Plot Twist: 3 Wines I Didn’t Expect to Love
Field Recordings Lineup
NV Field Recordings Clouds - Paso Robles, CA
“Clouds” isn’t your typical sparkling white—it’s a fruity (yet dry) co-ferment of grapes and peaches (yes, actual organic peaches)! It’s made using the Champagne method resulting in a gentle effervescence (nothing over the top) that floats somewhere between crisp and funky with texture for days (a hallmark of natural wines). Hailing from California’s Central Coast, this dreamy bottle blends Chenin Blanc, Pinot Gris, Albariño, and Vermentino, all fermented with native yeast (aka natural wine) and a short stint on the skins to dial up the flavor and mouthfeel. It’s cloudy (on purpose), and full of golden stone fruit and white peach with an herbaceous lift. With low intervention winemaking, it’s refreshingly real and seriously fun to drink—pair with tacos, sunset hangs, or absolutely nothing at all (it stands on its own).
Sustainability note: Field Recordings is rooted in sourcing from sustainably and organically farmed vineyards across the Central Coast. Winemaker Andrew Jones works closely with growers to highlight lesser-known varietals and keep vineyard impact low, all while keeping packaging minimal and planet-conscious.
Fun fact: The name “Clouds” reflects not just the wine’s hazy hue, but its free-spirited vibe—unfiltered, unfined, and unbothered. It’s a natural wine that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and that’s exactly the point.
Say What?!: New to Albariño and Vermentino? Albariño, originally from Spain, brings bright citrus, sea spray salinity, and acidity, while Vermentino (an Italian coastal classic) adds zesty lime, herbal lift, and a touch of texture. Together, they give "Clouds" its fresh, beachy energy and layered personality. It’s a match made in (vino) heaven.
Breaking Bread Lineup
2024 Breaking Bread “Marmalade” - Sonoma County, CA
“Marmalade” is not your average white wine—it’s a sun-kissed skin-contact sipper (aka orange wine) from California’s Dry Creek Valley, made with a zesty blend of Muscat Blanc (70%), Chardonnay (15%), and Sauvignon Blanc (15%). Fermented with native yeast (aka natural wine) and left on the skins for 10 days (for color, texture, and flavor), it’s wild, unfiltered, and full of character—no sulfur added, just pure, juicy goodness. It bursts with apricot, orange blossom, and jasmine, with just the right balance of bright acidity and creamy texture. Crafted with minimal intervention and low alcohol (12.7%), it’s a bottle built for sunshine sipping, endless playlists, and whatever’s on your plate.
Sustainability note: Breaking Bread Wines is committed to low-impact farming and eco-conscious winemaking, including organic vineyard practices, native fermentation, and minimal packaging waste.
Fun fact: The name Marmalade came from winemaker Erik Miller’s young son, who helped taste through early blends (before fermentation/alcohol) and declared “it tastes like toast with marmalade.” Citrus, charm, and a little family magic in every bottle… what’s not to love?!
Say What?!: Never heard of Muscat Blanc? If floral aromatics are your jam (and they’re certainly mine), prepare to fall in love. One of the oldest and most aromatic white grape varieties, it bursts with orange blossom, peach, and citrus. Often found in famous wines like Moscato d’Asti, it brings vibrancy and perfume - especially in skin-contact wines like “Marmalade.”
BOS Vineyards
2023 BOS “Wishflower” - Old Mission Peninsula, MI
“Wishflower” is a vibrant white blend from Michigan’s blossoming wine scene, crafted by BOS Wines with intention and elegance. The 2023 vintage brings together Pinot Gris, Pinot Blanc, and Chardonnay in a co-fermented, native yeast–driven expression that showcases purity of fruit and place (aka terroir). Aromatics of honeysuckle, ripe pear, and lemon zest lead into a clean, textured palate with bright acidity and a whisper of spice. Lightly hazy and unfiltered, it reflects a minimal intervention approach (aka natural wine) that lets the vineyard speak. With moderate alcohol and refreshing balance, it’s an easygoing, food-friendly white perfect for casual gatherings, sunny afternoons, or just sipping solo. If you think you don’t like Chardonnay, be prepared to change your mind once you uncork this bottle.
Sustainability note: BOS Wines champions sustainable and organic farming practices across Michigan’s Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas, paired with hands-off winemaking to highlight each vintage’s natural character.
Fun fact: The name Wishflower is a nod to the hopeful spirit of Michigan winegrowers and the wildflowers that dot the vineyards—symbols of resilience, renewal, and beauty in every bottle. I could not summarize Michigan wine any better than this! If you’re sleeping on Michigan wine, you’re seriously missing out.
Say What?!: Wondering what makes this white blend so special? Pinot Gris brings juicy pear and texture, Pinot Blanc adds floral lift and freshness, while Chardonnay contributes depth and citrusy finesse—coming together in a crisp, layered wine that feels somehow both familiar and refreshingly unique. If you want a highly drinkable white that’s different than your usual bottle, this is it.