The Wines I Enjoyed but Didn’t Write About in 2024 (Until Now)
An ode to the unsung bottles that brought joy this year.
As another year comes to a close, I find myself reflecting not only on the wine travel stories I’ve shared and the bottles I’ve spotlighted in various articles but also on the wines that quietly impressed me along the way. These were the bottles enjoyed in between deadlines, celebrations, and even in moments of pause — the ones that, for one reason or another, didn’t make it into my columns but certainly deserve a nod before we close out the year.
From fine wine to something more casual, here’s a look at a few bottles that never got their starring role in Vino or one of my other articles... until now.
Gary Farrell Russian River Valley Selection Pinot Noir, 2021
I’ve consistently enjoyed the wines of Gary Farrell over the years, (yes, even the Chardonnay, which was featured in my October Vino column). From one of the most coveted Pinot Noir and Chardonnay regions in California, these wines certainly represent their home well with a special quality that feels comforting and familiar. The 2021 Russian River Valley Selection Pinot Noir, with its subtle, otherworldly charm—like the memory of something once loved—embodies everything I adore about the wines of this region. From its impeccable balance to its inviting elegance, this is a Pinot that encourages contemplation — or a second glass.
Champagne Palmer & Co. Grands Terroirs, 2015
It’s true, I’m a sucker for Champagne. You can see and hear that throughout much of my writing, such as my December Vino column and podcasts (sorry, Linda). Champagne somehow always finds its way into my moments of celebration (and Tuesday nights), and Palmer & Co.’s bubbly can make any ordinary evening feel elevated — especially if you find yourself flying First or Business Class on Air France or British Airways where it is served.
The Grands Terroirs 2015 is a beautiful expression of vintage Champagne. It’s made with the same recipe as the House’s first wine in 1947. Complex and textured with notes of ripe pear, toasted brioche, and subtle minerality, this bottle is a reminder that Champagne isn’t just for special occasions — sometimes it is the occasion.
Poderi dal Nespoli, Borgo dei Guidi “Rubicone” IGT, 2019
Rubicone, a bold yet effortlessly juicy blend of Sangiovese and Cabernet Sauvignon from Emilia-Romagna, was a delightful surprise. Full-bodied and deeply smooth, this red wine comes from a region often overlooked unless you're seeking a sparkling Lambrusco. Rich, dark red cherries, blackberry, plum, and hints of spice made it a perfect pairing for a casual evening with pasta al ragù and Netflix (because sometimes wine doesn’t need to be fussy). At this affordable price point, this is a wine that can be sipped without stress, although, it is pretty hard to find.
Only a few bottles left at Champion Wine Cellars online.
Coppo “Pomorosso” Nizza DOCG, 2021
In the heart of Piedmont, the Coppo “Pomorosso” is a standout in its Nizza designation, and Nizza is having quite the moment right now it seems. The 2021 vintage showcased ripe red berries, and spices like cinnamon, with earthier undertones and a touch of eucalyptus. Overall, full-flavored and fresh with bright acidity and a velvety structure, or some might say “voluptuous.” Pomorosso balances tradition and modern refinement and is perfect alongside roasted meats or aged cheeses.
Tenute Lunelli Ziggurat Montefalco Rosso DOC, 2021
The Ziggurat Montefalco Rosso by Tenute Lunelli is a beautiful expression of Umbria's rich winemaking tradition. A blend of Sangiovese, Sagrantino, and Merlot, this wine brings together bold structure and approachable elegance. I picked up a bottle at Vinoteca wine shop in the Grove following a tasting of some of the Lunelli family wines (such as Ferrari Trento). After enjoying the wine with pasta and meat sauce, I returned for two more bottles. Turns out, the wine got better each time, so I went back and bought the remaining bottles to keep on hand. Sorry.
This is a wine that is just so quaffable! It’s interesting, easy to drink, and full of body and balance. On the nose, it offers enticing aromas of ripe cherries, plums, and subtle notes of wild herbs and spices. The palate is so smooth, with balanced acidity and soft tannins that lead to a long, satisfying finish.
Perfect for pairing with hearty pasta dishes while playing some classic Italian tunes in the background, the Ziggurat Montefalco Rosso delivers complexity and a sense of place while remaining inviting and versatile for any occasion.
Buy on Wine.com because I bought all the bottles at Vinoteca.
Château Angélus Wines
I don’t think I can mention just one here, because you’d be ridiculous to say that any of these wines did not impress. It’s always a treat to experience the classic sophistication of Château Angélus. This year, I had a chance to taste several of the wines from this famed Saint-Émilion Château and learn more about why each vintage has its own name based on its personality; such as the 2015 “Le Magnifique,” 2012 “Le Premier,” and the 1995 “L’Harmonie” — in addition to the 2016 L’Carillon de Angélus, which is hardly a second wine in quality, but notably more accessible in price. Angélus has a way of blending opulence with finesse, and their signature addition of Cabernet Franc brings extraordinary freshness and elegance to each vintage. In a complicated world, this is simply Bordeaux at its finest.
Shafer Vineyards “Relentless” Syrah, 2021
Powerful, bold, and true to its name, which comes from the tenacity of its winemaker, Elias, to always make the best wines. Shafer’s “Relentless” Syrah is a wine that leaves an impression and certainly impressed me (as well as a few others in the room). Dark fruit, savory notes of black olive and smoked meat, and a full-bodied fruity, and peppery finish made this one of the most memorable Syrahs I enjoyed this year. It’s the kind of bottle you share with someone who really appreciates a great Napa Valley Syrah, and who might allow you to drink the last sip.
Cos d'Estournel Blanc, 2019
White Bordeaux doesn’t always get the attention it deserves, but Cos d’Estournel’s Blanc proves it’s worthy of admiration. This is a smaller production from this esteemed St. Estephe producer, but it makes up in character what it lacks in quantity. A beautiful blend of Sauvignon Blanc and Sémillon, this wine shows flavors and aromas of cinnamon-garnished green apple, white cranberry, bright citrus, and a whisper of oak that holds on strong giving body and depth, which makes this a great food-pairing bottle. Think, Cos d’Estournel Blanc and stone crabs (the pairing I was imagining the whole tasting). Graceful and fresh, this is a bottle that deserves a spot at the table year-round.
These wines may not have had their formal moment in my columns, but they were far from forgotten. Each one reminded me why I love this world of wine — its endless surprises, diverse stories in a glass, and ability to turn even the simplest moments into something worth remembering.
Cheers to the bottles we’ve tasted, shared, and loved, and preemptively to the ones waiting for us in the new year!