My Picks: Vintages On-Line Exclusives – December 9

Here’s my shopping list for today’s Vintages On-Line Exclusives Release.

What am I looking for? Three things.

Organic: I’m always on the lookout for wines certified biodynamic, organic, or even natural.

Off-the Beaten Track: I’m keen on lesser-known or underappreciated varietals and blends, so you’re unlikely to find any Cabernet Sauvignon or Chardonnay on my shopping list. I do buy them, but they don’t need any more publicity.

Value: I’m looking for wines at less than $30. Again, I do go over, but that’s not the focus here.

Biodynamic
1.  Matetic Corralillo Reserva Syrah 2007; DO San Antonio, Chile; # 0146407; 14% ABV; $23
Certified organic by BCS Öko-Garantie GmbH, Matetic has always grown its grapes using biodynamic principles. And it’s a syrah from Chile!

Off the Beaten Track
2.  Anselmo Mendes Muros Antigos Alvarinho 2008; DOC Vinho Verde Portugal; # 0080804; 12% ABV; $25
Alvarinho is the same grape as Albarino, grown just over the border in Galicia (Spain). Something to tuck away for next spring. Definitely a personal favourite.

3. Cantina Del Taburno Fidelis Aglianico Del Taburno 2005; DOC Campania; # 0145235; 13% ABV; $19
90% Aglianico and 10% Sangiovese. An underrated varietal from Campania.

4. Loma Larga Cabernet Franc 2007; Casablanca Valley, Chile; # 0146050; 14% ABV; $23
Cab Franc from Chile. Worth a try.

5. Salomon Undhof Kögl Riesling 2007; DAC Kremstal, Austria; # 0598540; 12% ABV; $25
If you like Riesling, Austria makes some really elegant ones.

6. Cuvelier Los Andes Colección 2006; Mendoza, Argentina; # 0144014; 15% ABV; $23
I say, “Argentina Red” and you say, “Malbec”. Well, Argentina is also making some interesting blends. This one is 60% Malbec, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 10% Merlot, and the balance Syrah and Petit Verdot.