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.
Ramey Rochioli Vineyard Chardonnay 2016
Ramey has made a Rochioli vineyard-designate Chardonnay for the second time. This wine was made from grapes sourced from vines planted between 1989 and 2005, fermented in barrels with bâtonnage, and aged for 20 months in barrels that contained 21% new French oak. A nose of Meyer lemon, pulverized stone, lime peel, and soft white flowers is apparent on the 2016 Chardonnay Rochioli Vineyard. It offers savory flavors of honeycomb and hazelnut with a smooth, velvety texture and a long finish with plenty of mineral sparks. A wine with beautiful flavors and classic notes of citrus, white flowers, and orchard fruits. With a crisp acidity that combines well with its unique texture, this wine is both powerful and classic. Wines of this medium body are best enjoyed with pork or rich fish dishes.
Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc 2019
With notes of bright, ripe citrus, kaffir lime, passion fruit, and white peach, the 2019 Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc is immediately expressive in the glass. With fruity, tropical notes blending with zesty citrus, stone fruits, and subtle notes of orchard blossom, the palate is vibrant and mouthwatering. An impressively long finish is complemented by a lively grapefruit acidity, sustaining the intense fruit characters throughout the palate. Serve this dish with freshly prepared seafood, steamed mussels with parsley and garlic, and Spanish gazpacho.
Terlato Family Vineyards Friuli Pinot Grigio 2018
Featuring great complexity for its price point, this tangy white wine is produced by the Terlato Family Vineyard of Northeastern Italy. With hints of stone fruit and honeysuckle, this medium-bodied wine features floral flavors of peach and pear. It is well known among winemakers worldwide that Friuli is one of the best regions for the production of luxury Pinot Grigio. Fruit for Pinot Grigio is harvested from hillside estate vineyards that are carefully tended in order to create a full-bodied wine with expressive fruit and mineral flavors. This bright, refreshing white pairs well with shellfish, white fish, appetizers, and sushi.
Robert Weil Kiedrich Grafenberg Riesling Spätlese 2018
The Robert Weil Kiedrich Grafenberg is synonymous with majestic, rich, yet refined Rheingau Spatlese. Featuring spring flower aromas along with mandarin orange, papaya, mango, and smoky slate. The alcohol content is only 8.5%, but the flavor is incredible: dried apricots, fresh raspberries, sweet herbs, and a salty earthiness. The finish is long and complex, this is a real treat. It’s worth every penny. Consume it sparingly to experience its intense richness and creaminess. Acidity combined with a clean flavor gives it a lasting intensity. It goes well with spicy foods and cured meats.
Penfolds St. Henri Shiraz 2016
St Historically, Henri is considered an alternative expression of Shiraz, as well as an intriguing counterpoint to Grange. The fact that it does not rely on new oak makes it unique among high-quality Australian red wines. A wine style that refuses to conform to fashion or commerce. As it ages, St Henri develops soft, earthy, mocha-like flavors. This wine is matured in 1,460-liter oak vats that allow the wine to develop, imparting little or no oak flavor. Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon combine to create a powerful blend of tastes and textures that customers love. Star anise and savory spices are prominent notes, followed by black fruit. With every bite, you'll taste fruitiness, followed by creaminess on the palate. The dish compliments lamb, duck, or tournedos well, making it perfect for any occasion.
Screaming Eagle Cabernet Sauvignon 2010
Among the smallest wineries in Napa Valley is Screaming Eagle. This winery is situated on a rocky hillside in the Oakville Appellation and overlooks a vineyard planted in Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. Over the course of nearly two years, 65% of the wine is aged in new French oak barrels. Each year, approximately 500 cases of wine are produced, with most of the wine being sold directly to consumers through a mailing list. Approximately 200 cases of the 1992 vintage were released as the winery's first release. Your palate will be awakened by rich flavors such as licorice, kirsch, cassis creme de cassis, and spring flowers. This rare wine pairs well with any hearty meal.
Carlisle Papera Ranch 2017
A stone's throw from Carlisle Vineyard, Charley (Carlo) Papera planted this "grand dame" in 1934. Many old-vine vineyards contain a mixture of black grape varieties, but most of the blocks at Papera Ranch are 95+% Zinfandel. A significant amount of Carignane is present in one block, along with Syrah, Petite Sirah, and Valdiguié. The grapes are typically picked at the end of October due to the cool climate of this vineyard. A very character and complex Zinfandel. Typical zinfandel notes are evident along with earthy, herbal notes. Red berries and plums are most likely responsible for the deep ruby-red color of this full-bodied wine. Despite its layers, this vintage has a nice dry finish on the palate. It pairs well with lamb, beef, or poultry.
Louis Latour Chateau Corton Grancey
A chateau situated on the road to Corton was owned by the family "Grancey" before the Latour family acquired it in 1891. It is a unique and exclusive wine produced by Maison Louis Latour. The blend consists of five areas of Domaine Latour Corton Grand Cru: Bressandes, Perrières, Grèves, Clos du Roi, and Chaumes. The proportions of each area vary from vintage to vintage. It is estimated that the vines are over 40 years old on average. In order to create Château Corton Grancey, only the best barrels are assembled after being aged individually. A vintage judged to be inferior is systematically declassified, and no wine is produced if the grapes are not mature. Bringing you this amazing pinot noir from Burgundy is Louis Latour. In addition to the flavors of black and red currants, blackberries, citrus, and dried raspberries, this wine is one of the best in its category. Earthy notes are blended with oaky notes and vanilla hints in this blend full of different textures. You can enjoy this wine with any venison meat or even poultry.
Grgich Hills Estate Chardonnay 2016
In order to preserve the Chardonnay's natural acidity, Grgich did not allow it to undergo malolactic fermentation. A balanced acidity carries these notes from the first sip to the last, giving the wine great freshness and minerality. This Grgich estates chardonnay is fresh, well-balanced, and renowned for its distinctive wine. This fruity wine has notes of pear, pineapple, and peach. With crisp acidity, this wine is aged in stainless steel barrels. It pairs well with lobster, turkey, and roasted chicken.