Garzon Reserva Tannat 2015
If a country could have a national grape then Uruguay could lay claim to Tannat. You might be familiar with Tannat as producing the famous “black wines of Cahors” in South West France. Uruguayan winemakers have made it their own in a lighter, less tannic style. In Vintages outlets, you’ll find Garzon Reserva Tannat 2015 – which is absolutely delicious: dense purple in colour, it has an earthy, black plum bouquet lifted with oak spice; medium to full-bodied, its dry, ripe plum flavour is seasoned with a peppery note; it’s firmly structured with evident tannins but well-integrated oak. The wine has a rich mouth-feel and an engaging floral flourish on the end taste. It costs $19.95 at Vintages and is well worth the price. That’s Garzon Reserva Tannat 2015 from Uruguay. For Post City Magazines, I’m Tony Aspler, 680 NEWS. ($19.95, Vintages #558916) (90)

Paco & Lola Albariño 2017
Looking for a change from your usual Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc? Try Albariño from Spain’s Rio Baixas. It’s a small region that borders on northern Portugal. At Vintages outlets, look for Paco & Lola Albariño 2017. Very pale straw in colour, it has a spicy, minerally nose of lemon. Light to medium-bodied, flavours of apple and green melon fill the mouth – a beautifully balanced wine with a great mouth-feel.  It costs $19.95 a bottle. Try it with fish dishes or as an aperitif before dinner. That’s Paco & Lola Albariño 2017 from Spain at Vintages outlets. For Post City Magazines, I’m Tony Aspler, 680 NEWS.  ($19.95, Vintages #350041) (90)