A Balkan Spritz — rakija topped with sparkling water and a sprig of fresh mint — makes a refreshing warm-weather serve

which is then blended with pure honey and aged in American white oak barrels

Both are California Pinot Noirs under the Jackson Family Wines umbrella

the high-proof backbone makes this a functional workhorse

For anyone seeking a serious Rhône-variety red that doesn't rely on winemaking tricks to impress

Sine Qua Non Distenta Grenache 2019 port A Balkan Spritz — rakijaSine Qua Non Distenta Grenache 2019 is a Grenache dominant red blend from California's Central Coast, bottled at 15. 9% ABV in a standard 750ml format. It earned 99 points from both Jeb Dunnuck and Robert Parker's Wine Advocate, placing it among the most critically lauded California reds of the vintage. Quick Facts: ABV: 15. 9% Origin: Central Coast, California Vintage: 2019 Winery: Sine Qua Non Production & Heritage Sine Qua Non was founded by