November Buying Guide
Wine Enthusiast
November 2014
The Wine Enthusiasts reviews Chile and New Zealand in the upcoming November Buying Guide issue. Greywacke‘s intriguing Wild Sauvignon and the Chilcas 2013 Cinsault come highly recommended and may give an insight into wine styles to expect from both countries in the near future.
92 pts / EDITORS’ CHOICE Greywacke 2010 Wild Sauvignon Sauvignon Blanc (Marlborough)
A relative bargain in the scheme of barrel-fermented Sauvignon Blanc, Kevin Judd’s version boasts toasty, nutty notes upfront, followed by creamy citrus and stone-fruit aromas and flavors. It’s a top example of the richness and potential age-worthiness that oak can bring to carefully selected lots of Sauvignon Blanc.
91 pts / EDITORS’ CHOICE Greywacke 2011 Pinot Noir (Marlborough)
Not only does this wine show off some attractive floral notes, it also delivers that supple texture so desired in Pinot Noir. Mocha, herb and black cherry notes all make appearances, but the fruit dominates, gliding into a long, silky finish.
90 pts Chilcas 2013 Single Vineyard Cinsault (Itata Valley)
Rose petal and strawberry aromas meet the definition of friendly. This is a focused wine with Old World character. Flavors of plum, raspberry and integrated wood and vanilla lead to a long, smooth finish with sweet, complex red-fruit and floral flavors. It hails from the southerly Itata Valley, where old-vines vineyards rule.
90 pts Chilensis 2010 Lazuli (Maule Valley)
Six grapes led by Cabernet Sauvignon have been blended into Lazuli, which starts out spicy and herbal. The palate is lively and juicy, with good overall feel. Peppery notes accent roasted berry flavors, while the finish delivers a strong spice and salty, herbal notes that are complex.
BEST BUY Chilensis 2012 Reserva Carménère (Maule Valley)
Rubbery, smoky berry aromas turn more dusty and earthy with airing. The palate is forward and fresh in feel, with herbal plum and spicy red-berry flavors. Notes of herbs and olive dominate a solid finish.
BEST BUY Chilensis 2012 Reserva Malbec (Maule Valley)
Blackberry, vanilla and minerally aromas give this solidity on the nose. A high-acid palate is a bit shrill, which amplifies tangy red raspberry and plum flavors. On the finish, this rides high and fast on a lasting beam of acidity.