You guys have been writing a lot to ask which South American wines I recommend for parties, big and small, since they pack such a value-driven punch and a lot of bang for your buck. Now that we are officially knee-deep in the holiday season, here are a few “must haves” from US$10-15 per bottle that are widely accessible in the US (I could give you some boutique recommendations but those would require “hunting”). If you are entertaining this season, these won’t blow the bank, but will give you a LOT of wine-drinking pleasure. Just say gracias to the Viejito Pasquero, that’s Santa in Chile & Argentina.
Emiliana Orgánico, Natura Chardonnay 2011, Casablanca, Chile, US$10
The 2011 vintage of this unoaked Chardonnay, only kissed by stainless, is simply smokin’. Very lean green apples, loads of minerals, grated citrus, and a zestiness that makes your mouth go wow. It’s almost like a Sauvignon Blanc dressed up like a Chardonnay, so it will go with almost anything.
Carlos Pulenta, Tomero Torrontés 2010, Salta, Argentina, US$10
Think Torrontés is only for summer? Wrong. Leave the bubbly for New Year’s Eve and enchant your guests with something exotic, spicy, and memorable. This Torrontés is bright yellow with aromas of roses, orange blossoms and jasmine. It’s got that explosive nature in the mouth, with a freshness and some mineral notes. Perfect aperitif. Sure beats eggnog any day.
Baron Philippe de Rothschild Maipo, Escudo Rojo 2008, Maipo, Chile, U$13
Trying to please wine aficionados and newbie crowd? This one, that will make everybody swoon, is one of the best-kept wine secrets on the shelf. It´s a “red wine benchmark” when comparing many reds under $20. This blend of Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenere, Syrah, and Cabernet Franc is aged 12 months in French oak and deliver aromas and flavors of berries, chocolate, and spices. The oak is integrated with sufficient complexity but is not overbearing. Need a fun break-the-ice activity? Serve it as a blind taste. Your wine buddies may be shocked when they learn it is not Bordeaux.
Andeluna Malbec 2008, Mendoza, Argentina, US$10
This medium-sized bodega in Uco is not that well known yet in the US, but its founder, the late H. Ward Lay, was the owner of the potato chip family Frito Lay. This Malbec is a sexy crowd pleaser that will have the room cooing in no time. Inky purple in color with aromas of dark fruits and flowers, dulce de leche, vanilla, and chocolate are mellowed by aging in oak barrels. This is a sweetish wine, typical for Malbec, but overall, it´s well-balanced, full bodied and has a nice tannic grip. Perfect for a cold winter’s night and some chocolate Christmas cookies.
