If I Could Buy Only One – March 19 VINTAGES Release

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

($21.95, The Living Vine, Inc.)
John Szabo– Why not try something a little different and expand your drinking horizons this spring? The Filodivino Diana Lacrima di Morro d’Alba 2018 is surely a discovery, a lovely, fresh, fruity-floral red in the varietal style of lacrima di Morro d’Alba, a rare, perfumed variety from Le Marche in central-eastern Italy on the Adriatic side. I love the rose water perfume, the sweet red and blue fruit, the purity and freshness. Enjoy now with a light chill, but not too cold – you’ll want to enjoy the aromatic fireworks.

($59.95, John Hanna & Sons)
David Lawrason– This Domaine de Vieux Télégraphe Télégramme Châteauneuf du Pape 2018 is the second label from Vieux Télégraphe, an important Brunier family domaine in Châteauneuf -du-Pape, founded way back in 1891.  The prices of Châteauneuf inch upward, where even a second label is notching $60. It is a quite powerful, rich yet poised blend of 80% grenache and four other varieties from 40+ year old vines. Classic aromas and flavours are so well integrated it is hard to pull them apart. It is medium-full bodied, smooth, sumptuous yet graceful, and that is what I want from the most famous region in the south of France.  Should cellar well for a decade or more.

($24.95, The Living Vine )
Sara d’Amato– Engaging, uncomplicated and well-made, this Valpolicella senza appasimento makes for a delightful weeknight sipper as warmer weather approaches. The Massimago Valpolicella 2018 is light to mid-weight, refreshing but not tart, and organically produced. Winemaker Camilla Rossi Chauvenet is part of a new generation in Valpolicella that has decided to further her family’s grape growing legacy by making and bottling their own wine. After almost two decades at the task, she has not only managed to bring other members of her family on board but also to create a range of creative and elegant wines that showcase distinctive attributes of their surroundings.

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
Sara’s Selections
Michael’s Mix