From Mexico, With Love: Cellar

by: Jorge Ferraez

Recently I had the privilege to be the recipient of a 12-bottle case of good Mexican wines, mainly from Baja California that my good friend Tom Bracamontes is importing to the US through his company La Competencia Imports. I knew Tom a while back when he was working for winemaker and winegrower icon Rolando Herrera from Mi Sueno. I have witnessed Tom’s effort to explore the Baja region and bring the best wines from there, now that finally Mexican wine is starting to get international recognition. It was a great surprise and I carefully tasted all 12 bottles, to find an outstanding array of quality and good craftsmanship. Some of the White like a “Madera 5” were light and refreshing, and some of the Reds were bold and fruity like the Henry Lurton Cabernet Sauvignon or the Vinas del Sol “Santos Brujos”. Wow! I was really impressed.

And also related to Rolando Herrera, I had a very nice experience while visiting Jaime Orozco who now is hosting the PR and Hospitality job at Staglin Family Vineyards in Rutherford. Impressive wines, from one of the highest appreciated wine families of Napa Valley: the Stalins. Jaime, whom I met also when he was working at Mi Sueno, showed me a fantastic job in hosting guests and entertaining. With 17 years in the wine industry, Jaime sees a tree of Latinos helping each other to advance.

01

BODEGAS HENRI LURTON LE CHENIN 2018

  • Region: Valle de San Vincente BC, Mexico

  • Varietal: Chenin Blanc

  • Price: $23

  • Aromas: Lemon peel, pear, white flowers

  • Flavors: Fresh hay, crystalized pineapple, citric notes

  • Impression: Fresh and light

  • Structure: Round, good balance

  • Drink with: Sushi, Ceviche Tostadas, Shrimp Cocktail

  • Why I loved this wine? Very nice and crisp

My Rating: 88 pts.

02

MI SUENO CHARDONNAY 2016

  • Region: Pugash Vineyard, Sonoma Mountain

  • Varietal: Chardonnay

  • Price: $54

  • Aromas: Clean, pineapple apricot, tropical medley

  • Flavors: Pear, vanilla, Granny Smith apple

  • Impression: Full mouth, deep flavors

  • Structure: Round and balanced, medium body

  • Drink with: Elaborated fish dishes, Crab Cakes, Grilled Salmon

  • Why I loved this wine? Very elegant and sophisticated wine, with finesse

My Rating: 93 pts.

03

BODEGAS TORRES “MAS LA PLANA” 2007

  • Region: Penedes, Catalonia, Spain

  • Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon

  • Price: $65

  • Armonas: Spice, licorice, lactic

  • Flavors: Dried cherry, balsamic, ripe red currant

  • Impression: Layered, complex

  • Structure: Bold, rich

  • Drink with: Filet Mignon, Peking Lacquered Duck

  • Why I loved this wine? So elegant and delicious

My Rating: 93 pts.

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