Bring The Americana Vibes And Drink Like A Patriot This 4th Of July
In a few days the United States of America turns 247 years old. Cue epic pool parties, boats on the lake, back yard BBQs, and fireworks galore! What could be more American? How about drinking American wine on America's birthday? I interview Joe Wagner, Owner and Head Winemaker for Copper Cane Wines & Provisions, about the significance of drinking local on this momentous holiday.
MK: Why should we drink American Wine on the Fourth of July?
JW: We’re celebrating America, of course. I think the most patriotic thing to do is to enjoy products made in America. As we’ve seen over the last 70+ years, American wines can compete with the best wine regions throughout the world. Especially on the Fourth of July, there is no reason to look offshore for great quality when America has so much diversity and versatility within its borders. This extends far past just California. There are some more traditional wines being made in Washington and Oregon, but states like Virginia, Texas and New York are thriving when it comes to wine production. A lot of consumers would overlook these regions, but there are some really great bottles being made there.
MK: What is one down-the-fairway wine and one out-of-left-field wine you're bringing to a 4th of July BBQ?
JW: Down the fairway, I would probably go with a domestic rosé. It’s summertime, we’re all looking for something chilled, light, and crisp to begin the celebration. There are amazing rosé wines coming out of Oregon’s coastal hills such Elouan Rosé. Oregon’s cool climate lends itself to mineral-driven rosé, beautiful acidity, bright berries and great mouthfeel. It is finished with a screw cap to preserve the crisp, clean aromas and tastes, and is a great choice for outdoor occasions: picnics, lunch on the patio, or enjoyed on its own as an aperitif.
If you’re going to stick to a single varietal, that should be Pinot Noir. Perfect for the Fourth of July, Belle Glos has their Red, White and Blue 3-Pack – the Freedom Package. Pinot Noir is arguably the best BBQ wine in my opinion. There’s a balanced amount of acidity that can cut through the fat and sweetness of the BBQ. This offering comes in a stunning wooden box printed with a plexiglass font pane. It’s sure to impress everyone at the BBQ this Fourth.
If you want to go really out-of-left-field, Michael Shaps Petit Manseng is a great option – if you can find it! It’s an obscure variety, but it packs an exciting punch on the palate. The varietal struggles growing in places like California, but it grows exceptionally well in Virginia where it can withstand the humidity. The result is a wine that truly expresses the varietal and terroir/growing region.
MK: What's your advice to a Francophile who snubs their nose at American wine?
JW: Everybody has their personal preference, but the world of wine is so vast that there’s room for everyone. One of the things I enjoy the most about the world of wine is that you can explore regions, varietals and more to your heart’s desire and never get bored. I also think West Coast can produce California-driven wines with tons of richness and very ripe-in-style, but there are plenty of producers making more traditional, restrained styles the emulate the old world. So, get out there and have some fun experimenting with anything you desire.
MK: Have you ever tried wines from the vineyards Thomas Jefferson desperately fought for in Virginia?
JW: Yes, I have had the joy of trying some of those wines. They are world class, but they’re somewhat hard to find unless you’re in Virginia.
You can give Virginia the title of the birthplace of American wine, and the vision Thomas Jefferson had for creating a thriving wine business here in the United States. The passion for wine didn’t stop there. As the pioneers continued to plant in different areas of the States, we now see there are numerous amazing wine regions in the country, and – at this point – all 50 states have some sort of wine production. With each one being respectful of their roots. Offering continued [American] exploration for the wine enthusiast.
