6 Sonoma Wines to Sip Before or After a Skinny Dip
Want to know what wines taste best in the nude? We'll share all the decadent details, including a few skinny dipping stories!
What wines taste best in the nude? We’ll tell you after a few people tell all; sharing their racy, skinny dipping exploits. While we won’t reveal any names, we will share their authentic story - and wines that go with it. We've picked six exotic wines, produced from unique varietals – Sangiovese, Carignane and Malbec - to consider when you plot your next naked adventure. Click through the gallery for all the decadent details, saving the wines for last...
Busted: This skinny dipper could not escape the flashlight bearing down on her, even though she was six feet under water in the deep end of the pool. She eventually needed a gulp of air and the flashlight was waiting for her when she surfaced. That’s when she began to think skinny dipping with three guys in a neighborhood public pool might not have been such a good idea. One of the guys was a lifeguard so he had the keys, and when his dad found out, he said to his son: “I know everybody skinny dips, but did you have to get caught?”
Naked & Afraid: Skinny dipping is daring in and of itself, but try adding crocodiles into the mix. This couple decided to scout out a remote spot in Kakadu in the northern territory of Australia. They ventured out to a locals favorite called Motor Car Falls that was 60 miles on a paved road, 20 miles on their 4WD, and a three mile hike into the ‘scrub’ along a trail. They were full of excitement until they saw a sign, warning them that the hole was likely to have crocs. But they figured that the only way water was coming into the hole was from the high waterfall and they were pretty certain a croc couldn’t get up that high. Once they felt relatively safe, they peeled off their clothes and they cautiously put a toe in the water, then a leg, then two, both staying very close to where they could quickly get out if needed. Ten minutes later, bodies still intact, they ventured further to the middle and to the base of the falls. They said their “no-croc dip” was the most exhilarating swim ever.
Me Tarzan, You Jane: Sometimes a rope swing is hard to resist, especially when dangling from it drops you into picturesque Lake Tahoe. This particular couple played their version of Tarzan and Jane in the nude one chilly day, swinging into the turquoise blue waters, while taking in the view of the gorgeous mountains in the background. With upper body strength, the man could swing much further into the water. The woman, not so far. In fact, one time she barely missed the rocks and wondered if she should leave the rope swinging to her partner in crime. But her final decision to forgo further dipping was when she spied the uninvited guest - a black snake in the water.
Reds & Whites for Naked Adventures
Cline, 2014 Ancient Vines Contra Costa County Carignane, 15.5%, $23. Weighted to black fruit - plum and dark berries – this Carignane also has notes of toast and clove. While ripe, the wine’s crisp acid keeps it in check, and makes it a refreshing quaffer.
Carlisle, 2015 Palisades Vineyard, Napa Valley Petite Sirah, 15%, $50. Aromas and flavors of generous fruit - black raspberry, blueberry and blackberry. Notes of pepper and licorice, as well. A less boisterous version of Petite Sirah - supple.
Smith-Madrone, 2014 Spring Mountain District, Napa Valley Riesling at 12.8%, $30. This dry Riesling’s rich mouth-feel is kept in check with its bright acidity. It has notes of honeysuckle, papaya, apple and petrol.
Sparklers for Skinny Dippers
J Brut Rosé, NV Russian River Valley, 12.5%, $45. This is a tasty brut rosé, with layered flavors of raspberry, apple and hazelnut. It has great minerality and a long finish.
Gloria Ferrer, 2008 Carneros Royal Cuvee Brut, 12.5%, $ 37. This is a lovely sparkler with notes of apple, honey and mineral. Crisp acidity.
Domaine Carneros, 2012 Estate Brut Cuvee Sparkling, 12.1% $35. Delicate aromas and creamy on the palate, this sparkler has notes of pear, mineral and peach. Nice mousse.