Top Three Wines of October
In this second “wines of the month” summary report, here are October’s top WineZag recommendations. This autumn unveiled itself with vinous treats from Beaujolais, Champagne, and Barbaresco.
2006 Sottimano Barbaresco Pajore $50: This was my favorite wine in a blind flight of Barolos and Barbarescos spanning two vintages. I was taken by this wine’s smoky character, richness, and exotic presence of mint tones. It was a massive mouthful of wine that also showed tremendous balance. You can buy the 2006 Sottimano at Vintages in West Concord, MA or find the wine here.
NV Aubry Brut Premier Cru: $40: October featured global Champagne day and I joined a group of food and wine writers for a fitting celebration with everyone toting a bottle and some appropriate edible accompaniments. It was a night to celebrate the wide range of the region’s styles. Of particular note was the Aubry, a Terry Theise Grower Champagne selection and Michael Skurnik import. Unavoidably detectable in the initial aromatic and palate impressions were the crisp apple notes combined with the spices my wife’s family uses in their addicting apple crisp. Crisp, refreshing, and….well….apply, it is a unique high quality wine that will work well with flavorful white meats and holiday spiced soups and sides, or all by itself. You can find the Aubry Champagne here.
2009 Burgaud Chateau De Thulon Beaujolais Villages $12: 2009 represents a significant buying opportunity in Beaujolais and it is a year to get aggressive in this value laden region offering a Gamay vintage of historical note and quality. The flow of releases started making a serious showing on retail shelves this autumn and the wines continue to make their border crossings right now. Burgaud is a top producer and it is worth seeking out all of the releases, but this month provided the opportunity to taste this top value that offers complexity you would expect to find in wines 2X-4X the price. Black cherry, metallic notes, crisp acidity, smoke, and spice create a drinking experience that left me bewildered by the value, and excited about the outcome of this monumental Beaujolais vintage. You can buy this stunning Beaujolais value here.
Happy drinking. The Beaujolais and Champagne are strong holiday table choices.
Note: It is fully recommended to first check with your regular wine monger for these wines, and only use the Wine-Searcher link options if you can not find the wines at your trusted and hard working local wine merchant.