Red Wine Fromm Pinot Noir 2019. Marlborough might be best known for its zesty Sauvignon Blancs, but boutique wineries like Fromm have also helped put it on the map for seriously elegant Pinot Noir. The story began when fourth generation Swiss winemaker Georg Fromm traveled to the region and happened to meet another Swiss winemaker, Hätsch Kalberer, who was working in Gisbourne. The two soon decided to join forces, purchasing a promising block of land in the Wairau plains which has blossomed into one of the region’s most interesting wineries. This classic Pinot Noir is crafted from estate vineyards which are farmed organically with many of the vines dry grown to produce lusciously intense and concentrated fruit. The exact composition of the blend is adapted according to the vintage, showcasing the varietal character and the elegance of the alluvial soils on the property. Succulent plum, red cherries and soft red berry notes dominate on the nose while the first sip reveals a well-rounded texture, gentle tannins and bright red fruit flavours which linger on the tongue. The graceful flavour profile makes this a versatile wine to enjoy alongside charcuterie, aged cheeses, tomato-based pasta dishes and pizzas.
2019
Red Wine Fromm Pinot Noir 2019
Red Wine Gaja Ca’Marcanda Magari 2019. Angelo Gaja is regarded as one of Italy’s finest winemakers thanks to his pioneering vision and sheer determination. In 1970 he took over the running of his family’s winery which dates back to 1859. Angelo set about crafting top quality wines from the stunning local terroir that would be able to rival the very finest bottles from the likes of Burgundy and Bordeaux. To achieve his vision, Angelo replanted much of the estate’s vineyards and introduced modern winemaking techniques like temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. To the surprise of other local winemakers, he also brought in small oak barrels for ageing instead of the large chestnut wood casks traditionally used in Tuscany. This particular cuvee is named Magari after the Italian expression if only it were true!” which expresses hope for the future. Its crafted from Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Petit Verdot grown on limestone-rich soils in the coastal region of Bolgheri. Each of the varieties is fermented separately and then aged in oak for 12 months before the final blend is created. The result is a lively, intense red that’s bursting with sour cherry, mulberry, juniper and licorice notes along with hints of graphite and spice on the long finish.
2019
Red Wine Gaja Idda Etna Rosso 2019. No need to decant. The Idda winery, whose name means “she” in Sicilian dialect, is a joint project of two families, Gaja – a very famous name in Piedmontese viticulture – and Graci – a prominent company located in Passopisciaro – based on the desire to learn and improve Etna wines. Idda is also the term that, with affection and admiration, the locals use to define the Etna volcano. The project focuses mainly on the Carricante and Nerello Mascalese grapes, and focuses on the rediscovery of the southwest side, often referred to as the “countercurrent” side of Etna. This Etna DOC is made from 100% Nerello Mascalese grapes. It is a linear red wine, with a strong personality both on the palate and on the nose. The grapes, after harvesting, ferment and macerate for about three weeks, partly in wood and partly in cement, followed by an aging period of 24 months, again in wood and cement. The wine shows a beautiful ruby red color in the glass. On the nose, there are aromas of black cherries, cherry jam, and blackberries, which gradually evolve towards more herbaceous aromas and earthy touches. On the palate, the wine is medium-bodied, characterized by a fresh and mineral sip, and good persistence. Try it with lamb or a traditional Greek Moussaka.
2019