I've always enjoyed the phrase "an embarrassment of riches" especially when applied to wine. I'm fairly certain the first time I saw it in reference to wine was within a review by Robert Parker (I added the "affordable" part). I find it a very evocative statement and kind of funny.
And lately it is most apropos. A slew of regions have been producing a plethora of what could be their finest wines. What is so great about this recent trend is that the fine wines are not just produced at the high end. From Bordeaux to Burgundy, in the Rhone valley, Tuscany, Piedmont, to California and Argentina great vintages and superb wines abound. The vintages are so good that wines at every price level are just fantastic.
Several cases in point:
Rhone and the 2007 vintage: We've all seen the praise Parker has heaped upon the '07 Rhone vintage and from what I've tasted so far that praise is certainly warranted. A relatively inexpensive must get from this region in this vintage is the 2007 Domaine de la Milliere CDP ($33.95). Showing balance, depth and plenty of fruit this wine is ready now but will drink great for years to come. Check into our Cotes du Rhones for some REALLY affordable gems.
Tuscany and the 2006 vintage: I'm fairly sure I first read the "embarrassment" remark back when Parker was extolling the virtues of the '97, 99 & '01 Tuscan vintages. But this region again is in the midst of strong run of great years. Tuscany is great in 2004, a safe bet in 2005 (just drank a stunningly good '05 Chianti) and look to the super -Tuscans in 2007 too! But the 2006 is fantastic. My pick for the region and vintage: 2006 Sette Ponti Crognolo ($24.95). At one point my wife and I were taking down two bottles a week of this wine; one during the week and one on the weekends. With food or without this one delivers!
California and 2006: 2006 was a bit of a Shadow Vintage (see my article from 11/03/09 for further info on this topic) in California. At two separate tastings several California producers told me that their 2006s were showing better than the 2005s and could be just as good as the 2007s. Joseph Carr himself told me he felt that his 2006s were better across the board than his 2005s. I'd have to agree and our in-stock steal from this vintage has to be the 2006 BV Tapestry ($27.99) - classic, classic and great Napa Cab (cab based blend - but still)! Can't wait for the 2006 Waterstone!
I could go on and on but here's what to look for in other regions & years:
Bordeaux - 2000 & 2005: 2000 de Sales ($34.95), beautiful gem from Pomerol. 2005 La Bienfaisance ($33.95), I love Cab Franc and this St. Emilion is 20% Cab Franc (the rest is Merlot).
White Burgundy - 2006: 2006 Domaine de Roally Vire Clesse ($25.95), Big enough for the cold weather but perfect for the warmer weather.
Mendoza (Argentina) - 2006: 2006 Tikal Patriota ($17.95), Getting low on this Malbec based blend - this stuff is great!