CELLAR CHOICE

2010 vintages not to be missed

Michele Chiarlo Cerequio Barolo Riserva DOCG 2010

Produced only in stellar years, the Cerequio

Barolo comes from the oldest (1972) and smallest parcel, and has yielded only three vintages so far – 2006,

2007 and 2010. It is carefully vinified with skins for 22 days, using a soft ‘shower’ system of wetting the cap before undergoing three years ageing in cask and three years in bottle. A complex, inviting nose of truffle and balsamic notes are coaxed out of the glass, followed by powerful black fruit and tobacco on the palate. Silky tannins and mineral depths round off the juicy core, for pairing with stews and mature cheese.

$335 from monopole.com.sg

PAZO SEÑORÁNS SELECCIÓN DE AÑADA 2010

More people are discovering the elegant, fresh Albariño from the Rias Baixas DO of Spain. This estate is run by husband and wife Soledad and Javier, who work plots separately in order to highlight quality such as this bottling – from vines over 45 years old grown on granitic soils. Albariño from the Salnés area is expressive with a crisp melony character, aided by ageing 30 months on its own lees and further aged in bottle for 12 months. It results in a fine depth of white peach and intense aromas, ideally paired with seafood dishes.

$114 from ewineasia.com

CLOS APALTA 2010

A catastrophic earthquake rocked Chile in 2010, recorded as the world’s fifth largest, but Clos Apalta took the delay in their stride. The estate is owned and run by the Marnier-lapostolle family (of Grand Marnier fame), and champions the Carmenère grape in this blend. The 2010 comprises 71% Carmenère, 18% Cabernet Sauvignon and 11% Merlot, which achieves a polished palate of black fruit with spices of clove and pepper, finessed by velvety tannins. Native yeast, manual punchdowns and gravity racking contribute to the wine’s luscious power, which you can enjoy now with lamb or game.

$188 from 1855thebottleshop.com