Each year in our November Best Buy/Value issue, New World wines take center stage because of their amazing quality-to-price ratios. There’s no question that the wines of countries like Argentina, Chile, South Africa, New Zealand, Australia and the United States are some of the best and most delicious deals on the wine shelf.
But this month, as we pay homage to New World wines, we also celebrate the top-end pours these innovative producers often offer. Think collectible, terroir-driven New Zealand Pinot, Australian Shiraz and Argentine Malbec, among others. While coming in at $30 and up, these wines are still fantastic values, rivaling expensive European wines in quality.
Argentina, one of the globe’s buzziest New World wine destinations, is the focus of Contributing Editor Michael Schachner’s piece. We highlight the country’s new guard of pioneering winemakers, those who grew up in the vineyards at the heels of their grape-growing and winemaking fathers and grandfathers. These trailblazers are shaping the future in a nation with a long, rich vinous history.
Back home, Contributing Editor Sean Sullivan reports on the benchmark series of vintages making a splash in Washington State. After a series of wins and losses over the last 10 years, the state’s wines are poised to stand alongside the greatest wines in the world. The great 2012 and 2013 vintages should be snapped up by treasure-seekers and value-hunters alike.
California’s Sierra Foothills offer fans of that state’s wines an intriguing alternative to the dozens of coastal AVAs. These rugged offerings are steadily gaining polish and appeal. The only catch is that you may have to go direct to the source. Contributing Editor Jim Gordon tells you who to call on.
Nothing could be more modern than the concept of the urban winery, and the U.S. has taken the trend to next level, focusing on innovation and local varieties in major metropolises like New York City and wine-producing hubs like California’s Paso Robles. Our editors also detail top urban winery picks and tell you what to taste during your visit.
Also in the issue, vegan pairings, Easter brunch beers and the terroir of tea.
Cheers!
Published: February 16, 2016
