Red Wine Domini Veneti Vigneti di Torbe Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore 2019. Domini Veneti is the flagship range of Cantina Valpolicella Negrar which is considered one of the Veneto region’s most important producers. The Cantina was founded in 1933 by seven local families and it was here that the method for producing Amarone was accidentally discovered in the 1930s. Today the Cantina has 230 members and around 700 hectares of vineyards covering many of Valpolicella’s finest sites. This easy-drinking red is made according to the traditional Ripasso method by which the young wine is re-passed” or refermented on the skins of grapes previously used to make Amarone wine. Since these grapes are left to dry out and become raisins they are very concentrated and help to add intense flavours and additional tannins and structure to the Ripasso wine. Grapes for this wine are sourced from Torbe where vines are planted at an altitude of up to 420 metres and are carefully harvested by hand to protect quality. Once vinified the wine is aged in oak barrels for 18 months before bottling. This creates a vibrant, fruit-forward red which is bursting with red cherry and sweet spice notes along with hints of dried fruits, chocolate and cherry liqueur. Ideal for pairing with grilled and roasted red meats, tomato-based pasta dishes, and all types of charcuterie and mature cheeses.
2019
Red Wine Domini Veneti Vigneti di Torbe Valpolicella Ripasso Superiore 2019
Red Wine Caymus Conundrum Red 2019. The Wagner family can trace their roots in the Napa Valley back to the 1850s and quite literally have winemaking and grape growing in their blood. Over 45 years ago Chuck Wagner along with his parents, Lorna and Charlie, founded the now-famous Caymus Vineyards in Rutherford where the family work predominantly with Cabernet Sauvignon. Chuck’s son, Charlie, is the Director of Winemaking for Caymus’ Conundrum range which offers a softer, more approachable interpretation of classic Bordeaux varietals grown on prime Californian terroir. The Petite Sirah, Zinfandel and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes for this easy-going red are sourced from California’s most prized winemaking regions. The result is a bold and generous red opens with attractive aromas of black cherries, dark chocolate and leather, while the first sip shows off a generous full body, smooth tannins and lashings of ripe blackcurrants and blackberries. The ample, luscious fruit and firm structure make the Conundrum Red a superb partner for red meat such as a prime steak served with fries or a hearty beef stew. It is ideal to enjoy now and can even be served slightly chilled in the summer to emphasise the youthful fruit character.
2019
Red Wine Duckhorn Greenwing Cabernet Sauvignon 2019. Decant for up to an hour before serving. Greenwing is a label under the umbrella of the Duckhorn Wine Company, part of their foray into Washington wines. It is currently under the leadership of Brian Rudin, head wine-maker and one of Washington’s rising stars. Greenwing sources their grapes from the Columbia Valley APA, one of the largest and most diverse appellations in the United States. It is a region defined by the Cascade Mountains, which create a desert-like environment in Columbia Valley and provide soils rich in volcanic minerals. Cabernet Sauvignons from Columbia Valley are known for their depth and intensity, and Greenwing’s offering is no exception. Scents of red fruits, such as raspberry, cherry, and luscious strawberry rise from the glass, along with floral notes and sage. This is a majority Cabernet Sauvignon blend, with some Syrah and a pinch of Malbec. The result is filling and juicy in the mouth, a full-bodied and angular red. Tart flavours of cherry and plum intermingle, and elements of baking spice linger into the long finish. It is perfect for those who want to try a delicious New World expression of Cabernet Sauvignon, with its focused fruit flavours and remarkable depth and complexity. It will complement some juicy red meat or herby mashed potatoes.
2019