Again in 2015 we had the opportunity to taste and, through Notes Of Note, share feedback on some excellent wine. Several new vintages (e.g., the 2013 Buena Vistas) lived up to their previous accolades while others (the 2012 Boom Boom! Syrah, for example) were slightly behind previous years’ releases. Others were first-of-a kind adventures that will bear repeating over the coming annum. As last year, the below is not necessarily a “best of” list but some notable grapes you’d do well to sample as time permits:

• 2012 The Aristocrat. A limited Buena Vista release that sold out quickly, and for good reason. It IS on my top five reds list and bears tasting any way you can.
• 2012 Montes Alpha Cabernet Sauvignon. A fantastic Chilean red made through eco-friendly farming without sacrificing taste in any way.
• 2013 The Count’s Selection Charbono, Buena Vista Winery. Our guests raved about it too–this one disappeared faster than anything we opened all year. 
• 2010 Meritage, Dry Creek Vineyard. My favorite among their excellent offerings was not the highly acclaimed Mariner but this red blend instead.
• 2004 Merlot, Ramal Estate Vineyard Series. Mostly because I’d held this Buena Vista for quite some time (I never manage to hold wine) before opening, but it the bottle had good grapes too. 

Many others were better visited or better wines overall, but you’ll have to explore Notes further to decide for yourself. I appreciate your readership and raise a glass to everyone who joined in the sampling here at our home or yours this past year. Best to you all in 2016!