Red Box
CVNE Rioja Crianza “Cune” 2020
About: The 2020 CVNE Rioja Crianza is a textbook example of modern Rioja at its finest. Crafted primarily from Tempranillo, this red wine beautifully balances tradition and approachability, offering bright red fruit flavors alongside savory complexity. Aged in oak for a harmonious touch of spice and structure, it’s a versatile wine that is as suitable for weeknight dinners as it is for special occasions.
Producer: Founded in 1879, CVNE (Compañía Vinícola del Norte de España) is one of Rioja’s most iconic wineries. Based in the Rioja Alta subregion, the family-run estate has a legacy of producing high-quality wines that respect the traditions of the region while embracing innovation. The “Cune” label reflects their dedication to approachable yet elegant wines that highlight the beauty of Rioja’s vineyards and winemaking heritage.
Notes: This Crianza greets the nose with aromas of cherry, raspberry, and red currant, layered with notes of vanilla, cedar, and a touch of dried herbs. Medium-bodied with silky tannins, the palate offers juicy red fruit flavors balanced by a savory, earthy undertone, finishing with a gentle hint of spice.
Food Pairing: The supple structure and bright fruit of this Rioja make it a perfect companion to roast chicken, pork tenderloin, or Spanish chorizo. Its acidity also works well with tomato-based dishes like lamb ragu or paella, as it cuts through the richness and enhances the flavors of the dish.
Guy Amiot Bourgogne Pinot Noir “Cuvée Simone” 2021
About: The 2021 Guy Amiot Bourgogne Pinot Noir “Cuvée Simone” is a graceful expression of Burgundy’s famed Pinot Noir. This wine offers a harmonious blend of elegance and approachability, showcasing pure red fruit flavors and a whisper of oak. Crafted with precision, it’s a beautiful introduction to the magic of Burgundy at an exceptional value.
Producer: Domaine Guy Amiot has been a family-run estate in Chassagne-Montrachet since 1920. Known primarily for their white wines, they also produce exquisite Pinot Noir that reflects the same attention to detail and terroir-driven philosophy. The “Cuvée Simone” pays homage to the estate’s matriarch and embodies the refinement and authenticity that define the wines of this storied domaine.
Notes: The nose reveals notes of cherry, raspberry, and cranberry, accented by subtle hints of forest floor, baking spices, and a touch of vanilla. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with silky tannins and a vibrant acidity that frames the red fruit beautifully. The finish is elegant and lingering, with a delicate minerality.
Food Pairing: This Pinot Noir pairs effortlessly with roasted duck, coq au vin, or mushroom-based dishes like a wild mushroom tart. Its acidity and light body also complement soft cheeses, such as Brie or Camembert, making it a sophisticated choice for entertaining or casual gatherings.
Château Le Crock Saint-Estèphe 2021
About: The 2021 Château Le Crock is a quintessential Saint-Estèphe, brimming with finesse and structure. This elegant red Bordeaux highlights the cooler vintage with its freshness and lifted aromatics, offering a classic expression of the Médoc’s renowned terroir. Refined yet approachable, it is a wine that marries ripe fruit with a backbone of minerality and firm tannins, making it an excellent choice for lovers of traditional Left Bank Bordeaux.
Producer: Château Le Crock is a historic estate nestled between the illustrious Château Montrose and Château Cos d’Estournel in Saint-Estèphe. Owned by the Cuvelier family since 1903, the property benefits from prime gravelly soils and meticulous vineyard management. With winemaking overseen by the talented team at Château Léoville Poyferré, Le Crock consistently delivers wines of precision and balance that beautifully express the character of Saint-Estèphe.
Notes: The nose opens with aromas of blackcurrant, plum, and cranberry, complemented by subtle hints of cedar, graphite, and fresh herbs. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with fine-grained tannins and bright acidity, revealing flavors of red and black fruits, tobacco leaf, and a touch of earthiness. The finish is long and mineral-driven, with a graceful elegance that lingers.
Food Pairing: The structure and savory notes of Château Le Crock make it a natural pairing for roasted lamb with rosemary, beef tenderloin, or duck confit. Its minerality and acidity also complement mushroom-based dishes such as wild mushroom risotto or a truffle-infused pasta. Aged cheeses like Comté or Gruyère bring out its depth and complexity, making for an exquisite pairing.
Roger Belland Bourgogne Rouge 2022
About: The 2022 Roger Belland Bourgogne Rouge is a delightful example of Pinot Noir from Burgundy, offering an accessible yet elegant introduction to the region’s revered red wines. With its bright fruit profile, soft tannins, and gentle oak influence, this wine captures the charm and refinement that define Burgundy’s winemaking traditions. Perfect for everyday enjoyment or casual gatherings, it reflects the vibrancy of the 2022 vintage.
Producer: Domaine Roger Belland is a sixth-generation family estate based in Chassagne-Montrachet, renowned for crafting wines of exceptional quality from both Premier Cru and regional vineyards. Known for their sustainable practices and attention to detail, the Belland family produces Pinot Noir with a focus on balance and terroir expression. This Bourgogne Rouge embodies their philosophy of crafting wines that are both approachable and true to the character of Burgundy.
Notes: The bouquet is bursting with aromas of ripe red cherries, strawberries, and raspberries, accented by subtle notes of violet and a hint of spice. On the palate, it is light to medium-bodied, with silky tannins and a refreshing acidity that carries flavors of red fruits, cranberry, and a touch of earthiness. The finish is clean and vibrant, leaving a lasting impression of purity and balance.
Food Pairing: This versatile Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with roasted chicken, grilled salmon, or pork tenderloin with a cherry glaze. Its bright acidity also complements tomato-based dishes, such as ratatouille or margherita pizza, while its delicate fruit profile makes it an excellent partner for soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert.
Château Carbonneau “La Verrière” 2020
About: The 2020 Château Carbonneau “La Verrière” is a stunning Bordeaux blend that embodies the charm and elegance of the Sainte-Foy Côtes de Bordeaux. With its ripe fruit, soft tannins, and well-integrated oak, this wine offers both immediate enjoyment and aging potential. Showcasing the estate’s dedication to quality, “La Verrière” is a wine that delivers incredible value while staying true to Bordeaux’s timeless style.
Producer: Château Carbonneau is a family-run estate with a rich history, located on the eastern edge of Bordeaux. Known for their sustainable viticulture and commitment to craftsmanship, the estate produces wines that highlight the unique terroir of Sainte-Foy. The “La Verrière” cuvée represents their dedication to creating approachable yet sophisticated wines, blending Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc with precision and care.
Notes: The nose offers an inviting mix of blackberries, black cherries, and plums, layered with hints of vanilla, mocha, and a touch of spice. On the palate, it is medium to full-bodied, with a smooth texture and finely grained tannins. Flavors of dark fruit, cocoa, and a hint of cedar unfold gracefully, leading to a polished and harmonious finish.
Food Pairing: The rich, velvety character of “La Verrière” pairs perfectly with grilled lamb chops, beef stew, or roast duck. Its balanced acidity and smooth tannins also complement vegetarian options like eggplant parmigiana or lentil-based dishes. For a classic pairing, enjoy it with a selection of hard cheeses such as aged Gouda or Pecorino.
Viña Sastre Ribera del Duero “Roble” 2022
About: The 2022 Viña Sastre “Roble” is a vibrant and youthful expression of Tinto Fino (Tempranillo) from Ribera del Duero. Aged for a short period in oak, this wine balances fresh fruit flavors with a touch of spice, delivering a modern and approachable take on Spain’s iconic red grape. Perfect for those seeking a versatile and food-friendly wine, the “Roble” showcases the energy and precision of the 2022 vintage.
Producer: Viña Sastre is a family-owned estate in Ribera del Duero, renowned for its organic farming practices and dedication to crafting wines of exceptional quality. Located in the heart of the region, the winery focuses on low-yield vineyards and traditional techniques, ensuring that each bottle reflects the authenticity and character of its terroir. The “Roble” is their youthful, fruit-forward offering, designed to showcase the purest expression of Tinto Fino.
Notes: This wine greets the nose with aromas of ripe blackberries, blueberries, and cherries, accented by hints of vanilla, clove, and a touch of smoky oak. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with soft, rounded tannins and a juicy core of dark fruit flavors. The finish is lively and fresh, with a subtle note of spice and a satisfying balance.
Food Pairing: The 2022 “Roble” is a versatile partner for grilled meats, such as pork chops, lamb skewers, or beef burgers. Its fruit-forward profile and gentle tannins also make it a great match for Mediterranean dishes like ratatouille, roasted red peppers, or manchego-stuffed piquillo peppers. For a casual pairing, try it with a plate of cured meats or a smoky BBQ feast.