Kicking it off: Nipozzano Reserve 2018, Chianti Rufina. A really nice variation on a classic Chianti, light and fruit forward but with a surprising amount of tannins - pretty heavily oaked, relative to a Chianti Classico anyway, it was no Knights Valley cab. Exceptionally balanced and highly recommended.
Hey, ain’t nothin’ wrong with Total Wine, I used to hit that up all the time when I lived in Florida. I think as you get more into it, and discover what you like, you’ll find that joining a few wine clubs is the best way to get smaller-batch stuff that’s more aligned with your own tastes, assuming you’re into domestic wines as well. I live in Portugal now so sadly access to American wine is scarce, but when I lived in Fort Lauderdale I had a bunch of wine clubs from wineries in California and Oregon which I really enjoyed. A great way to discover that is to plan a trip out west somewhere and just spend a week visiting different wineries and tasting stuff!
…but that said, if you let us know what you’ve liked and disliked so far, I bet we can sling you a few more recommendations to find similar things and help you branch out!
Definitely a fan of Bordeaux, Pinot Noir, some napa cabs, Brunello, Barolos, and other Italian reds. Pretty much anything red I am a fan of. Could never really get into whites but am hoping to find something I like eventually.
Sounds like you lean towards a bolder, oakier palate. Me too! You might try some of the drier whites from Alsace to see how those agree with you.
Sounds good I’ll have to try some