It’s A Fine Time To Pop The Cork On These 2010 Releases

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

BAROLO 2010 VINTAGE REPORT

• This vintage is defined by its big character, complexity and exceptional potential for ageing.
• The month of September was very sunny and dry, allowing the Nebbiolo grapes to mature perfectly, giving whole berries with thick skins.
• Italian wine guru Ian D’agata says the cool growing season and late harvest reminded him of vintages from the 1970s and early 1980s.

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

WHEN IN NAPA

Here’s even more reason to visit 1881 Napa Wine History Museum in California: the 150-year-old historic Victorian building is now also home to Oakville Wine Merchant, offering 50 wines by the glass. The wines are grouped by Napa Valley sub-appellations and dispensed through 12 Napa Tech machines, featuring labels like Shafer, Bond, Dominus and Dana. Vintner’s nights and tasting flights are in the works, making it easier to taste through Napa under one roof than ever. oakvillegrocery.com/oakville-wine-merchant