Alberta Co-op Grocery

Valentine’s Wine Recommendations

Posted February 1st, 2012

by Eli, Interim Wine Buyer

Now, I know that some of you are far too preoccupied with planning your superbowl party to think about your Valentine’s Day plans
(and some of you are far too preoccupied with whatever you preoccupy yourself with (running for the board, perhaps?) to think about either), but it’s coming up here fast, folks. Maybe you have all intention to work out the details in a bit more time. I support that.

But, to get you thinking about what exactly your details will include, here is a list of my favorite wines at the Co-op currently, to inspire your potential dinner choices.

Cuma Organic Malbec - I really like this one. It’s pretty fruity, which makes me want to tell you to pair it with things like strong curries or chili or lamb

Cortijo Rioja Tempranillo - “This is a blend of Tempranillo with a small amount of Garnacha. Fruit forward wine with aromas of red cherry, red berry and a hint of spice.” Yes, I agree. Pair it with smoky food or something Spanish-influenced.

Good Chianti - This is a good one to pair with some kind of big meal that you are making yourself: pumpkin soup, lentil soup, vegetable lasagna, or with any Italian-influenced dinner.

Barricas Malbec - Two Malbecs! Well, other staff back me up on both of these. Weren’t convinced by the other food pairing suggestions? Try it with Goat Brie or the Smokey Blue from Rogue Creamery.

Stay tuned next week for my bubbly recommendations!

Tags: valentine's day, wine
Posted in Announcements, Food and Drink, Spotlight

Good Wine in a Box?

Posted November 1st, 2011

You read that right.  Wine in a box isn’t just for grandparents and poor college kids any longer.  I would like to introduce you to the Bota Box.

Bota Box produces premium California wine in 3-liter box and 500ml Tetra Pak, both made from environmentally-friendly packaging. Bota Box 3L is packaged in 100% recyclable, unbleached, post-consumer fiber printed with soy-based inks.

The wine in a Bota Box is kept fresh for up to six weeks after opening, allowing the more trepidatious wine enthusiast to enjoy a glass at a time without worrying about waste or spoilage.  Better yet is their 500ml size box of wine, which is equal to abour three glasses.  The perfect amount for a cozy night in.  Lightweight Bota 500ml Tetra Paks boasts a smaller carbon footprint than the equivalent amount of 750ml glass bottles. The smart, alternative packaging and size reduce greenhouse gasses by 75% and waste by 50%, cut fuel emissions due to its lighter shipping weight, and are produced primarily from paper which is a renewable resource. Our 500ml Tetra Paks are available inCabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Old Vine Zinfandel and Moscato.  The 3 liter bottles are available at the Co-op in cabernet sauvignon, malbec, zinfandel and pinot grigio.

Bota Box offers eight popular 3 liter California varietals: Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon,Malbec, Merlot, Shiraz and Old Vine Zinfandel.

What’s better is the price!  At just $3.99 you can choose from merlot, pinot grigio, moscato, old vine zinfandel and cabernet sauvignon in the 500ml. boxes.  We also carry the cabernet sauvignon, malbec, and old vine zinfandel in the 3 liter boxes (the equivalent of 4 regular size bottles of wine) for just $19.99.  Come in and try them all!

Tags: wine
Posted in Announcements, Food and Drink, Spotlight