Red Wine Can Axartell The Artist 2019. Decant before drinking. In the northeast corner of Mallorca, near the port city of Pollença, is the progessive winegrowing and olive oil estate of Can Axartell. Initially occupied by Moorish Muslims, the island was recaptured in 1229 by Christian conquerors who are presumed to have been the first to make wine from the vineyards of Can Axartell. In modern times, Hamburg-native Hans-Peter Schwarzkopf took over the estate and began the full reconstruction and revitalization. Today, 34 hectares of vines have been planted on the estate itself, with an additional 24 hectares planted inland, near the city of Villafranca de Bonany. The vineyards are certified organic and the soils have never been harmed by harsh chemicals. The Artist is a deep, rich blend of Syrah and Manto Negro, a dark-skinned grape native to and exclusively grown in Mallorca. The nose is immediately captured by dark fruits such as black currant and blackberries then shifts into non-fruit aromatics of mint, forest floor and cinnamon with a trail of smoked cedar lingering in the background. The palate is slightly sweet with fig, vanilla and dark chocolate leading the way followed by an herbaceous punch of sage and thyme. The mouthfeel is silky and full yet balanced with vibrant acidity. This wine pairs well with mature cheeses, lamb and duck dishes, stews, pastas, and smoked meats.
2019
Red Wine Can Axartell The Artist 2019
Red Wine Capichera Assaje 2019. The estate dates back to the 19th century when it already had a strong local reputation for producing delicious wines, but the modern story of Capichera begins in 1980 when the family bottled their first Vermentino wine. Today the family work some 50 hectares of vineyards and are renowned for their pioneering approach and commitment to producing benchmark examples of classic Sardinian wines. Assaje is made from the Carignan grape which is popular on the island as it is well suited to the dry Mediterranean climate. The fruit is sourced from estate vineyards in Sulcis and Gallura in northern Sardinia which are planted at an altitude of 100 metres above sea level. To preserve freshness the grapes are harvested at night by hand with half of the wine aged in oak barrels and the remainder in stainless steel tanks. On the nose there are inviting hints of dark berries and cherries along with baked earth, leather and cigar box spice. The first sip reveals a generous full body, silky smooth tannins and intense black fruit flavours which linger long on the tongue. A great partner for hearty red meat dishes or fresh pasta served with a rich tomato-based sauce.
2019
Red Wine Casarena Lauren’s Vineyard Cabernet Franc 2019. Decant for 30 minutes to 1 hour before serving. Casarena’s home is a sandy-coloured winery in the heart of Mendoza, sitting in the rain shadow of the mighty Andes mountain range. The winery owns four vineyards in the Perdriel and Agrelo sub-regions, from which it produces a fantastic range of single-vineyard wines. In the coldest part of Agrelo, Lauren’s Vineyard is carefully tended by lead wine-maker Martina Galeano and soil scientist Pablo Ceverino. It is distinctive among Casarena’s vineyards for the depth of its clayish soil, ideal for cultivating varietals such as Malbec, Petite Verdot and the delicate Cabernet Franc. This wine is lively and well-structured from the very beginning. Its nose bears a perfume of red fruits, tobacco and herbs. The grapes are grown approximately 900 metres above sea level, giving the palate a wiry, fresh acidity. Plum, cassis and rich red berries are also prominent, joined by notes of asparagus, and pepper. Herbal notes return to the finish, with a splash of heat. Best served at slightly below room temperature, this wine will suit a variety of foods. Consider steaks or spiced meats such as chorizo sausage, as well as grilled vegetables or fish.
2019