2. LE CIGARE VOLANT RÉSERVE 2012, $69
Randall Grahm is a winemaker who continues to impress. His move to close all of his wines with screwcap might be seen by some people as cheapening the wines, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. This is a serious, age-worthy red wine that showcases why Randall is one of this country’s best winemakers. A Rhone-style red blend, the wine is deep and dark with the Syrah playing the dominant role. Flavors of dark berries marry with leather to create a delicious wine.
3. TABARRINI CAMPO ALLA CERQUA SAGRANTINO 2010, $50
tabarrini
It’s a rare occurrence to find a wine and winemaker both as exciting as Tabbarini. While Sagrantino may not be a grape that delivers immediately, once it’s aged it can be one of the greatest wines in the world. This bottle is the best example coming out of Montefalco. Ageable for decades, this is a wine that is worth purchasing and holding on to; a fantastic investment.
4. VIÑA REAL RESERVA 2010, $30
The Top 50 Wines of 2016
Good Rioja is one of the greatest bangs for your buck in the wine world. This reserva from one of the region’s top producers doesn’t disappoint. The wine pours a beautiful ruby color with aromas of red cherries, vanilla, and leather. There are flavors of dark red fruit, with nice acidity and balanced tannins.
5. COS CONTRADA 2009, $85
The Top 50 Wines of 2016
This is what opulence tastes like. This is the purest expression of Nero d’Avola we have ever encountered. One sip and you’ll see why so many people think this little grape from Sicily really could be the next big thing in the wine world. It’s a truly elegant wine.
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