To help you build a mini-wine collection using Winexpert kits, I’ve organized the options into red and white wines, with a focus on popular varietals, including Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. This plan considers your need to go through 3 bottles a week, with 6 Winexpert boxes in rotation over 9-12 months. The goal is to keep a steady supply of crowd favorites while allowing for aging and variety. ### **Wine Organization Plan** #### **Red Wines** 1. **Pinot Noir (California)** - *Must-have* - **Aging**: 6-12 months - **Description**: Light to medium-bodied, elegant with flavors of cherry, raspberry, and subtle earthiness. Crowd-pleasing for its smooth texture. - **Stocking Plan**: 1 box in work, 1 box staged for aging. 2. **Cabernet Sauvignon (Lodi Ranch 11)** - **Aging**: 9-12 months - **Description**: Full-bodied with rich flavors of dark fruits, oak, and spice. Perfect for those who enjoy a robust wine. - **Stocking Plan**: 1 box staged for aging, 1 box to be prepared after 6 months. 3. **Merlot (Stags Leap District, Napa Valley)** - **Aging**: 6-12 months - **Description**: Medium-bodied with flavors of ripe plum, cherry, and soft tannins. A versatile red that appeals to many. - **Stocking Plan**: 1 box in work, 1 box staged for aging. #### **White Wines** 1. **Chardonnay (California)** - *Must-have* - **Aging**: 3-6 months - **Description**: Full-bodied with flavors of apple, pear, and tropical fruit, with subtle oak. A classic choice that pairs well with many dishes. - **Stocking Plan**: 1 box in work, 1 box staged for aging. 2. **Sauvignon Blanc (Marlborough, New Zealand)** - **Aging**: 3-6 months - **Description**: Crisp and refreshing with vibrant flavors of citrus, green apple, and tropical fruit. Ideal for warm weather. - **Stocking Plan**: 1 box in work, 1 box staged for aging. 3. **Riesling (Washington State)** - **Aging**: 3-6 months - **Description**: Light and slightly sweet with flavors of peach, apricot, and floral notes. A great crowd-pleaser, especially for those who prefer a slightly sweeter wine. - **Stocking Plan**: 1 box staged for aging, 1 box to be prepared after 3 months. ### **Stocking Strategy** 1. **Initial Setup (Months 1-3)**: - **Reds**: Prepare Pinot Noir and Merlot. Begin aging Cabernet Sauvignon. - **Whites**: Prepare Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc. Begin aging Riesling. 2. **Mid-Term (Months 4-6)**: - **Reds**: Start using aged Pinot Noir. Prepare the second batch of Merlot. - **Whites**: Start using aged Chardonnay. Prepare the second batch of Sauvignon Blanc. 3. **Long-Term (Months 7-12)**: - **Reds**: Start using aged Cabernet Sauvignon. Prepare the second batch of Pinot Noir. - **Whites**: Start using aged Riesling. Prepare the second batch of Chardonnay. ### **Summary of Key Points** - **Pinot Noir and Chardonnay**: Always have one box in work and one staged for aging. - **Rotation**: As you finish a box, prepare the next, ensuring a steady flow of wine. - **Aging Considerations**: Reds like Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot should age longer, while whites like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc can be enjoyed sooner. This plan should help you maintain a well-rounded wine collection with crowd favorites always ready to serve.