The world's most versatile and easily accessible alcoholic beverage is wine. Wine is as diverse as it can be, from a chilled white to a robust red, not to mention a light rose and some bubbly. Depending on the climate and temperature, grapes grow in different parts of the world with different tastes. With the right pairings, wine complements any meal, so you can consume it at lunch or dinner in moderation. For wine lovers, the new year brings new opportunities, new challenges, and of course, new wines to taste! You deserve only the best for 2023. Bringing luxury to your doorstep. Here is the list of the best overall wine to start off the new year on the right note.
Catena Zapata Adrianna Vineyard Fortuna Terrae Malbec 2016
The 2016 Adrianna Vineyard Fortuna Terrae was bottled six months earlier than in previous years, due to a cooler and wetter year. It was important to keep the wines "lighter" and more mineral than oak, so they didn't want the oak to make them seem heavy. As a result of the deeper soils, this wine shows more fruit, and it is always the most pleasant, approachable, and open of the three reds from Adrianna. Several notes of tobacco and spices can be detected. The wine will be immediately appealing on release, but it will also develop nicely in the bottle given how young it is and that it won't be released for another year. In terms of completeness, 2016 is the best of the three vintages. Pair it with beef or lamb for dinner.
Sine Qua Non a Shot in the Dark 2006
The Sine Qua Non-winery was founded in 1994 and is considered to be one of California's most famous cult wineries. With fruit from high-quality Central Coast vineyards, this winery was created by maverick winemaker, Manfred Krankl, and is world-famous for its Rhône Valley-inspired blends. The velvety tannins and layered flavor of this Syrah make it one of the best-rated wines in the world. Since only 442 cases of this vintage were produced, you should consider yourself lucky indeed if you are able to get your hands on a bottle of this 96.5% Syrah, 3,5% Viognier wine. A few years of aging will enhance the aromas of blueberry pie and blackberry, along with hints of chocolate and Asian spices. For a special treat, try it with lamb, venison, or a game of deer.
Château d’Yquem Sauternes 2005
This is a beautiful, brilliant, golden-yellow color. The nose is dominated by aromas of apricot compote, dried fruit, and figs, as well as notes of vanilla and floral notes (jasmine and acacia blossom). Upon swirling in the glass, the bouquet reveals overtones of citrus zest that highlight the wine's subtle refinement. With its perfect balance, the 2005 Yquem begins with a deliciously suave and caressing palate. Adding to the wine's elegance and fresh acidity is its restrained power, giving it an incredible sense of class. Gingerbread, orange nonette cakes, and licorice dominate the palate of this wine, which is complemented by a gorgeous acid tang that contributes to its lovely, long aftertaste on par with some of the chateau's most illustrious vintages. Despite the wide variety of flavors, they all seem to be vibrating on the same wavelength, blending into a subtle whole. A delicious way to enjoy it is with ripe peaches and nectarines or with simple French tarts.
Château Latour 2000
An impressively deep, dark color. A strong, balanced structure characterizes the wine. These tannins may be superior to those of the '96 and '90 vintages due to their dense structures and unique qualities. There is a balance in the wine between class, rigor, complexity, and great finesse in fruit. This deep red wine is composed of 77% Cabernet Sauvignon, about 6% Merlot, about 4% Cabernet Franc, and about 3% Petit Verdot. The savory and rich flavor will keep you captivated until the very last sip. It's one of those wines that tastes better the longer you wait to open it. A mid-blow aroma of black truffles, currants, raspberry, and dried flowers will delight your senses. You can pair it with any grilled or braised meat for a real treat.
Masseto 2016 Merlot
In 2016, Masseto experienced a typical coastal Tuscan growing season, with a dry and sunny climate, abundant sunshine, and just enough rain to allow perfect ripening. With ripe and intense dark fruit notes blended with subtle cocoa and spice notes, 2016 has a particularly intense and youthful color. This wine develops ripe, caressing tannins with luscious, vibrant fruit and acidity that keeps the long finish fresh and lively. There is no comparison to the dark, sumptuous taste of this merlot. Its rich flavor is enhanced by notes of dark fruit, spice, sweet tobacco, and black cherry. As a result of being aged in oak barrels for two years, it exhibits a vibrant acidity that is smoothed with a delightful finish. The aromatic wine pairs well with veal, lamb, or any type of steak.
Wayfarer Golden Mean Pinot Noir 2014
It is a blend of the Swan clone, with its elegant aromas and enticing perfume, and the Pommard clone, with its earthy aromatics and strong structure. There is a hint of powdered cocoa and the suggestion of an ocean breeze as the aromas of this ruby-hued wine introduce themselves. Soft tannins and well-structured slate minerality accompany fresh strawberry and cherry flavors on the palate. This wine has a balanced acidity that makes it easy to pair with food - it is ready for enjoyment upon release, and will continue to mature beautifully for at least another 10 years. With time, spicy accords and pomegranate and cinnamon toast notes become more prominent. Pair this wine with venison, veal, or beef for the best results.
Heitz Cellar Martha’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon 2016
On the alluvial fan of western Oakville, Martha's Vineyard continues to embody the legacy of being Napa Valley's first single vineyard-designated wine. After being aged in French oak barrels for three years, one year in neutral oak barrels, and another year in the bottle, this wine is ripe and delicious. With flavors of wild black fruit, thyme, mint, eucalyptus, and bay, this wine strikes a perfect balance between polished tannins and mouthwatering freshness. This Napa Valley classic has been aged to perfection for immediate enjoyment at release and will continue to reward for over 20 years. The perfect accompaniment to fried lamb.