We Love New York Wines & Spirits
Channing Daughters, “Ramato” – 2022 $19.96
“Ramato,” the Italian word for the color copper, is an old Friulian style of Pinot Grigio with skin-contact fermentation. Channing Daughters’ take on this orange wine was delicious! Aside from the stunning color, I enjoyed the aromas of honey, chestnuts and peaches, and on the palate this wine has amazing texture and salinity that is even better the second day. This was a complex and super fun orange wine that would pair well with a lot of meals – I had enjoyed it with some cheeses, and I think it would make the perfect accompaniment to your favorite Indian or Ethiopian dishes! Channing Daughters Winery is also a founding member of the Long Island Sustainable Winegrowing Program, and recycles all grape pomace like seeds and pulp to generate compost! – Victoria Pagan, Astor Wines & Spirits Consultant
Channing Daughters “Mudd West Vineyard” Sauvignon Blanc – 2023 $21.96
The Mudd Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc is a clean, crisp, aromatic dry white wine that displays mineral, citrus, stone and tree-fruit flavors and aromas. Fermented entirely in stainless steel with fruit from some of the oldest Sauvignon Blanc vines on Long Island which were planted in 1975 (on their own roots!). All fruit was hand-picked, whole cluster-pressed, and handled minimally. This wine possesses flavors and aromas of white grapefruit, lime, herbs, cut grass, talc, tangy white peach, a chalky, and even some hints of tropical fruits and white flowers. This is a dynamic wine exhibiting medium body, moderate alcohol, juicy acidity and a long lasting, persistent finish with beautiful subtlety and delicacy. Pairs magically well with local oysters and clams, charcuterie, asparagus and egg dishes as well as most white-fleshed fish. – Simon Gouldstone, Astor Wines & Spirits Consultant
Bloomer Creek, Skin Fermented Gewürztraminer – 2023 $24.99
Kim Dingle and Debra Birmingham planted their first vines in the Finger Lakes in the early eighties. Ever since, they were pioneers in organic farming and non interventionist wine making. Through the years, they’ve been spurred by their own curiosity to make a vast array of styles, from petnats to orange wines. They are amongst my American wine heroes. This Gewurz sees 7-10 days of skin fermentation. It has a glowing rusty hue that’s nearly opaque in appearance. Wondrous aromas of stewed apples, cinnamon spice, and yellow flowers grace the nose. It is dry on the palate. The same notes are there with hints of crystalized ginger and grapefruit zest. I’m sure you’ll find your own tasting notes in there since it is stacked with them. It’s a wine I want to drink every day. – Chung Park, Astor Wines & Spirits Consultant
Forthave Spirits Marseille Amaro $27.96
Italian amaros may steal all the shelf space, but this little gem from Brooklyn deserves your undivided attention. Founders Daniel de la Nuez and Aaron Fox have a small-batch, all-natural approach, using only organic botanicals and making all their concoctions in a tiny space in Greenpoint. Their Marseille amaro is based on the secret recipe of four medieval thieves who were caught stealing from plague victims in Marseille and set free when they gave up their recipe. You’ll find enticing aromas of cinnamon and clove, while on the palate they’re joined with Eucalyptus, vanilla, and anise. The addition of honey lends a soft sweetness in just the right amount to balance out the bitterness. It’s become one of my favorite after-dinner digestifs. – Amy Miller, Sales Manager
Forthave Black Nocino Liqueur $31.96
If I had to pick one liqueur off my shelf to bring on a ski trip, it would have to be Nocino. Particularly this divine expression created by Brooklyn’s own Forthave Spirits. Like all Forthave products it is all natural and plant based. The star of the show is the locally foraged black walnuts; deep in flavor and true to nature, perfectly integrated with the spirit behind it. The only sweetener is organic sugar from Brazil or wildflower honey from Upstate New York, lending the walnut notes a lightly candied quality. The nose is mature and concentrated like varnished hardwoods from the 9 months of aging. Treat yourself to this singular liqueur, mixed with coffee or neat after a meal. Though my favorite application is to liberally drizzle it over vanilla gelato. – Evan Cucciniello, Astor Wines & Spirits Consultant
Jaywalk Straight Rye Whiskey $44.99
It’s great to know of home grown success stories like the NY Distlling Company. Founded in 2011, they’ve recently moved their distillery to a facility 3 times as large. This coincides with the long awaited bottling of Jaywalk, their new special rye. If you thought their Ragtime Rye (now retired) was good, you haven’t seen nothin’ yet. An heirloom variety called Horton’s Rye is the star in this blend. NY Distilling has been farming Horton’s Rye in the Finger Lakes for years. The spirit has matured in barrel for 6-8 years and is finally ready for you. The whiskey is robust and smooth. If you like your whiskey drinks rich and opulent, you’ll be glad to have found this bottle. Just make sure you cross on street corners on your way home. – Chung Park, Astor Wines & Spirits Consultant