Complex and Elegant Blend from Mendoza
Achaval Ferrer Quimera – A Complex and Elegant Blend from Mendoza
Established in the late 1990s in the heart of Argentina’s Mendoza wine region, Achaval Ferrer is widely recognized for its premium wines crafted with minimal vineyard intervention. The winery’s modern architecture symbolizes its dedication to innovation and quality.
Quimera is a masterful blend of Malbec from Luján de Cuyo, Cabernet Sauvignon from Tunuyán and Junín, and Merlot and Cabernet Franc from the Uco Valley, with small additions of Petit Verdot. This diversity of grape varieties and terroirs produces a wine that is rich in complexity, elegance, and structure.
After harvest, each variety undergoes separate fermentation, followed by a 13-month aging period in new French oak barrels. The name “Quimera” holds dual meaning: it reflects the pursuit of the perfect wine, and also alludes to the chimera of Greek mythology—a mythical creature composed of various animals—mirroring the blend’s diverse character.
In the glass, Quimera offers a fragrant profile filled with plum and blueberry fruit, alongside mineral and earthy undertones. On the palate, it is concentrated, generous, and velvety, with well-structured tannins and a long, juicy finish. It pairs wonderfully with dishes such as pulled pork or a succulent steak.
Akarua Classic Pinot Noir – Elegant Cool-Climate Wine from New Zealand
Named after the Maori term meaning “two paths,” representing the two rivers flowing through its vineyards, Akarua Winery began its journey in 1999 and has since become one of New Zealand’s leading producers of Pinot Noir and other cool-climate varieties.
Owned by the Skeggs family, the winery combines traditional winemaking methods with modern technology in a state-of-the-art facility to create wines that are both refined and expressive.
This classic Pinot Noir bursts with intense aromas of dark fruits like blackberries and cherries, complemented by delicate spice and vanilla hints. The palate delivers a fuller-bodied, richer style of Pinot, showcasing complex layers of ripe fruit, dark chocolate, and earthy nuances.
As the wine opens, additional notes of tobacco and leather emerge, enhancing its depth and complexity. Enjoy this wine now with hearty red meat dishes, or cellar it for several years to allow further development.
Akarua The Siren – Premium Pinot Noir from Central Otago
Founded in 1996 by Sir Clifford Skeggs, Akarua is a family-owned boutique winery in the Bannockburn sub-region of Central Otago, renowned for producing some of New Zealand’s finest artisanal Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines.
The Siren is crafted only in exceptional vintages, using 100% handpicked Pinot Noir grapes sourced from several estate vineyards. After fermentation, the wine is aged for 10 months in French oak barrels, contributing a complex and nuanced flavor profile.
The nose is rich with luscious red cherry, plum, and wild berries, while the palate reveals smooth tannins, medium body, and a concentrated core of ripe red fruits. Versatile and gastronomic, The Siren pairs beautifully with roasted meats, game, and strong cheeses.
It is a wine to enjoy now or cellar further to enhance its characteristics.
Viña Quebrada de Macul – Exquisite Cabernet Sauvignon Blend from Chile
Crafted by Ricardo and Isabel Peña in the Maipo Valley, Chile, Viña Quebrada de Macul vineyards sit in the Andes foothills on gravelly soils considered among the best in the region. The family manages the vineyard with extremely low yields, harvesting vine by vine to ensure optimum ripeness.
This vivacious red primarily consists of Cabernet Sauvignon, with small portions of Petit Verdot, Merlot, and Cabernet Franc. Fermentation uses wild yeasts, followed by 18 months aging in French oak barrels. After bottling, the wine rests an additional six months before release.
On the nose, expect juicy crushed cassis, blackberry, and plum aromas. The palate delivers a generous full body, smooth tannins, and a well-rounded texture. This bold wine pairs well with red meat dishes, tomato-based pastas, and vegetarian meals like aubergine parmigiana.
Ready to enjoy now, it can also be cellared for another decade if desired.