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Most of the Lambrusco that has hit our shores has been syrupy, nasty stuff like Ruinite (ruin is in the name) and whatever they pour in the Garden of Olives. This is a different creature altogether, bringing soft red raspberry and pink grapefruit up front before finishing clean and dry. It will change your worldview in a single serving.
(Holding the #1 spot)
Complex, lush and full-bodied with rich black fruit and spice. A touch of dusty blackberry and nice grip at the finish partially due to over a year in oak. Watch out, Napa! (behind by 4 bottles)
A delicious patio pounder coming out of Sonoma, California. Bright notes strawberry and watermelon with subtle hints of floral and minerality. Sweet without being overbearing balanced by beautiful acidity. Pair with a spicy Asian dish and call it a night! (behind by 4 bottles)
(behind by 1 bottles)
Wine geeks know of Gigondas and Vacqueras that show off Grenache like no other. Bordering both is Beaumes de Venise which is known for fortified Muscat. On a steep hillside (at 1500 ft!) twin sisters Sabine and Isabelle make this earthy, spicy blend of Grenache, Syrah and Counoise. A gorgeous wine.
From 130+ yr old vines, and on original rootstock comes this remarkable Carignan. All native yeasts, no SO2 used during production means pure bright flavors of tart cherry, blueberry and unmistakeable juicy tang from carbonic maceration. Why spend $34 on wine.com?
The 2014 Amon Ra reflects the tried and true essence of the Glaetzer style - generosity of flavor with finesse of structure. The inky purple color displays the gentle but full extraction. The nose shows an abundance of dark blueberry, vanilla, black cherry and hints of cassis with notes of mixed spice and anise. Although still young and firmly wound, the vibrant blackberry and dried spice flavors integrate well with youthful yet supple tannins with the trademark loooong and sleek finish. Meant to go 10 to 15 years to hit its prime.
A wonderful classic CA Cab with solid structure from the altitude and Hungarian oak. Reserved and dark on the nose with aromas of blackberries, hints of black licorice and coffee. Really nice and elegant. Touch on the masculine side with no jammy, jelly jar junk here. Wonderfully different.