Winter's here, and we know that means a snowy day or two in the next few months.  This afternoon and evening, the National Weather Service is predicting two to four inches of the white stuff to fall in our area.

Sometimes we know a storm is coming, sometimes we don't.  Either way, we might as well be ready if we're going to be inside.  These red wines recommended by Cork57's sommelier Brian Murphy – all organic, some also biodynamic - will keep you warm as the snow hits the ground.  With a bottle or two on hand, and a few suggestions for meals that go well with Murphy's wine selections, you're all set for a cozy -- and green -- evening at home.  Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

An Argentinian Malbec and South African Pinotage Come Into Their Own
Tierra Divina (Malbec – Argentina) is a full bodied organic wine produced by Laurel Glen in Sonoma, California.  "The owners of Laurel Glen bought property down in Argentina and started producing this Malbec," said Murphy.  "It has a nice long finish with nice plum coming through, and it's good with meats and game."

One World (Pinotage – South Africa) is not only organic, but biodynamic and Fair Trade certified.  "Pinotage is taking off," Murphy continued.  "Now that the vines are older this wine is getting better and stronger.  When it's cold outside you want something stronger in a wine.  Pinotage is great with barbecue or anything grilled.  It would also be great with chili."

Bold Fruit Flavors from California and Oregon
bink (Syrah – California) is a very small production organic wine that Cork 57 gets directly from the winery.  Murphy said, "It's a little gem.  This wine has a nice, big blackberry finish and a little bit of minerality.  The winemakers are two women, and this Syrah is from Mendocino County."

Orleans Hills (Zinfandel – California) is an organic wine that's also vegan friendly with no sulfites detected.  "It's medium bodied with a slight bit of pepper," Murphy said. Murphy also recommended this winery when he selected organic and local wines for Thanksgiving.

Lachini  (Pinot Noir – Oregon) is an organic and biodynamic wine from the Chehalem Mountains in the Wilamette Valley.  "This is a medium bodied wine with nice notes of strawberry and raspberry," Murphy said.  "It's oaked but is nicely balanced with the fruit.  It's great with salmon or pork."

Wide Selection of Small Production Wines at Cork57
Cork57 is located at Arlington Boulevard and Bethesda Avenue.  Organic wines are marked with an 'O' on the store's shelves, and there are many to explore.  With vineyards just beginning to develop and produce organic wines, most are produced in small quantities.  It takes dedication and effort for purveyors to build a good selection, and Cork57's is uniquely wide and varied.  Major regions and varieties are represented and Brian and the team at Cork57 have built great relationships with the wineries producing these wines.  They are glad to educate and respond to questions.  Don't be shy to stop by, explore, and take the time to learn about organic wines.   Brian is friendly, knowledgeable and very helpful – whether you're a wine expert or just building your knowledge.  Enjoy!