1. PIZZATO ‘VERTIGO’ NATURE (TRAD. METHOD) 2016 12% Abv.

Rarely seen, this is an un-disgorged Trad. Method sparkler, made from 90% Chardonnay and 10% Pinot Noir grapes, and now with some 72 months on lees! As might be expected, wine is a light cloudy-yellow colour, totally unfiltered, with zero dosage. Residual sugar is +/- 1.6g/ltr. Nose shows delicate notes of white flowers, dried fruit, cashew nut and some toastiness. Full-bodied, rounded and creamy on palate, with well-balanced acidity. Will appeal to enthusiasts and those excited to ‘disgorge’ a wine at a time and place of their choosing!

2. DON GUERINO SINAIS MOSCATO GIALLO 2021 12.5% Abv.

One of Brazil’s leading family-owned wineries, named after the founder Sr. Guerino Motter, this is a fine example of a yellow Muscat, one of the most widely planted white grapes in Brazil. ‘Sinais’ is the brand name for the winery’s second, predominantly screwcap range. This white has a subtle floral scent, which leads to a dry, light-bodied palate packed with citric notes, and some ‘grapiness’ too. Clean and refreshing, with relatively high acidity, this makes a lovely aperitif. Serve well chilled, perhaps with lightly spiced Thai or other oriental dishes.

3. CAMPOS de CIMA TRÊS BOCAS BRANCO 2021 12.5% Abv.

From the extreme southwest of Brazil, a sophisticated and elegantly presented white blend comprising two Portuguese grapes, Arinto and Alvarinho, with a dash of Viognier. Dry, light and refreshing, melon and lemon notes are mostly to the fore, with maybe also a slight floral scent. Acidity is high, palate shows both citrus and nectarine or apricot flavours, and finish is long and clean. Enjoy on its own or pair with seafood or white fish dishes.

4. GUASPARI VALE da PEDRA BRANCO 2017 13% Abv.

From vines grown many miles north of the Serra Gaúcha, Guaspari’s wines are remarkable not only for originating within the Tropics – in the state of São Paulo at latitude 23° – but also for their quality, given that this winery is less than 20 yrs old. An intriguing blend of 83% Sauvignon Blanc with a splash of Chardonnay and Viognier, this white shows both green/grassy and herbal notes. Tropical fruit flavours are underscored with a refreshing acidity and touch of minerality. Medium bodied, with a lingering finish. Ideally serve with salads, canapés, seafood and fish dishes.

5. CAMPOS de CIMA TRÊS BOCAS TINTO 2020 14.5% Abv.

A very recent addition to the Go Brazil portfolio, this is an unoaked three grape red blend comprising Malbec (40%), Tempranillo (35%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (35%). Plenty of ripe plummy dark fruits are evident on the nose, leading to a warm, full-bodied palate, packed with more vibrant fruit. Dry, robust and with softening tannins, wine can be drunk on its own or perhaps better enjoyed with stews, casseroles, pasta dishes, curries or BBQ fare. Alcohol is relatively high but well balanced. From an exceptional vintage, so is expected to age well.

 

6. CAMPOS de CIMA ASSINATURA 2018 14% Abv.

Campos de Cima’s flagship wine, this ‘signature’ blend comprises Shiraz (80%), Tempranillo (10%) and Tannat (10%). Aged for 18 months in new French barriques, it is a full-bodied red, complex and with robust tannins, perhaps best appreciated with well-seasoned meat or strongly flavoured cheeses. Ruby in colour, showing some ageing on rim; intense aromas of dark fruits, especially blackberry/hedgerow fruit, are overlaid with black pepper and hints of mint and dark chocolate. Concentration of mature red fruits on palate, with mocha/chocolate accents again noticeable. Finish is long and persistent, and ageing potential excellent.

7. DON GUERINO EL GAUCHO TANNAT 2020 14% Abv.

From a single bloc of Tannat planted in 2001 – the winery’s oldest – this is an unfiltered single varietal which references southern Brazil’s ‘gaucho’ heritage and love of red meat! Unusually, locally produced yeasts were used in the fermentation process, with wine undergoing post-fermentation maceration. Barrel ageing for 9 months followed, in both French and American oak. The result is a red with real structure and finesse, still young but with approachable tannins and a concentration of dark fruits. Smooth enough to drink on its own or serve with beef, roasts, lightly spiced or peppered dishes, or well flavoured cheeses.

8. PIZZATO GRAN RESERVA CONCENTUS 2016 13.5% Abv.

Mature, powerful but elegant blend of Merlot (70%), Tannat (16%) and Cabernet Sauvignon (14%), with added complexity from both American & French barrel ageing. Dark berry fruit nose gives way to a rich concentrated palate, showing plums, mocha and spices. Tannins initially firm but open up to show balance and suppleness. Touch of vanilla and caramel on a long, fresh finish. Just 5600 bottles produced. Great food wine: partner with steaks, roasts and strong cheeses. Already well-aged but will benefit from cellaring. Ideally decant!