Father’s Day is just around the corner and it is time to think of wines we celebrate our dads. It is the perfect day for a barbecue. When thinking of grilled meat, the meal beckons for red Father’s Day wine. Perhaps a wine with a little more masculine presence or a more meaty wine will fit your celebration. All wines suggested are perfect for any barbecue whether it be Father’s Day, July 4th or just a weekend get together with friends.
California Father’s Day Wine
Here is a selection of wines that might augment your father’s special day:
On the lighter side is the 2013 Artesa Pinot Noir. This is a wine that pairs better with food than without. The Pinot could also use a bit of airing time before drinking. This wine seemed to be a more masculine Pinot Noir with its Cherry and dry herb aromas. The cherry flavors were very dominant in this wine.

From the Temecula wine region is the South Coast 2011 Carter Estate Penrose. This is a blend of Touriga National, Tinta Nero, Tinta Cao, Tinta Roriz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petite Verdot, and Merlot. The aromas are those of tobacco, smoke, and earth with flavors of stewed prunes. This is a very dry wine. The Carter Estate label is one of the most recent to the South Coast Winery line up. It represents select lots of varietals grown its estate vineyards in Temecula. The label is adorned with the “Sectio Aurea” or “Golden Ratio” which represents the Penrose design and signifies that the golden ratio can be achieved with wine.

Spanish Father’s Day Wine
A number one choice for any barbeque is the 2011 Bodegas Emilio Moro Malleolus, a wine from the Ribera Del Duero region of Spain. This outstanding wine reflects the traditions of this 3rd generation winery. Malleolus means a small vineyard that lay in the Pesquera de Duero. The grapes for this 100% Tempranillo come from vines that are 25 – 75 years old. The wine is superb with its vicious rich velvety texture, aromas of mocha, plum and black fruit and flavors of plum and stewed fruit. This is an outstanding example of what Bodegas Emilio Moro produces.

French Father’s Days Wine
The best word to describe the 2011 Domaine Du Theron Cahors Malbec is subtle. It was the first word that came to mind while sipping this 100% Malbec. This is an old-world styled Malbec from Cahors, France, which is known as the original birthplace of Malbec. It exudes flavors and aromas of Mocha and leather. There are hints of dried herbs especially thyme. You definitely feel the effects of the limestone and clay soil on the palate. The fruit is a combination of black fruit and cranberry.

Argentine Father’s Days Wine
For a bit heavier wine, The Rutini Encuentro 2013 Malbec is a good choice. This wine has velvety and rich textures set the stage for aromas of mocha, tobacco, and leather set against dark fruit. The flavors were those of black fruits, plums, and currant with hints of smoky leather and tobacco.

Also from Rutini is the 2012 Encuentro Cabernet Sauvignon. This is a well-balanced wine that has green pepper aromas bringing out an earthiness to the wine.

Any of these wines would be an excellent choice to serve dad on his day. For that matter, they are appropriate to be savored at any barbecue.
For all the fathers out there have a happy Father’s Day.
Note: Common to the wine industry, this writer received hosted wine samples. While it has not influenced this review, the writer believes in full disclosure.