{"title":"May 6: Strangest","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"los-loros-listan-blanco-valle-de-guimar-spain-2022","title":"Los Loros, Listan Blanco, Valle de Guimar, Spain, 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eJuan Francisco Fariña Peréz (known as JuanFra to his friends) is a progressive winemaker in the Valle de Güímar, a small DO along the eastern coast of Tenerife. JuanFra has been making wine in the area since the early 2000s, and has some of the most respectful views on farming and winemaking in the area. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJuan Francisco studied winemaking in Tenerife before taking over the vineyards from his father in 1998. He grows Listán Blanco and Albillo Criollo outside his winery in Arafo. In addition to these two plots, he is also working on recuperating old and abandoned vineyards higher up the mountainside in an area called Las Dehesas. At 1400m elevation, these centenarian Listán Blanco vines are only reachable by a special tractor. These vines are very low yielding and go into one of JuanFra’s most interesting wines, a solera method blanco named “La Bota de Mateo,” aged in an old sherry cask. \u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003eJuanfra calls his project Los Loros, after the laurel shrubs that proliferate the upper parts of the Valle de Güímar. Conventional farming is typical in this area of the island, however Juanfra believes in a more holistic style of farming. Favoring a sustainable philosophy, he enjoys showcasing traditional Canarian varietals such as Listán Blanco (Palomino), Vijariego Blanco, Marmajuelo, Albillo Criollo ( He owns most of his own vines, and also works with small farmers in the area, promoting sustainable practices among them. The Los Loros bodega is no bigger than a one car garage, yet Juan Francisco is doing great things in this little-known territory of Tenerife.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eJuan Francisco Fariña Peréz \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e100% Listán Blanco\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eRueda, Spain\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eTasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThis wine is made with young vine Listán Blanco (Palomino). Hand harvested and aged on its lees for about 6 months in stainless steel tanks under flor blanket. The wine is bottled with a light fining and just a touch of added SO2. It is textured, mineral, salty, with notes of tropical citrus.  I say think dry sherry with fortification....  its wild, cool, and for those that enjoy a large sense of adventure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e92 Points - Wine Advocate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe 2022 Los Loros Listán Blanco de Canarias was produced partly with their own grapes and the rest with others that were purchased from a local grower who works traditionally and organically but is not certified. It's fresh and easy to drink with a moderate 11.5% alcohol and good freshness. It fermented with indigenous yeasts in stainless steel, where it matured with lees that were not stirred. The wine was bottled early, unfined and unfiltered. It's expressive, varietal with a tasty palate, dry and with a salty twist in the finish. 4,200 bottles produced. It was bottled in April 2023.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Grapex","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51755973312817,"sku":null,"price":34.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Los_Loros_Listan_Blanco_Valle_de_Guimar_Spain_2022.jpg?v=1755718026"},{"product_id":"filipa-pato-dinamica-dnmc-baga-bairrada-portugal-2024","title":"Filipa Pato, 'Dinamica - DNMC,' Baga, Bairrada, Portugal, 2024","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cb style=\"text-decoration: underline; font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003eFilipa Pato: winegrower in Bairrada. A graduate of the University of Coimbra as a chemical engineer, she refined her skills working harvests in Bordeaux, Mendoza, Margaret River, and right at home in Bairrada with her father, Luis Pato, the Baga Rebel. (In 2020 Filipa was elected Winemaker of the Year in Portugal by the Revista de Vinhos, the first Portugese woman to earn the title in 30 years.)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWilliams Wouters: chef sommelier\/ restaurateur. Hailing from a restarateuring family from Antwerp, Belgium, William is a champion sommelier and former head chef to the Belgian national soccer team on the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil and 2016 UEFA European Cup France tours. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTogether, they are Filipa Pato \u0026amp; William Wouters. Their philosophy is simple: to create authentic wines without makeup, wines that express the true nature of the vineyards from which they come. They focus on indigenous grapes only: in their hands, biodynamically-farmed Baga, Bical, Arinto, Cercial and Maria Gomes produce soulful wines from vineyards with ideal soils, microclimates and aspects for growing exquisite wine grapes. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the cellar they gently handle the grapes, practicing minimal intervention guarded by strict monitoring of the wine to allow the grapes to express themselves fully. The ultimate outcome? The creation of terroir-driven wines through the uniting of knowledge, art, and nature. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBiodynamic.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemakers\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eFilipa Pato \u0026amp; William Wouters\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eBaga\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eBairrada, Portugal\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eOur “D.N.M.C.” philosophy is that Baga from different locations gives a more complex wine. Each location has its own expression of Baga. This for us is a real terroir-driven wine and a nice example of Baga with a fruity character and soft tannins. Every plot is vinified apart and at the end, we assemble all of them into one balanced unique “cuvée”, “Dinamica” - D.N.M.C\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt shows a deeper, brilliant cherry colour with a well-present viscosity. Distinguished elegant fruit-driven nose with a typical strawberry and damson plum touch, often with nuances of licorice, slightly spicy (black pepper, laurel, thyme, rosemary, …). On the palate, fruity with a nice, beautiful structure and an almost velvety texture with a very fresh and inviting aftertaste. A real crowd-pleaser, this wine combines excellently with a nice platter of charcuterie, a nice crunchy vegetable salad, grilled fish, grilled white meats and poultry and dry cheeses (Queijo Sao Jorge, Edam, Mimolette). Serve it at 14-16°C in elegant glassware and preferably aerated before serving. Baga tends to be slightly reductive when it has not been aged in oak…\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Winewise","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51866712277297,"sku":null,"price":21.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Filipa_Pato_Dinamica_-_DNMC_Baga_Bairrada_Portugal_2024.jpg?v=1758636817"},{"product_id":"vazisubani-estate-kisi-qvevri-amber-kakheti-georgia-2020","title":"Vazisubani Estate, Kisi Qvevri, Kakheti, Georgian Republic, 2020 (Amphora) (Dry Amber)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eVazisubani Estate is a complex consisting of vineyards stretching over 35 hectares, with restored 19th-century palace. The history of this place goes back to 1869, the year when Sulkhan Chavchavadze was born in the noble Georgian family. In the 1800s, this splendid estate belonged to a renowned nobleman Sulkhan Chavchavadze. A pioneer in winemaking back in the days, Chavchavadze built the estate and vineyards in 1891. His contribution to the cultural and educational development in Georgia, particularly Kakheti, is paramount.  With time Chavchavadze’s once-prosperous palace and vineyards deteriorated. In 2013 the visionaries behind Vazisubani Estate took it in their hands to revive the derelict estate and transform it into an iconic destination – one rooted in its rich history, uninterrupted winemaking tradition, exceptional cuisine, and outstanding hospitality.  With that in mind, the vineyards were replanted and an old wine cellar restored. The palace was renovated and now is a 19 room exquisite boutique hotel. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIdeally located at the foothills of the Caucasian mountain range within a 2-hour drive from the capital, Vazisubani Estate is surrounded by vineyards stretched over 35 hectares and a magnificent parkland, home to some of the oldest and rarest tree species. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSince 2013 we have been creating a place, a home away from home, where people come to relive the history, savor the estate wine, reconnect with nature and one’s self, celebrate life, and be part of a memorable experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVazisubani Estate aims to uphold the traditions that started decades ago. Along with the dedication to produce distinctive premium wines, we are committed to rewarding Estate visitors with a one-of-a-kind experience. When it comes to innovation and hospitality, we want to stand out in the region with our rich history, uninterrupted winemaking tradition, and lavish Kakhetian cuisine. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eLado Uzunashvili\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eKisi (Dry Amber)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eKakheti, Georgian Republic\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThis deep tawny-coloured wine has golden tinge. It bears top notes of tropical, dried fruit and honey aromas while offering a full harmonious and soft body rich of tannins.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eServe with white meat or seafood. Also recommended with spicy Asian dishes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBest served at 8 to 10 ° C.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003ci\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Grapex","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52043518673201,"sku":null,"price":19.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/Vazisubani_Estate_Kisi_Qvevri_Kakheti_Georgian_Republic_2020.jpg?v=1762979536"},{"product_id":"el-enemigo-cabernet-franc-mendoza-argentina-2022","title":"El Enemigo, Cabernet Franc, Mendoza, Argentina, 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eOverview of the Wine\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEl Enemigo translates as the enemy. Nodding to the fact that at the end of any journey, most remember only one battle — the one fought within (the original enemy). This is the battle that defines us. The wines of El Enemigo are a tribute to those internal battles that make us who we are, brought to fruition by a winemaker, Alejandro Vigil, and a historian, Adrianna Catena who share a love of wine and reach back in time to capture the era when European immigrants first settled in Argentina. These settlers sought to make wines as fine, and finer, than those of their old homeland. By 1936, Malbec and Petit Verdot were the most widely planted fine varietals in Argentina, their blend considered the ultimate in refinement and aging potential.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-6\"\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlejandro Vigil\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"fusion-text fusion-text-6\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrape \/ Blend\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e90% Cabernet Franc, 10% Malbec\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOrigin\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eMendoza, Argentina\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWinemaker's Tasting Notes\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eThis Cabernet Franc is ruby red in color with soft violet tones. The nose has intense aromas and concentrated notes of cassis, ripe currants, and sweet spices including black pepper and cloves. His tenure provides integrated oak notes of cedar and vanilla. Fresh impact and excellent structure on the palate, reminiscent of ripe red fruits with hints of eucalyptus and tagged black pepper. This wine has an excellent balance and elegance with a well-structured, persistent finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePair this Cabernet Franc with grilled game meats.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e95 Points - Jeb Dunnuck\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eThe 2022 Cabernet Franc is high-toned, fresh, and mineral-driven, with supple tannin and unobtrusive oak. Medium-bodied, it's well put together and a screaming value for the modest price. This will age well given its natural mouthwatering acidity and firm structure; cellar through 2037.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e94 Points - James Suckling\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eWet earth and elderberries shape the nose with a touch of dark chocolate. The velvety palate is medium- to full-bodied with a hint of cedar that complements the polished dark fruit. Approachable and exceptional for an entry-level wine.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e93 Points - Wine Advocate\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eSourced from Gualtallary's Adrianna Vineyard, the 2022 Cabernet Franc contains 10% Malbec and underwent a 60-day maceration and aged for 15 months in a mix of foudre, barrique and tank. Opening with a dark-fruited, floral and spice-inflected nose, the palate offers dramatic richness tempered by a sturdy, upright, mineral-driven core. It concludes with an explosive, long and layered finish that balances vibrant energy and staining intensity. This is a strikingly overperforming example of the variety that should develop beautifully in the cellar.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ci\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduct size: 750ml\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"WINEBOW","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52263122305329,"sku":null,"price":25.95,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/0441\/0666\/files\/El_Enemigo_Cabernet_Franc_Mendoza_Argentina_2022.jpg?v=1767132477"}],"url":"https:\/\/merchantofwine.com\/collections\/may-6-strangest.oembed","provider":"Merchant of Wine","version":"1.0","type":"link"}