Will: Château Romanin Grand Vin
This Château Romanin Grand Vin is made with grapes grown biodynamically on ancient terroir, alongside the ruins of a 13th-century Knights Templar castle in the Alpilles mountains of Provence, France. This Mourvèdre-Syrah blend is dark and powerful, with notes of blackberry, cherry, and dark fruit on the nose, complemented by smoke, leather, pepper, and spices. It’s reminiscent of high-elevation Argentine Malbec.
The palate is sumptuous yet structured, with a long, mineral finish thanks to the rocky terroir. These are pure, powerful grapes softened and finessed into a versatile and enjoyable wine. Drink it now or cellar some for the future.
Matt: Tacuil 33 de Dávalos
Every now and then, a wine makes me stop, reflect, and wonder, “How did they do it?” The 2020 Tacuil 33 de Dávalos is exactly that—a high-altitude enigma wrapped in a bottle. The Dávalos family has been crafting wines here for decades with minimal intervention and maximum attitude. No oak, no fluff—just pure, unfiltered expression.
This wine is crafted at an elevation so high—around 8,800 feet—that the winemakers could double as mountain goats! Its isolation isn’t just geographic; it’s a badge of honor. Its boldness is balanced by a freshness that comes only from grapes grown close to the stars. It’s like a tango—fiery yet graceful—demanding your full attention and maybe even a second glass.
Pair it with a hearty steak, lamb, or even a hefty chunk of cheese. Either way, you’re in for a ride.
Lucy: Bodegas Hispano+Suizas Bassus Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a rather unexpected grape for Spanish wine, but this isn’t your everyday Pinot. It’s full of fresh cherry and blackberry, with layers of dense flavor while remaining clean and not too sweet. The soft texture and caramel undertones make it special.
The winemaking trio behind this wine found a unique patch of soil in Spain, reminiscent of Oregon’s Willamette Valley. They harvest early in the morning to preserve the fresh acidity and ferment the grapes directly in oak barrels. Pinot can be hit or miss for me, but this one is a bullseye.
Arianna: Domaine des Florets Gigondas Alliance
This wine from our Fall French Collection was exceptional. With notes of pomegranate and strawberry, it’s soft and sweet without being syrupy. The layered flavors are accented by a bit of spice, keeping things interesting.
This Old Vine Grenache-Syrah blend pairs perfectly with steak, refined meats, or a hearty pasta dish.
Diego: Champagne Allouchery DeGuerne Premier Cru
There’s something about champagne that feels like an open invitation—it says, “Life’s worth celebrating.” Whether it’s a casual Tuesday dinner or a special gathering, the Allouchery family’s Premier Cru Champagne isn’t about grandeur; it’s about roots.
Crafted in the quiet village of Chamery, it offers crisp citrus notes and warm brioche undertones. This is the kind of bottle that makes you pause and appreciate the craft, care, and tradition behind it. Champagne is the best way to start any meal, and this one is a reminder to always keep a bottle chilled for those special moments.
Amelia: Paco Puga Contemporáneo
As our current sole year-round Argentine resident, I’m loyal to our Argentine wines—and this one is something truly special. Paco Puga combines three grapes in a delicate balance, creating a wine loaded with blueberry and blackberry notes, with a kick of pepper and a soft touch of vanilla.
This wine is the perfect balance of punch, complexity, and easygoing tastiness.
