“This is the time of year that I really want to break away from the heaviness of winter,” says Daniel Mochon, the director of wine and cuisine at Viscount Wines & Liquor in Wappingers Falls. “I get excited for the strawberries, the ramps, the asparagus; those foods should really be enjoyed with a lighter wine.” Mochon, a Culinary Institute grad, notes that generally that means rosés, Rieslings and other “un-oaked wines.” Below, Mochon picks three local standouts that can really help you celebrate the season.
“The Queen of Clermont”
Tousey Winery, Germantown. $14.99
“This medium-bodied, aromatic white offers fresh bursts of fruit with a tinge of sweetness,” says Mochon. “It’s a great choice for glazed ham, spicy food, or Asian cuisine.”
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“Rosato”
Cereghino Smith, Bloomington. $13.99
“I use this versatile wine to straddle the difference between a full-bodied white and a lightweight red,” says Mochon about the dry, complex rosé produced at this artisanal winery in Ulster County. “It’s really nice with grilled seafood and Mediterranean fare.”
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“Cabernet Franc Proprietor’s Special Reserve” 2010
Millbrook Winery, Millbrook. $27.99
“This is a real standout. In my opinion, it is Millbrook’s best Cab Franc ever,” says Mochon, who loves the “robust earthiness” and “nice doses of black fruit.” He adds: “It’s just fabulous with lamb and braised dishes.”
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