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’.
GABRIEL MEFFRE ‘St Vincent’
Côtes du Rhône 2018
Region: Rhône Valley - France
Grapes: Grenache & Syrah
Head Winemaker: Véronique Torcolacci
Inviting aromas of ripe cherry, red plums and spice. The palate and appealing and expressing ripe juicy plums and cherries flavours with a pleasing smooth dry finish. Immediately enjoyable now and over the next 18 months.
(14.5% Alc. - Dry Style).
• No decanting & serve between 16°- 17°C
*Retail - NZ$23.99 : Recommended
PAUL MAS Réserve
‘Vieilles Vignes’ Carignan '19
Region: Languedoc - South of France
Grape: 100% Carignan
Owner / Winemaker: Jean-Claude Mas
A hypnotic aroma. The palate is forward and engaging, showcasing dark berries, tobacco, spice and herb notes. These 50+ year old vines dynamically express those dark flavours & infused earthy characters on a long finish.
(13.5% Alc. - Dry).
• Mild decanting & serve between 16°- 18°C
*Retail - NZ$24.99 : 4 Stars
MONTES ‘Alpha’
Cabernet Sauvignon 2018
Region: Colchagua Valley - Chile
Grapes: 90% Cabernet & 10% Merlot
Owner / Winemaker: Aurelio Montes
Aromas of ripe red and black fruits, along with notes of tobacco, leather and toast, thanks to the time in barrel. The palate is fully engaging showing those ripe berry fruits, cacao along with balanced tannins and a long finish.
(14.5% Alc. - R.S. 3.6g/L)
• Mild decanting & serve between 17°- 18°C
*Retail - NZ$28.99 : 4 Stars
CHAKANA
'Estate Selection' Malbec 2019
Region: Mendoza - Argentina
Grape: 100% Malbec
Chief Winemaker: Gabriel Bloise
Inviting aroma expressing ripe dark berries, mixed with dried herbs and a touch of mocha coffee. The appealing palate has a generous fruit forward nature, along with well-balanced smooth tannins and a deft use of oak. .
(14% Alc. - Dry)
• Unfiltered - Decant & serve 16°- 18°C
*Retail - NZ$28.99 : 4 Stars
CECILIA BERETTA
Valpolicella Ripasso 2018
Region: Verona - Italy
Grapes: 60% Corvina, 20% Rondinella, 10% Corvinone & 10% Negrara
Head Winemaker: Giovanni Nordera
This wine has intense aromas of dark cherries, blueberries and currants followed dried spices and toast. The palate is engaging and smooth with cacao tannins, well-balanced oak and a lingering off-dry finish. (13.5% Alc. - R.S. 8.9g/L)
• Mild decanting & serve between 16°- 18°C
*Retail - NZ$30.99 : 4 Stars
MARQUÉS de CÁCERES
‘Rioja’ Gran Reserva 2012
Region: Rioja - Spain
Grapes: 85% Tempranillo, 8% Garnacha, 7% Graciano
Owner / Director: Cristina Forner
A complex layered bouquet. Full of ripe dark cherries, sweet spices and roasted notes. Its broad palate maintains a natural vibrancy that alludes to even further ageing. Full-bodied with a lingering dry spice finish. (14.5% Alc. - Dry)
• Mild decanting & serve between 16°- 18°C
*Retail - NZ$49.99 : 4 Stars
*(stock & vintage availability may vary by country)