Small Wonders Red Case

Birgit Braunstein's blaufränkisch from Austria is a pure, medium-bodied, minimal intervention red wine which stylistically sits somewhere between pinot noir and merlot. The 2017 shows vibrant red fruit character and surprisingly fresh acidity. Decant and drink now for freshness and lift or age for complexity and depth.

Olivier Sèze was at the peak of his winemaking powers in 2012. Attractive, mature Médoc from a well-sited property near Saint-Estèphe. A blend of 49% merlot, 33% cabernet sauvignon, 15% cabernet franc and 3% petit verdot, it spent 12 months in barrel (one third of which were new) before being bottled without fining or filtration. This has a cigar-box bouquet and plenty of mellow, savoury fruit on the palate.

Cline Sonoma County Pinot Noir 2019

Exquisitely perfumed Spanish garnacha from 50-year-old vineyards in Cariñena. This comes from a small family project which is now run by third generation Jorge Nevascues. Pure and smooth with amazing length of flavour.

A delicious ambassador for the cooler-climate style of Argentine malbec, via the Chacayes region and the outstanding winemaker, Susana Balbo. Matured 11 months in 20% new and 80% second-use oak, this has a lovely freshness and energy, with floral and red-fruited aromas and flavours.

For those of you who like their reds to be plush and fruit-forward, this is definitely worth consideration. Intense aromas of ripe cherries and herbs lead on to a bright, fruity palate – ‘effortlessly drinkable’ said one member of our Wine Champions tasting panel as it was voted a champ..