Wine Recommendations By Varietal From Around The World

If you’ve ever heard a member of our founding team talk about BOXT, you know we always say, “we want to be your house wine - we aren’t trying to replace your bottled wine." Well - here’s the proof. We’ve conjured up a list of international wine recommendations for several wine varietals, including tasting notes. Grab your passport, and let's go!

Vineyard with Sauvignon Blanc grapes

WINE VARIETAL: SAUVIGNON BLANC

With its crisp acidity, vibrant fruit flavors, and refreshing herbal notes, it is beloved by wine enthusiasts around the world. So, if you're a seasoned connoisseur or a newcomer to the world of wine, exploring Sauvignon Blanc offers a captivating journey of discovery.

U.S. Wine Recommendation: Duckhorn Vineyards Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley, California

Tasting Notes:

Aroma: This Sauvignon Blanc greets the senses with vibrant aromas of citrus, tropical fruits, and fresh-cut grass.
Palate: Flavors of juicy grapefruit, ripe melon, and zesty lime are complemented by hints of lemongrass and mineral undertones.
Finish: Crisp acidity and a lingering finish make this wine refreshing and perfect for sipping on warm summer days.

Why Choose Duckhorn Sauvignon Blanc?

Located in the renowned Napa Valley, it is celebrated for producing exceptional wines that showcase the unique terroir of the region. Therefore, their Sauvignon Blanc exemplifies the varietal's vibrant personality and elegance. Because of this, it is a standout choice for enthusiasts seeking a high-quality expression of Californian Sauvignon Blanc.

International Wine Recommendation: Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand

Tasting Notes:

Aroma: Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc entices with intense aromas of passion fruit, gooseberry, and freshly cut herbs, with a hint of tropical citrus palate: On the palate, vibrant flavors of ripe kiwi, guava, and pineapple are balanced by crisp acidity and a subtle minerality.
Finish: Bright acidity and lingering finish leave a lasting impression and companion for seafood, salads, or simply sipping on its own.

Why Choose Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc?

Cloudy Bay, situated in the Marlborough region of New Zealand, is one of the pioneers of NZ Sauvignon Blanc. Therefore, Sauvignon Blanc is celebrated for its vibrant fruit flavors, crisp acidity, and distinctive regional character. It has become a benchmark wine for lovers of New World Sauvignon Blanc.

If you like these wines, you will love our Profile One. A gorgeous pale yellow, Profile One is an award-winning, clean, crisp, bright and dry fine white wine. It contains zero grams of sugar per serving and no unwanted additives. You'll love its citrus aromas and green apple notes. It pairs well with just about anything, especially seafood, chicken, vegetables and salads.

WINE VARIETAL: CHARDONNAY

Chardonnay, with its versatility, has secured its place as one of the world's most beloved white wine varietals. So, if you enjoy the rich, buttery notes of oak or crisp, vibrantcy of an unoaked expression, there's a Chardonnay out there to suit you.

U.S. Wine Recommendation: Rombauer Vineyards Carneros Chardonnay, California

Tasting Notes:

Aroma: Enticing aromas of ripe tropical fruits, including pineapple and mango, layered with hints of vanilla and toasted oak.
Palate: Flavors of creamy lemon curd, ripe pear, and baked apple, full-bodied texture and well-integrated oak influence.
Finish: Balanced acidity lingering finish, a perfect accompaniment to a variety of dishes or simply enjoyed on its own.

Why Choose Rombauer Carneros Chardonnay?

Rombauer Vineyards, located in California's esteemed Carneros region, is renowned for producing rich, full-bodied Chardonnays that exemplifies opulence and elegance. Their Chardonnay is celebrated for its luscious fruit flavors, creamy texture, and impeccable balance.

International Wine Recommendation: Louis Jadot Pouilly-Fuissé Chardonnay, Burgundy, France

Tasting Notes:

Aroma: Captivates with delicate aromas of white flowers, citrus blossoms, and ripe orchard fruits, such as peach and apricot.
Palate: Crisp green apple, lemon zest, and honeydew melon, vibrant acidity and a subtle minerality.
Finish: Lively acidity and clean, refreshing finish.

Why Choose Louis Jadot Pouilly-Fuissé Chardonnay?

Louis Jadot, a venerable Burgundian producer with a legacy dating back to 1859, is celebrated for crafting wines that capture the essence of their terroir with precision and finesse. Their Pouilly-Fuissé Chardonnay exemplifies the purity and complexity of Burgundian Chardonnay. Offering a beautifully balanced expression of fruit, acidity, and minerality speaking to the heart of the region.

If you like these wines, you will love our Profile Two. A beautiful golden-hued and oaky fine white wine, our Profile Two is fuller-bodied than our Profile One, has zero grams of sugar per serving and no unwanted additives. The buttery richness of Profile Two is balanced with aromas of sun-ripened tropical and stone fruits. This white wine pairs well with creamy cheeses and sauces, pasta dishes, pesto, white fish, all the shellfish. Additionally, fresh cracked crab and bright, crisp vegetables. We often hear our members delight in her butterscotch notes on the palette.

WINE VARIETAL: PINOT GRIGIO

Pinot Grigio, known for its crisp acidity, delicate flavors, and refreshing character, has become a staple in the world of white wine. Whether enjoyed on a warm summer day or paired with a variety of dishes, Pinot Grigio offers a versatile and approachable option for wine enthusiasts.

U.S. Wine Recommendation: King Estate Pinot Gris, Willamette Valley, Oregon

Tasting Notes:

Aroma: Ripe pear, green apple, and white flowers, with subtle hints of citrus zest.
Palate: Juicy peach, honeydew melon, lemon curd, minerality, refreshing and well-balanced.
Finish: Crisp finish leaves a lingering impression, a perfect pairing for seafood to salads to light pasta dishes.

Why Choose King Estate Pinot Gris?

King Estate, located in Oregon's esteemed Willamette Valley, is renowned for its commitment to sustainable and organic farming practices, resulting in wines of exceptional quality and purity. Their Pinot Gris showcases the unique terroir of the region. With vibrant fruit flavors and a crisp, refreshing acidity it makes for an ideal choice for lovers of Pinot Grigio-style wines.

International Wine Recommendation: Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio, Alto Adige, Italy

Tasting Notes:

Aroma: Delicate aromas of white peach, green apple, and citrus, complemented by floral notes of acacia blossom and jasmine.
Palate: Ripe pear, apricot, and Meyer lemon are balanced by a zesty acidity and a hint of minerality, showcasing the wine's elegant and refined character.
Finish: Crisp, refreshing finish leaves a clean and lingering impression.

Why Choose Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio?

Santa Margherita, one of Italy's most iconic wineries, has been crafting exceptional wines for over 80 years, with a focus on quality, tradition, and innovation. As a result, Pinot Grigio from the Alto Adige region exemplifies the varietal's classic characteristics, with bright fruit flavors, lively acidity, and a refreshing finish that make it a perennial favorite among wine enthusiasts worldwide.

If you like these wines, you will love our Profile Three. Fruity with gorgeous floral notes, our Profile Three is an alluringly golden off-dry, slightly sweet fine white wine, with zero grams of sugar per serving and no unwanted additives. This fruity white wine has a lightly sweet finish with aromas of flowers, stone fruits and honey. Therefore, it pairs well with sweet and spicy foods. Especially, sushi and Asian-inspired dishes as well as spiced chicken and braised ham.

WINE VARIETAL: ROSÉ OF PINOT NOIR

Rosé of Pinot Noir, with its delicate pink hue and vibrant flavors, has captured the hearts of wine enthusiasts around the world. Combining the elegance of Pinot Noir with the freshness of a rosé, this versatile wine offers a perfect balance of fruitiness, acidity, and complexity.

U.S. Wine Recommendation: Sokol Blosser Rosé of Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Oregon

Tasting Notes:

Aroma: Fresh strawberries, raspberries, and watermelon, with hints of rose petals and citrus zest.
Palate: Ripe red berries, cranberry, and pomegranate are complemented by a lively acidity and a touch of minerality.
Finish: Clean finish leaves a lingering impression, making it a perfect pairing for a variety of dishes. From grilled seafood to salads to charcuterie boards, its perfection.

Why Choose Sokol Blosser Rosé of Pinot Noir?

Sokol Blosser, a pioneer of the Oregon wine industry, is celebrated for its commitment to sustainable farming practices and producing wines of exceptional quality and character. Above all, thier Rosé of Pinot Noir showcases the unique terroir of the Willamette Valley, with bright fruit flavors and a crisp acidity that make it an ideal choice for lovers of Rosé of Pinot Noir-style wines.

International Wine Recommendation: Domaine Tempier Bandol Rosé, Provence, France

Tasting Notes:

Aroma: Wild strawberries, cherry blossoms, and Mediterranean herbs, with a hint of sea breeze and citrus.
Palate: Ripe raspberries, blood orange, and dried herbs are balanced by a refreshing acidity and a subtle salinity.
Finish: Elegant, lingering finish leaves a lasting impression. Therefore, making it a versatile pairing for grilled fish to roasted vegetables to hearty stews.

Why Choose Domaine Tempier Bandol Rosé?

Domaine Tempier, a historic estate in the Bandol appellation of Provence, is revered for its exceptional wines, particularly its iconic Bandol Rosé. Made predominantly from Mourvèdre with a touch of Grenache and Cinsault, their Rosé exudes elegance and finesse. With complex fruit flavors and a distinctive mineral character, it is set apart as a benchmark of quality in the world of rosé wines.

If you like these wines, you will love our Profile Nine. This is our divine blush Rosé of Pinot Noir. A dry, fresh, crisp rosé wine. It contains zero grams of sugar per serving and delicate notes of citrus, strawberries and florals. But don't think this is an overly floral rosé. Made from 100% cluster-pressed pinot noir grapes, this is also a red-wine lover’s choice.

WINE VARIETAL: PINOT NOIR

Pinot Noir, often referred to as the "heartbreak grape," is renowned for its complexity, elegance, and ability to express the unique characteristics of its terroir. Loved by enthusiasts and novices alike, Pinot Noir offers a captivating journey through a spectrum of flavors, from delicate red fruits to earthy undertones.

U.S. Wine Recommendation: Domaine Serene Evenstad Reserve Pinot Noir, Willamette Valley, Oregon

Tasting Notes:

Aroma: Ripe cherries, wild berries, and violets, with subtle hints of baking spices and cedar.
Palate: Dark plum, raspberry, and black tea are complemented by silky tannins and a vibrant acidity.
Finish: Lingering finish leaves a lasting impression, making it a perfect pairing for roasted duck, grilled salmon, or mushroom risotto.

Why Choose Domaine Serene Evenstad Reserve Pinot Noir?

Domaine Serene, a leading producer in Oregon's Willamette Valley, is renowned for its commitment to crafting world-class Pinot Noir wines that showcase the region's unique terroir. Theirfore, their Evenstad Reserve Pinot Noir, made from select vineyard sites and aged in French oak barrels, exemplifies the elegance and complexity of Willamette Valley Pinot Noir, making it a standout choice for enthusiasts seeking a top-tier expression of the varietal.

International Wine Recommendation: Joseph Drouhin Clos des Mouches Premier Cru Pinot Noir, Burgundy, France

Tasting Notes:

Aroma: Red currants, black cherries, and rose petals, with hints of forest floor and spice.
Palate: Ripe strawberries, cranberries, and black pepper are framed by fine-grained tannins and a lively acidity.
Finish: Lingering finish is marked by notes of dried herbs and a touch of minerality. It is a versatile pairing for classic French cuisine, from coq au vin to boeuf bourguignon.

Why Choose Joseph Drouhin Clos des Mouches Premier Cru Pinot Noir?

Joseph Drouhin, a prestigious Burgundian estate with centuries of winemaking heritage, is revered for its commitment to crafting wines of exceptional quality and elegance. Their Clos des Mouches Premier Cru Pinot Noir, sourced from one of Burgundy's most esteemed vineyard sites, exemplifies the finesse and complexity of premier cru Pinot Noir, making it a timeless choice for lovers of Burgundian wines.

If you like these wines, you will love our Profile Four. Gorgeous and light ruby-red, Profile Four is a light- to medium-bodied dry fine red wine, with zero grams of sugar per serving and no unwanted additives. Vibrant and silky, each delicious glass offers up subtle earthy notes and aromas of cherry and raspberry. This is a fine red wine that pairs well with meat and salmon or salads and pastas.

WINE VARIETAL: TEMPRANILLO

Tempranillo, the noble grape of Spain, is celebrated for its rich flavors, robust character, and ability to reflect the diverse terroirs in which it is grown. From the sun-drenched vineyards of Spain to the picturesque landscapes of the New World, Tempranillo offers a captivating journey through a spectrum of flavors, from ripe berries to savory spices.

U.S. Wine Recommendation: Tablas Creek Vineyard Patelin de Tablas, Paso Robles, California

Tasting Notes:

Aroma: Ripe black cherries, plum, and baking spices, with hints of dried herbs and cedar.
Palate: Dark berries, black pepper, and licorice are complemented by velvety tannins and a vibrant acidity.
Finish: Notes of vanilla and a touch of smokiness, making it a versatile pairing for grilled meats, hearty stews, or aged cheeses.

Why Choose Tablas Creek Vineyard Patelin de Tablas?

Tablas Creek Vineyard, located in California's esteemed Paso Robles region, is renowned for its commitment to sustainable farming practices and producing wines of exceptional quality and character. Their Patelin de Tablas, a blend that includes Tempranillo along with other Rhône varietals, showcases the region's warm climate and diverse terroir, resulting in a wine that is both approachable and complex, with layers of flavor and texture that make it a standout choice for enthusiasts seeking a New World expression of Tempranillo.

International Wine Recommendation: Bodegas Muga Reserva, Rioja, Spain

Tasting Notes:

Aroma: Ripe red berries, tobacco, and leather, with undertones of vanilla and toasted oak.
Palate: Cherry, raspberry, and baking spices are framed by fine-grained tannins and a lively acidity.
Finish: Dark chocolate and a hint of earthiness, making it an ideal pairing for Spanish dishes, like paella or roasted lamb.

Why Choose Bodegas Muga Reserva?

Bodegas Muga, a prestigious Rioja estate with a legacy dating back to 1932, is revered for its commitment to traditional winemaking techniques and producing wines of exceptional quality and elegance. Their Reserva, made from a blend of Tempranillo, Garnacha, Mazuelo, and Graciano, exemplifies the richness and complexity of Rioja wines, with deep fruit flavors, refined tannins, and a distinctive oak influence that make it a timeless choice for lovers of Spanish Tempranillo.

If you like these wines, you will love our Profile Four-Five. This wine is slightly fuller and rounder than Profile Four, but not quite as big and bold as Profile Five. It's the perfect fruit-forward, dry and approachable fine red wine. Full of ripe berry and dark cherry aromas, with hints of vanilla and baking spice, its perfection.

With zero grams of sugar per serving and no unwanted additives, this wine pairs well with steaks, salmon and lasagna.

WINE VARIETAL: CABERNET SAUVIGNON

Cabernet Sauvignon, often hailed as the "king of red wines," is celebrated for its bold flavors, robust structure, and age-worthy character. From the sun-soaked vineyards of California to the historic estates of Bordeaux, Cabernet Sauvignon offers a captivating journey through a spectrum of flavors, from luscious blackcurrant to savory spices.

U.S. Wine Recommendation: Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon, Napa Valley, California

Tasting Notes:

Aroma: Blackberries, cassis, and dark chocolate, with undertones of vanilla and cedar.
Palate: Black cherry, plum, and espresso are complemented by velvety tannins and a lush, full-bodied texture, creating a rich and opulent wine.
Finish: Notes of tobacco and spice, making it a perfect pairing for hearty dishes, such as grilled ribeye steak or braised short ribs.

Why Choose Silver Oak Cabernet Sauvignon?

Silver Oak, a renowned producer in California's esteemed Napa Valley, is celebrated for its commitment to crafting world-class Cabernet Sauvignon wines that showcase the region's unique terroir. Their Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, aged in American oak barrels, exemplifies the richness and complexity of Napa Valley fruit, with bold fruit flavors, refined tannins, and a distinctive oak influence that make it a standout choice for enthusiasts seeking a top-tier expression of the varietal.

International Wine Recommendation: Château Mouton Rothschild, Pauillac, Bordeaux, France

Tasting Notes:

Aroma: Château Mouton Rothschild seduces with aromas of blackcurrants, graphite, and cedar, with hints of violet and tobacco leaf.
Palate: Blackberries, plums, and licorice are framed by firm tannins and a vibrant acidity, creating a structured and age-worthy wine.
Finish: Dark chocolate and spice, making it an ideal pairing for classic French cuisine, such as beef bourguignon or coq au vin.

Why Choose Château Mouton Rothschild?

Château Mouton Rothschild, a legendary estate in Bordeaux's prestigious Pauillac appellation, is revered for its iconic Cabernet Sauvignon-based wines that rank among the finest in the world. Their Grand Cru Classé exemplifies the elegance and complexity of Bordeaux wines, with layers of fruit, terroir, and oak that evolve beautifully with age, making it a timeless choice for lovers of Cabernet Sauvignon.

If you like these wines, you will love our Profile Five. A gorgeous garnet red, our Profile Five is a big, bold, full-bodied, dry, smooth red fine wine. With aromas of dark fruits, oak and spice, this fine red wine pairs well with rich and complex foods like lamb, steak, duck, heavy cheeses and hearty vegetables.

WINE VARIETAL: ZINFANDEL

Zinfandel, often hailed as America's heritage grape, is celebrated for its bold flavors, rich texture, and versatility. From the sun-drenched vineyards of California to the picturesque landscapes of Italy, Zinfandel offers a captivating journey through a spectrum of flavors, from luscious dark berries to spicy pepper.

U.S. Wine Recommendation: Ridge Vineyards Geyserville Zinfandel, Sonoma County, California

Tasting Notes:

Aroma: Blackberries, bramble fruit, and baking spices, with hints of vanilla and cedar.
Palate: Dark plum, raspberry jam, and cracked pepper are complemented by firm tannins and a velvety texture, creating a rich and complex wine.
Finish: Dark chocolate and spice, making it a perfect pairing for grilled meats, barbecue, or hearty pasta dishes.

Why Choose Ridge Vineyards Geyserville Zinfandel?

Ridge Vineyards, an iconic producer in California's Sonoma County, is celebrated for its commitment to crafting world-class Zinfandel wines that showcase the region's unique terroir. Their Geyserville Zinfandel, sourced from old-vine vineyards, exemplifies the richness and complexity of Sonoma County. With bold fruit flavors, structured tannins, and a distinctive spice character that make it a standout choice for enthusiasts seeking a top-tier expression of the varietal.

International Wine Recommendation: Primitivo di Manduria, Puglia, Italy

Tasting Notes:

Aroma: Black cherries, plums, and Mediterranean herbs, with hints of leather and tobacco.
Palate: Sun-drenched berries, figs, and cloves with soft tannins and a vibrant acidity, creating a smooth and balanced wine.
Finish: Espresso and dark chocolate, making it an ideal pairing for pasta with rich tomato sauce or grilled lamb chops.

Why Choose Primitivo di Manduria?

Primitivo, the genetic twin of Zinfandel, thrives in Italy's sunny Puglia region, where it produces wines of exceptional depth and intensity. Primitivo di Manduria, sourced from old-vine vineyards in the Manduria subregion, exemplifies the richness and complexity of Puglian wines, with ripe fruit flavors, velvety tannins, and a distinctive Mediterranean character that make it a timeless choice for lovers of Zinfandel.

If you like these wines, you will love our Profile Six. Profile Six is our velvety, indulgent, smooth and slightly sweet fine red wiine. With notes of cherry, raspberry and peach, it is crafted for those who love a big red, but enjoy a touch of sweet. This gorgeous wine pairs well with non traditional game meats like bison and venison. Think thick, juicy burger with blue cheese. Or go big with steak, lamb, pork, duck and the fattier fishes like salmon and herring.

Above all, you can keep your bottles. But know you will always have a tried and true house wine on the counter or in the fridge. You can tap in as much or as little as you’d like, whenever you’d like. Cheers to that!