One should write not unskillfully in the running hand, be able to sing in a pleasing voice and keep good time to music; and, lastly, a man should not refuse a little wine when it is pressed upon him.
Yoshida Kenko 1283 – 1350
On Mother’s Day, TeamWine took to the road and met at American Wine Project in Mineral Point, Wisconsin. Erin Rasmussen is the owner and winemaker. The grapes she uses for wine are collected mostly from the Driftless Region. It was a lovely day for the drive and to be outside and enjoy the pleasures of good friends and fun wine. We took some of our own snacks and purchased others there. Joining TeamWine this time was Shane’s mother Barb, and Natalee, my partner.
Sips
2020 Modern Optimism (11.7%abv $26) was our selected white wine. It’s made with St. Pepin grapes sourced from Windy Willow, Possum Ridge and Three Branches vineyards. Erin did a 50% direct press and a 50% whole cluster fermentation, and a full malolactic fermentation. It was barrel aged. The wine had a gold hue which sparkled in the afternoon sun. There was a steeped lemon tea fragrance on the nose as well as a spicy floral note. We also picked up a bit of pineapple and fresh asparagus aromas. Pineapple rind came through on the palate as did some white flower essence. It seemed to have just a bit of effervescence to it, which made it quite refreshing. The wine had a medium body with noticeable acidity, but it didn’t dominate. TeamWine members found it paired well with the tined fish as well as the hummus.
To read the remainder of this premium article and other premium articles in their entirety, pick up the Julien’s Journal August 2025 issue. Single issues are available in print at area newsstands, or you can click here to read the entire article in the digital version of the magazine.
Read Julien’s Journal, CHOICES For Fifty Plus and Tri-State Home TRENDS from the Comfort of Your Home!
Click to subscribe or call 563.557.7571 to subscribe for convenient delivery to your home or business by mail.
Comment here