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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)
Acid freaks rejoice! This dry Riesling shows the classic stone minerality and petrol on the nose with floral aromatics as well. The palate yields citrus, green apple and stonefruits with mouth watering acidity. A great food wine or one simply just to drink.
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.
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.
A rose of lovely character, with fleshy red fruit and floral aromas. Its intense fruit and tannic backbone will make it the perfect match for spicy Mexican or Thai food.