WINE

(Page 2 of 3)

Tip: Get the Pingus sibling Flor de Pingus at a fraction of the price. The luscious 2001 vintage features complex notes of black fruit and leather. Alongside Pingus we tasted Alvaro Palacios' famed L'Ermita ($350) made from mostly old vine garnacha in Priorat's high-altitude vineyards. Tip: Descendientes de J. Palacios' Corullon or Alvaro Palacios' Les Terrasses ($30) make fine—and reasonably priced—stand-ins.

As long as we're talking Spain, why not consider pioneer vintner Carlos Falco's off beat wines? Falco was the first Spanish winemaker to use syrah and petit verdot. Still, he's certainly no upstart. Falco has a family property dating back to 1292, is a friend of King Juan Carlos and even had a new appellation created to cover his wines. His winery, Marqués de Grinon, is known for its outstanding Bordeaux-style blends. Tip: Try the 2000 Emeritus, which made Wine Spectator's 100 best list and was chosen as the number one Spanish wine.

...Did you forget about Loire Valley Vouvray?
The appellation turned 70 this year. Whether sec, tendre, demi-sec or sparkling, all Vouvray is made from the chenin blanc grape and has a heady, fruity aroma and wonderful acidity. They are perfect for summer seafood. Tip: Try Huet's legendary sweet wine Cuvee Constance or anything by Domaine de la Haute Borne, Benoît Gautier and Domaine d'Orfeuilles.

...Ever tried the 2001 Brunello di Montalcino?
Every year, some 50-odd Brunello producers come to New York, setting up tasting tables at "Benvenuto Brunello." This year the 2001 vintage made its debut. This gamey Italian powerhouse, made from 100-percent sangiovese, features a magical mix of black fruit, mushrooms and wood. Aging mellows the tannins, leaving a luscious, velvety wine.