If I Could Buy Only One – November 13th VINTAGES Release

We asked our writers, “If you could buy only one wine from this release, which one would it be and why?”

($39.95, Rogers & Company)
David Lawrason – Calera is an iconic California pinot from pioneer Josh Jensen, whose single vineyard estate bottlings from the Gavilan Mountains are now as rare as top Burgundy. This is not necessarily from estate vines, but captures the Calera cool climate ethos with generous cran-cherry fruit, florals and an essence of evergreen. The Calera Pinot Noir 2018 is medium weight, smooth yet energetic. It is plain delicious in its California way, but detailed and nuanced enough to appeal to fans of Burgundy.

($150.95, Mark Anthony Group)
Michael Godel – Welcome to gifting season WineAligners and if you’ve got the cash this is THE WINE to buy for that special someone. Luce Brunello Di Montalcino DOCG 2016 grabs a piece of the 2016 vintage and that is something to make certain this is surely going to last. Would like to say formidable to describe the structure in this dramatic and vivid Brunello di Montalcino but architectural is more like it, a veritable fortezza of sangiovese strength. Luce out of ’16 is not gregarious, though it will be generous and there are decades breathed into the DNA of this wine. Fruit is more than ample, substantial and gifted but it is the way of ilk and design that shows off in the most chiseled, sculpted and age-worthy ways. Leaves a Baroque impression, moving and interacting with space rather than caught captured in a pose.

($46.95, Rogers and Company)
Sara d’Amato – Such a delightful surprise. “Lively” is a rare descriptor to use with respect to Amarone but the recent release, Brigaldara Cavolo Amarone della Valpolicella 2015 is just that. Featuring a compelling aromatic profile brimming with wildflower, dried herbs, black currant, and red cherry. The alcohol, oak treatment, tannin, and acidity are all remarkably well balanced making this a showstopping wine that can be consumed now or tucked away for several more years. To top it all off, this would undoubtedly make for a sophisticated gift that is sure to impress.

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 Selections

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