CheekyChicago

I love statistics. No, not the spreadsheet kind of thing, but the year-end reports of what’s hot and what’s not based on the numbers. So, here is a curious one for you. Even though unemployment is dragging the economy and house prices are still depressing, last year, according to the number crunchers at Nielsen, the consumption of luxury wines (bottles priced $15 and up) rose 13.1% in dollar volume. And what about ultra-luxury wines (bottles $30 and up), you ask? They rose even more, 16.1% in dollar volume. What’s up with that? “Yes, honey, I know we have to give up the vacation to Naples,” (that could cost thousands) or “Really, I don’t mind not getting the new car,” (that could cost tens of thousands), “but if you think I’m going to start drinking Two Buck Chuck you have another thing coming.” In other words, perhaps luxuries that cost less are less likely to be given up even if they are ultra-luxury. And when it comes to wine, people are not giving up the good stuff.

So how do you know what the good stuff really is?  Here is a quick three point guide to make sure you get your money’s worth. First, go with a reputable brand. M. Chapoutier wines garnered all those 100 point scores from Robert Parker for a reason. A brand that has stood for quality for a long time is less likely to let you down. Second, look for a wine that is estate grown. If the fruit is grown under the watchful eye of the owner—as opposed to being sourced from somewhere else and then brought to a winery—it is much more likely that the vines will be well tended and not sprayed with something not meant for human consumption. Speaking of owners, third, look for wineries that are family owned. A family views a winery with an eye towards future generations, thus the wine is more likely to be well-crafted with a personal investment in quality.

Here are three wines to try that have a legacy of quality, with estate grown fruit and proud family owners behind them. No, I am not going to go crazy with the prices, but they are in the ultra-luxury category. So on your staycation when you are getting your European fix from House Hunters International, splurge a little and fill your glass with 2009 Sanford & Benedict Vineyard Pinot Noir, Santa Rita Hills; 2008 Chimney Rock Cabernet Sauvignon, Stag’s Leap (both around $60); or 2006 GAJA Da Gromis, Barolo DOCG (around $100).

Always remember, it may be a well-made wine, but it is only worth the investment if you enjoy the taste. Cheers!