Chicken banh mi, a sausage flatbread, and loaded sweet potato and black bean tacos

Juicy raspberry, strawberry, rose petals and earthy herbs. Lighter in body with a high acidity, gentle tannic grip, and slightly savory finish

Varietal:

Gamay

Vintage:

• 2023

ABV:

• 13%

Funky Scale:

Mostly Classic

Region: Loire Valley, France

At Les Terres Blanches, sustainability is woven into every aspect of their operation, from cultivating local partnerships to conscientiously managing resources. They prioritize local suppliers for hay, meadow rotations, and seed collection, fostering a symbiotic relationship with the community. By sharing their Gamay de Bouze plots with organic medicinal plant producers, they exchange resources, promoting biodiversity and mutual support. Embracing circularity, they utilize recycled Burgundy bottles and natural cork stoppers sourced from organic or FSC-certified suppliers. These mindful practices underscore their commitment to environmental stewardship and holistic balance, reflecting a harmonious integration of tradition and innovation in winemaking.

Grilled chili-lime chicken, cold soba noodles, or a charcuterie board with blue cheese and figs

Tart cherry, cranberry, blueberry, and a hint of herbal spice. A thirst-quenching body and acidity, with minimal tannins, making it perfect with a chill

Varietal:

Grenache, Mourvedre, Syrah

Vintage:

• 2023

ABV:

• 13%

Funky Scale:

Mostly Classic

Region: Roussillon,

Since founding his domaine in 2001, Olivier Pithon has become one of the benchmark growers in the rugged hills of Calce, in France’s Roussillon region. Working organically from the start and fully biodynamic since 2010, Olivier farms roughly 19 hectares of schist, marl, and limestone soils, aided by cows, bees, and an unwavering respect for living ecosystems.

In the cellar, fermentations rely on native yeasts, sulfur use is minimal, and élevage takes place in concrete, stainless steel, or neutral wood—always with the goal of expressing the freshness, depth, and energy of Calce’s terroir. His flagship wines, including the Laïs series (named for his beloved cow) and Mon P’tit Pithon (a more playful, early-drinking line), showcase Mediterranean varieties.

Roast chicken or tofu shawarma, creamy French-style goat cheese on baguette, or buttery corn on the cob fresh off the grill.

Zesty lemon curd, golden apple skin, a touch of raw almond, and this smooth, chalky texture that feels like silk meets stone. Bright, layered, and quietly powerful.

Varietal:

Chenin blanc

Vintage:

• 2024

ABV:

• 11.7%

Funky Scale:

Middle of the Road

Region: Oregon, USA

Margins stands at the forefront of California's burgeoning low-intervention wine movement, spotlighting grapes from overlooked regions, vineyards, and varietals. By championing vineyards often relegated to the sidelines, Margins challenges conventional perceptions and amplifies the diversity of California's viticultural landscape. Over the past five years, Margins has been instrumental in guiding small growers towards organic farming practices, fostering both environmental sustainability and agricultural change. Led by winemaker Megan Bell, Margins is more than a winemaking endeavor; it's a testament to the transformative power of embracing diversity and pushing boundaries in the world of wine.

Great with summer salads, grilled fish, or Mediterranean mezze.

Juicy strawberry, watermelon, citrus zest, and a touch of herbal lift.

Varietal:

Cabernet Franc, Sauvignon Blanc,
Tempranillo

Vintage:

• 2022

ABV:

• 13.5%

Funky Scale:

Middle of the Road

Region: McLaren Vale, Australia

Founded in 2017 by wine importers James Audas and Tom Sheer, Das Juice was created to craft well-farmed, minimal-intervention wines at accessible prices. With guidance from viticultural expert Dave Gartlemann, the project now sources fruit from around 11 certified organic and biodynamic vineyards across McLaren Vale and the Adelaide Hills.

Audas, a former sommelier and co-owner of LO-FI Wines, leads winemaking with a focus on organic and natural principles. Sheer, also of LO-FI Wines, brings his hospitality and marketing expertise to shape the brand’s visual identity. Gartlemann oversees vineyard practices, ensuring sustainable farming and strong grower relationships.

Oysters, fried chicken, or light Asian-inspired dishes.

Peach, tropical fruit, elderflower, citrus zest, with lively bubbles.

Varietal:

Arneis, Pinot Grigio, Gewürztraminer

Vintage:

• 2021

ABV:

• 12.5%

Funky Scale:

Middle of the Road

Region: Victoria, Australia

Gabrielle Wines follows a holistic, eco-conscious approach to viticulture, incorporating many organic principles throughout the vineyard. Every step begins with a detailed soil analysis to determine precise nutrient needs, followed by the use of mineral-based, microbially seeded fertilizers applied as required. This holistic philosophy ensures that soil and plant health work together as the first line of defense, fostering balance and vitality in both the vineyard ecosystem and the wines themselves.