The 100BestWines.com Blog

Here Comes the Sun

October 20, 2010

I believe that we are moving towards a better climate for wine drinkers in the upcoming months. Several wine publications, such as The Wine Spectator, have touted the current climate in the wine business as the "year of the consumer."

Billion dollar wine companies are writing off mega debts to stay current. The stores are stocked with great wines under $15 from great producers. Earlier this summer the dollar was trading at 1.28 Euros, today the dollar doesn’t buy as much as it used to. Many producers are trying to hold their own during the crisis and keep what market share and brand building they have acquired over the years. The financial crisis has altered our purchasing habits but not destroyed our willingness to buy value for money. The wine consumer hasn’t abandoned our industry - they have adapted and traded at a level that allows them to enjoy wines on a budget. Many customers have retreated to some of their "old reliables." Many consumers have given the different areas of the world an opportunity to earn their business. Here are some values that we think are worthwhile for their categories.

2009 Cono Sur Pinot Noir, Chile. While Southern France producers have had troubles identifying Pinot Noir, that is not the problem with this excellent Pinot. Cono Sur is under the guidance of the dynamic Adolfo Hurtado. This entry level Pinot Noir from Cono Sur drinks like a much pricier one. The wine is a bit rustic with some excellent red fruit character and good length in the finish. Smooth and surprisingly long finish for such an affordable Pinot Noir.

2006 Caparzo Rosso di Montalcino, Tuscany, Italy. There have been some recent excellent reviews of the Caparzo Brunello di Montalcino 2003,'04,'05 from this estate. The quality hasn’t stopped with the Brunello. The Caparzo Rosso 2007 follows like-wise. Over the years many people rush and try the first release of the Rosso's from Montalcino, with "Baby Brunello" being the cry often. The Rosso from Caparzo is special in that many of the vineyards are on hillsides. Quality here is on the upswing with rich fruity flavors. Great with medium weight food pairings.

2008 Goats Do Roam Red, South Africa. A decade after the initial pun of Goats do Roam hit our shores we still get the quality. A force of nature in the South African wine business, Charles Back wants everyone to enjoy the word play on his Cote du Rhone appellation, but there is no joking about the quality. Recent repackaging has the varietals listed on the back label. This version is one of the best over the years. Very fresh and lively berry fruit with some nice richness and length. Great pizza and hamburger wine for every occasion.

So here are a few suggestions in a galaxy of possibilities. Keep looking for the smart buys. There are quality vintages available at the high and low end. Enjoy your purchases while working through the crisis.

- By Michael Zanatta

100BestWines.com Blog Archive