If I Could Buy Only One – November 5 VINTAGES Release

We asked our writers, “If you could buy only one wine from this release, which one would it be and why?”


Saumur Champigny Lieu Dit Les Poyeux 2018

($18.95, Vinexx)
Michael Godel – My pick this release is an only one because it is both representative of an appellation in a most perfect entry-level way and such a screaming value it should be considered an only twelve. The grape is cabernet franc, the place is the Loire Valley and the wine is Alliance Loire Saumur Champigny Lieu Dit Les Poyeux 2018. In 1802 Les Poyeux was cited as one of the premier crus of Saumur and to this day is a reference terroir, known locally as “the gold mine.” The hill rests on shallow tufa chalk soils and this silly amazing value by Cave Robert Marcel is indeed a reference point for the appellation by way of its collective fruit gathered from the six winegrowers of the locality Les Poyeux. Long and slow maceration (22 days) extracts all the positives and nary a negative bitter or as astringent note. Dry as it gets, pure, fluid and so beautifully franc.


Perez Cruz Grenache 2020

($15.95, Charton Hobbs Inc.)
John Szabo – My only one this week would be Perez Cruz Grenache 2020. It is truly a tasty value, a pure grenache from the Maipo Andes Estate with well-rounded, generous palate and impressive flavour concentration in the price category to be sure. Classic grenache red fruit (strawberry-raspberry) flavours mingle with typical Maipo minty-herbal character, forming a very pleasing overall impression. For $16? This is fine stuff. Drink or hold short term.


Fossil Point Pinot Noir 2018

($27.95, Vinexx)
David Lawrason – This is not the first time a pinot from the tiny Pacific-cooled Edna Valley on the Central Coast has turned
my head. The Fossil Point Pinot Noir 2018 is named after a white stoned, calcerous headland that juts into the Pacific nearby. So, whereas many California pinots are full and round, this has some edge and lift in a cooler climate style and it packs far more complexity, structure and depth then I expected from the price. The nose lifts nicely with cran-cherry, red rose, fine spice and some meatiness. It is medium weight, smooth, a touch juicy yet firm and well balanced.


Renato Ratti Marcenasco Barolo 2018

($70.95, Halpern Enterprises)
Sara d’Amato – A breath of fresh air, this lighter, and more approachable incarnation of Renato Ratti Marcenasco Barolo 2018 that can be enjoyed, starting now! This ethereal expression from 2018 offers generous floral aromas, a keenly balanced palate and memorable length. An early maturing expression with tannins that have just softened enough for immediate enjoyment but with the length and complexity to hold another half decade or more




Use these quick links for access to all of our Top Picks in the New Release. Non-Premium members can select from all release dates 30 days prior.

Szabo’s Smart Buys
Lawrason’s Take
Michael’s Mix
Sara’s Selections
Megha’s Picks

New Release and VINTAGES Preview