Your Monthly Spirits Guide

Doe’s Eat Place and Washington Wine and Spirits

AS THE WEATHER GETS WARMER AND THE DAYS GET longer, it’s time to start exploring the best bottles of wine and spirits that May has to offer. From the unique flavors of Bonny Doon Orange Wine to the rich history of Uncle Nearest Rye, there’s something for every taste and preference. Let’s dive into these six standout bottles and discover what makes them so special.

Bonny Doon 2022 Le Cigare Orange Wine is a unique and delicious expression of the orange wine style. On the nose, there are aromas of orange blossom, honey, and stone fruit, with a subtle hint of baking spice. The first sip reveals a lively and textured palate, with flavors of orange peel, apricot, and peach. As the wine opens up, more complex flavors develop, including hints of tea leaves and a subtle earthiness. The finish is long and satisfying, with a subtle tannic grip that lingers on the palate. The orange wine is made using a combination of white and red grape varieties, which gives it a distinctive flavor profile that’s both complex and intriguing. The Bonny Doon 2022 Le Cigare Orange Wine is versatile and complex making it perfect for pairing with a wide range of dishes, from light salads to hearty stews.

Vietti Moscato d’Asti is a sweet and delicate Italian wine that’s sure to delight those with a sweet tooth. Made from the Muscat grape, this wine has a floral and fruity aroma with flavors of peach, apricot, and honey. With its low alcohol content and effervescence, it’s a perfect choice for an afternoon or after-dinner drink. The wine is produced in the Asti region of Italy, where the soil and climate create the perfect conditions for growing Muscat grapes. Vietti, a family-owned winery that has been producing wine since the 19th century, is known for its commitment to quality and traditional winemaking methods. This makes Vietti Moscato d’Asti a standout choice for those looking to experience a classic Italian wine with a sweet and delicate flavor profile.

Canerock Spiced Rum is a delicious and aromatic spirit that’s perfect for adding a flavorful twist to your favorite cocktail. On the nose, there are aromas of cinnamon, vanilla, and clove, with a hint of orange peel. The first sip reveals a smooth and velvety texture, with flavors of warm spices, including cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. As the rum opens up, more complex flavors develop, including hints of caramel and a subtle sweetness. The finish is long and satisfying, with a warm spice that lingers on the palate. The spiced rum is aged in oak barrels, which gives it a distinctive flavor profile that’s both robust and complex. The balance of flavors is exceptional, making Canerock Spiced Rum a true standout in the world of spiced spirits.

Barrell Vantage Whiskey is a true masterpiece, and its complex flavor profile is a testament to the care and attention put into its production. On the nose, there are aromas of vanilla, caramel, and honey, with a subtle hint of spice. The first sip reveals a rich and smooth texture, with notes of toasted oak, vanilla, and toffee. As the whiskey opens up, more complex flavors develop, including hints of cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg. The finish is long and satisfying, with a lingering sweetness and subtle warmth. The Mizunara oak barrels give the whiskey a distinctive flavor profile that’s difficult to replicate, and the French oak and toasted American oak barrels add complexity and depth. Its recognition as the Number 3 whiskey on the Whisky Advocate’s top 20 whiskies of 2022 list is well-deserved, and it’s sure to be a favorite among whiskey enthusiasts for years to come.

Hendrick’s Flora Adora Gin is a truly unique and captivating spirit. On the nose, the floral aromas are immediately apparent, with notes of rose petals, chamomile, and elderflower. The first sip reveals a beautifully balanced blend of botanicals, with juniper, coriander, and angelica root at the forefront, followed by hints of orange peel, lavender, and black pepper. The finish is long and smooth, with a subtle sweetness that lingers on the palate. The combination of botanicals is expertly balanced, resulting in a gin that’s both complex and harmonious. Hendrick’s Flora Adora Gin is a testament to the art of gin-making and the passion that goes into creating the high-quality spirits that have come from their cabinet of curiosities in recent years.

Uncle Nearest is an incredible producer honoring a true innovator and their newest release is fantastic rye whiskey. On the nose, there are aromas of caramel, vanilla, and honey, with a subtle hint of oak. The first sip reveals a smooth and velvety texture, with flavors of butterscotch, toffee, and baking spices. As the whiskey opens up, more complex flavors develop, including hints of cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg. The finish is long and satisfying, with a subtle warmth that lingers on the palate. Master Blender Victoria Butler continues to create exceptional batches for Uncle Nearest and we cannot wait to see what will come out of the new distillery that was recently completed over the next several years.

In conclusion, May offers a great selection of bottles to explore. From the refreshing and unique Bonny Doon Orange Wine to the bold and spicy Canerock Rum, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, grab a glass and cheers to the flavors and aromas of the season and always, thank you for letting us be your Spirits Guides here at Washington Wine & Spirits.