Beso de Vino
Selección Cariñena Syrah Blend 2014
This is a Syrah/Garnacha blend- not bad, but a bit basic. Nothing to write home about, unless it's the price point (around $9). Nonetheless, will still look for other wines by this vineyard.
"Opaque purple. Intensely perfumed aromas of cherry and blackberry are brightened by zesty minerality and a subtle peppery quality. Lively red and dark fruits on the palate, with black pepper and licorice nuances emerging with air... Finishing with excellent persistence and gentle tannic grip." — 8 years ago
Casal Thaulero
Terre di Chieti IGT Sangiovese
Not bad, but not what I look for in a Sangiovese. A bit too soft, but, because of that, I would recommend it to others.
"Casal Thaulero Sangiovese has a deep red colour. The bouquet is fruity with red berry hints. Our Sangiovese is excellent alone or with dishes such as roasts, cheeses, or pasta. Serve at room temperature." — 8 years ago
Rocca delle Macìe
Vernaiolo Chianti Sangiovese Blend 2015
Decided to revisit Chianti and was very pleased that this is the one I chose. Delicious, and not as heavy as some Chianti can be.
"Produced in the region of Tuscany in central Italy. A medium-bodied red wine suitable to accompany meats and game. Serve at 60-65•F." — 8 years ago
Aliança
Foral Douro Red Blend 2015
Not bad, but can't compete with Villa Regia. Wouldn't revisit. Blends Tinta Roriz, Touraga Franca, and Tinta Barroca.
"This dry wine is fruity, full of character, and well-balanced with a good finish. A perfect accompaniment to pasta, poultry, veal, lamb, or just enjoyed on its own." — 8 years ago
Campo Viejo
Rioja Tempranillo Rosé 2016
A disappointing rose, but only because of how hyped I was for the Tempranillo.
"Crisp and dry, this Rose is bright raspberry pink in colour with intense raspberry flavours, hints of plum, blackberry, roses, and violets." — 8 years ago
Familia Zuccardi
FuZion Mendoza Shiraz Malbec 2016
Always a good choice if, like me, you like a heavier red wine. Only around $8. — 8 years ago
Mateus
Signature Douro Red Blend 2015
A Douro that can stand up to my go-to Portuguese red, Villa Regia. While I didn't love Matteus's sparkling rose, this is a delicious still red wine.
"In the Douro valley, northern Portugal, a unique combination of climate, soil, and vines produces wines of great character... This rich red wine, with a fragrant bouquet, is produced from selected grapes grown in this region." — 8 years ago
Bodegas Borsao
Tinto Seleccion Garnacha Blend 2015
A fruitier Garnacha that also uses Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon grapes. A decent blend, and only around $12.
"Pleasant, fruity, and well-balanced wine... These grapes are grown in the best exposed vineyards of the appellation Campo de Borja. Borsao Seleccion is a powerful young wine with a very good structure and surprising bouquet of red fruits. To be served at 15• celsius." — 8 years ago
Trapiche
Astica Cuyo Malbec Rosé 2016
A run-of-the-mill rose. I was expecting more from a Malbec.
"Astica means flower in our native Indian language and this wine was made in their honour. This Rose shows a transparent red colour and intense aromas of black fruit and strawberries. Ideal to drink as an apperitive or wish fish, salads, and mild to spicy meals. Ideal drinking temperature: 10-12• celsius." — 8 years ago
Joshua Vickery
A new favourite. This 2008 Tempranillo is bold and spicy and gets me every time.
"In the timeless Spanish winemaking tradition, Anciano Gran Reserva is matured in oak barrels for at least 18 months, and in our cellars, to achieve its fine complexity and mellow oak character. It has smooth vanilla notes, rich black cherry fruit and subtle hints of leathers, balsamic, and spice. Drinking well now. Enjoy with roast lamb and other grilles meats, a hearty casserole, or mature cheeses." — 8 years ago