PUTTING THE O IN VINO

From sav blanc to Chianti, we choose the best organic bottles under $35

OK, you’re sitting at the bar and the guy on your right says he’s an independent producer and the guy on your left says he’s the next Mark Zuckerberg. The only thing not full of fertilizer is the organic wine you’re drinking.

Yes, we know this was a long setup to get to organic wine but it beats the poem we were going to write (what rhymes with pesticides, anyway?).

By now we’ve all heard the heart-healthy benefits of drinking a moderate amount of wine, but did you hear that a new study suggests drinking two glasses of wine may significantly raise your problem-solving abilities?! Yes, we say “cheers” to that!

So now that you’ll be shopping the vino, the question is what wine to get. For years, wine connoisseurs looked down upon organic grapes, claiming that the taste could not be the same. But luckily, these wine times are changing.

Not only is there a new crop of highly respected organic wines but by going for the big “O” (not that O, but with enough wine, who knows) there are a fair number of benefits as well. Organic grapes/wines are not sprayed with chemicals and pesticides and some wine lovers believe this leads to a better, brighter flavor. In addition, organic wines have less sulfites, which is simply better for your bod!

So now that you wanna go organic, why not check out our slideshow of our fave organic wines under $35?

Frog’s Leap Winery Sauvignon Blanc 2010
$22.99

The dry, classic sav blanc features notes of peach blossom, grapefruit, and Meyer lemon. The popular organic vineyard has produced this award winning wine since 1981. The citrusy pick goes well with seafood and cheese.

Quivira Vineyards and Winery Grenache 2009
$26

The complex, spicy red serves up tantalizing tones of strawberry, raspberry, and black pepper. Pairing perfectly with richer foods, this Grenache stands up well next to a variety of roasted meats.

Fontodi Chianti Classico 2008
$29.25

This full-bodied, classic Chianti features strong, delicious notes of sweet red cherries, plums, and chocolate. The smooth tannins and strong finish make it a great choice.

Hall Sauvignon Blanc
$17.95

Bright and beautiful, this is what you want to drink on a hot summer day. Crisp and refreshing, you’ll taste pink grapefruit, gooseberry, blood orange, and guava.

Casa Lapostolle Cuvée Alexandre Cabernet Sauvignon 2009
$21.99

You’ll find dreamy aromas of currant and cassis in this spicy, complex cabernet that features a firm body and long finish (and yes, we think that sounds dirty too).