Leslie Sbrocco, host of Taste This and wine expert, makes $100 stretch on a shopping spree challenge at Total Wine & More in Pleasant Hill. Leslie knows her wines, but will she be able to buy at least 5 tasty wines, while keeping it all under budget? Watch and find out!
Leslie shares her notes on the wines purchased during her shopping spree...
- Montes ‘Classic’ Malbec, Chile $9.99
When you think of Malbec, your mind might run to Argentina. But, neighboring Chile makes delicious versions, as well. This lush yet vibrant red is crafted by one of Chile’s top producers, Montes. It’s a wine to stock up on for cool-weather sipping. - Kia Ora Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, New Zealand $8.99
Savvie (as the Kiwis say) is a sassy white and this example is classic Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc – crisp, lemony, a touch of herbal notes and juicy finish. A great wine to have on hand for fish dishes. - Spier Discover Collection, Pinotage-Shiraz, South Africa $7.99
The signature red grape of South Africa is Pinotage, which is a cross of Pinot Noir and Cinsault. When blended with fruit-packed Shiraz, the earthy Pinotage shows balance and drinkability. With no oak ageing, it’s a wine to chill and enjoy.
- Atrium Malbec, Cahors, France $12.49
Malbec from France? Oui. Actually, the southwestern French region of Cahors is the home of the hearty red grape variety. This wine is earthy and powerful with a dense tannic structure. A Malbec made for meat dishes. - Albino Armani Schiava Rosé, Valdadige, Italy $12.99
What a find! I visited this property in northern Italy years ago and was impressed. This pink is made from the unique grape, Schiava. Its juicy strawberry aromas are backed up by a fruit-bowl of red berry flavors. With honey glazed ham and scalloped potatoes, it sings. - Montaudon Brut Champagne, France $28.99
Hailing from the Champagne region of France, this creamy, dry-styled bubbly is a beauty. With nutty, ripe fruit aromas and a racy mouthfeel, it invites sipping with everything from spicy Kung Pao chicken to savory roast pork.
- Martin Ray Chardonnay Sonoma County, California $9.99 (half-bottle)
I love buying half bottles. Each one contains about two glasses worth of wine. This white from Sonoma’s historic Martin Ray winery is elegant and stylish. Pour alongside brie cheese for an evening appetizer. - Rondel Brut Cava, Spain (single-serve bottle) $2.99
Who doesn’t want a glass of bubbles every night? It’s simple to do with Rondel’s single serve options. Cava is sparkling wine from Spain and this easy-drinking, succulent sparkler is ideal with dinner for one, or as a blender in Mimosas for two. - “We Are” Red Blend, California (per single-serve can) $2.99
Wine in cans are a hot trend these days. They are portable making football tailgates and beach days wine-worthy events. This red blend is not serious, but seriously fun to drink.
- Pacific Peak Chardonnay, California $1.97
Forget Two-Buck Chuck… Pacific Peak wins the dollar-wine-game. What do you get for $1.97? A simple yet drinkable white wine that is pretty darn good. Not bad for the price.