If I Could Buy Only One – May 11th Vintages Release

We asked our writers, “If you could buy only one wine from the May 11th release, which one would it be and why?”

Graham Beck Méthode Cap Classique Brut Pinot Noir/Chardonnay Rosé Sparkling, Western Cape, South Africa, $22.95, Vinexx
Sara d’Amato – Any takers on a top-quality, traditional method, rosé fizz for under $25? This Cap Classique (South African wine speak for bubbles achieved through a secondary fermentation in bottle, as in Champagne) from a pioneering fizz producer is a notable value in this recent Vintages release. A luminous blend of pinot noir and chardonnay with plenty of autolytic richness and delicate froth. A nicely balanced dosage gives approachability without taking away from the wine’s zesty attitude. I’m drinking it with everything from deviled eggs to duck confit. 

Fernando De Castilla Classic Dry Fino Sherry, Jerez, Spain
$25.95, All The Right Grapes
John Szabo – A particularly rich and complex fino, salty and savoury, with a higher average age than required by law, 5 years in this case. I love the expressive aromatics, true to type, but with an extra degree of brininess, and the bone dry, saliva-inducing palate. Really delicious in the end and an extraordinary value, so often the case from the historic corner of the wine world.

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.

John’s Top Picks
Sara’s Selections