For the wine snob: 100% Garnacha de Aragón, the oldest clone of Garnacha in the world. Soils from the Miocene rich in iron, and as they move from highest to lowest altitude, they include red slate, gravel, and limestone & clay loam respectively. Hand harvested and stored in small baskets.
For the rest of us: Deep color and character, as well as lively acidity. Breca El Nacido is Bodegas Breca’s freshest and most fluid interpretation of the old mountain vineyards of Calatayud.
For the wine snob: Located on the bank of the Navarro River and surrounded by oak and fir tree forests, Split Rail Vineyard is influenced by morning fog and a cool mid-valley location. This site produces a refined Chardonnay with compelling textural elements and lovely notes of grapefruit and orange blossom.
For the rest of us: Aromas of citrus blossom, chamomile, and Gala apple, with flavors of lemon meringue pie, white peach and green apple are supported by subtle west stone and spice notes.
For the wine snob: Produced near Castelnuovo dell’Abate, not far from Montalcino. 80% Sangiovese and 20% Petit Verdot. Opens to a light ruby color that shines nicely in the glass. The aromas open to wild fruit and tart cherry, but there’s a mineral note as well, with crushed stone or pencil shaving. Seeing 10 months in steel vat, this is a lean and tonic Sangiovese.
For the rest of us: Bright ruby red, with violet reflections. Intense and complex on the nose. There are notes of ripe red fruits, violet, and spices. Ample and soft on the palate, good structure and final concentration characterized by dense tannins. and boysenberry with layered hints of clove and spiced nuts on a smooth finish.
For the wine snob: A wine that embodies the essence of the Languedoc region’s terroir and showcases the true character of the Viognier grape. Viognier presents a vibrant golden color that captures the essence of the sun-kissed vineyards. As you raise your glass, delicate aromas of apricot, peach, and tropical fruits swirl, creating an enticing and aromatic bouquet that lingers in the air.
For the rest of us: Exhibits a bouquet of honeysuckle, apricot orange marmalade and tropical fruits. On the palate the balance and roundness are very pleasant. Medium-bodied, generously fruity but structured, it owes its freshness and precision to the happy acidity.
For the wine snob: Traditional vinification in small, open top fermenters. 30% whole cluster. 30% new French oak 70% previously filled barrels with blackberry, Bavarian chocolate cake, Cocoa aromas and a lush silky finish.
For the rest of us: A medium-bodied red with dried-strawberry and citrus aromas and flavors. Firm and fresh.
For the wine snob: A refreshing and vibrant wine hailing from the Piedmont region of northwestern Italy. It is made from 100% Riesling grapes, which are grown on south-facing slopes of the vineyard at an elevation of around 400 meters above sea level. This wine has a pale straw-yellow color and a nose that is full of floral, citrus, and mineral aromas. On the palate, it is crisp and lively with flavors of lemon zest, green apple, and wet stone.
For the rest of us: Pale lemon yellow in color, this is a fresh, youthful wine with zesty lemon-lime aromas and classic mineral notes. On the palate, it is dry and clean, with good structure and flavors of crisp ripe apple and a long, citrusy finish.
For the wine snob: Pinot Noir, sourced from Arroyo Grande Valley (home of Talley’s estate vineyards) and Edna Valley. Hand harvested, fermented with native yeasts, and aged for 10 months in French oak (28% new). This wine is bottled before the next harvest to preserve the charm and fresh red fruit flavors that distinguish the varietal.
For the rest of us: Aromas of rich raspberry, clove, strawberry cream, and candle wax unfold into flavors of bright cherry, sandlewood, pomegranate, and thyme that finishes with a juicy, bright, and stunning length.
For the wine snob: Fermented in a combination of French oak, small stainless steel barrels, a clay amphora, and ceramic and concrete cuvees. It is an eminently drinkable yet cellar-worthy Sauvignon that is energetic and sublime, fresh and well-integrated, with extraordinary aromas, effortless poise, and remarkable complexity.
For the rest of us: Pretty and pure with aromas of citrus, white peach, and juicy pear, this beautiful Sauvignon Blanc is layered and complex. Apple clafoutis and floral aromatics.
