One of the biggest challenges of collecting wine – great wine – is the period that you have to wait.
5-10-15 years or more with your new friends hanging out in your basement all the while you want to experience amazing flavor and value with a vintage that might be just a tad younger and represents an excellent value.
I’ve been searching for these finds as my partner in crime often asks – “well which wine can I drink out of the cellar?” This sentiment takes a lot of fun out of collecting and savoring the experience.
Recently I’ve found 4 vintages that I think represent amazing value along with an excellent tasting experience. Would love to get your feedback if you have experienced them.
2015 Baron de Lay Tempranillo – $12 USD: Rated 90 points by Wine Spectator – this red really pops with smokiness completed by cherry & licorice. It has personality which is exactly what you want in an affordable wine.
2016 Pecchino san luigi Dogliani – $19 USD: Rated 91 points by Wine Spectator and 90 points by Robert Parker – it really packs a punch with spicy tones complemented by touches of raspberry and blackberry. Lovely on the nose and is an amazing compliment to pasta – especially cacio e pepe.
2016 Pendulum Cabernet Sauvignon – $18 USD: Rated 90 points by Wine Spectator and listed as #82 out of the top 100 wines of 2018. From Columbia Valley in Washington this one shows notes of pepper, apple and berries. The apples really cut through though and compliment the pepper on the palate. Just a lovely, lovely Cab!
2016 Rio Madre Rioja Graciano – $11 USD: Rated 90 points by James Suckling this Rioja is silly smooth with just a touch of spice on the backend. Loved the explosion of berry on the back of the tongue. A lovely every day wine or something for a special occasion.
And the best thing about each of these wines? You can enjoy them right now! Cheers!
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