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When Cabernet Franc is brought up, we typically think Loire or Bordeaux. Well, here is a shining example from the northern Italian region of Friuli. Similar to the French, this wine shows delicious, savory earthiness, forest floor and robust red fruits. Lengthy finish and refreshing acidity.
Sori Gramella refers to the one of the only single vineyard Moscatos, and Marco is the only producer to bottle this striking limestone amphitheater commercially. Once the 30 year old vines give up their bounty, and the grapes are harvested and pressed, they are kept in stainless steel at a low temperature to prevent fermentation until an order is received in order to provide the freshest wine possible.
(Holding the #1 spot)
First lets say that this is Not ChocoVine. This wine is actually made with eighty five percent Merlot and than has natural chocolate cream added to the mix. This is the wine for anyone looking for sweet red or the chocolate lover at home. Great gift for the holidays. (behind by 16 bottles)
My heavens! 50+ year old, organic Mencia vines from some of the highest vineyards in Bierzo. Subtle aromas of strawberry, pink grapefruit and white pepper play with clean river rock minerality touched by zesty key lime. Balance and finish are tied together with a vibrating acidity. Structured and executed like a world class ballerina doing flamenco. Sells out every year for good reason. Lighter than Provence, a different planet than White Zin. The only hard part is only opening one bottle at a time. (behind by 5 bottles)
A beautifully balanced Nebbiolo. Aromas of dried violets, earth and hints of anise. The palate yields more savory earthiness, dark cherry, pomegranate, subtle notes from oak. Enough tannin to wait a few years, but enough acid to approach now. We envision a glass of this next to a piece of roast lamb. (behind by 4 bottles)
A slightly different and wonderful lighter take on Priorat. The gorgeous blue slate show immediately on the nose, Carignan is there but with richness and elegance. Really pretty and an homage to the fruit. Gorgeous leather and blue black fruit flavors with spice and soft leather. Organic, hand picked and just 9 months in French, this really is a lovely wine!
Along the Loire river you'll find Saumur. Cab Franc dominates the red plantings and we can see a prime example with this bottle. Perfumed floral aromas, dark cherry, forest floor and mineral. Gorgeous mouthfeel and smooth tannic structure. Bright acidity making this wine an easy drinker.
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.
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.
