with a touch of structure. On the nose, you’ll find inviting aromas of black cherry, plum, and red berries, with subtle hints of spice and a light earthy note in the background. The palate is medium-bodied and smooth, offering juicy dark fruit flavors supported by soft tannins and fresh acidity. There’s just enough structure to remind you it’s Bordeaux, but it stays approachable and polished throughout. The finish is clean with a gentle touch of spice and lingering fruit. A natural match for roast chicken, grilled steak, or a simple cheese board.

2024 Cora Montepulciano d'abruzzo

The 2024 Cora Montepulciano d’Abruzzo greets you with easygoing, fruit-driven energy — think juicy dark cherry and ripe plum framed by a hint of warm spice and gentle earthiness. Medium-bodied with soft, approachable tannins and bright acidity, it’s balanced and refreshing without being overly serious. There’s enough structure to pair beautifully with classic Italian fare like tomato-sauced pasta or pizza, but it’s also just fun to sip on its own. Overall, this is a friendly, everyday Italian red that delivers satisfying flavor and versatility.

2024 Chemin de La Pinede Blanc

The 2024 Chemin de la Pinede Blanc is a light, lively French white that feels fresh and effortless in the glass. You’ll notice bright orchard fruit — think pear and white peach — with a crisp citrus lift that keeps the palate energetic. There’s a subtle flinty note and gentle acidity that give it a clean, refreshing finish, making it easy to enjoy on its own or with seafood, salads, or light appetizers. A faint herbal nuance adds complexity without overpowering the fruit, and the balance between freshness and texture makes it especially versatile at the table.

2021 Quinta de Saes Vinho Tinto

The 2021 Quinta de Saes Tinto is a lovely example of a Dão red that feels both approachable and distinctive. In the glass it shows a bright ruby color, leading to aromas of ripe red berries — think cherry and strawberry — with gentle spice and a touch of toast from its time in oak. On the palate it’s medium-bodied and smooth, with well-integrated fruit, soft, refined tannins and a lively acidity that keeps the wine fresh and balanced. There’s a subtle earthy, savory undertone that adds depth, and the finish is clean with lingering red fruit and a hint of spice. This makes it a versatile wine at the table, pairing nicely with grilled meats, hearty stews or even richer vegetarian dishes.

2024 Viña Zorzal Rosado de Garnacha

The 2024 Viña Zorzal Garnacha Rosado pours a bright, raspberry-pink and greets you with fresh aromas of wild strawberry, red currant and delicate floral notes. On the palate it’s dry, lively and juicy, with crisp acidity that lifts vibrant red fruit flavors and a hint of citrus zest. There’s a subtle herbal edge and a clean, persistent finish that keeps it refreshing from first sip to last. It’s a versatile rosé that’s as enjoyable on its own as it is with grilled seafood, fresh salads or Mediterranean-style tapas.

2024 Podericellario JO-LINO Piemonte Rosso

No this is not a rosé!!! The 2024 Jo-Lino Rosso is a bright, incredibly light and expressive red from Piemonte built on the native Grignolino grape, showing just how lively this lesser-known variety can be. On the nose, vibrant notes of cherry, strawberry and fresh red berries greet you, with a whisper of minty, herbal charm that feels both playful and intriguing. The palate is juicy and light-to-medium in body, with zesty acidity and soft, fine tannins keeping everything lively and easy to sip. Flavors echo the fruit aromas — think tart red cherry and raspberry — with a light, persistent finish that makes it a great match for rustic Italian fare or grilled meats, yet approachable on its own.

2024 Mokoroa Txakolina

The 2024 Mokoroa Txakoli is a lively expression of Getariako Txakolina with bright Atlantic energy. On the nose, expect fresh citrus zest, green apple and white peach framed by subtle grassy and floral notes that feel both precise and inviting. On the palate it’s crisp and clean, with brisk acidity and a delicate hint of natural effervescence that gives it a refreshing bounce. Minerality and a slight saline quality add complexity, finishing bright and invigorating — perfect with shellfish, seafood pintxos, or simply enjoyed nice and cold on a soon to be warm afternoon.

2021 Goyo Garcia Viadero Ribera del Duero

The 2021 Goyo García Viadero Joven de Viñas Viejas is a joyful, terroir‑driven red from old Tempranillo (aka Tinto Fino) vines in Spain’s Ribera del Duero that feels both fresh and expressive. In the glass it shows bright ruby‑red fruit — think cherry and raspberry — with hints of Mediterranean herbs, subtle spice and a touch of earthiness that keeps it grounded. On the palate it’s medium‑bodied with lively acidity and soft, fine tannins, delivering juicy red fruit flavors and a mineral, savory finish that feels both balanced and appetizing. With its clean, pure fruit and natural, low‑intervention style, it’s versatile at the table, pairing beautifully with everything from grilled meats and stews to charcuterie and hard cheeses.