Tasting notes to some of the latest additions to our wine cellar

One great aspect of our restaurant (and wine program) is the flexibility of being able to print our menus daily. This allows us to make changes as often as we'd like to pair with Chef Matt's menu. Every single wine has a reason for being in the cellar, but here's a snapshot of our wine director's current obsessions.

Paìs, J. Bouchon "Paìs Viejo, Secano Interior" — Maule Valley, CL ($12 / $48)

Organic farming meets centuries-old winemaking techniques in this easy-drinking poolside red. Paìs was planted by the Spanish in the 1540s, and some of the oldest vines in Chile (and the world) are around 350 years old. The vines for this specific wine are mostly 100 years old! The Bouchon family, now in its 4th generation of family winemakers, are originally from Bordeaux, France, having emigrated to Chile in the late 19th century. Bright, juicy red fruit punch flavors with savory notes make this wine the perfect sipper or food companion. This is a Charleston session red for sure.

Carignan, Viña Maitia "Weon," Secano Interior — Maule Valley, CL ($13 / $52)

David Marcel, a French winemaker, moved to Chile at age 22 looking for opportunity, and has been a major advocate for artisan winemaking in Chile. This wine is as natural as possible (minimal amounts of sulfur were added to stabilize the wine) using organic practices, and the vines are all around 60yrs old. Blackberry, cassis, and baking spices all make this a really attractive red for the Pinot Noir lover who wants to try something new.

Sangiovese Blend, Tenuta di Salviano "Turlo," — Lago di Corbara, Umbria, IT ($15 / $60)

Quick history lesson: the rise of the "Super Tuscans" in the 1980s involved blends from Tuscany that featured "unsanctioned," non-indigenous varietals such as Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. This brings us to this "Super Umbrian" - a Sangiovese dominant blend with Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. I love this wine for its rusticity, firm textured tannins, attractive red/black fruit aromatics, and supple body. Important sidenote: the owners of this property are the Incisa della Rocchetta family, owners of legendary Sassicaia, who know a thing or two regarding red blends and Super Tuscans.

As always, we encourage you to ask one of our Sommeliers for assistance anytime you visit our restaurant - we would be delighted to guide you towards your next favorite wine!

Cheers!