1. Borgogno Langhe Nebbiolo (shown below!)
- Producer: Serio & Battista Borgogno
- Region: Piedmont, Italy
- Varieties: 100% Nebbiolo
- Alcohol: 13.5%
Fratelli Serio & Battista Borgogno is a historic winery located in the prestigious Cannubi vineyard in Piedmont, Italy. Founded in 1897 by Francesco Borgogno, it was the first and only winery on the Cannubi hill at the time. Cannubi is highly regarded in the wine world, often compared to Burgundy's Grand Cru vineyards, producing Barolo wines known for their elegance, lifted floral aromatics, and an approachable yet age-worthy structure. Unlike many Barolos, which are known for their power, Cannubi Barolos are distinctive for their balance and early drinkability, offering pleasure even in their youth.
The estate, which has been in the Borgogno family for generations, is now led by fourth-generation sisters Anna and Paola Borgogno, with their daughters Emanuela and Federica taking over management.
This Nebbiolo is macerated and fermented for 10-12 days in traditional wooden 'tini,' which helps extract flavor and tannins from the grapes. After fermentation, the wine is aged in large Slavonian oak barrels for one year. This aging process allows the wine to develop its structure and complexity. Before being released, the wine undergoes an additional six months of aging in the bottle to ensure its balance and refinement. Salute!
2. Tensley Wine Company Santa Barbara County Syrah Lite (shown below!)
- Producer: Tensley Wine
- Region: Santa Barbara, CA
- Varieties: 100% Syrah
- Alcohol: 13%
In 1998, Joey Tensley founded Tensley Wines with a mission to create a Syrah-driven brand that highlights the unique vineyards of Santa Barbara County. Starting with just 100 cases, Tensley Wines has grown into a 5,000-case operation, earning significant accolades, including spots on Wine Spectator’s Top 100, 99 points from Robert Parker, and the title of “Top Syrah in America Over $20” from Food & Wine Magazine.
Joey’s passion for winemaking was sparked at age twelve during a soccer trip to France, where he was captivated by the chill and aroma of the wine caves. This experience inspired him to pursue winemaking, leading him to start his career as a “cellar rat” at Fess Parker Winery in 1993. He quickly rose through the ranks, becoming the assistant winemaker at Babcock Vineyards after just three years. It was here that Joey developed a deep appreciation for the importance of the vineyard and the unique growing conditions of Santa Barbara County, where an east-west mountain range creates diverse microclimates perfect for Syrah.
In 1998, Joey moved on to Beckmen Vineyards, where he began producing his own label, focusing exclusively on Rhône varietals from Santa Barbara County. Tensley Wines gained early attention with its 2001 Syrahs, which were highly praised by critics like Matt Kramer and Robert Parker.
This "lite" Syrah is organically farmed and fermented with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel. Aged in neutral barrels for six months, it produces a lithe, Vin de Pays-style wine. The wine offers dark, juicy fruit flavors like currant, blackberry, and plum, with a lively acidity that provides structure. Subtle hints of violet and baking spice add depth to this medium-bodied Syrah, making it refreshing, versatile, and incredibly easy to drink. Sustainably grown and vegan.
3. Lieu Dit Chenin Blanc (shown below!)
- Producer: Lieu Dit Winery
- Region: Santa Barbara, California
- Variety: Chenin Blanc
- Alcohol: 12.5%
Lieu Dit Winery focuses on three classic French grape varieties—Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc, and Cabernet Franc—to craft wines that are perfect for both everyday enjoyment and special occasions. Their winemaker, Justin Willet, a native of sunny Santa Barbara, California, brings his deep local knowledge to the craft, sourcing responsibly grown grapes from the region's hidden gems to produce consciously crafted wines that reflect the unique character of the area.
Chenin Blanc is the wine world's best-kept secret. Richer than Sauvignon Blanc yet incredibly light, it might just become your new favorite wine—you just haven't discovered it yet. Lieu Dit introduces you to the understated elegance of Chenin Blanc: simultaneously indulgent and refreshingly crisp.
Beloved by sommeliers and chefs for its versatility, Chenin Blanc pairs beautifully with a wide range of cuisines. For Lieu Dit Wines—and many other Chenin Blanc enthusiasts—it’s all about the texture. While the bright aromas are delightful, it’s the wine's captivating and satisfying mouthfeel that truly enchants.
4. Aphros "Ten" Loureiro (shown below!)
- Producer: Aphros
- Region: Vinho Verde, Portugal
- Variety: Loureiro
- Alcohol: 10%
Aphros Wines began at Casal do Paço, a traditional estate in the heart of the Lima Valley, known for its rich biodiversity and ideal terroir for viticulture. Originally a family retreat, the estate was nearly abandoned by the early 21st century. In 2004, Vasco Croft, deeply influenced by Rudolf Steiner's biodynamic principles, took on the challenge of revitalizing the farm. He restructured the vineyards, introduced chestnut orchards, and implemented biodynamic practices, including the use of special plant extracts to minimize copper treatments.
Inspired by a Buddhist monk and the potential of biodynamics in wine, Vasco began producing and bottling wine, leading to a growing demand worldwide. This success prompted the expansion of the estate with two additional Quintas and the construction of a new cellar in 2015. In 2023, Aphros Wines opened a visitor center to share their philosophy and connect with the public through cultural events, making the winery a hub for nature, arts, and community building.
Crafted from 100% Loureiro grapes, Aphros' 2023 Ten Loureiro white wine offers a refreshing taste of the Vinho Verde region. The grapes, harvested in early September, come from vineyards in the cooler, Atlantic-influenced Lima sub-region. This Loureiro expression is bright and lively, with citrus aromas of lemon and orange complemented by subtle white flower notes. A slight sweetness (around 5 grams per liter) balances the wine's crisp acidity, making it an easy and enjoyable drink. Aged for two months "sur lies" (on the lees), the wine develops a pleasing texture with a hint of creaminess. This minimal intervention approach allows the pure character of the Loureiro grape to shine, making Aphros Ten Loureiro an ideal pairing for seafood, light salads, or simply enjoying on a warm afternoon.