If I Could Buy Only One – March 31st, 2018 VINTAGES Release

As part of our VINTAGES recap, we asked our critics: “If you could buy only one wine from this release – which one would it be and why?”

Our picks from the March 31st VINTAGES release:

Michael Godel: Quality to price ratio, value, crowd pleaser. This southern Italian white does it all. Wonderful spirit and fresh energy in Feudo Maccari 2016 Grillo combine with fleshy and even creamy stone fruit for a perfect little glass of pure Sicilian sunshine. Balance between fruit and acidity is spot on. There’s nothing more you could really ask for at $15.

David Lawrason’ Only Two: I couldn’t make up my mind which 2015 Chianti Classico I should choose, so I would buy both the San Felice 2015 Chianti Classico and the Mazzei Fonterutoli 2015 Chianti Classico. I have scored them both 91, which means the value is excellent as well. I am so impressed by this vintage in Tuscany, with its little bump in ripeness and richness. The best wines still retain their taut Chianti-ness, while some have become overripe and heavy. The San Felice is quite pale, charming and fresh with currant/raspberry fruit and well-integrated oak – very authentic. The Fonterutoli has a little bigger, smoother and more polished – as is its customary style – but maintains lovely aromatic nuance and integrity, and great balance. At these prices I might consider buying six of each!

Sara d’Amato – Inspired by kindred gatherings on this long weekend, I will have at the table an assemblage from Hedges that exudes charm and finesse – the Hedges 2005 Family Estate Red. Family and friends truly run this winery that began with husband and wife team – Ted from Washington and Anne-Marie from Champagne who are both now deeply-rooted in the alkaline soils of Yakima’s Red Mountain AVA. Children Sarah and Christophe are essential members of the team and the friends involved are more like family. Like this close-knit crew, cabernet, syrah and merlot also thrive in Red Mountain and produce some of the state’s most memorable and long-lived wines. Looking to future generations, the winery espouses biodynamic practices. This Bordelaise blend may very well come from the old world with its ethereal mouthfeel, harmony and refined use of wood but its concentration and freshness are a direct result of this unique appellation.

Use these quick links for access to all of our Top Picks in the New Release. Non-Premium members can select from all release dates 30 days prior.

Lawrason’s Take
Michael’s Mix
Sara’s Sommelier Selections