When it comes to summertime gift giving, there’s nothing better than wrapping a bow around the neck of the perfect bottle of wine. But do you reach for rosé or choose champagne? Brahm Callahan, the Master Sommelier from Boston’s award-winning Grill 23 & Bar, says it’s not quite that simple. “Choosing a favorite is really always hard,” says the man who oversees a collection of more than 1,700 bottles. Luckily, he decided to share five of his favorites with DuJour.
Champagne Pol Roger, Sir Winston Churchill 2002
“Nothing says thank you for having me like a bottle of Sir Winston, perhaps my favorite Tête de Cuvée, and inspired by a man after my own heart, Winston Churchill himself, who was never without a bottle of Pol Roger and a good cigar.”
Evening Land Vineyards, Seven Springs Vineyard Pinot Noir, Eola Amity Hills, Willamette Valley, Oregon 2011
“The perfect balance of old world charm with new world generosity, made by a star-studded cast of the wine world’s who’s who.”
Gramercy Cellars, Columbia Valley Syrah 2011
“Made by Master Sommelier Greg Harrington, this is one of the true stars in the Washington State wine scene.”
Bordeaux, Margaux du Margaux 2009
“It is hard to use the world value these days when talking about blue chip Bordeaux, but the third label of Chateau Margaux—one of the five first growths—delivers in spades. Classic refined offering balanced perfectly between integrated oak and lush feminine fruit.”
Elvio Cogno, Vigna Elena Barolo 2008
“The king of Italian wines, Barolo never disappoints. Cogno’s restrained traditional approach highlights the aromatics and complexity of world class Barolo while managing the tannins that can often require years of cellaring to tame. This wine is really up and coming, and not as well known as it should be.”
