As the seasons change, why not try something different:
All of these vibrant & dynamic wines are ready to sip, savour & share. I am sure some of these grape varietals & wine styles are new to some readers. But the following selection of engaging red wines - are an ideal pairing with varied occasions and cuisine. Here are a few brief words to describe my first impressions and the essence of each wine. A diverse range of enjoyable now red wine expressions that are worth sharing.
Remember - 'when & where possible, all wines tastes better when served from the appropriate glass and at the ideal temperature’.
PASQUA ‘Romeo & Juliet’
Passimento 2017
Region: Veneto - Italy
Grapes: Merlot, Corvina & Croatina
Head Winemaker: Giovanni Nordera
An inviting bright aromas of ripe red fruits and subtle spice, with these mixed berry fruits and spicy overtones carrying well onto the medium intense palate. All rounded off with soft tannins and smooth finish.
(14% Alc. - R.S. 10g/L).
• No decanting & serve between 16°- 17°C
*Retail - NZ$24.99 : Recommended
CECCHI
‘Montefalco’ Rosso 2015
Region: Montefalco, Umbria - Italy
Grapes: Sangiovese, Sagrantino & Merlot
Owner / Winemaker: Andrea Cecchi
From the small historical town of Montefalco, comes this appealing wine showcasing ripe plums & dark cherries on the nose. These vibrant berries carry onto the palate, wrapped in firm tannins and a dry finish.
(13.5% Alc. - Dry).
• Mild decanting & serve between 16°- 17°C
*Retail - NZ$26.99 : Recommended
MONTES
‘Alpha’ Carmenère 2018
Region: Colchagua Valley - Chile
Grapes: 90% Carmenère & 10% Cabernet
Owner / Winemaker: Aurelio Montes
Elevated aromas expressing mixed berry fruits, with chocolate and mocha-coffee. The French oak lends structure and stage to present these rich fruit characters, balanced tannins are velvety memorable finish.
(14.5% Alc. - R.S. 3.8g/L)
• Mild decanting & serve between 17°- 18°C
*Retail - NZ$28.99 : 4 Stars
MARQUÉS de CÁCERES
Crianza 2017
Region: Rioja - Spain
Grapes: Tempranillo, Garnacha & Graciano
Owner / Director: Cristina Forner
A classic aromas showcasing small wild berries, oak infused with dried herbs and spices. These flow on to the medium palate with well-balanced time in oak with dovetailed fruit tannins and lingering bright finish.
(14% Alc. - Dry)
• No decanting & serve between 16°- 17°C
*Retail - NZ$24.99 : 4 Stars
PAUL MAS - Réserve
‘Vieilles Vignes’ Carignan '18
Region: Languedoc - South of France
Grape: 100% Carignan
Owner / Winemaker: Jean-Claude Mas
A hypnotising aroma. The palate is forward and engaging, showcasing dark berries, tobacco, spice and floral notes. These 50+ year old vines confidently express those dark flavours & subtle earthy notes on a long finish.
(13.5% Alc. - Dry)
• Mild decanting & serve between 16°- 18°C
*Retail - NZ$24.99 : 4 Stars
CHAPEL HILL
‘Bush Vine’ Grenache 2018
Region: McLaren Vale - South Australia
Grape: 100% Grenache
Winemakers: Michael Fragos & Bryn Richards
An unsung hero of McLaren Vale, this well-crafted wine from ‘old bush vine’ Grenache. Expressing small thick skinned dark berries, which deliver generous fruit flavours and an invigorating rustic savoury texture.
(14% Alc. - Dry)
• No decanting & serve between 16°- 18°C
*Retail - NZ$29.99 : 5 Stars
*(stock & vintage availability may vary by country)