Italy
La Ciarliana Rosso di Montepulciano 2008
The vineyards, of the family run estate, with a density of 5000 vines per hectare, have been planted following a careful geological and clonal study. The terrain, the loving care given to the vines and the careful selection of the bunches of grapes all combine to give "La Ciarliana" wines remarkable structure and body.
A RARE FIND? That's correct, Luigi Frangiosa's wines have never been available in the US market until now! His wines are extremely high quality and represent a great value. This Rosso explodes on the nose with currant, leather, flowers, and spice. On the palate the wine shows currant, cherry, dried flowers and spice tones which last through the middle and back palate. The depth and concentration are admirable and the finish is perfect.
France
Domaine Brazilier "Tradition" Rouge 2009
This wine is harvested at full maturity and vinified at a temperature control of 30°C, it expresses all the characteristics of its terroir. It is fruity, round and supple with good balance on the palate. Pairs nicely with white meat, meat with gravy, cheese, cold cuts, grilled meat, tournedos and roast.
89 POINTS The Wine Advocate says "...one of the most amazing red wine values I have tasted in years. A blend of Cabernet Franc, Pineau d'Aunis and Pinot Noir, this infectiously juicy cuvee features ripe dark cherry complicated by nutmeg, toasted walnut, pungent black tea, and salinity that guarantees lip-smacking. Lively and refreshing but at the same time richly- and persistently fruited, smooth and polished, you could hardly have too much of this on hand as house wine over the coming year."
Germany
Von Hövel 2007 Estate Riesling
In the same family for six generations, von Hövel Estate Mosel-Saar, Germany is located in Oberemmel, a truly beautiful wine village. Here, the 27 acres of top vineyard sites are planted exclusively with the queen of white wine grapes – Riesling. Though some dry (trocken) wines are produced, fruity style Riesling wines predominate. The estate has a production of about 5,000 cases.
90 POINTS
A Wine Enthusiast's *** EDITOR'S CHOICE *** J.C. notes that it is "A terrific value, Von Hövel's basic Riesling offers consumers a chance to taste the mineral nature of the Saar's terroir. Notes of slate are almost smoky in their intensity, while the fruit is vibrant and laser-etched in its precision. The apple and lime flavors are delivered aboard a creamytextured palate, balanced by crisp acids on the off-dry finish."
