People sometimes don't think that wine importers are very important, that all they do is have crates of wine shipped in from who-knows-where to be peddled on the shelves in the lower reaches. While that may be true for some, the best importers are those with a nose for wine, who can sniff out good stuff through endless trials, then bring the product to us. Great importers like
Kermit Lynch and
Terry Theise - are as important and as recognizable as great producers.
Mack and Schühle are Miami-based importers who find great wine and pass it along at a price that is more than fair. Founded in 1939, the company expanded to the Miami office nine years ago. They produce wine in Italy and Spain and distribute other wines globally. Their choices are nearly always right on the money, for taste and value.
The 2017 Riva Leone Barbaresco comes from Italy's Piedmont region, where the Barbaresco DOCG is located. The wine was made completely from Nebbiolo grapes. The wine was aged for one year in American and French oak barrels, then half the wine was aged that way for another 12 months. Alcohol ticks 14% abv and the retail price tag reads $25.
This fine Italian wine has a medium ruby tint. Its nose is dark, full of plum, black cherry, strawberry, flowers and earth notes. The fruit really comes through on the palate, along with some oak spice. The acidity is racy, the tannins firm. It is perfect for pairing with mushroom dishes, and it will also pair nicely with your holiday feast.
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