Mikes PICK6 #3

Mike’s PICK6
( January 2011)

2009 Puydeval Rouge
This is an old favorite of mine that seemed to have lost its place on the shelf for the past couples years. Let’s just say it was a pleasure to be reintroduced. Puydeval is an interesting blend made of primarily Cabernet Franc which thrives in the cooler microclimates of the typically hot Languedoc region of Southern France. Cabernet Franc is generally known as the red wine from the Loire but here it is blended with some Syrah and Merlot to create a fantasticly bold wine. There are aromas of flowers, blackberries, plums and other dark fruit that seem to open up and evolve the longer the cork has been popped. The Cab Franc has great acidity and the hints of Syrah and Merlot give the wine a firm backbone, peppery qualities and a velvety texture. Layers of dark cherry fruit, grilled meat juices, and a black licorice finish. Definitely time to make a home for this wine again on the shelf!

2009 La Cappuccina Soave
Soave was once the most prestigious, well-made, and expensive white grape varietal in all of Italy. That was before the region was bombed by the Allies during World War II, destroying a majority of the vineyards. There was a rough recovery period when the vines were being replanted, but now the area is back on the right track. This is not your jug Soave (or American wine marketed as Soave) that you’ve seen years ago. This is 100% Denominazione di Origine Controllata Soave Classico made from the Garganega grape from Verona, Italy. Despite its signature deep, straw-like color, the wine is dry and crisp. It has a fresh nose of white flowers and pressed apples. On the palate, the wine is delicate and fruity with hints of almond on the finish. Low in alcohol, this is a perfect aperitif or accompaniment to seafood.

2009 Ludovicus
I tasted this wine by the glass at Toro in the South End (1704 Washington St, Boston) and one word came to mind; sexy! This Spanish blend of Garnacha, Syrah, Carinena, Tempranillo, and Merlot is organically grown in the high-elevation region of Terra Alta, just south of Barcelona. “Ludovicus” refers to the Roman soldier that first planted vineyards in this area dating back to the Roman Empire. Each of the five grapes brings something special to the overall quality of this wine. Seductive ripe cherries and fresh strawberries are intertwined with a peppery, creamy vanilla character that comes from the 4 months of aging in new French and American oak. The finish has spicy cedar notes and popping acidity making it an amazing food wine. It was delicious with rich paella and an assortment of Spanish tapas.

2009 Rock & Vine “Three Ranches” Cabernet Sauvignon
Finally a California Cabernet at a reasonable price point that was worthy to throw into the PICK6 mix! Primarily a restaurant-only wine, I managed to squeeze some into the store. Classic Bordeaux varietals from the North Coast of California present a deep, rich blackberry and cassis profile with soft, fruity tannins. Hearty black cherries, espresso beans and tobacco notes lead into a sweet oak finish. Big and beautiful… ready for a grilled NY Strip or braised short ribs.

2010 Charles Smith Kung Fu Girl Riesling
This off-dry Riesling comes from one of my favorite producers in Washington State; Charles Smith. It’s aromatic, smooth, vibrant and tasty! Flavors of tangerine, pineapple, wet stone, key lime, clove and nectarine. A zing of acidity balances out the subtle sweetness. This wine received 90 points from Wine Spectator! This isn’t like a syrupy sweet Riesling from Germany, but a clean and complex one from a great producer. They even sell this wine in kegs… yes kegs… you can have this wine on tap at your next backyard party this summer.

2008 Giorgio & Gianni Negroamaro
Negroamaro is a grape that is grown in the southern Puglia region of Italy (the “heel” of the boot). This wine is dark and inky in color with some earthy bitterness and old-world flair to it. The name Negroamaro translates to “black” & “bitter”. While the term bitter is rather unappealing, the wine is not in fact bitter, just rather rustic and expressive of the rich soil in Salento. The wine is thick and jammy like a Barossa Shiraz but has notes of tobacco, forest floor, and grilled herbs. It is extremely layered and structured with all sorts of unique aromas and nuances. Great with strong, funky cheeses, game dishes, and duck.